TOP 50 PUBS IN THE COTSWOLDS 2024
The pub means many different things to a lot of people. Whether it's a place to meet friends for a drink or somewhere to enjoy a meal, we are incredibly lucky to have a wealth of incredible pubs in the Cotswolds.
From proper boozers to some of the best food in the area, the pub is one of life's greatest cultural pleasures. and somewhere that should be frequented often and treasured forever.
Here is our guide to some of our favourites in the Cotswolds that you should visit in 2024.
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THE HALFWAY AT KINETON
KINETON, NR. GUITING POWER
Since opening the doors in February 2023, Nathan Eades and Liam Goff (formerly of The Wild Rabbit) have turned what was once a mediocre pub into one of the finest foodie spots in the Cotswolds.
Serving an abundance of local meats and game (often left at the door by local farmers and gamekeepers), the menus offer hearty, honest, British food and top-notch cooking, with Giles Coren naming their vegetarian mushroom and celeriac pie as "the best in England" in the Sunday Times.
Sunday lunch and their hugely popular monthly pub quiz are always a sell out, and they have also become a firm favourite with the local horse racing community.
www.thehalfwayatkineton.com
Serving an abundance of local meats and game (often left at the door by local farmers and gamekeepers), the menus offer hearty, honest, British food and top-notch cooking, with Giles Coren naming their vegetarian mushroom and celeriac pie as "the best in England" in the Sunday Times.
Sunday lunch and their hugely popular monthly pub quiz are always a sell out, and they have also become a firm favourite with the local horse racing community.
www.thehalfwayatkineton.com
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THE BULL
CHARLBURY
Standing on the corner of Sheep Street in Charlbury since the early 1500s, The Bull has become one of the finest spots in the Cotswolds since being reopened by the duo behind The Pelican in Notting Hill in 2023.
Sundays is the stage for big barbecues and spit roasts and there is a huge nod to local meat and veg, with most of latter being grown on a plot just down the road at Bruern Farm.
Just over an hour direct from London Paddington, this rustic, charming pub is a huge hit with locals and visitors alike.
thebullcharlbury.com
Sundays is the stage for big barbecues and spit roasts and there is a huge nod to local meat and veg, with most of latter being grown on a plot just down the road at Bruern Farm.
Just over an hour direct from London Paddington, this rustic, charming pub is a huge hit with locals and visitors alike.
thebullcharlbury.com
THE STUMP
FOSS CROSS, NR NORTHLEACH
Located between Northleach and Cirencester, The Stump offers pretty much everything you could wish for in a pub.
Banging food (pizza and pasta from the awesome Baz and Fred), great beer, three open fires, a beautiful private events barn, four stunning rooms, a pool table and a brilliant atmosphere all year round.
thestump.co.uk
Banging food (pizza and pasta from the awesome Baz and Fred), great beer, three open fires, a beautiful private events barn, four stunning rooms, a pool table and a brilliant atmosphere all year round.
thestump.co.uk
THE WOOLPACK
SLAD VALLEY, NR STROUD
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 BELL INN
LANGFORD
The oldest sister to the Lamb at Shipton, Fox at Broadwell and The Sherborne Arms in Northleach, 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 DOUBLE RED DUKE
BAMPTON
The Double Red Duke is one of the most popular destinations in the Cotswolds and it's easy to see why.
As well as boasting 19 bedrooms and a warren of lounges, complete with log fires and deep leather arm chairs, the pub offers a menu dedicated open-fire cooking (you can sit at the heart of the action at the chef's table) and large cuts of meat, whole fish dishes and awesome Sunday roasts.
In summer months, the beautiful garden is a great place to spend an afternoon in the sunshine.
www.countrycreatures.com/double-red-duke/
As well as boasting 19 bedrooms and a warren of lounges, complete with log fires and deep leather arm chairs, the pub offers a menu dedicated open-fire cooking (you can sit at the heart of the action at the chef's table) and large cuts of meat, whole fish dishes and awesome Sunday roasts.
In summer months, the beautiful garden is a great place to spend an afternoon in the sunshine.
www.countrycreatures.com/double-red-duke/
THE ROYAL OAK
WHATCOTE
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 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 available from the shores of Devon and Cornwall and delivered daily to the pub.
