The Bell Inn

We had no idea what to expect - had never even heard of Thorpe-le-Soken - but we had a wonderful time and we couldn't fault The Bell. The best breakfast and our room was so comfortable and even had a fridge so we could buy some fresh milk for our tea and coffees. The staff were all so friendly and there was a large car park across the road. I would thoroughly recommend the hotel to anyone. Miriam and Trefor Rogers

Visited today for breakfast (17/1/25). Arrived 9.05am and ordered two breakfasts. The Chef then walked into the Bell about 9.10am to start. Four people arrived 15 mins after us and also ordered. 45 mins later we checked with the waitress as to how long it would be, as on prior visits food normally came out quicker - especially as we were the only ones in the restaurant. 5 mins after, the breakfasts came out, along with the table behind that had ordered 20 mins after us. One of our breakfasts came out wrong, so needed to go back and corrected. When it did come back out there was a small bit of egg shell in the food and the mushrooms tasted like they had been soaked in salt with extra salt chunks added when plated! At no point did the waitress come over before meals came out to advise of the wait, apologise for delay or ask if we wanted more drinks. When asked why it took so long, the reply was ‘different chef’ and didn’t even take account for her not coming over apologise knowing we had been sat there, seeing as she was the one who took our order. Definitely gone down hill and won’t be recommit or returning.

The room were well appointed and stepped in history but the breakfast left a lot to be desired.The Bell is mid-range and quaint but although breakfast is included in the price be careful to read the small print. One normally expects the start with juice and cereal, followed by the cooked brakfast and ending with toast accompanied by a hot drink. Not here it is not. You get one choice and everythoing else is extra. Same with drinks. If you want juice then you pay for the hot drink and it is not cheap.

Great Inn Parking available on the opposite side of the road Food excellent at breakfast and dinner Good selection of beers at the bar Staff all very friendly and helpful Stayed in the largest of the three bedrooms, Kitty Canham, which was very comfortable and well equipped with teas and coffee Hair dryer Fan and fan heater Shower over bath Shampoo conditioner and shower gel Views over the Town Church and Churchyard Will definitely stay here again Walton on the Naze snd Frinton a few miles away snd well worth a visit

Me and my family have been to this restaurant quite a few times and never disappoints. There roast dinners are absolutely amazing! They have vegetarian options too, as I am a veggie. I always get there nut roasts and is very delicious. I recommend this restaurant for couples and families, you won’t be disappointed! :) Also the staff are very polite and lovely!

We stayed for 3 nights with our dog which was fantastic as not many places in the area allow dogs! We felt very welcomed and very much at home. The food was excellent both in the evening and breakfast and the atmosphere was brilliant with the locals very friendly! An amazing old building with so much character and very clean. Would definitely recommend!