Macdonald Bear Hotel - Woodstock, Oxfordshire

The Bear Hotel is one of the original 13th Century coaching houses still in use. It was recently named as one of the most haunted hotels in the country and is known to house two ghosts. A paranormal investigation team have recently been in contact with the two ghosts and come up with the names Elizabeth Downing, who died in 1768, and Elizabeth’s 8-year-old son, Christopher Downing.

Guests have reported on several occasions seeing young Christopher walking the halls and even attempting to play a game of hide & seek with them.

A guests experience at the Bear Hotel in his own words:

“I stayed there for three nights this week, and after chatting with the night porter, apparently there are two haunted rooms – luckily (or unluckily, whichever way you look at it) I didn’t stay in either.”

Many guests, owners, and staff have heard crying coming from one of the rooms at night. This is believed to either be the young boy Christopher, or another rumour is that it is the illicit grandchild of the hotel’s owner during the Civil War.

The mother of the child (age 14) was apparently bricked up in her room due to the shame she had brought upon the family. This has not been confirmed by the members of staff, however…

About

The Bear Hotel at Woodstock, one of England’s oldest hotels and one of its prettiest, has been dispensing hospitality since the 13th Century. Originally a coaching inn, it has played host to film stars, royalty and politicians for centuries. With its ivy-clad façade, oak beams, open fireplaces and stone walls, the Bear exudes warmth and cosiness – perfect for an escape to good, old-fashioned hospitality. Its award-winning restaurant features modern British cuisine in a traditional setting.

The Bear enjoys a prime location in the heart of Woodstock, a stone’s throw from the magnificent park of Blenheim Palace and only 8 miles from Oxford. Henry I and Henry II spent much time in Woodstock, and in 1330 Edward, The Black Prince was born here. As a princess, Elizabeth I was imprisoned in Woodstock Manor by her sister, Mary Tudor. Whatever the reason for your visit, the atmosphere of the Bear Hotel invites you to relax.

We have 54 bedrooms, all recently refurbished, including 3 four-poster suites, 4 suites, 9 four-poster rooms, 2 half-tester rooms and non-smoking rooms. Every room has full en suite facilities, satellite TV, CD player and Radio, Trouser Press, Iron and Ironing Board, 24-hour room service available on request and a minibar in most rooms.