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 available from the shores of Devon and Cornwall and delivered daily to the pub.
themiltonhare.co.uk
THE LAMB
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
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 were awarded three AA Rosettes in 2023. This is coupled with eight lovely bedrooms making it a great place to spend a few nights too.
www.thekillingworthcastle.com
www.thekillingworthcastle.com
THE KING'S HEAD
BLEDINGTON
Winner of The Good Pub Guide Pub of the Year on many occasions, 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.
www.thekingsheadinn.net
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.
www.thekingsheadinn.net
THE WILD RABBIT
KINGHAM
Part of the Daylesford Estate, The Wild Rabbit is a stylish and modern country pub located in Kingham and one of the most popular in the Cotswolds.
The double-sided fireplace in the bar is great spot for a drink and the menus are led by the seasons, offering locally sourced and ingredient-focused modern British food under the guidance of Executive Chef Sam Bowser.
You can stay too, with 13 bedrooms in the pub and some nearby cottages from where you can soak up all what the Cotswolds has to offer.
thewildrabbit.co.uk
The double-sided fireplace in the bar is great spot for a drink and the menus are led by the seasons, offering locally sourced and ingredient-focused modern British food under the guidance of Executive Chef Sam Bowser.
You can stay too, with 13 bedrooms in the pub and some nearby cottages from where you can soak up all what the Cotswolds has to offer.
thewildrabbit.co.uk
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THE SHERBOURNE ARMS
NORTHLEACH
The latest pub to be acquired Peter Creed & Tom Noest in 2023, The Sherbourne Arms is a historic pub in the heart of Northleach.
With a focus on (very good) simple pub food, there are open fires and a large bar area with lots of seating to enjoy a quiet drink too.
www.thesherbornenorthleach.com
With a focus on (very good) simple pub food, there are open fires and a large bar area with lots of seating to enjoy a quiet drink too.
www.thesherbornenorthleach.com
THE KINGHAM PLOUGH
KINGHAM
With Matt and Katie Beamish (also The Hare at Milton and Crown at Church Enstone) 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.
thekinghamplough.co.uk
There are also six individually furnished, en-suite bedrooms for anyone wishing to make a few days of it in the stunning Oxfordshire countryside.
thekinghamplough.co.uk
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THE BLACK HORSE
SALFORD, NR CHIPPING NORTON
After being closed for the more than a year, The Black Horse (formerly The Salford Inn) was purchased and refurbished by the Lionhearth Group (Chequers at Churchill and Swan at Ascott-under-Wychwood) and reopened its doors in September 2023.
Since then, it has gained a huge reputation and is dishing up some awesome food in an intimate location and wonderful atmosphere.
lionhearth.co.uk/the-black-horse
Since then, it has gained a huge reputation and is dishing up some awesome food in an intimate location and wonderful atmosphere.
lionhearth.co.uk/the-black-horse
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BACK LANE TAVERN
WOODSTOCK
Woodstock has been waiting for years for somewhere like Back Lane Tavern to land.
A local pub and wine bar that offers incredible small plates and tapas style dining is the magic ingredient for creating one of the hottest new places to eat and drink and the perfect spot in town after a visit to Blenheim Palace.
backlanetavern.co.uk
A local pub and wine bar that offers incredible small plates and tapas style dining is the magic ingredient for creating one of the hottest new places to eat and drink and the perfect spot in town after a visit to Blenheim Palace.
backlanetavern.co.uk
THE POTTING SHED
CRUDWELL, NR MALMESBURY
The Potting Shed is a beautiful and 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 NEW INN
COLN ST ALDWYNS
This beautiful 16th-century coaching inn had a new lease when it was taken over by Baz & Fred (The Stump) in 2020 and continues to be a hugely popular pub to enjoy awesome food and drink.
The menu is packed with small plates, burgers and a few mains and there are 14 beautiful ensuite lovely too for anyone looking to stay in a beautiful sleepy corner of the Cotswolds
www.thenewinncoln.co.uk
The menu is packed with small plates, burgers and a few mains and there are 14 beautiful ensuite lovely too for anyone looking to stay in a beautiful sleepy corner of the Cotswolds
www.thenewinncoln.co.uk
THE SWAN
SOUTHROP, NR LECHLADE
Just a short stroll from its beatutiful big sister Thyme, The Swan sits adjacent to the green in the heart of the village of Southrop. 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
www.thyme.co.uk/eat/the-swan
THE CHEQUERS
CHURCHILL, NEAR 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.
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.
THE FOX
ODDINGTON
Now part of the Bamford portfolio, The Fox reopened its doors in 2022 and has become a huge favourite once again with locals and visitors alike.
