COVER IMAGE: MARTIN MORRELL
THE TOP 50 PUBS IN THE COTSWOLDS 2023
The pub is one of the greatest cultural pleasures and The Cotswolds is brimming with lots of brilliant ones full of character, charm and exceptional food and drink.
Exposed wooden beams, open fires, stone interiors and wonderful village and market town locations, there is nowhere better to spend a day with friends and family.
The last few years have been tough for all of them and, like all of our wonderful local businesses, they all need our support more than ever.
Here are 50 of our favourites that you need to visit this year, including lots of new entries and a few to watch in 2023.
Exposed wooden beams, open fires, stone interiors and wonderful village and market town locations, there is nowhere better to spend a day with friends and family.
The last few years have been tough for all of them and, like all of our wonderful local businesses, they all need our support more than ever.
Here are 50 of our favourites that you need to visit this year, including lots of new entries and a few to watch in 2023.
THE STUMP
FOSS CROSS, NR NORTHLEACH
An ancient roadside inn near Northleach, The Stump is now one of the finest pubs in the area where you can enjoying banging pizza and pasta from the awesom Baz and Fred. There are ten-ensuite rooms, three open fires, a pool table, an incredible Italian-clad menu and a brilliant atmosphere all year round.
thestump.co.uk
thestump.co.uk
THE LAMB
SHIPTON UNDER WYCHWOOD
Located between Burford & Chipping Norton, The Lamb has been the sister pub to The Bell at Langford since June 2021 when it was taken on by Peter Creed & Tom Noest. The pair have assembled an equally awesome menu featuring their famous Garlic, Parsley and Bone Marrow Flat Bread, wood fired dishes and awesome roasts that can all be enjoyed in their cosy bar area, separate restaurant and large beer garden on warmer days.
www.thelambshipton.com
www.thelambshipton.com
*NEW ENTRY*
THE WOOLPACK
SLAD
Tucked into the edge of the Slad Valley with a view to die for, The Woolpack has been celebrated for its unique charm for more than 300 years and was once the local of 'Cider With Rosie' author Laurie Lee.
This charming little pub is a wonderful place to enjoy superb food, cracking wine and some quality local beers in spectacular surroundings.
www.thewoolpackslad.com
This charming little pub is a wonderful place to enjoy superb food, cracking wine and some quality local beers in spectacular surroundings.
www.thewoolpackslad.com
THE DOUBLE RED DUKE
BAMPTON
Since opening its doors in May 2021, The Double Red Duke has become one of the most popular destinations in the Cotswolds.
As well as boasting 19 bedrooms and a warren of lounges with log fires and deep leather arm chairs, the pub offers a menu dedicated open-fire cooking (be at the heart of the action at the chef's table) and large cuts of meat, whole fish dishes and awesome Sunday roasts.
www.countrycreatures.com/double-red-duke
As well as boasting 19 bedrooms and a warren of lounges with log fires and deep leather arm chairs, the pub offers a menu dedicated open-fire cooking (be at the heart of the action at the chef's table) and large cuts of meat, whole fish dishes and awesome Sunday roasts.
www.countrycreatures.com/double-red-duke
*NEW ENTRY*
THE FOX
LOWER ODDINGTON
After being closed for couple of years, The Fox is now part of the Bamford portfolio and reopened its doors in 2022.
Benefitting from a significant refurbishment, the pub has a fantastic new lease of life and offers a menu that celebrates local producers including produce from Daylesford (just a stone's throw away down the road) and stunning accommodation in the heart of the North Cotswolds.
thefoxatoddington.com
Benefitting from a significant refurbishment, the pub has a fantastic new lease of life and offers a menu that celebrates local producers including produce from Daylesford (just a stone's throw away down the road) and stunning accommodation in the heart of the North Cotswolds.
thefoxatoddington.com
THE BELL INN
LANGFORD
The sister to the Lamb at Shipton, The Bell Inn at Langford showcases a similar love of hearty, classic, British food with the addition of wood fired dishes and an extensive wine and beer list. It also boasts eight rooms, a large beer garden overlooking the open countryside and a wonderful modern country pub feel.
