The British pub has been eulogised by everyone from George Orwell to Jeremy Clarkson. In The Cotswolds we are spoilt for choices… so I have done the hard work and selected these to help you out.
The Cotswolds is a dream come true for lovers of quaint villages, honey-coloured stone cottages, and long countryside walks that just so happen to end at a brilliant pub. Tucked between Burford and Lechlade and close to our two luxury holiday cottages, you'll find a treasure trove of historic pub where the welcome is friendly, the food locally sourced and utterly delicious.
Here are some of my favourite pubs to check out in our corner of the Cotswolds.
The Rose and Crown – Shilton. This is naturally one of our favourites and it sits right opposite The Chestnuts. Run by chef Matt this small but perfectly formed Cotswold pub has friendly locals and wonderful food. When the sun is out a large sit in garden with the lots of tables and of course a wonderful view of Shilton village and our holiday cottage. In winter the log fire makes the pub a cosy haven.
The Swan at Southop is the village pub to our other cottage Culls Cottage. A short walk from Culls Cottage enjoy a drink at the bar or better still have a meal. The food here is top notch and much of the produce comes from across the road at Thyme Hotel, who grow most of their vegetables.
The Victoria Inn, Eastleach is between our two cottages but closest to Culls Cottage, from where you can walk over the fields to this chocolate box village.
A scenic countryside pub just minutes from Burford and Lechlade. Traditional Arkells ales, lovely interiors, and a tranquil location make it a real retreat. It has a massive outdoor undercover area at the front, so even on the sunniest day you can sit in the shade and keeps you dry if the weather lets you down.
The Bell – Langford Langford is a quiet village, tucked away off the main roads. Worth the detour to get a table though. Inside there is a lively bar area to the right and a dining area with massive fire to the left. We love the menu here, lots of classic but also devilled kidneys on toast, specials of the day and a great wine list.
The Lamb at Shipton Sister pub to the Bell, so the menu is very similar. But a larger establishment and more outside garden to enjoy.
The Farmers Dog – Asthall well known now as Jeremy Clarkson’s pub and featured on Clarksons Farm this pub is a great destination but hugely popular so make sure you book. All the food and drink served is from Britain, so no Coca- cola or coffee served here. Although you can get a tea from an English producer! It has a large deck area overlooking the glorious Windrush valley and plenty of seating in the garden if you don’t get a table.
The Plough at Kelmscot Kelmscot was summer residence of William Morris the renowned English designer. This pub, is really worth searching out down towards the River Thames. A lovely small dining room and great garden too. Enjoy lunch then visit Kelmscot house.
Many of these pubs are linked by some of the prettiest walking routes in the Cotswolds. Whether you're meandering along the Windrush or exploring the fields, a good walk followed by a pint or Sunday lunch with the family makes for the perfect Cotswolds day. You are truly spoilt for choice in our special part of the Cotswolds.