Business Details
Stay at Historic Old Court Hotel in Symonds Yat
The Old Court Hotel is a family-run establishment nestled in the heart of Symonds Yat West, Wye Valley, Herefordshire. Acquired in 2006 by Jono and Victoria Smith-Milne, the hotel combines over 30 years of their hospitality expertise with the building's 16th-century heritage. Our property features two well-stocked bars, a historic Tudor Dining Room restaurant, a large function suite for weddings and events, and beautifully maintained gardens. We offer diverse accommodation options including period rooms with four-poster beds, self-catering apartments, and a three-bedroom cottage. Located within the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, we provide easy access to the River Wye, Wye Gorge, and nearby attractions like Goodrich Castle and Tintern Abbey.Our culinary offerings showcase locally sourced Hereford Beef and lamb from Risbury Court Farm, complemented by seasonal produce from the Wye Valley. With over 450 years of history, the hotel has hosted notable figures including Thomas Gwillim and John Graves Simcoe, whose legacies are preserved in our architecture and surroundings. Our dedicated team ensures every guest experiences the authentic charm of an Old English Inn while enjoying modern comforts. We specialise in creating memorable weddings and events, leveraging our historic setting and tailored service. The hotel's unique position makes it an ideal base for exploring the Forest of Dean, Monmouthshire, and the wider Herefordshire countryside.
Services
Accommodation
Fine Dining
Wedding Venue
Function Rooms
Self-Catering
Highlights and features
- Family-run with over 30 years' hospitality experience
- Authentic 16th-century architecture with modern comforts
- Locally sourced Hereford Beef and seasonal Wye Valley produce
- Award-winning wedding venue with tailored event planning
- Strategically located within Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
What people say
Nice food
Friendly service
Historical interest
Scenic location
Charming character
Services
Accommodation
Our historic hotel offers diverse accommodation options including compact doubles, feature rooms, four-poster suites, and self-catering apartments. All rooms include en-suite facilities, flat-screen TVs, free high-speed broadband, and Crabtree & Evelyn toiletries. Our 15th-century barn annexe provides tranquil family accommodation with private gardens, situated just twenty metres from the main hotel.
Fine Dining
The Tudor Dining Room provides fine dining with seasonal menus showcasing locally sourced Hereford Beef and lamb from Risbury Court Farm. Our conservatory offers light meals with river views, while the Cotswold Bar serves traditional pub fare. We maintain a handpicked wine list complementing our dishes, with staff available for pairing recommendations.
Wedding Venue
We specialise in bespoke weddings within our historic setting, offering the Elizabethan Suite for up to 110 guests or the Tudor Dining Room for intimate gatherings. Services include tailored planning, civil ceremony licensing, accommodation packages, and breakfast/drink packages. Our gardens provide scenic photo opportunities with river and hill vistas.
Function Rooms
The Elizabethan Function Room accommodates conferences, team-building events, and celebrations. We provide dedicated event management, AV equipment, and catering services. The space features civil ceremony licensing and connects to our hospitality areas for seamless guest experiences during corporate or private functions.
Self-Catering
Our converted 15th-century barn offers self-catering apartments with kitchen facilities, sleeping 2-8 guests. Units include separate living areas, wood-burning stoves, and private gardens. The cottage option provides extended stays with full kitchen facilities, ideal for families or groups exploring the Wye Valley region.
People
Jono Smith-Milne
Co-Owner
Co-owner with 20+ years' hospitality experience. Acquired Old Court Hotel in 2006, maintaining its historic character while modernising guest facilities. Oversees daily operations and event management.
Victoria Smith-Milne
Co-Owner
Co-owner contributing hospitality expertise since 2006. Focuses on guest relations and wedding coordination. Ensures service standards align with the hotel's historic reputation while meeting modern expectations.
Angela Jones
Wild Swimming Instructor
Founder of Angela Jones Swim Wild with 9 years' experience promoting Wye Valley water activities. Organises adventure events combining nature appreciation with confidence-building exercises, prioritising safety and environmental respect.
Questions
What accommodation options are available?
We offer compact doubles, feature rooms, four-poster suites, self-catering apartments, and a three-bedroom cottage with modern amenities in historic settings.
Can I host a wedding at Old Court Hotel?
Yes, we specialise in bespoke weddings with venues for 40-110 guests, including civil ceremonies, accommodation packages, and tailored event planning.
What dining facilities do you provide?
Our Tudor Dining Room offers fine dining, conservatory has light meals, and the Cotswold Bar serves traditional pub food with locally sourced ingredients.
What historical significance does the hotel have?
Built around 1570, the hotel hosted notable figures including Thomas Gwillim and John Graves Simcoe, with original architectural features preserved throughout.
Are there nearby attractions?
We're within the Wye Valley AONB, near Tintern Abbey, Goodrich Castle, Forest of Dean, and offer river cruises and butterfly zoo day passes.
What event spaces are available?
The Elizabethan Suite accommodates conferences and large events, with dedicated management and catering services for corporate or private functions.
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