The Cross Keys
$124
/ night
Avg. for September
Select dates to see prices and availability
$124
/ night
Avg. for September
Monthly average prices
Nightly prices at The Cross Keys average $112 in December, the cheapest month, and $127 in August, the most expensive, based on the last 12 months.
| Month | Average price |
|---|---|
| January | $114 |
| February | $119 |
| March | $114 |
| April | $112 |
| May | $124 |
| June | $122 |
| July | $126 |
| August | $127 |
| September | $124 |
| October | $119 |
| November | $118 |
| December | $112 |
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Sep · $124
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Most expensive: August (~$127)
Cheapest: December (~$112)
About this property
Enjoy a complimentary breakfast and delicious meals at the restaurant in this charming inn in Saffron Walden.
Location
Saffron Walden is home to The Cross Keys. Chilford Hall Vineyard and Bishop's Stortford Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Red White and Blue Country Park and RSPB Fowlmere Nature Reserve. Bridge End Gardens and Saffron Walden Amazes are also worth visiting. Be sure not to miss outdoor adventures like cycling and horse riding.
Parking
Free Wi-Fi
Restaurant
Non-Smoking Rooms
Housekeeping
Garden
Guest reviews
8.4
Very good
Based on 688 verified reviews
What guests think
AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Travellers describe The Cross Keys as a characterful historic inn in central Saffron Walden with friendly staff, comfortable rooms and popular breakfasts and pub meals, though some report street noise, off-site parking, and quirks from the old building.
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What guests think
Travellers describe The Cross Keys as a characterful historic inn in central Saffron Walden with friendly staff, comfortable rooms and popular breakfasts and pub meals, though some report street noise, off-site parking, and quirks from the old building.
Rooms range from quirky spaces with roll-top baths to smaller ones, with occasional maintenance issues and mixed Wi-Fi. Some guests reported slow service at busy times, check-in hiccups, or communication problems. Expect a cozy pub-inn stay with character and some trade-offs.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Facilities
The historic pub and restaurant are a highlight. There is no on-site parking; guests use nearby public car parks, and some rooms are accessed via steep, narrow stairs.
Related guest reviews
10
Terry
May 29, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
A fantastic property in the heart of Saffron Walden with bags of charactrr and friendly staff.
A fantastic property in the heart of Saffron Walden with bags of charactrr and friendly staff.
10
Lesley
Oct 3, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
A return visit to this lovely old Inn. A different and larger room with a very comfortable bed, decent sized shower unit and good complimentary tray and toiletries. Great choices for breakfast and the evening menu was also varied with 'specials' evenings. Friendly and welcoming. Pretty town to explore with good architecture. Car parking a short walk but not extortionate. Have MiPark as your app so no need to get up before 8 am to feed the parking meter. Excellent value
A return visit to this lovely old Inn. A different and larger room with a very comfortable bed, decent sized shower unit and good complimentary tray and toiletries. Great choices for breakfast and the evening menu was also varied with 'specials' evenings. Friendly and welcoming. Pretty town to explore with good architecture. Car parking a short walk but not extortionate. Have MiPark as your app so no need to get up before 8 am to feed the parking meter. Excellent value
8
Stuart
Jun 28, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
Our room (no.9) was in what I assume is a converted barn to the side at the back of the pub. An initial problem about it being mistakenly allocated to another couple was quickly & efficiently sorted out and free drinks offered. Though old the large room had been ingeniously converted including a spacious shower, stand alone bath and ,best of all on a hot July weekend , an air conditioner! The pub itself has lots of character & is ideally located in the centre of the town. The evening meal we had there was tasty & reasonably priced. Our only slight crumble was the very limited choice of cereals & the often near empty juice jugs at breakfast Staff were friendly & helpful. Finally a note of caution for the elderly or disabled ; the stairs to about half the bedrooms are up steep fire scape style staircases.
Our room (no.9) was in what I assume is a converted barn to the side at the back of the pub. An initial problem about it being mistakenly allocated to another couple was quickly & efficiently sorted out and free drinks offered. Though old the large room had been ingeniously converted including a spacious shower, stand alone bath and ,best of all on a hot July weekend , an air conditioner! The pub itself has lots of character & is ideally located in the centre of the town. The evening meal we had there was tasty & reasonably priced. Our only slight crumble was the very limited choice of cereals & the often near empty juice jugs at breakfast Staff were friendly & helpful. Finally a note of caution for the elderly or disabled ; the stairs to about half the bedrooms are up steep fire scape style staircases.
10
Phillip
Sep 27, 2023
·
Stayed 4 nights
This is the place if you want to stay in an historic hotel. Expect it to be charming but also expect stairs and off site parking. But the staff is wonderful, the pub is a joy and the food very good. And the whole area is walkable. Just great.
This is the place if you want to stay in an historic hotel. Expect it to be charming but also expect stairs and off site parking. But the staff is wonderful, the pub is a joy and the food very good. And the whole area is walkable. Just great.
8
Edward
Jul 12, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Very old building, in keeping with the town itself. Friendly, efficient staff, nice room and cooked breakfast. Very easy to find, on main through road. Cheap parking nearby.
Very old building, in keeping with the town itself. Friendly, efficient staff, nice room and cooked breakfast. Very easy to find, on main through road. Cheap parking nearby.
8
robert
Feb 16, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
Mostly excellent. Spoiled by a. intermittent bleeping noise on first night b. poor breakfast service on second morning. One particularly good point - manager let us park on-site in summer outdoor dining area. This saved a lot of faff.
Mostly excellent. Spoiled by a. intermittent bleeping noise on first night b. poor breakfast service on second morning. One particularly good point - manager let us park on-site in summer outdoor dining area. This saved a lot of faff.
