Business Details
7 Years
experience
The Bull Inn - Historic Hotel in Woodbridge
The Bull Inn is a historic boutique hotel and award-winning restaurant nestled in the heart of Woodbridge, Suffolk. With roots tracing back to the early 16th century, our establishment blends centuries-old charm with modern comforts, offering guests a unique experience steeped in local heritage. Our restaurant showcases seasonal dishes crafted from over 90% locally sourced ingredients, reflecting our commitment to sustainability and community. The Bull Inn has been a cornerstone of Woodbridge life for centuries, serving as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Under current ownership since 2019, we continue to uphold traditions while introducing contemporary enhancements.Our team combines extensive hospitality expertise with a passion for preserving historical authenticity. From our meticulously maintained medieval features to our thoughtfully designed accommodations, every detail reflects our dedication to excellence. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional service, whether guests are enjoying a meal, staying overnight, or attending an event. Our deep ties to the region ensure visitors gain authentic insights into Suffolk's culture and landscape. This enduring legacy of hospitality makes The Bull Inn a trusted choice for those seeking memorable experiences in East Anglia.
Services
Boutique Hotel Accommodation
Award-Winning Restaurant
Private Dining Events
Local Ingredient Catering
Wine Club
Golf Packages
Historical Tours
Gift Vouchers
Event Hosting
Accessibility Services
Details
- Year established: 2019
Highlights and features
- We offer centuries-old hospitality with modern comforts in a historic setting
- Our menus feature over 90% locally sourced ingredients from Suffolk producers
- We maintain original architectural features dating to the 1500s
- Our team provides expert knowledge of local history and attractions
- We combine traditional charm with contemporary service standards
What people say
Friendly and helpful staff
Excellent breakfast menu
Lovely old hotel
Best place I've stayed
Wonderful hotel
Services
Boutique Hotel Accommodation
Our 16th-century hotel offers seven distinct room categories combining historic charm with modern amenities. Each room preserves original features while providing contemporary comforts like en-suite bathrooms and modern furnishings. Guests benefit from our central location in Woodbridge's market square, offering easy access to local attractions and scenic Suffolk landscapes.
Award-Winning Restaurant
Our restaurant serves modern British cuisine using over 90% locally sourced ingredients from Suffolk producers. Menus change seasonally to showcase regional specialties, with options ranging from casual bar snacks to formal dining experiences. The venue maintains historic character while offering contemporary culinary excellence in a relaxed atmosphere.
Private Hire Events
Carlows Room provides a historic setting for private events accommodating up to 50 guests. The space combines medieval architectural features with modern amenities for weddings, business meetings, and special celebrations. Our team offers tailored event planning and bespoke catering options to ensure memorable occasions.
Wine Club
Our Wine Club offers monthly tastings and events featuring regional and international wines. Members enjoy exclusive access to limited vintages and special discounts on wine purchases. The program combines educational experiences with social opportunities in our historic venue's atmospheric setting.
Historical Tours
Guided tours reveal the building's 500-year history, including medieval architectural features and connections to notable figures. Visitors learn about the inn's role in local military history and literary connections. The experience includes access to preserved historical elements like the Tudor screen and cellar bee holes.
People
Sarah Clarke
Co-Owner
Sarah Clarke co-owns The Bull Inn with her husband David. Originally from New Zealand, she brings international hospitality experience to the historic venue. Her background in financial services complements her passion for tourism and outdoor activities. Sarah focuses on maintaining the hotel's heritage while implementing modern service standards.
David Clarke
Co-Owner
David Clarke co-owns The Bull Inn with his wife Sarah. A Nottingham native, he transitioned from corporate life to pursue his passion for food and wine. David oversees culinary operations, leveraging his expertise to create menus showcasing local Suffolk producers. Together with Sarah, he aims to blend New Zealand hospitality with English tradition.
Questions
What historical features can guests expect to see at The Bull Inn?
Our building contains original 16th-century features including a medieval timber screen, wattle and daub remnants, and cellar bee holes. The property has hosted notable figures from Winston Churchill to King Umberto I of Italy.
What types of accommodations does The Bull Inn offer?
We provide seven room categories ranging from economy doubles to master suites, all combining historic character with modern amenities. Special accessibility options and family rooms are available in our annex building.