www.thebelllangford.com
www.thebelllangford.com
THE KINGHAM PLOUGH
With Matt and Katie Beamish at the helm, the legacy of championing the very best fresh, local, seasonal ingredients lives on at The Kingham Plough. Their daily-changing modern British menu includes Mediterranean influences and British pub classics. There are also six individually furnished, en-suite bedrooms for anyone wishing to make a few days of it in the stunning Oxfordshire countryside.
www.thekinghamplough.co.uk
www.thekinghamplough.co.uk
THE ROYAL OAK
WHATCOTE, NR SHIPSTON ON STOUR
Once the drinking hole of Oliver Cromwell, The Royal Oak is the only pub in the Cotswolds to hold a Michelin star.
Chef-owner Richard Craven has a passion for British produce and his exceptional cooking follows a strong farm-to-fork ethos, with produce coming from small producers in and around the nearby estates; he favours organic and wild ingredients and game is often shot to order.
www.theroyaloakwhatcote.co.uk
Chef-owner Richard Craven has a passion for British produce and his exceptional cooking follows a strong farm-to-fork ethos, with produce coming from small producers in and around the nearby estates; he favours organic and wild ingredients and game is often shot to order.
www.theroyaloakwhatcote.co.uk
THE POTTING SHED
CRUDWELL, NR MALMESBURY
The Potting Shed is a beautifully charming pub in the village of Crudwell, just a few miles from Tetbury, Cirencester and Malmesbury. Its menu showcases the best local produce, and with roaring log fires in the winter and a spacious beer garden in the summer, you can easily lose a few wonderful hours here whatever season.
www.thepottingshedpub.com
www.thepottingshedpub.com
THE KILLINGWORTH CASTLE
WOOTTON, NEAR WOODSTOCK
This wonderful 17th century coaching inn is located on the edge of the village of Wootton, just a couple of miles from Blenheim Palace. Their organic menus have earned 3 stars from the Soil Association and 2-AA Rosettes. This is coupled with 8 lovely bedrooms making it a great place to spend a few nights too.
www.thekillingworthcastle.com
www.thekillingworthcastle.com
THE CHEQUERS
CHURCHILL, NR KINGHAM
With one of the most stunning dining rooms of any pub in the Cotswolds, The Chequers at Churchill is a lovely place to enjoy lunch and dinner, washed down with a glass of wine from their extensive list.
The beautiful bar features local lagers, gin and cocktails and often has a lump of cured meat sitting on the end of it. You will find a roaring fire to sit next to in winter months and a lovely terrace to soak up the sun in the summer.
lionhearth.co.uk/the-chequers
The beautiful bar features local lagers, gin and cocktails and often has a lump of cured meat sitting on the end of it. You will find a roaring fire to sit next to in winter months and a lovely terrace to soak up the sun in the summer.
lionhearth.co.uk/the-chequers
THE KING'S HEAD INN
BLEDINGTON
Winner of The Good Pub Guide Pub of the Year in 2018, The King's Head Inn is the quintessential Cotswolds pub perfect situated on the village green in Bledington. With a stunning interior full of wooden beams, oak settles and an original flagstone floor and excellent food and drink, it's easy see why it's one of the most popular pubs in the Cotswolds.
thekingsheadinn.net
thekingsheadinn.net
THE NEW INN
COLN ST. ALDWYNS
This beautiful 16th-century coaching inn has had a new lease of life since being taken over by Baz & Fred (The Stump) in 2020.
Set in a beautiful sleepy corner of the Cotswolds and boasting 14 luxurious ensuite bedrooms, you can enjoy some mighty fine burgers, craft ales and fine wines.
www.thenewinncoln.co.uk
Set in a beautiful sleepy corner of the Cotswolds and boasting 14 luxurious ensuite bedrooms, you can enjoy some mighty fine burgers, craft ales and fine wines.
www.thenewinncoln.co.uk
THE MILTON HARE
MILTON-UNDER-WYCHWOOD
Located between Stow on the Wold and Burford in the village of Milton-under-Wychwood, The Hare is a hugely popular country pub and the middle sister to The Kingham Plough and The Crown at Church Enstone.