8
Colin
Aug 3, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Checked in ok but felt slightly strange that I had to approach the bar staff to check in, when the pub was busy. Barman had to stop serving at the bar to give me keys and take me to the room. Felt a bit rushed . On the hotels.com website I was led to believe parking was available - however the staff said they didn’t know why it said that, and I had to pay for parking at the town car park 5 mins walk away. No real concerns, but please make this clearer. Breakfast is included as was very good .
Checked in ok but felt slightly strange that I had to approach the bar staff to check in, when the pub was busy. Barman had to stop serving at the bar to give me keys and take me to the room. Felt a bit rushed . On the hotels.com website I was led to believe parking was available - however the staff said they didn’t know why it said that, and I had to pay for parking at the town car park 5 mins walk away. No real concerns, but please make this clearer. Breakfast is included as was very good .
6
David
Jul 26, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Very old hotel, room was ok, bed really comfortable, very small TV, hot water for the sink took ages to come through. My room was at the front of the hotel very noisy with the traffic and people and the road sweeper at 6am. Food was average, no fish & chips as the fish was defrosting 😂, only had all day to sort that, had the burger and asked without sauce and came with sauce. Finally, chargeable car park which is a 5 minute walk away.
Very old hotel, room was ok, bed really comfortable, very small TV, hot water for the sink took ages to come through. My room was at the front of the hotel very noisy with the traffic and people and the road sweeper at 6am. Food was average, no fish & chips as the fish was defrosting 😂, only had all day to sort that, had the burger and asked without sauce and came with sauce. Finally, chargeable car park which is a 5 minute walk away.
8
Craig
Feb 16, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
The location is excellent but remember there is no parking at the hotel and hard to drop off your bags in the car as narrow street right outside. Keep this in mind if you have a lot of luggage or disabled. Hotel and food great. Getting a coffee or drink when breakfast was busy proved hard and we had to ask 3 times and took longer than it took to eat breakfast. Over all a great location and so don’t be put off. Maybe have a filter coffee machine and then could top up yourself
The location is excellent but remember there is no parking at the hotel and hard to drop off your bags in the car as narrow street right outside. Keep this in mind if you have a lot of luggage or disabled. Hotel and food great. Getting a coffee or drink when breakfast was busy proved hard and we had to ask 3 times and took longer than it took to eat breakfast. Over all a great location and so don’t be put off. Maybe have a filter coffee machine and then could top up yourself
10
ROBERT
Aug 10, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Great 1 nighter Very quirky pub hotel with bags of character
Great 1 nighter Very quirky pub hotel with bags of character
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Cleanliness
Rooms and bathrooms are generally clean and well kept. A few guests noted lapses such as unclean cups or bathrooms and minor upkeep issues.
Related guest reviews
10
Beth
Dec 23, 2022
·
Stayed 3 nights
A really comfortable, clean and pleasant 3-day stay. Service each day was with a smile. The breakfast is great, too. This is my second stay, a different room but just as lovely. Beautiful old building, made up so cozy. As to be expected due to being a pub downstairs, some noise at night but nothing major. Just worthy to consider when booking. Literally on the doorstep of all the shops, so convenient. I felt safe staying solo and will be coming again.
A really comfortable, clean and pleasant 3-day stay. Service each day was with a smile. The breakfast is great, too. This is my second stay, a different room but just as lovely. Beautiful old building, made up so cozy. As to be expected due to being a pub downstairs, some noise at night but nothing major. Just worthy to consider when booking. Literally on the doorstep of all the shops, so convenient. I felt safe staying solo and will be coming again.
8
Barbara
Aug 13, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Ideal quiet position in town centre so easy to walk or use buses nearby.Very old building so stairs awkward (There could be a reminder on website when booking). Shower easy to use; ceiling above showing water damage stains. It was useful to have a stand for unpacking suitcase. Bed comfortable; bed linen crisp, clean and ironed. Lighting good; a welcome tray of teas, coffees, biscuits topped up daily. TV set on a slant on wall due to structure of building? Breakfasts good, portions generous; vegetarian options tasty; I would welcome some fruit and yoghurt choice too.
Ideal quiet position in town centre so easy to walk or use buses nearby.Very old building so stairs awkward (There could be a reminder on website when booking). Shower easy to use; ceiling above showing water damage stains. It was useful to have a stand for unpacking suitcase. Bed comfortable; bed linen crisp, clean and ironed. Lighting good; a welcome tray of teas, coffees, biscuits topped up daily. TV set on a slant on wall due to structure of building? Breakfasts good, portions generous; vegetarian options tasty; I would welcome some fruit and yoghurt choice too.
6
Mark
Jul 15, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Check in was poor, got ignored by staff gossiping, looked at me 5 times and decided ignoring me was the best so I stood there for about 5minutes. When a waitress already running around after clients saw me she came over and got someone to help me, she was helpful, manager came over and they had computer issues which apparently I wanted to know all about. Just very unprofessional. Room was adequate but small and not value , price is only for the old building. Room was adequate but bathroom wasn’t that clean. All toiletries were one use which isn’t green. Best experience was breakfast where young guy on duty was very good with all the guests.
Check in was poor, got ignored by staff gossiping, looked at me 5 times and decided ignoring me was the best so I stood there for about 5minutes. When a waitress already running around after clients saw me she came over and got someone to help me, she was helpful, manager came over and they had computer issues which apparently I wanted to know all about. Just very unprofessional. Room was adequate but small and not value , price is only for the old building. Room was adequate but bathroom wasn’t that clean. All toiletries were one use which isn’t green. Best experience was breakfast where young guy on duty was very good with all the guests.
10
Karmel
Mar 6, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Lovely room and ensuite - very clean comfortable and beautifully decorated. The staff were very helpful and friendly. The breakfast was delicious. I would definitely stay there again.
Lovely room and ensuite - very clean comfortable and beautifully decorated. The staff were very helpful and friendly. The breakfast was delicious. I would definitely stay there again.
