The Angel, Bury St Edmunds

Hotel review

The Angel Hotel is not only the best hotel in Bury St Edmunds, it's one of the best places to stay in Suffolk. Located opposite the historic Abbey Gate, The Angel, a historic Georgian coaching inn built in 1780, has a rich history and an illustrious guestbook that includes Charles Dickens, who visited multiple times. Dickens stayed here in 1835 while working as a journalist and later returned in 1859 and 1861 for public readings nearby. His novel The Pickwick Papers even references the hotel, and today, The Angel honours his legacy with a dedicated Charles Dickens Suite and various Dickens-inspired decor elements.

The 80 rooms are divided into classifications ranging from cosy, well-designed spaces to luxurious suites, some with freestanding shiny copper baths, others with four posters. Many rooms offer views of the Abbey Gardens or the charming streets of Bury St Edmunds, while some are positioned in quieter, more secluded sections of the building. Original features have been maintained where possible and each room combines the Georgian character of the property with quirky art and modern touches that give it a boutique hotel feel. Bathrooms are spacious with walk-in showers and sulphate-free Bath House products (which you can buy at reception). If flannels were provided the bathrooms would receive full marks. The Charles Dickens Suite, one of their most famous rooms, is a particular highlight, showcasing interiors inspired by the author himself and his connection to the hotel.

If you have time, have a drink, cocktail or, if going to the theatre a pre-theatre snack in the candlelit sitting area at the back (a great place for Afternoon Tea). The Angel’s atmospheric restaurant, The Eaterie, is a vibrant, buzzing restaurant with a compact menu which focuses on locally inspired food - the menu includes some British favourites including sticky toffee pudding with a great wine list. An iconic hotel, in the heart of the one of the UK's loveliest market towns.

Lulu Townsend Review published: 2024-10-21