Here, you will find a full a la carte menu every lunchtime & evening running alongside their famous Seafood Specials board which is stuffed with the freshest fish & seafood, available from the shores of Devon & Cornwall and delivered daily.
www.themiltonhare.co.uk
Here, you will find a full a la carte menu every lunchtime & evening running alongside their famous Seafood Specials board which is stuffed with the freshest fish & seafood, available from the shores of Devon & Cornwall and delivered daily.
www.themiltonhare.co.uk
*NEW ENTRY*
THE PLOUGH INN
STRATTON, NR CIRENCESTER
The Plough Inn at Stratton was reopened in December 2022 by local lads and masters of smoked meat Sam Edwards and Jak Doggett.
Following the launch of their superb self-named restaurant in Cirencester in 2021, you will the find the usual Sam & Jak style of food here with smoked and grilled meats on show, as well as traditional pub dishes and a great atmosphere.
theploughstratton.com
Following the launch of their superb self-named restaurant in Cirencester in 2021, you will the find the usual Sam & Jak style of food here with smoked and grilled meats on show, as well as traditional pub dishes and a great atmosphere.
theploughstratton.com
THE WHEATSHEAF
NORTHLEACH
Located in Northleach, this beautiful Virginia Creeper clad pub is a real winner throughout the year with a brilliant garden to enjoy in the summer and roaring fires in the winter. With 14 beautiful rooms, it's the perfect place from where to explore the Cotswolds.
Once part of the Lucky Onion portfolio, the pub, along with other Lucky Onion establishments, was bought by Youngs Brewery in 2022. Importantly, it has kept the same operational team and is as good as it ever was.
www.cotswoldswheatsheaf.com
Once part of the Lucky Onion portfolio, the pub, along with other Lucky Onion establishments, was bought by Youngs Brewery in 2022. Importantly, it has kept the same operational team and is as good as it ever was.
www.cotswoldswheatsheaf.com
THE MAYTIME INN
ASTHALL, NR BURFORD
Another pub in Carole Bamford's portfolio, The Maytime boasts a beautiful garden and food menus that celebrate the seasons.
Located a little off the beaten track in the village of Asthall near Burford, this dog-friendly pub is also a perfect spot for any keen walkers to enjoy a jaunt after a meal or during their stay.
themaytime.com
Located a little off the beaten track in the village of Asthall near Burford, this dog-friendly pub is also a perfect spot for any keen walkers to enjoy a jaunt after a meal or during their stay.
themaytime.com
*NEW ENTRY*
THE SWAN
SOUTHROP, NR LECHLADE
Another pub to reopen its doors in 2022 is the beautiful Swan at Southrop.
Just a short stroll from Thyme, The Swan sits at the heart of the village adjacent to the green. The pub is characterised by low-slung ceilings, roaring fires and is a lovely place for lunch, dinner and stroll.
www.thyme.co.uk/eat/the-swan
Just a short stroll from Thyme, The Swan sits at the heart of the village adjacent to the green. The pub is characterised by low-slung ceilings, roaring fires and is a lovely place for lunch, dinner and stroll.
www.thyme.co.uk/eat/the-swan
THE FLEECE INN
BRETFORTON, NR BROADWAY
Located right on the edge of the Cotswolds and dating back to early 15th-century, The Fleece Inn in Bretforton has been owned by the National Trust since 1977.
A favourite with real ale and cider lovers and a vibrant part of the community, this historical pub hosts many events throughout the year, the most famous of which is the British Asparagus Festival Day at the end of May that attracts visitors from all over world.
thefleeceinn.co.uk
A favourite with real ale and cider lovers and a vibrant part of the community, this historical pub hosts many events throughout the year, the most famous of which is the British Asparagus Festival Day at the end of May that attracts visitors from all over world.
thefleeceinn.co.uk
THE SWAN INN
SWINBROOK, NR BURFORD
The beautiful Swan Inn at Swinbrook is perfectly positioned on the banks of the River Windrush, a couple of miles from Burford.