8
Ian
Jun 15, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Nice bedroom which was very clean and welcoming. Full English breakfast included. Right in the centre of town so parking can be a problem if you arrive before 4pm. 2 hours free street parking available after 6pm.
Nice bedroom which was very clean and welcoming. Full English breakfast included. Right in the centre of town so parking can be a problem if you arrive before 4pm. 2 hours free street parking available after 6pm.
8
Terence
Dec 30, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Good selection of spirits, staff very friendly and lovely breakfast. Room 6 is lovely just let down by renovations needed in the bathroom i.e. shower curtain required and as per photos.
Good selection of spirits, staff very friendly and lovely breakfast. Room 6 is lovely just let down by renovations needed in the bathroom i.e. shower curtain required and as per photos.
8
Barry
Sep 30, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Room clean & comfortable. Had problem with tea & coffee facilities but soon sort by evening staff. Lovely room in front of hotel.Good evening meal& breakfast in morning.Nothing to much problem.
Room clean & comfortable. Had problem with tea & coffee facilities but soon sort by evening staff. Lovely room in front of hotel.Good evening meal& breakfast in morning.Nothing to much problem.
8
Mark
Sep 13, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Staff members excellent. Lighting in bathroom was poor 2 lights not working did report this. Cups in bedroom not changed or cleaned over 3 day stay. Food was good
Staff members excellent. Lighting in bathroom was poor 2 lights not working did report this. Cups in bedroom not changed or cleaned over 3 day stay. Food was good
10
Neil
Oct 28, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Had a fantastic welcome from Jim on the bar. Who showed us to our rooms and went out of his way to see if one of the rooms could have a bath. Room was a great size and very clean and nice and warm. We had to go early so were unable to thank anybody for a lovely stay but really enjoyed our night before a flight out of Stansted.
Had a fantastic welcome from Jim on the bar. Who showed us to our rooms and went out of his way to see if one of the rooms could have a bath. Room was a great size and very clean and nice and warm. We had to go early so were unable to thank anybody for a lovely stay but really enjoyed our night before a flight out of Stansted.
10
Nigel
Sep 19, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Nice welcome by friendly team member. Imaginatively restored historic pub with a lovely room with a comfy bed, well furnished with a claw bath. Generous breakfast served by an equally friendly server. So enjoyed our stay. The town has a lot to offer with lovely buildings and shops. Quite a find.
Nice welcome by friendly team member. Imaginatively restored historic pub with a lovely room with a comfy bed, well furnished with a claw bath. Generous breakfast served by an equally friendly server. So enjoyed our stay. The town has a lot to offer with lovely buildings and shops. Quite a find.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Rooms
Characterful rooms with comfy beds and features like roll-top baths; some are small or have sloping floors. Expect occasional street or pub noise, mixed Wi-Fi, and sporadic maintenance issues (lights, TV, ventilation).
Related guest reviews
10
Michelle
Nov 17, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Fabulous room with a roll top bath that I took full advantage of! Sunday roast dinner and full English breakfast were great.
Fabulous room with a roll top bath that I took full advantage of! Sunday roast dinner and full English breakfast were great.
8
Stuart
Jun 28, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
Our room (no.9) was in what I assume is a converted barn to the side at the back of the pub. An initial problem about it being mistakenly allocated to another couple was quickly & efficiently sorted out and free drinks offered. Though old the large room had been ingeniously converted including a spacious shower, stand alone bath and ,best of all on a hot July weekend , an air conditioner! The pub itself has lots of character & is ideally located in the centre of the town. The evening meal we had there was tasty & reasonably priced. Our only slight crumble was the very limited choice of cereals & the often near empty juice jugs at breakfast Staff were friendly & helpful. Finally a note of caution for the elderly or disabled ; the stairs to about half the bedrooms are up steep fire scape style staircases.
Our room (no.9) was in what I assume is a converted barn to the side at the back of the pub. An initial problem about it being mistakenly allocated to another couple was quickly & efficiently sorted out and free drinks offered. Though old the large room had been ingeniously converted including a spacious shower, stand alone bath and ,best of all on a hot July weekend , an air conditioner! The pub itself has lots of character & is ideally located in the centre of the town. The evening meal we had there was tasty & reasonably priced. Our only slight crumble was the very limited choice of cereals & the often near empty juice jugs at breakfast Staff were friendly & helpful. Finally a note of caution for the elderly or disabled ; the stairs to about half the bedrooms are up steep fire scape style staircases.
10
martin
Aug 25, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Everything was great. The place was built in 1569, so don't expect air cond but the place is great. Park in Swan meadows car park and walk up the lane. Parking cheap, and machines easy to use (no dumb apps that don't work). The single thing that let it down was poor wifi... not the signal, but the free service being offered by some third party that mines your data, and is chronically bad a t connections, they vanish, then won't connect, then keep restarting. All our 4 devices were a pain to connect to it. Get a dedicated decent service, this one does you a real disservice. Please note though, that the staff were great, the place fab if you're looking for authentic olde UK. The brekky was great... choosing off menu was no trouble for them... Thx , but really... sort the wifi !!
Everything was great. The place was built in 1569, so don't expect air cond but the place is great. Park in Swan meadows car park and walk up the lane. Parking cheap, and machines easy to use (no dumb apps that don't work). The single thing that let it down was poor wifi... not the signal, but the free service being offered by some third party that mines your data, and is chronically bad a t connections, they vanish, then won't connect, then keep restarting. All our 4 devices were a pain to connect to it. Get a dedicated decent service, this one does you a real disservice. Please note though, that the staff were great, the place fab if you're looking for authentic olde UK. The brekky was great... choosing off menu was no trouble for them... Thx , but really... sort the wifi !!
6
John
Mar 31, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Intermittent low level electronic hum for the first part of the night. Mattress too soft. Not sure I like having the toilet inside the room inside a cubicle without good ventilation.
