The Polebarn Hotel

Looking for uniqueness in a pole building?  Located on Polebarn Road in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, UK, this one might be near the top of the list.

Polebarn House was first occupied in 1789 by John Clark, a local mill owner, and his family. The house was designed to show off his wealth and status.

A published hymn composer, John Clark commissioned Chippendale to design and build an organ for him, around which the main hall and staircase of the house were built. Public recitals of his works were often given in the main hall with his audience gathered there and along the galleried landing.

Last used as a private house in 1920, Polebarn House was purchased by the County Council at auction for the princely sum of 1950 pounds ($3,213.46). At the time the property occupied almost three acres including a stone built temple, ornamental water feature, fernery, wooden glass house, pleasure garden, stables, coach house, walled kitchen garden, yards, store and outbuildings. On the roof was a glass observatory. The council sold off the adjoining land, for a police station (which now stands) and for development of residential areas. The council modified the building to incorporate offices for Children’s Services, and later the building was used as flats (apartments for most of us North American folks).

“Polebarn House” first became “The Polebarn Hotel” in 1978.

The latest published rates to stay at the Polebarn Hotel are from 58 pounds ($95.58) for a single to 97.50 pounds (160.67) for a twin.

For those who spend the night, evening meals are available Monday through Thursday. The restaurant and bar are located in the cellar of the building, which used to be the working kitchens of Polebarn House (pre-1920). Accessible from the outside, it has the added benefit of natural daylight. The room features some unusual exposed brick arches which add to the warm and intimate atmosphere.

For those who are interested, read more about it:

https://www.thepolebarnhotel.co.uk/