Steeped in history, the pub is owned by the Dowager Duchess of Devonshire’s estate, the last of Mitford sisters, and offers a wonderful place to enjoy a drink, some food or a night in one of their six beautifully designed bedrooms.
www.theswanswinbrook.co.uk
Steeped in history, the pub is owned by the Dowager Duchess of Devonshire’s estate, the last of Mitford sisters, and offers a wonderful place to enjoy a drink, some food or a night in one of their six beautifully designed bedrooms.
www.theswanswinbrook.co.uk
THE FEATHERED NEST
NETHER WESTCOTE, NR BURFORD
A three AA Rosette and Michelin recommended modern dining pub, The Feathered Nest prides itself on high-quality food and creating a wonderful dining experience.
In addition to the exceptional food, the "Nest" also offers an exclusive selection of high-end, globally sourced wines and a wide range of classic and house cocktails in a stunning location atop hillside with sweeping valley views, a sprawling garden and spacious covered outdoor terrace that comes alive during the summer months.
www.thefeatherednestinn.co.uk
In addition to the exceptional food, the "Nest" also offers an exclusive selection of high-end, globally sourced wines and a wide range of classic and house cocktails in a stunning location atop hillside with sweeping valley views, a sprawling garden and spacious covered outdoor terrace that comes alive during the summer months.
www.thefeatherednestinn.co.uk
THE WILD RABBIT
KINGHAM
Part of the Daylesford Estate, The Wild Rabbit is a stylish and modern country pub located in Kingham.
The menus continue to be led by the seasons, offering locally sourced and ingredient-focused modern British food under the guidance of Executive Chef Sam Bowser. There are 13 bedrooms in the pub and some nearby cottages where you can enjoy a stay and soak up what the Cotswolds has to offer.
thewildrabbit.co.uk
The menus continue to be led by the seasons, offering locally sourced and ingredient-focused modern British food under the guidance of Executive Chef Sam Bowser. There are 13 bedrooms in the pub and some nearby cottages where you can enjoy a stay and soak up what the Cotswolds has to offer.
thewildrabbit.co.uk
*NEW ENTRY*
SANDFORD PARK ALE HOUSE
CHELTENHAM
With ten real ale pumps, 14 keg lines and some high-quality wines and spirits, the Sandford Park Ale House is beacon for quality beer in Cheltenham.
Voted CAMRA National Pub of the Year in 2015, you can also get some awesome food from their kitchen which offers British pub classics, beer food from around the World and traditional Sunday roasts, as well as hosting summer BBQs, Oktoberfest celebrations and an annual Cheese & Cider festival.
sandfordparkalehouse.co.uk
Voted CAMRA National Pub of the Year in 2015, you can also get some awesome food from their kitchen which offers British pub classics, beer food from around the World and traditional Sunday roasts, as well as hosting summer BBQs, Oktoberfest celebrations and an annual Cheese & Cider festival.
sandfordparkalehouse.co.uk
*NEW ENTRY*
THE ROYAL OAK
RAMSDEN
Nestled in the stunning Oxfordshire countryside, The Royal Oak at Ramsden, Nr Witney, is a beautiful 17th-century pub with five equally charming rooms.
The pub is known for its exceptional food, cosy interiors and extensive outside space that is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike throughout the year.
www.royaloakramsden.com
The pub is known for its exceptional food, cosy interiors and extensive outside space that is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike throughout the year.
www.royaloakramsden.com
THE MASONS ARMS
MEYSEY HAMPTON, NR FAIRFORD
The Mason Arms sits proudly on the village green in the village of Meysey Hampton 2 miles west of Fairford and about 6 miles from Cirencester.
