Thetford was once a cathedral town. Religious establishments were numerous and of great importance in the town at the time The Bell began its life as a thriving inn in the 15th century, which makes the hotel's name particularly apt.

The sense of history is enhanced at The Bell by the fact that the hotel retains much of its original character. The traditional feel is also preserved in the warm and welcoming ambience of the hotel along with the good simple English food in which the restaurant specialises. The bar also serves delicious meals, together with traditional ales.

The Bell Hotel is famous as the home of the cast & crew of the television series "Dad's Army". Thetford features throughout the "Dad's Army" series providing backdrops to many of the programme's scenes. Guided tours of the "Dad's Army Trail" around Thetford can be arranged through Thetford's Tourist Information Centre & regular gatherings occur during the year for devotees with surviving cast members attending these occasions while staying at the Bell.

The Bell Hotel Thetford is recognised by various paranormal groups as one of the most haunted sites in England with regular gatherings occurring & paranormal investigations are often carried out.