Intermittent low level electronic hum for the first part of the night. Mattress too soft. Not sure I like having the toilet inside the room inside a cubicle without good ventilation.
10
Terry
Oct 27, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
I love the Cross Keys. This was my third time staying here... room 2 is my go-to room. I could hear the traffic late and early- but I knew that before I requested room 2. The room has old charm and a comfy bed. The breakfast is excellent- I get the "full English breakfast" of course. The host or hostess always had a smile or laugh- a good way to start the day. The background music seems to fit the personality of whichever employee was there that day... the young man who I gifted a bottle of hot sauce or the more mature hostess who liked music from my era (60's and 70's) ... she would sing from one end of the pub to the other. Made me smile. I absolutely recommend the Cross Keys for any overnight stays. Clean, inviting, and happy!!! Of course the pub aspect is an added plus! CHEERS... I will be back.
I love the Cross Keys. This was my third time staying here... room 2 is my go-to room. I could hear the traffic late and early- but I knew that before I requested room 2. The room has old charm and a comfy bed. The breakfast is excellent- I get the "full English breakfast" of course. The host or hostess always had a smile or laugh- a good way to start the day. The background music seems to fit the personality of whichever employee was there that day... the young man who I gifted a bottle of hot sauce or the more mature hostess who liked music from my era (60's and 70's) ... she would sing from one end of the pub to the other. Made me smile. I absolutely recommend the Cross Keys for any overnight stays. Clean, inviting, and happy!!! Of course the pub aspect is an added plus! CHEERS... I will be back.
10
Ian
Jul 11, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
It was really good. Stayed for a couple of weeks on business. Rooms were comfortable, staff were very friendly, WiFi worked great and the food was really good.
It was really good. Stayed for a couple of weeks on business. Rooms were comfortable, staff were very friendly, WiFi worked great and the food was really good.
4
Raymond
Sep 8, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
The light switch for the bathroom was near the ceiling, out of reach for anyone under 5 feet 10. The light in the bath room went out whilst I was in the shower (several times). The TV did not work. The lavatory flush stopped working in the morning. We stayed only one night,having paid for two.
The light switch for the bathroom was near the ceiling, out of reach for anyone under 5 feet 10. The light in the bath room went out whilst I was in the shower (several times). The TV did not work. The lavatory flush stopped working in the morning. We stayed only one night,having paid for two.
8
Philip
Jul 12, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Does the job. Beds are nice. A little dated buts it’s not an issue.
Does the job. Beds are nice. A little dated buts it’s not an issue.
6
David
Jul 26, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Very old hotel, room was ok, bed really comfortable, very small TV, hot water for the sink took ages to come through. My room was at the front of the hotel very noisy with the traffic and people and the road sweeper at 6am. Food was average, no fish & chips as the fish was defrosting 😂, only had all day to sort that, had the burger and asked without sauce and came with sauce. Finally, chargeable car park which is a 5 minute walk away.
Very old hotel, room was ok, bed really comfortable, very small TV, hot water for the sink took ages to come through. My room was at the front of the hotel very noisy with the traffic and people and the road sweeper at 6am. Food was average, no fish & chips as the fish was defrosting 😂, only had all day to sort that, had the burger and asked without sauce and came with sauce. Finally, chargeable car park which is a 5 minute walk away.
10
eLIZABETH
Jun 26, 2022
·
Stayed 1 night
Good but noisy air conditioning all night. Great breakfast
Good but noisy air conditioning all night. Great breakfast
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Service
Staff are often friendly and helpful. Some guests experienced slow service at breakfast, check-in issues, or communication/booking problems.
Related guest reviews
10
Lesley
Oct 3, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
A return visit to this lovely old Inn. A different and larger room with a very comfortable bed, decent sized shower unit and good complimentary tray and toiletries. Great choices for breakfast and the evening menu was also varied with 'specials' evenings. Friendly and welcoming. Pretty town to explore with good architecture. Car parking a short walk but not extortionate. Have MiPark as your app so no need to get up before 8 am to feed the parking meter. Excellent value
A return visit to this lovely old Inn. A different and larger room with a very comfortable bed, decent sized shower unit and good complimentary tray and toiletries. Great choices for breakfast and the evening menu was also varied with 'specials' evenings. Friendly and welcoming. Pretty town to explore with good architecture. Car parking a short walk but not extortionate. Have MiPark as your app so no need to get up before 8 am to feed the parking meter. Excellent value
10
Janet
Jun 24, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
We were allowed to leave our cases while went to music festival in towm. Staff were more than helpful. Breakfast was superior
We were allowed to leave our cases while went to music festival in towm. Staff were more than helpful. Breakfast was superior
6
Mark
Jul 15, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Check in was poor, got ignored by staff gossiping, looked at me 5 times and decided ignoring me was the best so I stood there for about 5minutes. When a waitress already running around after clients saw me she came over and got someone to help me, she was helpful, manager came over and they had computer issues which apparently I wanted to know all about. Just very unprofessional. Room was adequate but small and not value , price is only for the old building. Room was adequate but bathroom wasn’t that clean. All toiletries were one use which isn’t green. Best experience was breakfast where young guy on duty was very good with all the guests.
Check in was poor, got ignored by staff gossiping, looked at me 5 times and decided ignoring me was the best so I stood there for about 5minutes. When a waitress already running around after clients saw me she came over and got someone to help me, she was helpful, manager came over and they had computer issues which apparently I wanted to know all about. Just very unprofessional. Room was adequate but small and not value , price is only for the old building. Room was adequate but bathroom wasn’t that clean. All toiletries were one use which isn’t green. Best experience was breakfast where young guy on duty was very good with all the guests.