Awarded New Pub of the Year 2019 by The Good Pub Guide, the pub is now run by former pub regular Paul Fallows who has transformed it into a bustling pub for the community serving good heart food and well-kept ales in a hugely welcoming atmosphere.
www.masonsarmsmeyseyhampton.com
Awarded New Pub of the Year 2019 by The Good Pub Guide, the pub is now run by former pub regular Paul Fallows who has transformed it into a bustling pub for the community serving good heart food and well-kept ales in a hugely welcoming atmosphere.
www.masonsarmsmeyseyhampton.com
*NEW ENTRY*
THE FOX
GREAT BARRINGTON, NR BURFOD
Located on the banks of the River Windrush, The Fox at Great Barrington has been under the stewardship of the King family (Angel at Burford) since March of 2022.
The whole pub was tastefully refurbished and is now a great place to enjoy drinks next to the log burner in the cosy bar and dinner in the riverside restaurant, while a sunny day means the chance to dine and drink alfresco in the beautiful garden.
thefoxatbarrington.com
The whole pub was tastefully refurbished and is now a great place to enjoy drinks next to the log burner in the cosy bar and dinner in the riverside restaurant, while a sunny day means the chance to dine and drink alfresco in the beautiful garden.
thefoxatbarrington.com
THE HOWARD ARMS
ILMINGTON
A stunning, 400-year-old Cotswold-stone inn, The Howard Arms lies in the heart of the idyllic village of Ilmington in the very north of the Cotswolds.
Known for its quality food, ales and atmosphere, the pub also boasts 8 bedrooms from where you can explore nearby Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds.
howardarms.com
Known for its quality food, ales and atmosphere, the pub also boasts 8 bedrooms from where you can explore nearby Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds.
howardarms.com
THE CROWN
AMPNEY CRUCIS
Located just outside Cirencester, The Crown at Ampney Crucis finally reopened its doors once again in December 2021.
During its closure, the 16th-century pub had a stunning transformation which included an open copper kitchen at the centre of the action serving farm-to-table menus inspired by the idyllic Cotswolds surroundings. The bar offers a good selection of beers and cocktails, and you can take advantage of their superb enomatifor machine for some fine wines by the glass.
www.crownampneybrook.co.uk
During its closure, the 16th-century pub had a stunning transformation which included an open copper kitchen at the centre of the action serving farm-to-table menus inspired by the idyllic Cotswolds surroundings. The bar offers a good selection of beers and cocktails, and you can take advantage of their superb enomatifor machine for some fine wines by the glass.
www.crownampneybrook.co.uk
THE LAMB INN
CRAWLEY, NR. WITNEY
Located just outside the market town of Witney, The Lamb Inn embarked on a complete makeover when it was purchased in 2018 by its current owners Sebastian and Lana Snow.
Their menus focus on hearty, traditional pub classics, great roasts and plenty of slow cooking during the winter. Outside, you will find beautiful terraces over three levels boasting pizza ovens, BBQ, a suntrap beer garden and an outdoor bar, perfect for warmer months.
www.lambpub.co.uk
Their menus focus on hearty, traditional pub classics, great roasts and plenty of slow cooking during the winter. Outside, you will find beautiful terraces over three levels boasting pizza ovens, BBQ, a suntrap beer garden and an outdoor bar, perfect for warmer months.
www.lambpub.co.uk
SEVEN TUNS INN
CHEDWORTH
After benefiting from a renovation in late 2018, The Seven Tuns in Chedworth has gone from strength to strength, establishing itself as the social hub of the village. With a wine selection handpicked by owner Simon Willson-White combined with an exceptional seasonal, sustainable and local menu, this dog friendly pub is a must visit in 2023.
www.seventuns.co.uk
www.seventuns.co.uk
THE BOOT
BARNSLEY, NR CIRENCESTER
Located in the village of Barnsley near Cirencester, The Boot is the new name of "The Village Pub", somewhere that has always been a firm favourite of locals and visitors alike.
Now under Timothy Oulton Studio ownership, the pub has undergone a makeover and the menus have been revamped and now features a delicious cheese soufflé, venison pie and Beef Wellington among other locally-sourced dishes.
www.thebootbarnsley.co.uk
Now under Timothy Oulton Studio ownership, the pub has undergone a makeover and the menus have been revamped and now features a delicious cheese soufflé, venison pie and Beef Wellington among other locally-sourced dishes.
www.thebootbarnsley.co.uk
*NEW ENTRY*
THE PART AND PARCEL
WITNEY
The newest of the Dodo Pubs (Bottle of Sauce in Cheltenham and The Rusty Bicycle and Rickety Press in Oxford), The Part and Parcel can be found on the Witney high street in the Old Post Office building.