How does The Bull Inn support local producers?
Over 90% of our ingredients come from Suffolk suppliers within an hour's drive. We maintain close relationships with regional farmers, fishermen, and food producers to ensure seasonal freshness and community support.
What dining options are available at The Bull Inn?
Our restaurant serves seasonal British cuisine daily, with breakfast until midday and dinner until 9pm. The bar offers casual dining with small plates and our famous Sunday roasts are available from midday on Sundays.
Are there parking facilities available for guests?
We have limited on-site parking available on a first-come basis. Alternative public parking is available nearby at Oak Lane Car Park, with luggage drop-off permitted at our reception before parking.
What special events does The Bull Inn host annually?
We host regular wine club tastings, Burns Night celebrations, Beaujolais Nouveau events, and quiz nights. Our calendar also features historical tours and seasonal promotions tied to local festivals.
Reviews (7)
J. V. M.
Jun 07, 2022
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Quaint and Quirky 17th Century Inn, what really is there not like. ( I loved it ). I stayed for 1 night with a 2 course breakfast included. That whole entire " Old World" feel was fantastic and extremely nostalgic. Every member of staff was exceptionally polite and with parking onsite, it was a delight. In modern day, I'd grown accustomed to boring room cards to enter your room and it was nice to have a good old fashioned door key I loved the decor, old wooden beams, twisty and creaky stair case etc ( can you imagine the history that this place has and the stories it could tell ). I would most definitely stay here again. ( Good Value )
Alison Pearson Ali
Jun 03, 2022
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The Bull Inn on Market Hill, Woodbridge is a true hidden gem, so much so that I am reluctant to shere it. However what Sarah and David (plus Mike) and their fantastic staff have done over the last 3 years to transform the Bull, is nothing short of a miracle. As locals and regulars we have seen how this local hotel has become a destination point for beautiful rooms, an amazing bar and lovely sun facing, front beer garden and a truly scrumptious menu. Sarah and David, supported by a dedicated team of staff make every visit and absolute pleasure.
Viviane Ward
Jun 02, 2022
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Just amazing! We celebrated at the Bull Inn after getting married at the Shire Hall. Sarah and team ensured we had the perfect day. The food was amazing, the atmosphere relaxing and fun. We stayed in the hotel and the rooms were comfortable. The bridal suite was a particularly beautiful and spacious room. I fully recommend the Bull Inn.
John Vincent
May 31, 2022
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Love this hotel. My favourite in UK, delightful fresh rooms, world class shower pressure and staff I cannot fault for friendliness and kindness to the weary traveller. Thanks.
Mark Rogers
May 20, 2022
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There was a lot I liked about it but there were some problems. First the positives: very friendly staff, accommodating to cyclists ie they found somewhere safe to put our bikes, rooms clean and nicely decorated, mattresses really comfortable, breakfast and dinner were really good. But a major drawback: our room was on first floor above the bar which, surprisingly for a mid week day, had noisy clientele until 12.40am so impossible to get to sleep.
I know they are running a pub, but I wish the hotel had either warned us our room would be noisy, or suggested a different room, or even moved their late night bar clientele further from the bedrooms. As the hotel did nothing like that the night we stayed, one must assume it happens to guests all the time. My advice would be to stay on 2nd floor or ask for a room further from the bar.
I know they are running a pub, but I wish the hotel had either warned us our room would be noisy, or suggested a different room, or even moved their late night bar clientele further from the bedrooms. As the hotel did nothing like that the night we stayed, one must assume it happens to guests all the time. My advice would be to stay on 2nd floor or ask for a room further from the bar.
Chris Pont
May 09, 2022
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New outside table area is a little sun trap! New management seem awesome, decent beer and bar is a lot bigger now. Welcoming for dogs (they even provide treats) and some interesting history on the walls.
Lisa
Apr 21, 2022
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I visited this wonderful Hotel 2 days ago and could not recommend it more. In the heart of Woodbridge. The staff were so lovely and friendly. The food was amazing. My parents stayed here and my daughters and myself joined them for lunch and and an evening meal which were both delicious. I will be recommending this delightful place to everyone so anyone that's thinking of going to Woodbridge this is the place to stay!
