5 GREAT GASTROPUBS IN THE COTSWOLDS

The culture of eating out has been revolutionized in the Cotswolds by the gastropub, the reinvented public house that takes quality food to the next level. These days, casual dining in an upscale gastropub trumps eating out in any traditional restaurant. And what makes great pub dining is often an excellent chef, a well-considered menu, the use of fresh local ingredients, and a cozy setting that is quintessential of a Cotswolds vacation. Here are 5 of the best gastropubs to book your table at the next time you’re in the region.

The Wild Rabbit Inn is one of the most celebrated dining spots in the Cotswolds. Located in the unspoiled village of Kingham, this striking stone built public house is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike. The restaurant is known for its delicious seasonal menu, and has received reviews in The Telegraph, The Independent, The Guardian, Oxford Times and many other publications. Writer and travel expert, Harriet O’Brien, called it a “haven of eco-elegance” and a “beautiful posh pub with food to match.”

This idyllic pub is set on the beautiful village green of Bledington, a small village close to Stow-on-the-Wold. It was named ‘Pub of the Year’ in the 2018 Good Pub Guide, and the kitchen offers seasonal dining with plates that have been created from locally sourced produce. They use Aberdeen Angus beef from the local farm in nearby Fifield, whilst fresh fish is delivered daily from Cornwall. The menu dances to the seasons, but you can also expect a great meat roast or a mouth-watering open sandwich for lunch.

The Bell at Sapperton is a charming gastropub with the coziest interiors. Set in an old stone building with flagstone floors, high beam ceilings and a warm log fire, this is the perfect winter retreat for when you need to fill your boots after a long walk. It also has a nice beer garden area, so it’s just as glorious in the summertime. And of course, the menu is just as traditionally British as the surroundings. With signature dishes like Guinness mussels served with soda bread and beer battered fish and chips to classic bangers and mash (with the finest Kelmscott farm sausages).

A popular local hangout, and one of the best places in the Cotswolds to enjoy a Sunday Roast with the whole family. We think this delightful pub is the perfect pit stop for a post-ramble feed. The menu is inspired by the seasons and the amazing produce available in the region, and the kitchen can offer everything from light bites and sandwiches at the bar to three-course dining. There are also luxury guest rooms for those who are looking for somewhere to stay over. In which case, their fantastic full English breakfast is not to be missed either.

The New Inn is located in the Coln Valley (in Coln St Aldwyns, Cirencester) and guests can stay the night, drink all the artisan beers they desire, and eat like kings. The food is most definitely The New Inn’s biggest USP and the chefs aim to use as much free-range, organic and local seasonal ingredients as they possibly can to create their ever-changing menu. Upholding their theme of hearty and traditional grub that appeals to everyone.

For more information about planning your trip to the Cotswolds, do get in touch with the friendly team at LTR Castles today.