2
John
Dec 24, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
No heating no food service at 20.30 but said 9 bar closed early so no drinks at 22.30 shocking rude bar staff (not interested bad attitude)
No heating no food service at 20.30 but said 9 bar closed early so no drinks at 22.30 shocking rude bar staff (not interested bad attitude)
10
Mike
Oct 30, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Greeted on arrival, shown to room, Gentleman was Friendly and courteous, Room was lovely, nice warm shower and loved the TV housed behind the wall panelling!! Breakfast was amazing and once again the lady overseeing was really attentive. Great attitude to customer service by all...Amazing
Greeted on arrival, shown to room, Gentleman was Friendly and courteous, Room was lovely, nice warm shower and loved the TV housed behind the wall panelling!! Breakfast was amazing and once again the lady overseeing was really attentive. Great attitude to customer service by all...Amazing
10
Keith
Oct 12, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
I've always wanted to stay here and it didn't disappoint. Really friendly service, comfortable room and had a great vegan option for breakfast which is usually very difficult to find! Thank you!
I've always wanted to stay here and it didn't disappoint. Really friendly service, comfortable room and had a great vegan option for breakfast which is usually very difficult to find! Thank you!
2
Liz
Feb 25, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
20 unanswered phone calls and 3 unanswered emails before my stay to sort out appropriate rooms. Unbelievably noisy superior room next to high street traffic. Moved to another noisy ( but not so noisy) and hot room. Had to request refund myself as it was not automatically forthcoming. A further 6 unanswered phone calls to do so and several emails. 10 days later sorted out by Wendy. Inadequate management
20 unanswered phone calls and 3 unanswered emails before my stay to sort out appropriate rooms. Unbelievably noisy superior room next to high street traffic. Moved to another noisy ( but not so noisy) and hot room. Had to request refund myself as it was not automatically forthcoming. A further 6 unanswered phone calls to do so and several emails. 10 days later sorted out by Wendy. Inadequate management
2
Liz
Feb 16, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Incredibly noisy Hopeless management
Incredibly noisy Hopeless management
10
Neil
Oct 28, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Had a fantastic welcome from Jim on the bar. Who showed us to our rooms and went out of his way to see if one of the rooms could have a bath. Room was a great size and very clean and nice and warm. We had to go early so were unable to thank anybody for a lovely stay but really enjoyed our night before a flight out of Stansted.
Had a fantastic welcome from Jim on the bar. Who showed us to our rooms and went out of his way to see if one of the rooms could have a bath. Room was a great size and very clean and nice and warm. We had to go early so were unable to thank anybody for a lovely stay but really enjoyed our night before a flight out of Stansted.
8
Craig
Feb 16, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
The location is excellent but remember there is no parking at the hotel and hard to drop off your bags in the car as narrow street right outside. Keep this in mind if you have a lot of luggage or disabled. Hotel and food great. Getting a coffee or drink when breakfast was busy proved hard and we had to ask 3 times and took longer than it took to eat breakfast. Over all a great location and so don’t be put off. Maybe have a filter coffee machine and then could top up yourself
The location is excellent but remember there is no parking at the hotel and hard to drop off your bags in the car as narrow street right outside. Keep this in mind if you have a lot of luggage or disabled. Hotel and food great. Getting a coffee or drink when breakfast was busy proved hard and we had to ask 3 times and took longer than it took to eat breakfast. Over all a great location and so don’t be put off. Maybe have a filter coffee machine and then could top up yourself
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Location
Central, walkable setting handy for shops and the historic town. Some street-facing rooms get traffic noise, and luggage drop-off is tricky without on-site parking.
Related guest reviews
10
Terry
May 29, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
A fantastic property in the heart of Saffron Walden with bags of charactrr and friendly staff.
A fantastic property in the heart of Saffron Walden with bags of charactrr and friendly staff.
10
Lesley
Oct 3, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
A return visit to this lovely old Inn. A different and larger room with a very comfortable bed, decent sized shower unit and good complimentary tray and toiletries. Great choices for breakfast and the evening menu was also varied with 'specials' evenings. Friendly and welcoming. Pretty town to explore with good architecture. Car parking a short walk but not extortionate. Have MiPark as your app so no need to get up before 8 am to feed the parking meter. Excellent value
A return visit to this lovely old Inn. A different and larger room with a very comfortable bed, decent sized shower unit and good complimentary tray and toiletries. Great choices for breakfast and the evening menu was also varied with 'specials' evenings. Friendly and welcoming. Pretty town to explore with good architecture. Car parking a short walk but not extortionate. Have MiPark as your app so no need to get up before 8 am to feed the parking meter. Excellent value
8
Stuart
Jun 28, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
Our room (no.9) was in what I assume is a converted barn to the side at the back of the pub. An initial problem about it being mistakenly allocated to another couple was quickly & efficiently sorted out and free drinks offered. Though old the large room had been ingeniously converted including a spacious shower, stand alone bath and ,best of all on a hot July weekend , an air conditioner! The pub itself has lots of character & is ideally located in the centre of the town. The evening meal we had there was tasty & reasonably priced. Our only slight crumble was the very limited choice of cereals & the often near empty juice jugs at breakfast Staff were friendly & helpful. Finally a note of caution for the elderly or disabled ; the stairs to about half the bedrooms are up steep fire scape style staircases.
Our room (no.9) was in what I assume is a converted barn to the side at the back of the pub. An initial problem about it being mistakenly allocated to another couple was quickly & efficiently sorted out and free drinks offered. Though old the large room had been ingeniously converted including a spacious shower, stand alone bath and ,best of all on a hot July weekend , an air conditioner! The pub itself has lots of character & is ideally located in the centre of the town. The evening meal we had there was tasty & reasonably priced. Our only slight crumble was the very limited choice of cereals & the often near empty juice jugs at breakfast Staff were friendly & helpful. Finally a note of caution for the elderly or disabled ; the stairs to about half the bedrooms are up steep fire scape style staircases.
