There’s something about the Cotswolds that just makes food taste better. Luckily for me, I’m only an hour’s drive away from the honey-coloured buildings and the rolling hills that The Cotswolds is famed for.
Eating in The Cotswolds after a long country walk is one of my favourite ways to spend a weekend and as I’ve spent countless weekends exploring this gorgeous part of England, and having eaten at some of the finest establishments I think I’m well placed to give you my rundown on the best restaurants in The Cotswolds.
Last summer, I took my wife on what I called a “gastronomic tour” of the area. She thought we were just going for nice walks and cute photos but five pounds heavier and several meals later, she finally admitted I was onto something with this whole Cotswolds food obsession.
So, whether you’re planning a weekend away or a proper holiday in this stunning corner of England, I’ve put together my absolute favourite places to eat. These aren’t just tourist traps, I hate those… these are the spots where you’ll find me elbowing locals out of the way for a table on a Sunday afternoon (sorry not sorry).
Old-School Pubs That’ll Make You Feel Properly British
Nothing says “I’m in the Cotswolds” quite like sinking into a creaky chair by a fireplace in a 400-year-old pub, pint in hand, waiting for a plate of something hearty and delicious. These traditional pubs have been feeding hungry travellers for centuries, and thank goodness they’re still at it.
The Falkland Arms, Great Tew
The first time I visited The Falkland Arms, I actually gasped. It’s so ridiculously picturesque with its thatched roof, ancient stone walls, and low-beamed ceilings that have definitely caused a few bumped heads over the centuries (including mine).
One crisp autumn day, I nabbed a corner table next to the fire and ordered their homemade steak and ale pie. Let me tell you, their pastry is the stuff of dreams – buttery, flaky, and wrapped around tender chunks of beef that had clearly been simmering for hours. I paired it with a local ale (when in Rome and all that), and it was absolute heaven.
The garden’s lovely too. Last summer I returned there watching the village life unfold while nursing a gin and tonic. The prices are decent as well, around £14-18 for main courses, which isn’t bad considering the portions could feed a small army.
Top tip: If you’re heading there on a weekend, get there early. The secret’s out about this place, and tables by the fire are hot property.
The Green Dragon, Cowley
You know when you’ve been walking for hours and you’re absolutely starving? That’s exactly when you need The Green Dragon in your life.
I stumbled across this gem after getting slightly lost on a country walk (those old school OS Maps can be confusing). I was freezing, my boots were muddy, and I was contemplating calling a taxi back to my B&B when I spotted the pub sign.
Their Sunday roast is what dreams are made of and I say that as someone how makes a might fine roast myself. Yorkshire puddings the size of your head, crispy roast potatoes, and proper gravy that’s clearly been simmered for ages. They do a cracking vegetarian nut roast too, which my sister in law swears by.
The setting is gorgeous as well, there’s outdoor seating with views across the countryside, and friendly staff who don’t mind when you turn up looking like you’ve been dragged through a hedge backwards (which, in my case, wasn’t far from the truth).
The Swan, Broadway
Broadway is one of those Cotswold villages that looks like it’s been plucked straight from a film set, and The Swan fits right in with its historic charm.
I ended up here as part of my ‘gastronomic tour’. We’d spent the day shopping in Broadway’s cute independent shops and were in desperate need of refreshment. The Swan’s lively bar area was exactly what we needed, just busy enough to have atmosphere, but not so chaotic that we couldn’t hear each other talk.
Their fish and chips were spot on with a crispy batter, flaky fish, and proper chunky chips. Laura had the burger, which came with all the trimmings and had her making those inappropriate food noises that turn heads.
In summer, the garden’s brilliant for people watching with a cold beer or cider in hand. Prices hover around the £15 mark for main courses, and portions are generous.
The Bakers Arms, Broad Campden
I’ve got a soft spot for The Bakers Arms. It’s a bit off the beaten track, which means it’s not heaving with tourists taking photos of their ploughman’s lunch.
The garden is what sold me, it’s perfect for those rare sunny days when everything feels right with the world. I spent an entire afternoon there once, starting with lunch and somehow ending up staying for dinner too. The staff seemed to find this amusing rather than annoying, which says a lot about the place.
Their menu is full of pub classics done well – I’m particularly fond of their ploughman’s lunch, which comes with a wedge of local cheese that will haunt your dreams. The local ales change regularly, and they’re always happy to let you try before you buy.
You can also have small wedding receptions here. We saw a party take over the back room and I asked a guest about the food which he told me was faultless.
Fancy Places That Won’t Make You Feel Like a Plonker
Sometimes you want to push the boat out a bit. Maybe it’s your anniversary, maybe you’ve just got a pay rise, or maybe you’re just in the mood for something a bit special. The Cotswolds restaurants have you covered on this front too, with some seriously impressive restaurants that still manage to feel welcoming rather than stuffy.
Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Near Oxford
OK, I’m cheating a bit here as this is technically just on the edge of the Cotswolds, but it’s worth the slight detour. This place is pure, unabashed luxury – Raymond Blanc’s famous restaurant with rooms that’s been collecting awards like I collect empty wine bottles.
For my 30th birthday (let’s not talk about how long ago that was), my parents treated me to dinner here. I still dream about the tasting menu, each plate looked like a tiny work of art, and the flavours were incredible. Much of the produce comes from their own gardens, which you can wander around before or after your meal.
