Bull Inn Reading Exterior photoBull Inn Reading Exterior photoBull Inn Reading Exterior photo

Bull Inn

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From$331 /night
Check-in
01Aug
Check-out
02Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

High Street, Sonning On Thames, Reading, RG7 6LS
-
Near St Andrew's Church
Great
8.7
9.1
/10
5.0
4.3
/5

Historic 16th-century coaching inn in Sonning on Thames

The Inn & History

The Bull Inn occupies a 16th-century coaching inn in the village of Sonning on Thames. The building retains original 15th-century features, including steep staircases and uneven floors, preserved from its historic renovation. Guests stay within a 500-year-old structure that sits next to the village church and close to the River Thames.

Rooms & Accommodations

Boutique bedrooms offer garden views and luxury amenities such as dressing gowns and slippers. Some rooms include a coffee machine, complimentary Prosecco, and a bottle of beer upon arrival. The Saint Andrew's room provides a spacious bathroom with a large bed and high-end toiletries.

Dining & Bar

The restaurant serves traditional British cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients, including rib-eye steak and fish and chips. A fixed-price menu offers two courses for £18.50, available until 6:30 pm. The outdoor Horse-Box Bar provides drinks in a converted horse box within the courtyard.

Outdoor Spaces & Events

The inn has extensive outdoor areas, including a garden with a paddock used for events and gatherings. Private function space accommodates up to 40 guests for celebrations or business meetings. The courtyard features wisteria and hanging baskets, with covered seating for warmer weather.

Location & Nearby Attractions

The Bull Inn sits in a picturesque village setting near the River Thames, with scenic walks along the towpath. Henley Royal Regatta Headquarters is 6 miles away, and Dinton Pastures Country Park is a short drive. The Mill Dinner Theatre, also in Sonning, offers evening entertainment within walking distance.

Highlights

History: 16th-century coaching inn with original 15th-century features

Rooms: Boutique bedrooms with garden views and luxury amenities

Dining: Traditional British cuisine and Horse-Box Bar

Events: Private function space for up to 40 guests

Location: Near River Thames, Henley Royal Regatta, and The Mill Dinner Theatre

Pet-friendly: Dog-friendly accommodations with water bowls and treats

“The Bull Inn, steeped in 16th-century history near the River Thames, offers a unique stay in Stanford Dingley village. While some rooms might feel compact and noise from the bar can intrude, the inn's historic charm, dog-friendly atmosphere, and gourmet dining, make it an appealing choice for those seeking a relaxing countryside escape. Its extensive outdoor spaces and proximity to attractions such as Henley Royal Regatta add to its allure, making it ideal for gatherings and events.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Dogfriendly-hotels

Select your room type

The hotel provides many room choices—family rooms, doubles, and pet-friendly suites—with breakfast, free cancellation, and special offers
  • Standard Double Room
    2 persons
    6 m²
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Deluxe Double Room
    2 persons
    10 m²
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Superior King Room
    2 persons
    12 m²
    1 King-size bed
    Heating
    Shower

Rates & availability calendar

See current prices and availability for your chosen dates!
August 2026 - August 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Hotels feature amenities designed to keep both you and your pet comfortable
Facilities: Great
8.7/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Pets allowed
  • Security
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Outdoor dining area

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area

Room features

  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
Show more

Dining Onsite

The Bull Inn features a charming dining experience with traditional British cuisine, emphasizing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Guests can savor meals crafted by a talented chef team in a cozy setting, perfect for indulging in comforting favorites or exploring new tastes.
  • Restaurant #1

    Traditional British
    Ambiance
    Warm and inviting with a classic decor that reflects the heritage of British dining
    Key Offerings
    Enjoy an array of seasonal dishes designed around local produce delivered every day, complemented by an excellent selection of Fuller's real ales.
    Reservation
    Recommended
    Monday to Saturday: 12:00 - 21:30, Sunday: 12:00 - 20:30

