Stay in a historic 15th-century coaching inn in Long Melford
The Bull Hotel stands on Hall Street in Long Melford, one of the most historic villages in Suffolk. Built in 1450 and welcoming travellers since the 16th century, this Grade II* listed timber-framed inn retains much of its original character, with carved oak beams, traditional fireplaces, leaded windows and period furnishings. Today, the hotel combines centuries of history with comfortable accommodation, restaurant dining and a welcoming pub, providing a distinctive base for exploring Long Melford and the surrounding countryside.
The hotel offers 25 individually styled en-suite bedrooms, including double, twin and superior accommodation, with selected rooms featuring traditional four-poster beds and historic architectural details. Comfortable furnishings, televisions, tea and coffee-making facilities and complimentary Wi-Fi provide modern convenience within the characterful surroundings. The hotel also offers dog-friendly rooms and on-site parking, making it a practical choice for visitors exploring the village and wider Stour Valley.
Dining is central to the experience at The Bull. The restaurant serves traditional British dishes and familiar pub favourites, while the bar provides a relaxed setting for drinks beside an open fire. Original timber beams, historic carvings and period furniture create an atmosphere closely connected to the building's long history. Guests can enjoy breakfast before exploring the village, return for lunch or dinner, or spend a quiet evening in the hotel's traditional surroundings.
The Bull's central position places guests within easy walking distance of Long Melford's independent shops, antique dealers, galleries and historic buildings. A walk north along Hall Street leads towards Long Melford Green and Holy Trinity Church, one of England's finest medieval wool churches. Nearby Melford Hall offers Tudor architecture, gardens and connections to Beatrix Potter, while Kentwell Hall is known for its historic interiors, gardens and living-history events. Beyond the village, Long Melford Country Park and the Valley Walk, Long Melford to Sudbury provide opportunities to explore woodland, open countryside and the surrounding landscape on foot.
Long Melford is also well positioned for discovering southern Suffolk. Nearby Sudbury offers riverside walks through Sudbury Water Meadows and a visit to Gainsborough's House, while Lavenham is celebrated for its medieval timber-framed buildings and historic Market Place. The wider countryside can be explored along the Stour Valley Path, with Bury St Edmunds providing another rewarding day out. For a two or three-night stay combining historic places, countryside walking and traditional hospitality, The Bull Hotel offers a characterful setting in the heart of Long Melford.
Walk • Stay • Explore
Walk through the historic streets of Long Melford towards Long Melford Green and Holy Trinity Church, explore Long Melford Country Park or follow the Valley Walk, Long Melford to Sudbury. Stay at The Bull Hotel, with 25 individually styled bedrooms, historic timber-framed interiors, traditional pub dining and a welcoming bar. Explore Melford Hall, Kentwell Hall, nearby Sudbury and Lavenham, or discover the surrounding countryside along the Stour Valley Path.