The Old Bell Hotel is a 15th century former coaching inn. It is brick built with a large bell hung high above the entrance. A bell has hung in the same position for well over a hundred years. The Old Bell Hotel is home to least four resident ghosts. One of the rooms was once used as a local assize court where hapless defendants were sent to their fate on the gallows. It is said that two of the ghosts are the tortured souls of innocent men who were set to their death. The third ghost is of a chambermaid who hanged herself out of shame after being made present and deserted by a local lord. The fourth apparition is that of an old man locked up to die in a solitary room after contracting some infectious disease. The Old Bell is also reputed to have a secret tunnel leading to the church of St. James the Great on the opposite side of Long Street. In 1866 the Old Bell was sold at auction to George Ayliffe for the grand total of £815. It seems probable that he was renting the property before that. 1927 Kellys Directory refers to the Old Bell Family and Commercial Hotel. The Old Bell Hotel was acquired by Georges & Co., Bristol Brewery and the ownership then passed on to Courage’s Brewery.
Gloucester Journal. January 1788: To be let and entered upon, immediately, all that commodious and principal Inn, called the Old Bell, Dursley, aforesaid, lately occupied by Mr William Richards the younger. Enquire further of Mr William Plomer, or Mr William Vizard, both of Dursley, aforesaid.
Stroud News & Journal online, 11th February 2026 – Historic Dursley hotel and nightclub on market for £1.5 million: (by James Felton)
A historic and important venue with significant potential in Dursley town centre is up for sale. Ye Olde Bell in Dursley, a Grade II-listed property dating back to the 15th century, is on the market for 1.5 million. The site features an 11-bedroom hotel, public house, and the well-known Capones nightclub.
Covering 63,298 square feet, the property includes two car parks, and is being sold as a freehold with long-term investment potential. It is being marketed as having potential for redevelopment or diversification. The site has been described as ‘important’ by a leading figure, who added that it offered ‘significant potential’.
Tony Davey, chair of Stroud Chamber of Commerce and Trade, said: “This site is an important one in Dursley and certainly can offer some significant potential for the right investor. Dursley is very popular with walkers and active tourism is an increasing draw to our district.”
The current owner confirmed to the Gazette that the hotel and nightclub could be purchased together or separately. Described on Rightmove as an “iconic freehold property”, Ye Olde Bell is seen as a ‘landmarket asset’ with opportunities for investors, developers, hospitality groups, or those seeking a lifestyle business.
Potential future uses suggested for the site include a boutique hotel, wellness retreat, or lifestyle venue, though any changed would be subject to planning permission. A spokesperson for Rightmove said: “This is a chance to acquire a substantial and historically significant venue in the thriving market town of Dursley.”
Licensing Details:
Owner in 1891: Sarah Ann Ayliffe (free from brewery tie)
Rateable value in 1891: £64.0s.0d.
Type of licence in 1891: Alehouse
Owner in 1903: George Arthur Ayliffe (free from brewery tie)
Rateable value in 1903: £88.10s.0d.
Type of licence in 1903: Alehouse
Closing time in 1903: 11pm
Landlords at the Old Bell include:
1856 Mrs E. Ayliffe
1885 George Ayliffe
1891 Sarah Ann Ayliffe
1903 George Arthur Ayliffe
1906,1927 George Ayliffe
1971 Mr and Mrs W.R. Lloyd
1997,2005 Stavros Antonio and Chambi Praki