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 PLOUGH INN
STRATTON, NEAR CIRENCESTER
Reopened at the back-end of 2022 by Sam & Jak (Edwards and Doggett), The Plough has become one of the most popular pubs in the area.
As well as serving awesome wings and ribs, the menu offers traditional and hearty dishes as well as an awesome roast on a Sunday.
theploughstratton.com
As well as serving awesome wings and ribs, the menu offers traditional and hearty dishes as well as an awesome roast on a Sunday.
theploughstratton.com
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 and Cheltenham's CAMRA Pub of the Year in 2023, you can also get some awesome food from their kitchen which offers British pub classics, pop-up fried chicken nights 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 and Cheltenham's CAMRA Pub of the Year in 2023, you can also get some awesome food from their kitchen which offers British pub classics, pop-up fried chicken nights and traditional Sunday roasts, as well as hosting summer BBQs, Oktoberfest celebrations and an annual Cheese & Cider festival.
sandfordparkalehouse.co.uk
THE HOWARD ARMS
ILMINGTON
The Howard Arms is a stunning, 400-year-old Cotswold-stone inn, situated 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 eight 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 eight bedrooms from where you can explore nearby Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds.
howardarms.com
THE SWAN INN
SWINBROOK, NR BURFORD
The beautiful Swan Inn at Swinbrook is perfectly positioned on the banks of the River Windrush, just 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 LAMB INN
SHIPTON UNDER WYCHWOOD
Located between Burford & Chipping Norton, The Lamb is another pub under the stewardship Peter Creed & Tom Noest (The Bell at Lanford, Sherborne Arms and Fox at Broadwell).
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
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
THE CROWN INN
FRAMPTON MANSELL
Located directly between Cirencester and Stroud, you will find the small village of Frampton Mansell which is home to the wonderful Crown Inn.
A charming 17th-century former ‘cider house’ that is steeped in history, you can expect roaring log fires, delicious, traditional, home-cooked food and fine, locally brewed real ales, making this a near perfect village pub.
On top of that, there are 12 bedrooms for anyone looking for a relaxing countryside escape and a pub cricket team that describe themselves as "an elite group of beer swilling athletes".
www.thecrowninn-cotswolds.co.uk
A charming 17th-century former ‘cider house’ that is steeped in history, you can expect roaring log fires, delicious, traditional, home-cooked food and fine, locally brewed real ales, making this a near perfect village pub.
On top of that, there are 12 bedrooms for anyone looking for a relaxing countryside escape and a pub cricket team that describe themselves as "an elite group of beer swilling athletes".
www.thecrowninn-cotswolds.co.uk
THE ROYAL OAK
RAMSDEN, NR WITNEY
Nestled in the stunning Oxfordshire countryside, The Royal Oak is a beautiful 17th-century pub in the small, picturesque village of Ramsden.
With a long standing tradition of exceptional pub food, the pub offers a menu full of fresh, seasonal produce and lots of interesting ales and cider to try behind the bar.
With its cosy interiors, extensive outside space and five charming bedrooms, it's a pub that is loved by locals and visitors alike throughout the year.
www.royaloakramsden.com
With a long standing tradition of exceptional pub food, the pub offers a menu full of fresh, seasonal produce and lots of interesting ales and cider to try behind the bar.
With its cosy interiors, extensive outside space and five charming bedrooms, it's a pub that is loved by locals and visitors alike throughout the year.
www.royaloakramsden.com
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THE CARPENTERS ARMS
FULBROOK, NR BURFORD
Just a stone's throw from Burford, The Carpenters Arms is a family-run pub in the village of Fulbrook.
Owner and chef Tom was once Head Chef at Humphreys Restaurant at the 5-star hotel Stoke Park, so as you can imagine, the food at the pub is first-class. The pub offers a wonderfully warm and welcoming feel. The pub is very dog friendly and there's a lovely large garden to enjoy in warmer months.
www.thecarpentersarmsfulbrook.co.uk
Owner and chef Tom was once Head Chef at Humphreys Restaurant at the 5-star hotel Stoke Park, so as you can imagine, the food at the pub is first-class. The pub offers a wonderfully warm and welcoming feel. The pub is very dog friendly and there's a lovely large garden to enjoy in warmer months.
www.thecarpentersarmsfulbrook.co.uk
THE FEATHERED NEST
NETHER WESTCOTE
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.
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.
thefeatherednestinn.co.uk
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THE BUTCHERS ARMS
SHEEPSCOMBE, NR STROUD
There are very few pubs with a more spectacular location than that of The Butchers Arms.
