The Bear Hotel

We were in the area for a wedding in Childrey and stayed for a short visit. The room was small but just right for a brief stay, and the food was more than acceptable. Every staff member was excellent. There’s free disabled parking in the long-stay car park, a two-minute walk from the back of the pub. We’ll definitely come back.

After a long journey we arrived feeling worn out, and the staff at The Bear were welcoming straight away and incredibly helpful. Our room was immaculate, with a great bathroom, and I have no complaints. We also had lunch there, and the food was really good. We had a lovely two-night stay and will definitely return. I can’t recommend it enough.

Friendly people, good food and drinks, and lovely vibes. There are bright, well-lit spots for sunny days, plus darker, cosier snugs when it’s cold. What more could you ask for?

The rooms at The Bear are clean and comfortable, though a few show their age, and you might hear some street noise in a room at the front. There’s no parking on site, but a handy long-stay car park is just behind the hotel. The staff are friendly and attentive, which helps make up for those small drawbacks. Food is a real draw here. The menu is small but confident, with fresh, well-prepared dishes. I’d pick out the pigeon and black pudding quail Scotch egg, Thai-style cod, and the popular Sunday roast. Breakfast is generous and nicely presented, and the bar and café are relaxed places for a coffee or a pint. Right in Wantage’s Market Place, this 500-year-old coaching inn mixes history with modern comfort. It has 34 en-suite rooms and is popular with locals as well as visitors. It isn’t a slick boutique hotel, but it has plenty of character, good food, genuine hospitality and a great location. A classic English market-town stay that’s hard to beat.