Business Details
Historic Hotel in Derby for Events, Dining & Accommodation
The Old Bell Hotel Derby stands as a testament to centuries of hospitality, having welcomed guests since 1650. As one of Derby's oldest buildings, we have meticulously preserved our historic charm while introducing modern comforts following a 1.3 million renovation. Our establishment combines grade II listed architecture with contemporary amenities, offering a unique setting for dining, events, and overnight stays. With four function rooms, three themed bars, and The Belfry restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine, we cater to diverse occasions from weddings to corporate events. Our team of local experts ensures every guest experiences the building's rich history through curated events like the Faulty Towers Dining Experience and historic ghost tours.Recognised by the Derby Telegraph for our exceptional service, we maintain a family-friendly atmosphere while hosting over 30 live music performances annually. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our award-winning food, extensive drinks menu featuring local ales, and flexible event spaces accommodating up to 130 guests. As stewards of this historic coaching inn, we balance preservation with innovation, ensuring every visitor connects with Derby's heritage while enjoying modern hospitality standards.
Services
Wedding Venues
Corporate Events
Historic Dining
Accommodation
Photo Shoots
Highlights and features
- We offer award-winning food and drinks since 1650
- Our team has extensive local history knowledge
- We provide 24/7 event support in historic spaces
- Our venue offers unique period-themed experiences
- We guarantee preservation of historic authenticity
What people say
Exceptional service
Delicious food
Historic ambiance
Perfect wedding venue
Memorable events
Services
Wedding Venues
Our four historic function rooms accommodate weddings from intimate ceremonies to grand celebrations for 130 guests. The Grand Regency Ballroom, modelled after Titanic's ballrooms, features natural daylight and access to our courtyard. All packages include dedicated event coordination, prosecco receptions, and award-winning catering. The Tudor Bar provides atmospheric pre-dinner drinks space with its 17th-century features.
Corporate Events
We offer conferencing facilities across four period-themed rooms suitable for 10-130 delegates. The venue combines high-speed WiFi and modern AV equipment with historic surroundings. Packages include bespoke catering, room hire until midnight, and themed team-building activities. The 1650 Coaching Inn Experience provides unique networking opportunities within Derby's Cathedral Quarter.
Historic Dining
The Belfry Steakhouse serves locally sourced beef and seasonal produce across three themed bars. Our Tavern Bar features eight real ales on tap, while the Tudor Bar offers an extensive gin collection. Daily changing menus showcase Derbyshire's agricultural heritage. The restaurant maintains original features including 17th-century room bells and Jacobean staircase.
Themed Experiences
We host interactive dining shows like Faulty Towers and Scrooge: A Christmas Carol. Historic ghost tours explore our haunted attic rooms with mulled wine receptions. Seasonal events include Easter egg hunts and winter wonderland parties. All experiences combine authentic period settings with modern entertainment technology.
Photo Shoots
Our grade II listed building provides period backdrops for photography and film production. Features include original Jacobean staircase, 17th-century courtyard, and four uniquely themed function rooms. The venue has hosted productions including period dramas and music videos. Our team offers location scouts and production support services.
Questions
What event spaces do you have available?
We have four historic function rooms: Grand Regency Ballroom, Tudor Bar, Tavern Bar, and Belfry Steakhouse, accommodating 10-130 guests.
Do you offer accommodation packages?
Yes, we provide overnight stays in our 17th-century coaching inn with packages combining dining experiences and event bookings.
Can I visit your bars without attending an event?
Our three themed bars welcome casual visitors daily from 12:00pm with no booking required for general access.
Are your wedding packages customizable?
All wedding packages are fully customizable with options to upgrade catering, entertainment, and room hire durations.
Do you have parking facilities?
While we don't have onsite parking, several public car parks are within 500 meters of our Cathedral Quarter location.
Can I pre-order drinks for events?
Yes, pre-order drinks packages are available for all events to ensure timely service during performances and dining experiences.