Located in the heart of ‘Cider With Rosie’ country, enjoy a drive (or walk) through the narrow and winding lanes of the Sheepscombe valley, with its breath-taking scenery, to reach this flower-strewn 17th-century inn. Here you will find a refreshing "no nonsense" approach to their cooking and a passion for quality local and regional cask ales.
butchers-arms.co.uk
Located in the heart of ‘Cider With Rosie’ country, enjoy a drive (or walk) through the narrow and winding lanes of the Sheepscombe valley, with its breath-taking scenery, to reach this flower-strewn 17th-century inn. Here you will find a refreshing "no nonsense" approach to their cooking and a passion for quality local and regional cask ales.
butchers-arms.co.uk
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THE BELL
CHARLBURY
The latest pub to join the Bamford portfolio is the 17th-century Bell in the beautiful market town of Charlbury.
Their modern British menu combines a selection of hearty pub classics with ingredient-led dishes, with lots of the produce coming from their their sister farm, Daylesford.
The twelve bedrooms have been have been wonderfully restored making it a great place from where to explore the Cotswolds.
www.thebellatcharlbury.com
Their modern British menu combines a selection of hearty pub classics with ingredient-led dishes, with lots of the produce coming from their their sister farm, Daylesford.
The twelve bedrooms have been have been wonderfully restored making it a great place from where to explore the Cotswolds.
www.thebellatcharlbury.com
THE FLEECE
BRETFORTON
Located right on the edge of the Cotswolds (some would say just outside, but who's quibbling over a couple of miles?), The Fleece is one of the most beautiful and historic pubs in the area.
Dating back to early 15th-century, this charming pub, with wonky flagstone floors and roaring fires, has been owned by The National Trust since 1977. It's a huge favourite with real ale and cider lovers and a vibrant part of the community with 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
Dating back to early 15th-century, this charming pub, with wonky flagstone floors and roaring fires, has been owned by The National Trust since 1977. It's a huge favourite with real ale and cider lovers and a vibrant part of the community with 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 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
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
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 PRINCE ALBERT
STROUD
Standing proudly just above Stroud at the top of Rodborough Hill, The Prince Albert is much more than just a pub.
Not only has it won the CAMRA society Best Pub for three years out of the last four, it is a wonderful venue for live music, comedy and other entertainment. It also serves the local community in a plethora of ways. It is a bulletin board for local events, businesses and services. It is a central meeting point for many groups from music to knitting.
"The Prince Albert is a performance space, a gallery, a living room, a quick chat with friends new and old, a meeting point and always a friendly face." We stole that bit from their website, but sums the pub perfectly!
www.theprincealbertstroud.co.uk
Not only has it won the CAMRA society Best Pub for three years out of the last four, it is a wonderful venue for live music, comedy and other entertainment. It also serves the local community in a plethora of ways. It is a bulletin board for local events, businesses and services. It is a central meeting point for many groups from music to knitting.
"The Prince Albert is a performance space, a gallery, a living room, a quick chat with friends new and old, a meeting point and always a friendly face." We stole that bit from their website, but sums the pub perfectly!
www.theprincealbertstroud.co.uk
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 charming Grade II listed and characterful country pub offers high-quality food, dog friendly rooms, regular quizzes and a large garden, complete with a playground for younger patrons, perfect for the summer months.
redlion-longcompton.co.uk
Built as a coaching inn in 1748, this charming Grade II listed and characterful country pub offers high-quality food, dog friendly rooms, regular quizzes and a large garden, complete with a playground for younger patrons, perfect for the summer months.
redlion-longcompton.co.uk
THE FOX INN
BROADWELL
The Fox is a much-loved local pub that reopened its doors in March 2023 by Pete Creed and Tom Noest (The Bell at Lanford, Lamb at Shipton and Sherborne Arms in Northleach).
In that time, the pub has been brought back to life with a modern country pub feel, showcasing the pairs passion for a hearty, classic, British menu, good wine and beer and regular live music nights.
www.thefoxbroadwell.com
In that time, the pub has been brought back to life with a modern country pub feel, showcasing the pairs passion for a hearty, classic, British menu, good wine and beer and regular live music nights.
www.thefoxbroadwell.com
THE THREE HORSESHOES
ASTHALL, NEAR BURFORD
Formerly The Maytime Inn, the pub returned to its roots and became The Three Horseshoes once again in 2023 in honour of its history and heritage.
