There’s nothing quite like a trip to the Cotswolds; it’s a beautiful area of charming villages, scenic walks and stunning national parks. As well as being a well-known destination for a weekend away, the Area of Outstanding Beauty is a popular spot for foodies and beer advocates – and for good reason. Whether you’re in need of a Sunday roast and a post-walk pint, local ale or something locally sourced, here are the best pubs in the Cotswolds.
Last edited by katie kirwan
Last updated on 22nd November 2024
Make a night of it at The Trout, an idyllic pub with rooms in the Cotswolds. Not only does the inn boast an indulgent menu of fresh, British fare, but is also dog-friendly, so you can explore the beatific countryside with your pooch by your side.
Found over in Eastington Village, right on the edge of the Cotswolds, Old Badger is a gorgeous country pub with plenty of character. Whether you sit inside the cosy bolthole or a grab a table in the covered terrace, you'll be able to indulge in ales, local ciders and a whole range of elevated British classics.
If you can't figure out where to eat in the Cotswolds, The Bath Stable fires up sourdough slices and pours some of the finest cider around. Just make sure to try the 'spice rack' pizza, which sees Moroccan spiced lamb alongside Guindilla chillis on a crispy base.
Bull Burford is a stunning Cotwolds hotel with multiple restaurants to boot, meaning you can tuck into everything from 10-course Japanese omakase menus to outdoor kitchen and grill-cooked grub. Think rump steak with chimichurri, snow crab tacosu, black miso cod and more across these mouthwatering menus.
Looking for Cheltenham restaurants? Boasting over 50 kinds of craft beer, hearty Sunday roasts and other banging pub grub classics, Brewhouse & Kitchen is a brilliant choice for post-walk lunches or a top notch nightcap.
Situated in the Cotswold, Harper's is a cool countryside spot worth visiting. The venue has scrumptious afternoon tea and buffet packages, as well as other fabulous deals. Think two for £12 on cocktails, taco Thursdays and free-flowing wings for 90 minutes.
A welcoming pub and hotel all in one, the King's Arms in Woodstock is the perfect place for a hearty meal in cosy surrounds. This boozer is older than the nearby Blenheim Palace, but you wouldn't know it from their innovative, modern dishes.
Choose from a selection of contemporary cask ales, paired with plates like beetroot bourguinon, pan-roasted bream fillet and pie of the day, with breakfast available here too.
You'll find The Falcon Inn nestled in the charming town of Painswick. This rustic local pub fronts a traditional bar, a spacious dining room and even boutique bedrooms if you fancy staying the night.
Sip on refreshing beers or award-winning wines from Balfour Winery while lounging in cosy leather seats, and be sure to try out their food menu too. Think locally sourced ingredients and hearty dishes, from butternut squash gnocchi to whole roasted plaice.
While there are many fantastic restaurants near Bath, Browns Brasserie & Bar is one of our top choices. Nestled within a historic building, the chefs whiz up sensational sips alongside seasonal dishes and bottomless brunches.
The Lion Inn is a charming boozer in Gloucestershire: a 15th-century coaching inn that features eight cosy bedrooms too. Expect rustic, old-fashioned interiors with wooden tables and fairy lights, where you can enjoy a selection of award-winning beers.
Their menu focuses on hearty pub classics, with delicious Sunday roasts up for grabs. There's also a spacious courtyard for the summer months, and dogs are welcome too.
Just 25 minutes from Bristol, you'll discover this gorgeous watering hole. The White Hart serves a variety of real ale and cider from their very own orchard, as well as traditional British eats, making this a scenic spot to remember.
If you're in search of pretty Cotswolds pubs, The Crystal Palace in Bath is a lovely little haven for dining out. As well as traditional British cuisine and charcuterie boards, the pub pours delectable cask ales, seasonal ciders, craft lagers and wines.
A beautiful Bath boozer in a Grade II listed building, The Huntsman is one of the best pubs in the Cotswolds. Warm up by the fire while feasting on a heavenly Sunday roast or visit their terrace to delight in a light alfresco lunch.
Found near Cirencester but out in the glorious countryside, The Crown at Ampney Brook is a beautiful light-filled location with high ceilings and modern touches. But that's not all, as the gastro menu is sure to satisfy, while Wild Thyme and Honey upstairs is ideal for private dining.
Nestled in the bustling town of Chipping Norton in Oxfordshire, The Blue Boar Chipping Norton is certainly well worth a visit. From the updated country pub aesthetic to the stunning menu of British gastro fare and tip-top drinks list, you'll be coming back for more time and time again.
For slinky Japanese dining at one of the best restaurants in the Cotswolds, pop over to KIBOU. Alongside ramen, donburi, sushi and an appetite-appeasing 'volcano roll', this Cheltenham favourite serves imported beers, whisky and signature cocktails.
Along the famous Cheltenham Montpellier walk, you'll stumble upon Harry Cook Free House - the perfect pit stop for some mid-ramble refreshment. The menu features pub classics with plenty of meat-free dishes available.
A short drive from both Bristol and Bath, The Lock Keeper is one of our top Cotswold restaurants. Sink a few sunny pints in their huge beer garden while indulging in their juicy burgers, fish and chips or traditional Sunday roasts.