Following the theme of their other sites, the kitchen will serve banging pizzas and top-notch burgers as well as a range of awesome sides in a friendly and stylish surroundings.
dodopubs.com/locations/the-part-and-parcel
Following the theme of their other sites, the kitchen will serve banging pizzas and top-notch burgers as well as a range of awesome sides in a friendly and stylish surroundings.
dodopubs.com/locations/the-part-and-parcel
*NEW ENTRY*
THE FIVES
CHELTENHAM
Located on Bath Road in Cheltenham, The Fives (or The Five Alls as it's still known to some) is a fantastic buzzy pub serving a superb small plate menu, as well as Saturday brunch and a cracking "build your own" style Sunday lunch menu.
www.thefivealls.co.uk
www.thefivealls.co.uk
*NEW ENTRY*
THE GEORGE INN
BARFORD ST MICHAELS
Located on the edge of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, The George Inn is a lovely 17th Century thatched pub in Barford St Michael, village on the south bank of the River Swere.
Led by Claire and Valerio, they focus is to creating high-quality, sustainable food, inspired by the latter's British and Italian heritage and European travels, stunning wines and an un-rivalled welcome for anyone who visits or stays in one of their nine charming rooms.
www.thegeorgebarford.co.uk
Led by Claire and Valerio, they focus is to creating high-quality, sustainable food, inspired by the latter's British and Italian heritage and European travels, stunning wines and an un-rivalled welcome for anyone who visits or stays in one of their nine charming rooms.
www.thegeorgebarford.co.uk
THE VICTORIA INN
EASTLEACH, NR BURFORD
The picture postcard village of Eastleach lies just minutes from Burford and is home to the beautiful Victoria Inn. The interior is and charming as the exterior and you can expect some traditional Arkells ales and nice wines to accompany some good value quality food.
www.thevictoriainneastleach.co.uk
www.thevictoriainneastleach.co.uk
THE BOXING HARE
SWERFORD, NR CHIPPING NORTON
With a two-time Michelin star and three AA rosette winning chef in the kitchen and a 15 minute drive from Soho Farmhouse, The Boxing Hare near Chipping Norton offers a warm welcome and lots of charm. Set overlooking the rolling Cotswold Hills, this is a pub with outstanding food and drinking and a lovely atmosphere to boot.
www.theboxinghare.co.uk
www.theboxinghare.co.uk
THE ANGEL
BURFORD
Located just off the main street, The Angel has earned a AA rosette from their top quality menu which incorporates traditional classics with fresh fish and is the only pub in the town that serves food all day. As a Hook Norton Brewery pub, you can expect fine ales, it's retained its Cask Marque accreditation every year since 2011. In warmer months we highly recommend their stunning walled garden that was landscaped in 2017.
theangelatburford.co.uk
theangelatburford.co.uk
*NEW ENTRY*
THE GOLDEN HEART INN
NETTLETON BOTTOM, NR BIRDLIP
Situated between Brimpsfield and Birdlip along the A417, The Golden Heart Inn has been serving locals and travellers alike since the 16th century.
Today, it boasts a wonderfully charming and traditional, dog friendly interior and a well-priced hearty menu, including an extensive range of vegan and vegetarian dishes.
thegoldenheart.co.uk
Today, it boasts a wonderfully charming and traditional, dog friendly interior and a well-priced hearty menu, including an extensive range of vegan and vegetarian dishes.
thegoldenheart.co.uk
*NEW ENTRY*
THE CROWN
CHURCH ENSTONE
Now in the hands of Matt and Katie Beamish (Kingham Plough and Hare at Milton), The Crown in Church Enstone (between Chipping Norton and Woodstock) has been given a new lease of life with a stylish makeover of its bar and dining spaces while maintaining its classic country pub feel.
