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Overlooking the historic market place of Wantage in Oxfordshire since the 16th century

The history of The Bear at Wantage is a long tale to tell, even though it doesn’t quite go back as far as King Alfred’s days, who was born in Wantage in AD 847. Suffice to say, as the town’s largest hotel it has overlooked the historic market place for nearly 500 years, and in that time has been a staging point for thousands of weary travellers – as well as those wanting to fill up on great food and superb ales in sumptuous surroundings.

Today, The Bear is the hub of Wantage. You can expect to find busy mornings full of coffee/tea drinkers taking advantage of the complimentary cake (10-5) or evening patrons supping real ales or mini Prosecco. Award winning restaurant with head chef Dylan Bettson and 34 newly decorated en suite hotel rooms.

Your hosts Ellie (who moved into her first pub at just 3 months old) is the Sous Chef and Georgia, having completed her degree in Business and Event Management looks after front of house. They are supported by their parents Keith & Jo who have 29 years experience in hospitality.

The team have brought The Bear back to its best, providing the perfect venue for a relaxing stop-over, quick lunch or special dining experience. We cater for Weddings, Christenings, Special (or not so special) Birthdays in fact any large, or small, party and all geared to your needs rather than set menus with no flexibility! The Bear offers everything you would expect from a modern hotel and bar – and more.

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Google Reviews

4.3
671 reviews
  • Matt Shaw
    Matt Shaw
    in the last week

    Thankfully we only popped in for a meal around 7pm on 16th July; that was a bad enough experience without actually staying there too. Ordered a large steak pie and a sirloin steak. Asked for medium on the steak, got one that had spent a month in Hell on a high heat before being served up. Pure rubber. Should have known really given the time it took them to bring the drinks out (although they did at least apologise for that). When it came to paying, I gave up waiting and went to the desk to sort it. There's only one till point there and the lady there was doing "something" on it so had to wait for her to finish. There was no friendliness, just mumbling about something. Got home and felt "uncomfortable" in the stomach. My partner wasn't quite as lucky with "just a feeling" and is still suffering with upset stomach and sickness through Friday so - yeah - cheers for that. Even without the after effects of the dire food (seriously how do you mess up a steak and poison someone with a pie?!) I wouldn't return based on the service alone. In fact, I'd probably find more nutrition if I lick the pavement outside.

  • Nathanael Moxon
    Nathanael Moxon
    a month ago

  • Stefanie Evtimova
    Stefanie Evtimova
    a month ago

    My room was in a basement - dark, noisy from the outgoing outside maintanence. No sufissient lighting at all. The roof was erouding over my head. Not good and safe place - the room. Otherwise, breakfast arrangements were great, and receptionist on my arrival helped me with my luggage. Thank you so much.

  • Scum Lord
    Scum Lord
    2 months ago

    Lovely place, great vibes.. both well lit places for sunny days and darker cosier snugs for colder times. People who work there were friendly and great food/drinks. What more could you ask for.

  • Ormond Jones
    Ormond Jones
    2 months ago

    Fabulous for a short stay. We were going to a wedding in Childrey ..... Every member of staff was excellent. The food is more than acceptable. Our room was small, but perfect for a short stay. Free disabled parking in long term car park 2 minute walk from rear of pub. We will definitely return.

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