It’s definitely not cheap and you’re looking at around £180 per person for the tasting menu – but for a special occasion, it’s unforgettable. Book months ahead though; this place is popular for good reason.
The Fig, Chipping Campden
The Fig is the kind of place where you can dress up a bit without feeling overdressed. It’s elegant but not intimidating, and the food is absolutely beautiful.
This was another one that featured on my epic gastro tour, and both me and my wife both raved about it for weeks afterwards. The menu changes seasonally, but when we visited, I had seared scallops followed by the most tender lamb I’ve ever eaten.
The chef clearly knows their stuff, and there’s a genuine passion for showcasing local ingredients in creative ways. Prices are on the higher side, around £45-60 for three courses, but the quality justifies it. The wine list is excellent too, with some really interesting options by the glass and even more options by the bottle.
Restaurant Henne, Moreton-in-Marsh
Moreton-in-Marsh is one of my favourite Cotswold towns, and Restaurant Henne is a big reason why. It’s stylish without being showy, and the focus is firmly on the food.
I had a memorable meal here with a friend who was visiting from London and who, I’m slightly ashamed to admit, I was trying to impress with “sophisticated countryside dining.” The gamble paid off as she’s still talking about the roasted duck she had.
What I love about Henne is that the menu changes almost weekly depending on what’s good and local. Yes, it’s pricey at around £50-65 for three courses, but the attention to detail and quality of ingredients make it worthwhile. The staff know their wine too, and aren’t afraid to suggest something unusual that works perfectly with your food.
Casual Spots for When You Can’t Be Bothered to Put on Proper Trousers
Sometimes you just want good food without the faff. Maybe you’ve been walking all day, or maybe you just want to sit in a cafe with a book. These more casual spots deliver on flavour without requiring you to iron a shirt first.
The Coconut Tree, Cheltenham
Cheltenham might be known for its Regency architecture and horse racing, but it’s also home to The Coconut Tree, which serves up the most amazing Sri Lankan food.
I discovered this place by accident when I was staying with a friend in Cheltenham. We were meant to be going to some fancy restaurant, but I’d forgotten to pack anything remotely smart to wear. He suggested The Coconut Tree as a casual alternative, and it ended up being the highlight of my trip.
The concept is Sri Lankan tapas, small plates designed for sharing. The egg hoppers (a kind of pancake with an egg in the middle) are incredible, and their spicy coconut curries made me sweat in the best possible way. The atmosphere is lively and fun, and prices are surprisingly reasonable at around £5-7 per dish, and you’ll want to order several.
If you’re in Cheltenham you definitely want to give The Coconut Tree a visit.
Amore Mio, Cheltenham
Still in Cheltenham (what can I say, the town has good taste), Amore Mio is my go-to for proper Italian food. It’s family-run, and you can tell as there’s a warmth to the service that chain restaurants just can’t match.
I’ve eaten here twice with my wife, and the pasta is always spot-on. Their carbonara made me realise I’d been making it wrong my entire life (sorry, mum). The pizzas are fantastic too with thin, crispy bases with generous toppings, just the way I like them.
What I love about this place is that it feels special without being expensive. You can have a really lovely meal with wine for around £25-30 per person, and you’ll leave feeling like you’ve had a proper treat.
Huxley’s, Chipping Campden
When you’re in the mood for a casual lunch that’s a step up from a sandwich, Huxley’s hits the spot. It’s got a bit of an Italian slant, with good pizzas and salads.
I nipped in here for lunch while exploring Chipping Campden’s shops one day. It was raining (of course it was, this is England), and I was cold and grumpy (most likely Hangry). A pizza and glass of red wine later, and my mood had improved dramatically.
The prices are fair at around £12-15 for a main course and the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. It’s particularly good for a solo lunch, as you don’t feel awkward sitting alone with a book.
The Old Bakery Tearoom, Blockley
If you’re after a classic cream tea or a slice of cake, The Old Bakery Tearoom in Blockley is hard to beat. It’s quintessentially English with floral tablecloths, mismatched china, the works.
I discovered this place during a particularly ambitious walk when I’d grossly overestimated my fitness levels. I staggered in, desperate for sugar and a sit-down, and was rewarded with the fluffiest scones I’ve ever tasted.
Their cakes are all homemade and change daily. The Victoria sponge is particularly good, light and moist with just the right amount of jam and buttercream. Prices are very reasonable too, with a cream tea for two coming in at around £15.
A Few Tips Before You Set Off
After several years of eating my way around the Cotswolds (it’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it), I’ve picked up a few tips:
- Book ahead, especially for dinner or Sunday lunch. The good places fill up quickly, particularly in summer.
- Consider staying somewhere central like Stow-on-the-Wold or Chipping Campden. They’ve got plenty of eating options and make a good base for exploring.
- If you’re planning on enjoying the local beers (and you should), think about taxis for evening meals. The country roads are dark and winding, and designated drivers miss out on all the fun.
- Work up an appetite with walks between villages. The Cotswold Way has some stunning sections, and food always tastes better when you’ve earned it.
- Don’t be put off by places that look touristy. Some of the most popular spots are popular for a reason – the food’s good!
So there you have it, my favourite places to eat in one of England’s most beautiful regions. Whether you’re after posh nosh, hearty pub grub, or something in between, the Cotswolds won’t disappoint. Just don’t blame me when your jeans feel a bit tight after your trip. Some sacrifices are worth making for good food.