The flagstoned bar with a roaring log fire makes for a perfect dwelling on a cold winter’s night to enjoy a pint or some outstanding food, and the five cosy, low-beamed bedrooms are a great spot from where to explore the West Oxfordshire countryside.
crowninnenstone.co.uk
The flagstoned bar with a roaring log fire makes for a perfect dwelling on a cold winter’s night to enjoy a pint or some outstanding food, and the five cosy, low-beamed bedrooms are a great spot from where to explore the West Oxfordshire countryside.
crowninnenstone.co.uk
THE PLOUGH INN
COLD ASTON, NR BOURTON ON THE WATER
The Plough at Cold Aston is a huge favourite with locals and visitors alike. You will find local game, smoked meat and classic dishes on the menu and craft beer and lots of outstanding wines behind the bar. The Sunday roasts are some of the best around too!
coldastonplough.com
coldastonplough.com
THE RED LION
LONG COMPTON
The Red Lion in Long Compton is hugely welcoming pub for anyone on two or four legs. Built as a coaching inn in 1748, this Grade II listed free house, this charming, characterful country pub offers high-quality food, dog friendly rooms, regular quizzes and a big playground in the garden ensuring fun for all the family.
redlion-longcompton.co.uk
redlion-longcompton.co.uk
THE FUZZY DUCK
ARMSCOTE
In the very northern reaches of the Cotswolds you will find the hamlet of Armscote, home to the modern and stylish Fuzzy Duck.
Winner of the 'Best Pub' in the GQ Awards, the pub offers a main menu and a bar menu packed with nibbles, snacks, sandwiches and seasonal dishes perfect for a romantic supper, family feast or lazy lunch. If you fancy a stay, there are four bedrooms all offering a touch of luxury.
www.fuzzyduckarmscote.com
Winner of the 'Best Pub' in the GQ Awards, the pub offers a main menu and a bar menu packed with nibbles, snacks, sandwiches and seasonal dishes perfect for a romantic supper, family feast or lazy lunch. If you fancy a stay, there are four bedrooms all offering a touch of luxury.
www.fuzzyduckarmscote.com
THE BOTTLE OF SAUCE
CHELTENHAM
The Bottle of Sauce is one of the most popular pubs in town. The casual menu is full of great burgers, pizzas and brunch offerings with local beer and handpicked wines behind the bar. There’s always something happening too from pub quizzes to live music and a purpose built, professional and comfortable co-working space above the pub.
dodopubs.com/locations/the-bottle-of-sauce
dodopubs.com/locations/the-bottle-of-sauce
THE GREEN DRAGON INN
COCKLEFORD, NEAR COWLEY
Situated in the hamlet of Cockleford near Cowley, The Green Dragon Inn is a charming 17th century pub in a beautiful setting offering everything you need with good food, log fires, exposed oak beams and a very warm welcome.
www.green-dragon-inn.co.uk
www.green-dragon-inn.co.uk
*NEW ENTRY*
THE CHANDLERS ARMS
EPWELL
Located in Epwell, a small Oxfordshire village on the edge of the Cotswolds, The Chandlers Arms boasts a passion for food and hospitality and it's easy to see why.
They offer 3-courses at lunch time and a 4-course meal in the evening as well as a Sunday and vegetarian menu. The cooking is truly outstanding and the welcome is always warm, creating a lovely dining experience.
www.thechandlersarms.co.uk
They offer 3-courses at lunch time and a 4-course meal in the evening as well as a Sunday and vegetarian menu. The cooking is truly outstanding and the welcome is always warm, creating a lovely dining experience.
www.thechandlersarms.co.uk
THE FARMERS ARMS
GUITING POWER
There are not many pubs like The Farmer's Arms left in the Cotswolds. After years in the doldrums, the new landlords have pumped some life back into it, making the pub a vibrant heartbeat to the village once again.