Another pub now in the hands of Carole Bamford, you can enjoy the same comforting pub food, good wine and local beers, six bedrooms and one of the best pub gardens in the Cotswolds.
threehorseshoesasthall.com
Another pub now in the hands of Carole Bamford, you can enjoy the same comforting pub food, good wine and local beers, six bedrooms and one of the best pub gardens in the Cotswolds.
threehorseshoesasthall.com
THE PART AND PARCEL
WITNEY
Part of the Dodo Pubs empire (Bottle of Sauce in Cheltenham and The Rusty Bicycle and Rickety Press in Oxford), The Part and Parcel can be found in the Old Post Office building on the high street in Witney.
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 friendly and cool 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 friendly and cool surroundings.
dodopubs.com/locations/the-part-and-parcel
THE BELL
SAPPERTON, NEAR 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 also some stylish bedrooms for those looking for a break and even somewhere to park your horse if that's your desired choice of transport in which to visit this wonderful pub!
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 also some stylish bedrooms for those looking for a break and even somewhere to park your horse if that's your desired choice of transport in which to visit this wonderful pub!
www.bellsapperton.co.uk
THE CROWN INN
CHURCH ENSTONE
Another lovely pub under the stewardship of Matt and Katie Beamish (Kingham Plough and Hare at Milton), The Crown in Church Enstone is a lovely pub in Church Enstone.
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
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THE CARPENTERS ARMS
WESTRIP, STROUD
With a 'Gloucestershire Cider Pub of the Year 2023' accolade, spectacular views over the Stroud Valley and a wonderful community feel, The Carpenters Arms in Westrip has everything you want from a local pub.
Their menus offer classic (and generous-sized) dishes from breakfast through to dinner, with the added bonus of a steak night every Thursday.
It's very dog and family friendly too and a perfect pit-stop for any walkers.
www.thecarpentersarmswestrip.co.uk
Their menus offer classic (and generous-sized) dishes from breakfast through to dinner, with the added bonus of a steak night every Thursday.
It's very dog and family friendly too and a perfect pit-stop for any walkers.
www.thecarpentersarmswestrip.co.uk
THE CROWN
AMPNEY BROOK, NR CIRENCESTER
Located just outside Cirencester, The Crown in Ampney Crucis lovingly restored 16th century inn nestled in beautiful countryside.
The 16th-century pub had a stunning transformation in 2021 which included an open copper kitchen at the centre of the action serving farm-to-table menus that inspired by its idyllic Cotswolds surroundings and focussed on top quality meats, fish and vegetables.. 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 16th-century pub had a stunning transformation in 2021 which included an open copper kitchen at the centre of the action serving farm-to-table menus that inspired by its idyllic Cotswolds surroundings and focussed on top quality meats, fish and vegetables.. 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 FOX
GREAT BARRINGTON, NR BURFORD
Located on the banks of the River Windrush, The Fox became the sister to The Angel at Burford 2022.
In the winter, you can cosy up next to the log burner, while a sunny days mean you can enjoy some food and drink drink alfresco in the beautiful garden.
Those who are looking for a stay can book in to one of the seven bedrooms, which were all newly refurbished, along with the bar and restaurant, when the King family took the helm.
thefoxatbarrington.com
In the winter, you can cosy up next to the log burner, while a sunny days mean you can enjoy some food and drink drink alfresco in the beautiful garden.
Those who are looking for a stay can book in to one of the seven bedrooms, which were all newly refurbished, along with the bar and restaurant, when the King family took the helm.
thefoxatbarrington.com
*NEW ENTRY*
THE TITE INN
CHADLINGTON
If you own a brewery in the village then you might as well own the village pub too, and that's exactly what Chadlington Brewery did in 2021.
The Tite Inn has been a pub since the late 18th-century and is located in a picturesque setting on the edge of the village. Their ever-changing menu is full of local ingredients and their ales are brewed less than a mile away using pure Chadlington spring water with the used brewing malt provides feed for a local farm.
thetiteinn.co.uk
The Tite Inn has been a pub since the late 18th-century and is located in a picturesque setting on the edge of the village. Their ever-changing menu is full of local ingredients and their ales are brewed less than a mile away using pure Chadlington spring water with the used brewing malt provides feed for a local farm.
thetiteinn.co.uk
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.
Bought by Youngs Brewery in 2022 (along with most of the other previously Lucky Onion-owned sites, the pub has managed to keep the same look and feel and offers a decent menu with "The Daily Cut", a 40 day aged steak for two to share, one of their statement dishes.
