Easter approaches, the first long bank holiday of the year is just around the corner, and the idea of spending these couple of days outside of London is definitely worth exploring. Perhaps you don’t want to get on a plane in search of the early spells of spring sunshine, and for those thinking like that, there’s a fantastic opportunity to visit one of the most picturesque Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in the UK: The Cotswolds. Conveniently located less than 3 hours away from London and within easy reach, it’s never been easier to explore and consider this magical corner of England during Easter.
The Cotswolds is one of my favourite trips as it offers the perfect blend of nature, history, and gastronomy. Think rolling hills, picturesque villages, and a laid-back atmosphere that's just begging you to slow down and soak it all in. It’s particularly nice for nature lovers like myself as it boasts some of the most stunning scenery in England, which will eventually lead you to an ancient pub pit-stop for a cheeky pint - the perfect combination. That’s the segue to the topic of food because in most of these picturesque little towns, you’ll find the most amazing gastro pubs and tea rooms. While most pubs serve up delicious meals made with local ingredients and offer a cosy atmosphere, traditional tea rooms provide the perfect spot for a cuppa and homemade scones, a big hit in the area.
The Cotswolds also allow visitors to immerse themselves in centuries of history as they wander through ancient towns such as Upper Slaughter, Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water to mention a few, and explore historic landmarks. From amazing mediaeval castles like Broughton Castle to various National Trust manors like Hidcote, Chastleton House, and Chedworth Roman Villa. And if you’re lucky enough, you can also experience traditional festivals, lively markets, and local events celebrating everything from arts to food and music.
You can spend your days wandering through narrow lanes, popping into cosy cafes for a cuppa, and maybe stumbling upon a hidden gem or two along the way. And trust me, there are plenty of those – from ancient hamlets with stories to tell to charming pubs.
When it's time to call it a day and relax, you’re spoiled for choice with accommodations - whether you fancy a stay at a rustic inn or a charming B&B, there’s an option for everyone. Regardless of the option you go for, you’ll manage to connect with slow living, nature, and the beauty of the region.
In essence, the Cotswolds is where you can slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures of life. Whether you're seeking a peaceful experience, exploring historic villages, or simply craving authentic English heritage and comfort food, there's no shortage of charm to be found in this beautiful region. But for the purpose of this blog post, let's dive into the best gastropubs in the Cotswolds to find delicious British food in cosy settings.
Pictures: Farm, Burford, Burton-on-the-Water, Bibury, Cotswold estate, Northleach Church
5 of the best gastropubs to try in the Cotswolds
The gastronomic pleasures of the region are simply amazing. You can enjoy all sorts of delicious local dishes and treats. Whether you're dining in a cosy pub with hearty classics or trying out an award-winning gastropub featuring the best of British cuisine, there's something for everyone. And don't miss the chance to taste local specialties like Cotswold cheese at a nearby farmers' market and Cotswolds gin.
The Bull (Inn) |Charlbury
I've had the chance to visit both the old and new versions of The Bull. When I visited the Cotswolds in 2021, I stopped by this pub twice, enjoying their terrace despite covid restrictions and grabbing some tasty snacks. But here's the story: The Bull got new owners last year, and now they're offering scrumptious food and comfy rooms for a memorable stay. They recently were awarded a place in the 50 best Gastropubs, making it a must for a culinary stop when you're in the Cotswolds.
Pictures: Bull Instagram
The Wheatsheaf Inn (Inn) | Northleach
In the lovely town of Northleach, there's this old coaching inn that's a real hidden gem. They've got 14 cool bedrooms, a cosy beer garden, and a restaurant that's one of the best in the Cotswolds; their menu serves delicious comfort food in a charming setting.
The Kingham Plough (Inn) | Kingham
At The Kingham Plough, they’re all about using the best local and seasonal ingredients. Whether you're in the cosy bar with some snacks or enjoying classic pub dishes, the menu has a modern British twist with a touch of the Mediterranean. I had the best bird Wellington ever!
The Wild Rabbit (Inn) | Kingham
This place isn't just about cosy cottages and lovely rooms – it's also a top-notch spot for foodies in a charming village setting. Their award winning kitchen focuses on using the freshest seasonal ingredients to create dishes that put a modern twist on classic British cooking. The menu changes with the seasons, and all their ingredients come from Daylesford Organic's market garden, just a mile down the road.
Pictures: Mine and The Wild Rabbit Instagram
The Porch House (Inn) | Stow-on-the-Wall
The Porch House, dating back to 975 AD, proudly boasts its title as England's oldest inn, and it's easy to see why once you step inside. You can still see a bunch of the original features in the public areas. As for the menu, they keep it classic with fish and chips, tasty burgers, and epic Sunday roasts. It's like stepping back in time with every bite, especially when you pair it with one of their local ales or brews.
Pictures: Mine and The Porch House Instagram
Bantam Tea Rooms (B&B) | Chipping Campden
Even though this isn’t a gastropub, this tea room is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy delicious scones in one of the most famous villages of the Cotswolds, Chipping Campden.
As you can tell, the Cotswolds has something for everyone! Plan your days to avoid missing some of the most famous villages and historic landmarks in the Cotswolds. You will be in awe of the beauty of these places, and you can always find cosy pubs to enjoy a nice drink and debrief on what you’ve seen throughout the day. Take your time, find your place to stay, and step back in time as you stroll the narrow roads and walk in the open fields of this historic and beautiful area of England.