10
Terry
Oct 27, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
I love the Cross Keys. This was my third time staying here... room 2 is my go-to room. I could hear the traffic late and early- but I knew that before I requested room 2. The room has old charm and a comfy bed. The breakfast is excellent- I get the "full English breakfast" of course. The host or hostess always had a smile or laugh- a good way to start the day. The background music seems to fit the personality of whichever employee was there that day... the young man who I gifted a bottle of hot sauce or the more mature hostess who liked music from my era (60's and 70's) ... she would sing from one end of the pub to the other. Made me smile. I absolutely recommend the Cross Keys for any overnight stays. Clean, inviting, and happy!!! Of course the pub aspect is an added plus! CHEERS... I will be back.
I love the Cross Keys. This was my third time staying here... room 2 is my go-to room. I could hear the traffic late and early- but I knew that before I requested room 2. The room has old charm and a comfy bed. The breakfast is excellent- I get the "full English breakfast" of course. The host or hostess always had a smile or laugh- a good way to start the day. The background music seems to fit the personality of whichever employee was there that day... the young man who I gifted a bottle of hot sauce or the more mature hostess who liked music from my era (60's and 70's) ... she would sing from one end of the pub to the other. Made me smile. I absolutely recommend the Cross Keys for any overnight stays. Clean, inviting, and happy!!! Of course the pub aspect is an added plus! CHEERS... I will be back.
8
Ian
Jun 15, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Nice bedroom which was very clean and welcoming. Full English breakfast included. Right in the centre of town so parking can be a problem if you arrive before 4pm. 2 hours free street parking available after 6pm.
Nice bedroom which was very clean and welcoming. Full English breakfast included. Right in the centre of town so parking can be a problem if you arrive before 4pm. 2 hours free street parking available after 6pm.
10
Phillip
Sep 27, 2023
·
Stayed 4 nights
This is the place if you want to stay in an historic hotel. Expect it to be charming but also expect stairs and off site parking. But the staff is wonderful, the pub is a joy and the food very good. And the whole area is walkable. Just great.
This is the place if you want to stay in an historic hotel. Expect it to be charming but also expect stairs and off site parking. But the staff is wonderful, the pub is a joy and the food very good. And the whole area is walkable. Just great.
8
Edward
Jul 12, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Very old building, in keeping with the town itself. Friendly, efficient staff, nice room and cooked breakfast. Very easy to find, on main through road. Cheap parking nearby.
Very old building, in keeping with the town itself. Friendly, efficient staff, nice room and cooked breakfast. Very easy to find, on main through road. Cheap parking nearby.
8
STACEY
Jul 19, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
We loved Saffron Walden, the hotel location and staff. We will definitely return.
We loved Saffron Walden, the hotel location and staff. We will definitely return.
6
David
Jul 26, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Very old hotel, room was ok, bed really comfortable, very small TV, hot water for the sink took ages to come through. My room was at the front of the hotel very noisy with the traffic and people and the road sweeper at 6am. Food was average, no fish & chips as the fish was defrosting 😂, only had all day to sort that, had the burger and asked without sauce and came with sauce. Finally, chargeable car park which is a 5 minute walk away.
Very old hotel, room was ok, bed really comfortable, very small TV, hot water for the sink took ages to come through. My room was at the front of the hotel very noisy with the traffic and people and the road sweeper at 6am. Food was average, no fish & chips as the fish was defrosting 😂, only had all day to sort that, had the burger and asked without sauce and came with sauce. Finally, chargeable car park which is a 5 minute walk away.
10
Douglas
Oct 16, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Very unique and pleasant hotel/pub. Very comfortable and clean bed and bedding. Enjoyed the Sunday roast dinner specials. Breakfast was very good. Central location in a very walkable village. Transportation by local bus to Stansted airport was quick (about 1 hour), stop just down the street and cost was 2£ each. Great way to get to the airport, scenic drive in the countryside.
Very unique and pleasant hotel/pub. Very comfortable and clean bed and bedding. Enjoyed the Sunday roast dinner specials. Breakfast was very good. Central location in a very walkable village. Transportation by local bus to Stansted airport was quick (about 1 hour), stop just down the street and cost was 2£ each. Great way to get to the airport, scenic drive in the countryside.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Dining
Breakfast is widely praised, and pub meals including Sunday roasts are popular and reasonably priced. A few found some dishes average or breakfast choices limited, and service can be slow when busy.
Related guest reviews
10
Michelle
Nov 17, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Fabulous room with a roll top bath that I took full advantage of! Sunday roast dinner and full English breakfast were great.
Fabulous room with a roll top bath that I took full advantage of! Sunday roast dinner and full English breakfast were great.
10
Melvyn
Sep 23, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Excellent all over. Fabulous food Fabulous room Spot on.
Excellent all over. Fabulous food Fabulous room Spot on.
10
Alan
Nov 24, 2022
·
Stayed 1 night
A lovely hotel/inn with quite small but very comfortable rooms. Service was a little slow, particularly at breakfast, but was delivered with a smile.
A lovely hotel/inn with quite small but very comfortable rooms. Service was a little slow, particularly at breakfast, but was delivered with a smile.
10
Lesley
Oct 3, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
A return visit to this lovely old Inn. A different and larger room with a very comfortable bed, decent sized shower unit and good complimentary tray and toiletries. Great choices for breakfast and the evening menu was also varied with 'specials' evenings. Friendly and welcoming. Pretty town to explore with good architecture. Car parking a short walk but not extortionate. Have MiPark as your app so no need to get up before 8 am to feed the parking meter. Excellent value
A return visit to this lovely old Inn. A different and larger room with a very comfortable bed, decent sized shower unit and good complimentary tray and toiletries. Great choices for breakfast and the evening menu was also varied with 'specials' evenings. Friendly and welcoming. Pretty town to explore with good architecture. Car parking a short walk but not extortionate. Have MiPark as your app so no need to get up before 8 am to feed the parking meter. Excellent value
10
Mike
Oct 30, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Greeted on arrival, shown to room, Gentleman was Friendly and courteous, Room was lovely, nice warm shower and loved the TV housed behind the wall panelling!! Breakfast was amazing and once again the lady overseeing was really attentive. Great attitude to customer service by all...Amazing
Greeted on arrival, shown to room, Gentleman was Friendly and courteous, Room was lovely, nice warm shower and loved the TV housed behind the wall panelling!! Breakfast was amazing and once again the lady overseeing was really attentive. Great attitude to customer service by all...Amazing
8
robert
Feb 16, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
Mostly excellent. Spoiled by a. intermittent bleeping noise on first night b. poor breakfast service on second morning. One particularly good point - manager let us park on-site in summer outdoor dining area. This saved a lot of faff.
