Macdonald Bear Hotel, Woodstock
About the Hotel
Macdonald Bear Hotel is a 13th-century coaching inn located in the historic market town of Woodstock, renowned for its close ties to Blenheim Palace. This charming hotel combines rich history with modern comforts, having hosted famous guests, including royals and film stars. The Bear Hotel offers a unique glimpse into the region's past while providing contemporary amenities for relaxation and exploration.
Location
Situated just minutes from the renowned Blenheim Palace, the hotel has convenient access to Oxford and the picturesque Cotswolds. Regular bus services connect Woodstock to Oxford's railway station, facilitating travel to major cities like London. The hotel also offers onsite parking and is within driving distance of airports, including Oxford International and Heathrow.
Rooms
The hotel features 54 elegantly styled bedrooms, each uniquely designed for comfort. Guests can choose from classic options to spacious Deluxe Suites, which are noted for their luxurious decor and historical significance. Notably, some rooms include period features such as exposed beams and four-poster beds, adding a historic charm.
Eat & Drink
Dining at The Bear includes a diverse menu crafted from seasonal ingredients, offering both traditional and modern English dishes. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea in the Churchill Lounge or a cocktail in the cozy bar, complete with a crackling fire. The Courtyard provides a delightful al fresco dining option during warmer months.
Leisure & Business
The hotel offers versatile spaces for meetings and events, accommodating up to 30 guests with natural daylight and picturesque views. Leisure activities can include exploring the surrounding Oxfordshire countryside or engaging in locally arranged team-building events. Guests are also encouraged to book unique experiences, such as animal encounters at nearby attractions.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Safe deposit box
- 24-hour reception
- Express check-in/ -out
- Pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- 24-hour security
- Luggage storage
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Key card access
Services
- Pet amenities available
- Room service
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Welcome drink
Dining
- In-room breakfast
- Restaurant
- Snack bar
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Packed lunches
- Special diet menus
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
- Fax/Photocopying
Children
- Cots
- Board games
- Children's menu
Spa & Leisure
- Leisure/ TV room
Room features
- Heating
- Terrace
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Separate tub and shower
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel is situated near Blenheim Palace, which is very convenient, especially in case of rainy weather. The rooms are equipped with all necessary facilities and offer a comfortable stay. The service during my visit was top-notch, making me feel welcomed and taken care of. The dining experience was delightful, and the miso soup was a highlight. I found the facilities to be modern and well-maintained, adding to the overall positive experience.
The hotel is situated near Blenheim Palace in a beautiful area, making it easy to walk to the Palace. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning and feature very comfortable beds, ensuring a cozy stay. The service provided, particularly by the waiters, was excellent, exceeding my expectations. The dining experience included delicious homemade pastries, adding a delightful touch to the stay. The hotel offers well-maintained facilities for added convenience and enjoyment.
Our hotel is ideally located near the actual Palace by the lake, making it easy to walk there. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, fabulous showers, and very thick Turkish towels. The bed is exceptionally comfortable. The service was top-notch with attentive waiters available and pet amenities provided. Our dining experience included delicious grilled and boiled fish. While the facilities are excellent, the laundry service is chargeable for guests.
The hotel was a hidden gem with excellent service and a cozy atmosphere. The rooms were modern and clean, but the noisy air conditioning was a downside. The central location was perfect for exploring the city, but the dining options were limited. Overall, a great stay with friendly staff and good value for money.
I had a great stay at the hotel! The rooms were clean and comfy, with excellent facilities. The service was top-notch, and the location couldn't be better. However, the dining options were a bit limited. Overall, a fantastic experience.
I absolutely loved my stay at this hotel! The location is perfect, right in the heart of the city and close to everything. The rooms were clean and cozy, and the staff was incredibly welcoming. However, the dining options were a bit limited. The facilities were top-notch, making my stay even more enjoyable.