The pub also offers 14 beautiful rooms, making it a great spot from where to explore the Cotswolds.
www.cotswoldswheatsheaf.com
Bought by Youngs Brewery in 2022 (along with most of the other previously Lucky Onion-owned sites, the pub has managed to keep the same look and feel and offers a decent menu with "The Daily Cut", a 40 day aged steak for two to share, one of their statement dishes.
The pub also offers 14 beautiful rooms, making it a great spot from where to explore the Cotswolds.
www.cotswoldswheatsheaf.com
THE GOLDEN CROSS INN
CIRENCESTER
Located on the medieval Black Jack Street in the heart of Cirencester, The Golden Cross Inn became the sister pub to The Swan Inn at Swinbrook at the start of 2023.
With decent food, wine and beer, quiz nights, some brilliant sporting meet and greet events, a courtyard patio garden and a happy, welcoming atmosphere, it has everything that a backstreet town local should be.
www.goldencrossinn.net
With decent food, wine and beer, quiz nights, some brilliant sporting meet and greet events, a courtyard patio garden and a happy, welcoming atmosphere, it has everything that a backstreet town local should be.
www.goldencrossinn.net
THE PLOUGH INN
PRESTBURY
This beautiful 17th Century Grade II listed family-friendly 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.
The pub has a traditional food offering which centres around a ‘Pie Kitchen’ (award-winning pies made in the South West) and some pub favourites.
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.
The pub has a traditional food offering which centres around a ‘Pie Kitchen’ (award-winning pies made in the South West) and some pub favourites.
www.theploughprestbury.co.uk
THE FARMERS ARMS
GUITING POWER
There are very few pubs like The Farmers Arms left in the North Cotswolds.
Offering great value dishes, a high-quality Sunday carvery, local ales, meat raffles, a skittle alley, pool table and a wonderful welcoming atmosphere, the pub is the heartbeat of the village. It's very dog, family and exotic bird (there's a resident pub African Grey parrot) friendly and a great place to enjoy a pint after work.
farmersarmsguiting.co.uk
Offering great value dishes, a high-quality Sunday carvery, local ales, meat raffles, a skittle alley, pool table and a wonderful welcoming atmosphere, the pub is the heartbeat of the village. It's very dog, family and exotic bird (there's a resident pub African Grey parrot) friendly and a great place to enjoy a pint after work.
farmersarmsguiting.co.uk
THE SWAN
ASCOTT-UNDER-WYCHWOOD
A sister to The Black Horse at Salford and The Chequers at Churchill, The Swan is a beautiful 16th century pub in the village of Ascott-under-Wychwood, halfway between Chipping Norton and Burford.
The inviting rural-chic interiors and delightful wisteria-clad pergola strewn terrace garden are wonderful spots to enjoy their imaginative menu, featuring delights like their signature burger with toffee apple sauce and blue cheese, sharing plates like flambée tart, or Shorthorn beef.
You can stay even too in one of the eleven equally stylish spacious bedrooms.
lionhearth.co.uk/the-swan
The inviting rural-chic interiors and delightful wisteria-clad pergola strewn terrace garden are wonderful spots to enjoy their imaginative menu, featuring delights like their signature burger with toffee apple sauce and blue cheese, sharing plates like flambée tart, or Shorthorn beef.
You can stay even too in one of the eleven equally stylish spacious bedrooms.
lionhearth.co.uk/the-swan
A QUICK WORD FROM OUR EDITOR
A huge thank you for taking the time to read this guide. We love writing it and, going by the last couple of years where it has attracted over 250,000 hits (if anyone would like to sponsor it!), you seem to like it too!
We make absolutely no money from creating it (more fool us!) and no business has paid us to feature.
As we mentioned above, this is a list of some of our favourites in the Cotswolds. Fifty just isn't enough and we know we will have left out some amazing pubs. We have tried to add a big mix of foodie, drinking and community pubs and give them the recognition we feel they deserve.
Please give us a follow and leave a (nice!) comment on our social media channels and here's to our 2024 guide.
Keep supporting these incredible pubs and long live the local!
We make absolutely no money from creating it (more fool us!) and no business has paid us to feature.
As we mentioned above, this is a list of some of our favourites in the Cotswolds. Fifty just isn't enough and we know we will have left out some amazing pubs. We have tried to add a big mix of foodie, drinking and community pubs and give them the recognition we feel they deserve.
Please give us a follow and leave a (nice!) comment on our social media channels and here's to our 2024 guide.
Keep supporting these incredible pubs and long live the local!