Mostly excellent. Spoiled by a. intermittent bleeping noise on first night b. poor breakfast service on second morning. One particularly good point - manager let us park on-site in summer outdoor dining area. This saved a lot of faff.
8
Barry
Sep 30, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Room clean & comfortable. Had problem with tea & coffee facilities but soon sort by evening staff. Lovely room in front of hotel.Good evening meal& breakfast in morning.Nothing to much problem.
Room clean & comfortable. Had problem with tea & coffee facilities but soon sort by evening staff. Lovely room in front of hotel.Good evening meal& breakfast in morning.Nothing to much problem.
6
David
Jul 26, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Very old hotel, room was ok, bed really comfortable, very small TV, hot water for the sink took ages to come through. My room was at the front of the hotel very noisy with the traffic and people and the road sweeper at 6am. Food was average, no fish & chips as the fish was defrosting 😂, only had all day to sort that, had the burger and asked without sauce and came with sauce. Finally, chargeable car park which is a 5 minute walk away.
Very old hotel, room was ok, bed really comfortable, very small TV, hot water for the sink took ages to come through. My room was at the front of the hotel very noisy with the traffic and people and the road sweeper at 6am. Food was average, no fish & chips as the fish was defrosting 😂, only had all day to sort that, had the burger and asked without sauce and came with sauce. Finally, chargeable car park which is a 5 minute walk away.
10
Douglas
Oct 16, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Very unique and pleasant hotel/pub. Very comfortable and clean bed and bedding. Enjoyed the Sunday roast dinner specials. Breakfast was very good. Central location in a very walkable village. Transportation by local bus to Stansted airport was quick (about 1 hour), stop just down the street and cost was 2£ each. Great way to get to the airport, scenic drive in the countryside.
Very unique and pleasant hotel/pub. Very comfortable and clean bed and bedding. Enjoyed the Sunday roast dinner specials. Breakfast was very good. Central location in a very walkable village. Transportation by local bus to Stansted airport was quick (about 1 hour), stop just down the street and cost was 2£ each. Great way to get to the airport, scenic drive in the countryside.
10
Nigel
Sep 19, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Nice welcome by friendly team member. Imaginatively restored historic pub with a lovely room with a comfy bed, well furnished with a claw bath. Generous breakfast served by an equally friendly server. So enjoyed our stay. The town has a lot to offer with lovely buildings and shops. Quite a find.
Nice welcome by friendly team member. Imaginatively restored historic pub with a lovely room with a comfy bed, well furnished with a claw bath. Generous breakfast served by an equally friendly server. So enjoyed our stay. The town has a lot to offer with lovely buildings and shops. Quite a find.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
10
Nikki
Jul 29, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
Really nice big room with Aircon which was invaluable. Big rolltop bath in the open bathroom, but it was too hot to take advantage of it. The breakfast was lovely as was dinner the previous evening. The staff were welcoming and friendly and the place very quirky My only complaint would be very little seating in the room except the bed.
Really nice big room with Aircon which was invaluable. Big rolltop bath in the open bathroom, but it was too hot to take advantage of it. The breakfast was lovely as was dinner the previous evening. The staff were welcoming and friendly and the place very quirky My only complaint would be very little seating in the room except the bed.
8
Robyn
Jul 27, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
Great location - once you have worked out where to park. We were at the front of the property, so very noisey with traffic noise and people walking past. If you don’t want a cooked breakfast, what was available was very limited.
Great location - once you have worked out where to park. We were at the front of the property, so very noisey with traffic noise and people walking past. If you don’t want a cooked breakfast, what was available was very limited.
8
Neil
Jul 16, 2026
·
Stayed 2 nights
I booked the hotel for my birthday but could not have my birthday meal at the Hotel as the latest I could book a table was 5PM only 1 hour after the 4pm check in time. I decided to take a bath. The water pressure in the room was awful and the cold just dribbled out it took about 45 minutes to run a 1/2 bath. We had a drink before going out and I must say it was about the most expensive drink we have ever had in a hotel. We arrived back at the hotel early around 9pm and the bar was already closed so we had to drink our own drinks from the room. We had breakfast in the morning and was served by Wendy. She was absolutely amazing and a credit to the company. The breakfast itself was fantastic and of a very high standard. In the evening we went to the bar at 8:45PM and tried to pay cash but was informed the till had been cashed up as they were about to close at 9PM again. For a hotel in summer was such a surprise the early closing times especially as online google advises Sunday 10pm and Monday 11pm close. We ordered a drink and found there was a vast difference in the advertised price on the drinks menu and what the till said also we were advised the price includes a service charge which unless you ask for a printed bill before paying you would never know, this could be why our drinks were so expensive last night. We were served by Yasmin who we explained all our frustrations to and she gave us our drinks and a bottle of wine complimentary to say sorry which we accepted.