Location

High Street, Sonning On Thames, Reading, RG7 6LS
Explore Reading
Local Delights
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Caversham Lakes
Caversham Lakes
20 minutes' walk
A serene lake area perfect for walking and picnicking, offering stunning natural scenery and opportunities for bird watching.
The Mill at Sonning
The Mill at Sonning
5 minutes' walk
A charming dinner theater housed in a converted flour mill, presenting a mixture of shows and fine dining in a unique setting.
Museum of Berkshire Aviation
Museum of Berkshire Aviation
9-minute drive
A fascinating museum featuring vintage aircraft and aviation history, with interactive exhibits appealing to all ages.
Harris Garden
Harris Garden
25 minutes' walk
A beautiful horticultural haven showcasing diverse plants, tranquil paths, and seasonal flower displays, great for leisurely strolls.
Rowing at Redgrave Pinsent Rowing Lake
5-minute drive
A lake ideal for rowing, offering rentals and lessons, great for both beginners and thrill-seekers looking for an exhilarating experience.
Yoga at the Riverside
10-minute drive
Relaxing yoga sessions available in nearby parks, perfect for unwinding with nature, suitable for all skill levels.
Cycling in Palmer Park
10 minutes' drive
A park with cycling paths and bike rentals, offering a pleasant environment for family outings and leisurely rides.
Coppa Club
3 minutes' walk
Stylish eatery with a diverse menu, known for its wood-fired pizza and stunning outdoor terrace for relaxed dining.
The Bull Inn Restaurant
5 minutes' walk
A traditional pub offering hearty British dishes, known for its warm ambience and local ales, perfect for families and couples.
The Crown Inn
10 minutes' drive
Classic country pub atmosphere featuring a menu of local specialties and fine wines, reservations advised for busy evenings.
Sonning Theatre
5 minutes' walk
An intimate venue offering a range of live performances, from dramas to musicals, fostering a community arts spirit.
Live Music at The Fisherman's Cottage
5 minutes' walk
A cozy pub featuring live music nights, perfect for a lively evening with friends or a laid-back family outing.
Local transport and travel tips
  • City Centre
    Reading 7 min  ·  4.5 km
  • Airports
    London Heathrow (LHR) 59 min  ·  39 km
    London City (LCY) 112 min  ·  74.4 km
  • Train
    Earley Train Station 6 min  ·  3.7 km
    Winnersh Triangle Railway Station 7 min  ·  4.4 km
  • Bus
    Bus stop 3 min  ·  200 m
Want access to early-bird pet-friendly hotel deals?
Access exclusive discounts today!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:00
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
The hotel offers a full breakfast at the price of GBP 15.0 per person.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
7
Former name
The Bull Country Inn

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Bull Inn from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Bull Inn boasts a beautiful building in the picturesque village of Sonning on Thames, where you can enjoy sitting out in the lovely courtyard for a drink and a meal. Guests often compliment the food, especially the Christmas menu with its generous portions and mulled wine. Rooms like the Saint Andrew's are often described as wonderful, featuring comfortable beds, spacious bathrooms, and thoughtful touches like coffee machines; however, some guests have found certain rooms to be a bit tight on space. The hotel is conveniently located next to a church, perfect for a walk by the river.
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Review score
Based on 447 verified reviews
8.4 /10
Great
84 %
Recommend
Location
9.3/10
Breakfast
9.0/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Value for money
8.5/10
Pros
Comfortable room
Excellent breakfast
Convenient parking
Cons
Stained carpet
Guest reviews
based on 447 reviews
8.4/10
based on 508 reviews
8.7/10
Ava from United States
Couple
Superior Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 17, 2026
6/10

acceptable stay.

friendly staff helpful staff complete room unsmiling woman unwelcoming manner unpleasant server
the breakfast was ok. the room had everything i needed, though it was a bit smallish. the staff were excellent, friendly and helpful.
the older woman serving was unsmiling throughout the meal. her manner was unwelcoming, even towards other customers. i hope she isn't on duty next time or is more pleasant.
0 Helpful
Herbert from Germany
Single
Superior King Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 11, 2026
7/10
comfortable room amazing smell fabulous accommodation sloping floor hot room precarious walk
The staff was helpful. I liked the comfortable, well appointed room. Bathroom products had amazing smell to me. Provisions in the room exceeded what I expect. Food, both dinner and breakfast, was very excellant. All in all it was a great stay. I liked the fabulous accommodation and beautiful location.
The room was too hot even after the radiator got turned off early. It was uncomfortable all evening. The sloping floors and the carpet pattern made it precarious for walk in the room. The bed seemed sloping too.
0 Helpful
Mike from United Kingdom
Single
Superior King Room
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 08, 2026
6/10
watery sauce noise level
I encountered issues . the food quality was inconsistent. My chicken dish was underwhelming, and the accompanying sauce was a strange, watery concoction. moreover, the placement of my table in the library area felt cramped, exacerbated by boisterous diners nearby. i found it difficult to hold a conversation because of the noise level..
0 Helpful
ian from united kingdom
Single
standard double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 09, 2025
6/10
cramped room open fire escape
the location was alright and the building had a nice look.
the room was described as cosy, but it felt cramped. a few hangers were provided and clothes hung on wooden pegs next to coffee facilities. there was no staff overnight, so the fire escape stayed open from the outside. this meant intruders could enter during the night.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Bull Inn
What is the distance from Bull Inn to Reading city centre?
Bull Inn is located approximately 6 km from Reading city centre.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Bull Inn?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Is parking available at Bull Inn?
Free public parking is available on-site without the need for a reservation.
What dining options are available at Bull Inn?
Bull Inn features an à la carte restaurant offering British cuisine.
What nearby restaurants can guests visit when staying at Bull Inn?
Nearby dining options include Coppa Club (0.5 km) and The French Horn (0.5 km).
What amenities are included in the rooms at Bull Inn?
Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and coffee and tea making facilities.
What are some nearby attractions to Bull Inn?
Nearby attractions include Henley Royal Regatta (10 km), Dinton Pastures Country Park (5 km), and The Mill Dinner Theatre (2 km).
Does Bull Inn provide any facilities for business meetings?
The function space at Bull Inn is available for private hire and is equipped with free Wi-Fi.
What unique features does Bull Inn offer?
Bull Inn is a historic 16th-century pub featuring a village bar that can host private events.

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