The Bear Hotel

The Bear Hotel in Devizes has been serving the people of Wiltshire since the Medieval Era. Records indicate it was already operating as a coaching inn in 1559, but it's believed to have been around longer. It sits prominently on the Market Place, the town's historic town square, providing a key stopover with lodgings, stables, and social space for guests traveling between Bath and London.

Like any prosperous establishment, it expanded over the years; its current incarnation dating to the early-18th-century with a facade of stone quarried from Bath. Along with the much older timber-framed parts, the building is protected as a Grade II listed property. One of The Bear's most notable guests is the artist Thomas Lawrence, whose self-portraits now decorate the halls and spaces of the inn.

One of the reasons why The Bear Hotel is considered an outstanding piece of Wiltshire heritage is that it combines its two most prominent eras. The building has preserved both its 18th-century stone renovation and integrated it with the earlier 16th-century medieval timber-framed construction. The 18th‑century facade was built using Bath's famous yellow limestone, embellished with details such as Ionic pilasters and moulded cornices. Viewing portals come in the form of dormer windows and symmetrical bay windows, complementing the refined Georgian architecture.

The Bear’s interior design openly embraces its past, integrating historic features and traditional materials to create an immersive period atmosphere. The inn sections retain their exposed wooden columns and ceiling beams, as well as the uneven floors. The bar also still boasts its Dutch tiles, along with leaded glass details and stone fireplaces, furthering the old‑world charm. The interior spaces of the Georgian section make use of its posh antique furnishings and fixtures, creating a stylish contrast to the multi-faceted establishment.

Restaurant

The dining offered at The Bear Hotel revolves around classic British pub and bistro fare made from quality, locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes a wide range of hearty choices, from soups and terrines, sharing plates like baked camembert, and mains spanning pub classics. Try local favorites such as the beer‑battered fish & chips, or treat yourself to a classic steak & ale pie. The restaurant also serves salmon fillet, venison, and seasonal vegetarian options. Kids won't miss out as there's a children’s menu, while guests with dietary restrictions have are catered for with the vegetarian, vegan and gluten‑free menus.

Opening hours:
Monday to Saturday:
Breakfast: 8 am – 11 am
Lunch: 12 pm – 2:30 pm
Dinner: 6 pm – 8:45 pm
Sunday Lunch: 12 pm – 4 pm

Bar

The hotel is also partnered with Wadworth, Devizes's very own independent brewery company that has been supplying beers and ales throughout England since 1875. On the taps are various signature ales and craft beers offered by the brewery, so you're certain to find one that matches your palate. Their bar menu also includes a range of other alcohols, including wines, spritzes, and cocktail mixes.

Bar opening hours:
Monday – Wednesday: 8 am – 10 pm
Thursday & Friday: 8 am – 11 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 11 am
Sunday: 9 am – 10 pm

The Bear Hotel isn't just a place to stay; it has also hosted a wide range of private functions and celebrations throughout its long history. They'll gladly host your special day and have a variety of venues available for the ceremony and reception. The hotel is also licensed for civil ceremonies, meaning your union will assuredly be recognized by the law.

The venues are highly customizable, and can be configured for formal sit‑down meals of around 80 guests, or more relaxed buffet‑style celebrations for up to 150. The packages can also be tailored to your desired event, with add-ons such as a dance floor and inclusive on‑site parking.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Devizes sits right at the heart of Wiltshire, making the town one of the best jumping-off points for excursions and adventure in the region. At the hotel, you can enjoy special seasonal offerings, such as festive dishes and dinners during Christmas, or special romantic items for Valentine's.

The town itself has plenty of local attractions and experiences well worth checking out, such as the famed Wadworth Brewery, which is open for tours and tastings. For your cultural and historical knowledge fix, be sure to drop by the Wiltshire Museum and see its numerous exhibits about local life and ancient history. The Kennet and Avon Canal Trust operates a museum with exhibits and explanations of the canal's history and significance to Devizes and Wiltshire. Also managed by the Trust is the Caen Hill Locks, which are found right outside the town and are still in operation.

If nature trips are more your thing, just north of Devizes are the Leipzig Plantation and the Roundway White Horse, which locals use for hikes and walks. But don't forget, Wiltshire is also home to one of Britain's most iconic monuments: Stonehenge. This ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site is around half-an-hour's drive from Devizes, so you'll have plenty of time to fit it into your itinerary.

Apart from wedding receptions, The Bear Hotel also accommodates a variety of private events and functions. The services and venues can be tailored to all sorts of occasions, from intimate celebrations to larger gatherings. You can also choose from a selection of function rooms to match the scale of your event; a vibrant gala, for example, is perfect for the upstairs ballroom. To assist in the planning and execution, the hotel has an experienced representative who will coordinate with you to get every detail right.