I booked the hotel for my birthday but could not have my birthday meal at the Hotel as the latest I could book a table was 5PM only 1 hour after the 4pm check in time. I decided to take a bath. The water pressure in the room was awful and the cold just dribbled out it took about 45 minutes to run a 1/2 bath. We had a drink before going out and I must say it was about the most expensive drink we have ever had in a hotel. We arrived back at the hotel early around 9pm and the bar was already closed so we had to drink our own drinks from the room. We had breakfast in the morning and was served by Wendy. She was absolutely amazing and a credit to the company. The breakfast itself was fantastic and of a very high standard. In the evening we went to the bar at 8:45PM and tried to pay cash but was informed the till had been cashed up as they were about to close at 9PM again. For a hotel in summer was such a surprise the early closing times especially as online google advises Sunday 10pm and Monday 11pm close. We ordered a drink and found there was a vast difference in the advertised price on the drinks menu and what the till said also we were advised the price includes a service charge which unless you ask for a printed bill before paying you would never know, this could be why our drinks were so expensive last night. We were served by Yasmin who we explained all our frustrations to and she gave us our drinks and a bottle of wine complimentary to say sorry which we accepted.
8
Ian
Jul 14, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
Rooms ok, bit dusty. Beds comfy. But unable to open windows on a very hot night. Tried to help by providing fans helped a little Staff really nice & helpful.
Rooms ok, bit dusty. Beds comfy. But unable to open windows on a very hot night. Tried to help by providing fans helped a little Staff really nice & helpful.
10
Paul
Jul 10, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
Lovely Quirky Hotel in the centre of Town. Very helpful staff & a fantastic free all English Breakfast. Can’t wait to stay again soon.
Lovely Quirky Hotel in the centre of Town. Very helpful staff & a fantastic free all English Breakfast. Can’t wait to stay again soon.
Property Policies
Check-in
Check-out
From 16:00 to 22:00
Before 10:00
FAQs about The Cross Keys
Is parking available at the property?
Parking is available at the property.
Is breakfast offered at the property?
A complimentary breakfast is included for guests.
Are pets allowed at the property?
Pets are not allowed at the property.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in time starts at 16:00 and ends at 21:00. Check-out time is at 10:00.
What accessibility features are available for guests with disabilities?
Accessibility features include step-free entrances and wheelchair-accessible facilities.
Where is the property located in relation to key landmarks?
The property is located in Saffron Walden, close to Chilford Hall Vineyard and Bishop's Stortford Golf Club, with nearby outdoor attractions such as Red White and Blue Country Park and RSPB Fowlmere Nature Reserve.
Does the property have a swimming pool?
The property does not have a swimming pool.
What are the policies for guests staying with children?
Children are allowed at the property, and the minimum age for children to stay for free is not specified.
What are the policies for extra beds and cribs?
Extra-person charges may apply, and policies regarding extra beds or cribs are not specified.
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Instant AI responses are based on hotel information
Prices for upcoming dates
September 2026
Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
October 2026
Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa |
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Cheaper
Pricier
Average nightly price across deals, with taxes & fees.
Prices in USD for 2 guests, updated daily.
- 2026-09-04: NO DATA
- 2026-09-05: NO DATA
- 2026-09-06: 121.28872388153076USD
- 2026-09-07: 136.63125985717772USD
- 2026-09-08: 136.63125985717772USD
- 2026-09-09: 170.8566382598877USD
- 2026-09-10: NO DATA
- 2026-09-11: NO DATA
- 2026-09-12: NO DATA
- 2026-09-13: NO DATA
- 2026-09-14: 126.33079942932129USD
- 2026-09-15: 139.39187093811034USD
- 2026-09-16: 148.51554905395508USD
- 2026-09-17: 155.37203741760254USD
- 2026-09-18: 167.13729091186522USD
- 2026-09-19: 157.1355273376465USD
- 2026-09-20: 121.14921091918946USD
- 2026-09-21: 160.32430897216796USD
- 2026-09-22: 174.59457552185057USD
- 2026-09-23: 151.68916103515625USD
- 2026-09-24: 189.37835964660644USD
- 2026-09-25: 209.74477113037108USD
- 2026-09-26: NO DATA
- 2026-09-27: 121.31079608154296USD
- 2026-09-28: 121.31079608154296USD
- 2026-09-29: 174.59457552185057USD
- 2026-09-30: 121.31079608154296USD
- 2026-10-01: 126.33079942932129USD
- 2026-10-02: 205.70267877502442USD
- 2026-10-03: NO DATA
- 2026-10-04: 126.33079942932129USD
- 2026-10-05: 126.33079942932129USD
- 2026-10-06: 118.85075147857665USD
- 2026-10-07: 126.39702489013672USD
- 2026-10-08: 126.37458053741454USD
- 2026-10-09: 139.54051936340332USD
- 2026-10-10: 189.37835964660644USD
- 2026-10-11: 126.39702489013672USD
- 2026-10-12: 126.39702489013672USD
- 2026-10-13: 136.45153668060303USD
- 2026-10-14: 126.39702489013672USD
- 2026-10-15: 126.39702489013672USD
- 2026-10-16: 136.69424227294923USD
- 2026-10-17: 177.15112286682128USD
- 2026-10-18: 126.37458053741454USD
- 2026-10-19: 135.10221728363038USD
- 2026-10-20: 127.6638770187378USD
- 2026-10-21: 126.34685516052247USD
- 2026-10-22: 126.33079942932129USD
- 2026-10-23: 177.8126508911133USD
- 2026-10-24: NO DATA
- 2026-10-25: 118.85075147857665USD
- 2026-10-26: 121.28253905792236USD
- 2026-10-27: 135.19531748657226USD
- 2026-10-28: 135.19531748657226USD
- 2026-10-29: 121.52853199920654USD
- 2026-10-30: 188.60672758483886USD
- 2026-10-31: NO DATA
- 2026-11-01: 137.34497786865234USD
- 2026-11-02: 125.93293273925781USD
- 2026-11-03: 126.82349417419434USD
- 2026-11-04: 135.2543036911011USD
Check-in must be done by someone who is at least 18 years old.
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Free Wi-Fi
General
Restaurant
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Parking