In many Cotswold villages, you will find some lovely independent pubs with so much character and history. With a range of food and drink offered in various pubs across the Cotswolds, you will be sure to find the perfect ‘local’ for you. In our line-up below, we’ve described some of the best and most quirky pubs the Cotswolds has to offer.
Whether you’re a pub connoisseur or just a passing visitor looking for a bite to eat, this guide will be just what you need! Here are some of the best traditional pubs in the North Cotswolds.
The Bell at Langford
Refreshingly traditional, The Bell is located in Langford, near Burford. Sporting open fires, classic wooden furniture and eccentric hunting artefacts are what make this pub so special.
The Bell focuses on providing simple, classic pub food with a straightforward list of wines, spirits and beers. The Cosy bar area is separate to the restaurant, allowing customers the chance to have a quiet drink. The open fire and view of the pizza oven in the restaurant gives a warm family feel to the pub. You can also enjoy the Cotswold countryside in the beer garden.
The Fuzzy Duck
Found in Stratford-upon-Avon, The Fuzzy Duck is distinctively newer than most pubs in the Cotswolds. After a remodel, revamp and renovation, The Fuzzy Duck re-opened in 2013. Specialising as an Inn, boutique and restaurant the brand’s values are delivering quality, keeping promises and celebrating indulgence.
This pub prides itself on sourcing exceptional local produce to create both innovative and classic dishes for their seasonal menus and daily specials. Their ‘contemporary Cotswold’ style aims to offer a diverse and delicious culinary experience.
The Kings’ Head Inn
Owned by couple Nicola and Archie Orr Ewing, The Kings’ Head Inn has a sparkling reputation with locals in Chipping Norton. This Captivating 16th Century inn offers picturesque views of the river Evenlode and Cotswold nature.
You may also like: Best Spa Hotels in the Cotswolds
The Kings’ Head works hard to offer customers a friendly bar, atmospheric interior, super wines and real ales. Paired together with 12 delightful bedrooms, it’s not surprising this Pub is on our list. Also voted ‘National Inn Of The Year’ and ‘Gloucestershire Dining Pub Of The Year’ in the Good Pub Guide 2020, this pub’s beef, pork, lamb, poultry, game and eggs are all produced by locals John and Anthony from University Farm.
Subscribe to Visit The Cotswolds!
Sign-up to our newsletter to receive all the latest deals and details from the Cotswolds.
The Chequers
Nestled in the heart of the quaint Cotswold village of Churchill, close to Chipping Norton, The Chequers represents the traditional Cotswolds image of a rural country pub. Characterised with studded leather armchairs and dimming
You may also like: Best Cotswolds Glamping Experiences for Couples
Known for its smooth wine collection, fluffy sourdough and buzzing social scene and events, The Chequers’ service is based around good music, even better food and most importantly the customers, they believe every small detail counts.
The Fox at Barrington
The Fox at Barrington is another beautiful Cotswold pub located on the banks of the river Windrush in the gorgeous village of Great Barrington, just 2 miles from the town of Burford. The King family and their team pride themselves in giving customers a warm welcome, after taking over in early 2022.
In the winter, enjoy a drink next to the log burner in the cosy bar or dinner in the riverside restaurant, while a sunny day means the chance to dine and drink alfresco in the beautiful garden. Those who want to stay can book into one of seven tastefully decorated bedrooms, which were all newly refurbished in 2022, along with the bar and restaurant.
If you are visiting the Cotswolds, we highly recommend visiting a traditional Cotswold pub to gain the full experience and immerse yourself fully into our culture.
