The Old Bell Inn

The Thai food was excellent and the service was just as good, but our table spoiled the experience a bit. We’d booked a week ahead and were seated opposite the door serving the toilets, outdoor area and function room. It kept opening throughout the meal. I could have asked to move, but didn’t realise how much it would bother us until we’d started eating.

I went back on Christmas Eve, and sadly things had changed. It wasn’t as good as before. What a shame. Earlier visits had been a lovely experience. The staff were usually friendly and attentive, and the food came quickly, with a smile, cooked just right. My Lamb Massaman from the specials board was filling and delicious. They let me swap boiled rice for coconut rice without charging extra, and made the dish hotter when I asked. The broccoli and carrot side with garlic was good, too. The menu had expanded beyond Thai food to include pub classics, which seemed a sensible move. I thought the meal was good value, even if it wasn’t the cheapest, and it could suit a special occasion with a group. Portions looked fair rather than huge, so I ordered a side, but the meal filled me up enough that I couldn’t manage dessert. Maybe next time I’ll plan better and try one of the pub classics. It’s an old-fashioned pub in a great spot just off Warminster’s main High Street, and very dog friendly. They even have a dog menu. I visited several times over a couple of months with my two little pouches. On my first visit, we sat in the bar and I ordered there. The service was approachable, quick and professional. On later afternoons we sat in the courtyard garden, which was gentle and shaded when needed, ideal in the hot weather. One small thing: I was surprised no one asked about allergies. There’s a 10% service charge mentioned in small print at the bottom of the menu, but they’ll remove it if asked. I asked to have it taken off because the service had been exceptional and I wanted to tip more. One waitress made a comment at the end that came across a little sarcastic, though that was out of character and may have been meant playfully. Well done to the team for making those earlier visits such a good experience. Keep it up.

Gina and the team were brilliant, and the food was fabulous. We celebrated my mum’s 80th birthday here and had such a good time. Many thanks to everyone involved.

The room was comfortable and the food was excellent. The staff were friendly and attentive both in the evening and the next morning. I emailed to ask for an invoice, and Naomi replied quickly with the information I needed. A brilliant overnight stay, absolutely recommend it.