Business Details
The Lion Hotel - Historic Accommodation in Buckden
The Lion Hotel at Buckden, Cambridgeshire, is one of England's oldest coaching inns, dating back to 1492. We offer a unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort, providing traditional dining, comfortable accommodation, and a welcoming bar area. Our establishment retains original features such as open fires and a distinctive ceiling, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Located in the heart of Cambridgeshire, we serve as an ideal base for exploring local attractions like Buckden Towers and St Mary's Church. Our team prioritises hospitality, ensuring guests enjoy memorable experiences whether staying overnight, dining, or attending events.We accommodate both spontaneous visits and pre-booked stays, with signature rooms offering luxury amenities like four-poster beds and contemporary bathrooms. Our menus feature locally sourced ingredients, including seasonal dishes and special occasion options. The Ivy Room provides a romantic dining setting, while our event spaces cater to weddings and gatherings. We maintain accessibility to London and northern regions via the A1, complemented by partnerships with local tourism initiatives. Our commitment to preserving historical integrity while meeting modern expectations defines our approach to guest satisfaction.
Services
Accommodation
Restaurant dining
Event hosting
Bar services
Wedding venue
Local tours
Breakfast service
Function catering
Highlights and features
- Established in 1492, we combine centuries of hospitality tradition with modern comforts
- Unique historical features including original open fires and period architecture
- Award-winning locally sourced cuisine with seasonal and special occasion menus
- Luxury accommodation options featuring four-poster beds and contemporary bathrooms
- Versatile event spaces for weddings and private functions with tailored catering
What people say
Exceptional history
Friendly staff
Delicious food
Scenic location
Unique experience
Services
Accommodation
Our historic hotel offers seven distinct room categories combining period features with modern amenities. Signature rooms feature Italian furniture and waterfall showers, while four-poster suites provide romantic settings. All accommodations include complimentary WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and tea-making facilities. The oldest sections showcase beamed ceilings and historic fireplaces, with select rooms offering views of Buckden Towers.
Restaurant dining
The Ivy Room and main restaurant serve locally sourced British cuisine in elegant settings. Menus change seasonally, featuring dishes made from fresh Cambridgeshire produce. We offer Sunday roasts, children's options, and special event menus for occasions like Christmas and New Year. Wine pairings are available from our curated list, with vegetarian and dietary requirement options clearly marked.
Event hosting
We provide spaces for weddings, corporate events, and private parties accommodating 20-120 guests. The Ivy Room offers intimate settings with starlit ceilings, while larger functions use our adaptable banquet facilities. Custom catering menus and event coordination services are available, with accommodation packages for overnight guests.
Bar services
Our traditional bar serves real ales, premium spirits, and international wines in a historic setting. Regular events include themed evenings and live music performances. The bar area retains original features like open fires and period woodwork, creating an authentic coaching inn atmosphere for casual drinks.
Local tours
We provide information and booking assistance for local attractions including Buckden Towers, St Mary's Church, and Grafham Water. Guests receive walking route maps to nearby landmarks, with special access arrangements for historical sites. Our staff offers recommendations for day trips to Cambridge, Huntingdon, and other regional destinations.
Questions
Does The Lion Hotel offer event hosting facilities?
Yes, we provide multiple event spaces accommodating 20-120 guests, including the Ivy Room and banquet facilities with custom catering options.
What dining options are available at the hotel?
We serve seasonal British cuisine in our restaurant, with menus featuring locally sourced ingredients, Sunday roasts, children's options, and special event menus.
Are there historical features in the hotel?
Yes, original features include open fires, beamed ceilings, and a historic ceiling mural dating from the 1492 construction period.
What accommodation types are available?
We offer seven room categories including signature suites, four-poster rooms, and standard doubles with modern amenities and historic views.
Is the hotel accessible for disabled guests?
While we maintain historic features, we provide ground-floor access and adapted facilities where possible - please contact us for specific requirements.
What local attractions can guests visit?
Nearby attractions include Buckden Towers, St Mary's Church, Grafham Water, and Huntingdon, with walking routes and special access arrangements available.
Reviews (4)
Tara McGregor
Jan 03, 2022
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Had a perfect Christmas Dinner at The Lion Hotel Buckden, food was delicious, service was brilliant, lovely Christmasy atmosphere. Thank you and compliments to the Chef...
Robbie Porter
Sep 24, 2021
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Very nice relaxed visited it with my friends and their young daughter the local ale was very nice its a nice place to visit when I come down from Somerset
Colin Bell
Aug 25, 2021
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Love this place a traditional coaching history...turned into a fab placed to be. Warm friendly .good beers ales.bitters.
Fantastic food.gr 8 prices.idilic location could ask no more..
Terrific...had beef baguette xx
Fantastic food.gr 8 prices.idilic location could ask no more..
Terrific...had beef baguette xx
John Theobalds
Apr 20, 2021
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Was a superb place to eat and the food was always a high quality but unfortunately who knows when it will open again unfortunately with covid days were living in at the moment