Enjoy great value food, a high-quality Sunday carvery, local ales, meat raffles, a game of skittles and a wonderful welcoming atmosphere.
farmersarmsguiting.co.uk
Enjoy great value food, a high-quality Sunday carvery, local ales, meat raffles, a game of skittles and a wonderful welcoming atmosphere.
farmersarmsguiting.co.uk
THE PLOUGH
PRESTBURY
This beautiful 17th Century Grade II listed thatched pub is full of character and is just a short walk from Cheltenham Racecourse.
With a huge focus on traditional Cider and cask ales, its real ales are still served from a small hatch, straight from the casks which are racked at the back of the bar. It also boasts a fabulous one acre garden with a stream running alongside. Look out for their cider and beer festivals too.
www.theploughprestbury.co.uk
With a huge focus on traditional Cider and cask ales, its real ales are still served from a small hatch, straight from the casks which are racked at the back of the bar. It also boasts a fabulous one acre garden with a stream running alongside. Look out for their cider and beer festivals too.
www.theploughprestbury.co.uk
THE BELL
SAPPERTON, NR CIRENCESTER
The Bell at Sapperton is an independent, family-owned country pub, situated between Cirencester and Stroud.
Priding themselves on their wonderful local ingredients, this pub is a perfect spot for foodies, wine lovers (there's an actual "wine wall" in the bar) and real ale enthusiasts alike. There are some stylish bedrooms for those looking for a break and even somewhere to park your horse if that's your desired choice of transport!
www.bellsapperton.co.uk
Priding themselves on their wonderful local ingredients, this pub is a perfect spot for foodies, wine lovers (there's an actual "wine wall" in the bar) and real ale enthusiasts alike. There are some stylish bedrooms for those looking for a break and even somewhere to park your horse if that's your desired choice of transport!
www.bellsapperton.co.uk
THE KILKENEY
NR ANDOVERSFORD
Located just outside Andoversford, The Kilkeney Inn was refurbished in early 2016 and given a much needed new lease of life.
As the self-proclaimed 'Home of Slow Cooking', the menu displays a strong appreciation for the finest local food and boasts a particularly strong wine list to compliment it. One of the biggest transformations is the patio area which is a great spot to soak up some sunshine in the summer.
www.kilkeney.co.uk
As the self-proclaimed 'Home of Slow Cooking', the menu displays a strong appreciation for the finest local food and boasts a particularly strong wine list to compliment it. One of the biggest transformations is the patio area which is a great spot to soak up some sunshine in the summer.
www.kilkeney.co.uk
*NEW ENTRY*
THE CARPENTERS ARMS
MISERDEN
If you're looking for a proper old, no-nonsense, traditional country pub then look no further than The Carpenter Arms.
Located on the Miserden Estate, you will find a classic, hearty dishes, regular folk music nights and an extensive cider menu that features over 80 different ciders! What's not to love?
www.thecarps-miserden.co.uk
Located on the Miserden Estate, you will find a classic, hearty dishes, regular folk music nights and an extensive cider menu that features over 80 different ciders! What's not to love?
www.thecarps-miserden.co.uk
ONES TO WATCH
Here are some pubs to look out for that are reopening in 2023 that we are very excited about.
THE HALFWAY HOUSE
KINETON
After a few years in the doldrums, The Halfway House will open again in February with former Wild Rabbit head chef Nathan Eades at the helm.
Boasting three new bedrooms and a large garden, it will be great to see this 17th-century pub flourish once again.
Boasting three new bedrooms and a large garden, it will be great to see this 17th-century pub flourish once again.
THE GOLDEN CROSS
CIRENCESTER
This hugely popular bot hole on Black Jack Street in the heart of town has just become the sister pub of The Swan Inn at Swinbrook.
We have heard some really good things and can't wait to visit in 2023.
We have heard some really good things and can't wait to visit in 2023.
THE BULL
CHARLBURY
After enjoying a pop-up from The Pelican at the end of 2022, The Bull in Charlbury will reopen in 2023.
This stunning pub with lovely rooms is a perfect destination for anyone travelling from the city to explore the Cotswolds.
This stunning pub with lovely rooms is a perfect destination for anyone travelling from the city to explore the Cotswolds.