High Street

(Sandwich)

Above shows the Bell Hotel after 1905. The AA as shown on the sign on the building was formed on 29 June, 1905. The buildings on the right were demolished during the 1920s.

This building dates from 1648.

The Bell Hotel has been an important centre of Sandwich life since Tudor times. A Bell Inn has existed on The Quay, adjacent to the Barbican Gate and Toll, overlooking what would have been the harbour, now the River Stour, since about 1300. The present listed building is mainly 19th century. Today with its 34 en suite bedrooms; a Georgian regency room catering for up to 120 guests; the Stour conference suite overlooking the river, a brasserie with a menu specialising in local produce and two bars, that importance is set to continue as The Bell undergoes a programme of refurbishment and restoration.

King Charles II drank 'a glass of sack at The Bell Tavern door' on his way to Dover to receive Queen Henrietta Maria, on her return from exile.

Bagshaw Directory 1847 describes the inn as a Posting House.

LICENSEE LIST

HARRISON Sarah Mrs Sept/1791

FRIDAY John Sept/1791+

MOLYNEUX William 1847+

From Bagshaw Directory 1847