The claim
A brick and timber former hall house on the Berkshire Downs, the Bell is a rare unspoilt village pub run by one family for more than two centuries. Ebony handpumps installed in 1902 still serve local ales, alongside famously good filled rolls. Twice CAMRA's National Pub of the Year, it is beloved by Ridgeway walkers.
What the records show
The 1340 date is not documented; Historic England dates the timber-framed former hall house to the 15th century or possibly earlier. The same family has run it since the 18th century.
What to look for inside
- CAMRA National Pub of the Year 1990 and 2019
- Same family in charge since the 18th century
- Ebony handpumps installed in 1902
- Grade II listed interior on CAMRA's National Inventory
Visiting
The Bell Inn is in Aldworth, England, at Bell Lane, Aldworth, Reading RG8 9SE. We do not list opening times, because they change; the pub’s own site is the place to check before you set out.
Sources
- en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bell_Inn,_Aldworth
- camra.org.uk/pubs/bell-inn-aldworth-119005
- ratings.food.gov.uk/business/202851
Know something we don’t?Suggest a correctionLast checked Sept 2026
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