Old Bell Hotel, Derby

Four-storey 17th century brick and timber-framed building that has been much altered and restored. The Brewers Tudor exterior mainly dates from 1920s. The Licensing Valuation plan of 1933 indicates the only changes are the conversion of small parts on the left and right of the building to retail; the Ballroom was a lounge and a ballroom at that time; the Tavern Bar was two rooms; and what was the small Smoke Room is now toilets. After limited use of the building in the late 20th century, the interior has been subject to a restoration from 2013. Of interest are the little-altered Tudor Bar; the much-restored Grand Regency Ballroom; and to a much lesser extent the Tavern Bar. 

The Tudor Bar is the room retaining the majority of its fittings which are mainly from the interwar period. The bar counter remains but the bar back shelves have been replaced. The grand stone and brick fireplace dates back to 1650 and parts were used elsewhere in the building before making its home in the Tudor Bar. The dado panelling includes a carved section and there is more above the entrance door. There is just one toilet from the days this was exclusively a men-only bar – although it retains its interwar wording of ‘Gentlemen’ it is now a unisex toilet. Lots of stained-glass windows from the 1930s. 

The Tavern Bar has modern bar fittings – the only old items are the original hotel room bells hanging above the bar; there are more in the corridor behind the bar. The Grand Regency Ballroom retains its original plasterwork and two glass domes which cost in the region of £130,000 to restore. Impressive coach arch. 

Please note the Tudor Bar is only open Friday 17:00-23:00, Saturday 12:00-23:00 and Sunday 12:00-17:00. To visit at other times send an email to events@bellhotelderby.co.uk.