The Cotswolds is celebrated for its old English charm, but did you know that it’s also a go-to for foodies? The region is brimming with world-class restaurants, serving up mouth-watering British fare along with cuisines from various other countries around the world. Here’s our pick of the best.
Experience the Cotswolds' Best Restaurants
There’s a reason why the Cotswolds is the setting for many a film and TV show (for example, the village of Bampton in the Cotswolds is also the fictional village of Downton in the hit drama series Downton Abbey). The gorgeous stone villages, lush green foliage, rolling hills and gently flowing rivers all come together to create a charming, peaceful haven reminiscent of times gone by.
There are bucketloads of things to do when visiting the Cotswolds – from exploring the impressive Blenheim Palace (birthplace of Winston Churchill) to getting closer to nature with a day spent roaming through the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens. But did you know that one of the main reasons why so many travellers come to the Cotswolds is to tuck into the mouth-watering food?
This beloved region is a foodie paradise, full of world-class restaurants serving up traditional British fare along with many other international cuisines. We’ve rounded up our top picks for the most unmissable Cotswold restaurants to add to your itinerary.
The Painswick Restaurant
Headed up by Chef Jamie McCallum, The Painswick Restaurant gives diners a choice between a seasonal à la carte menu and a tasting menu comprising six courses. It’s a go-to for afternoon tea, dinner and traditional Sunday lunch.
Where?
The Painswick, Kemps Lane, Painswick.
What to order?
The tasting menu is spectacular, featuring delights like tartlette of barbecued octopus and bacon and maple scones, as well as Cornish bass, slow-cooked squash, trompette mushroom and Wiltshire truffle.
Who’s it for?
Anyone who enjoys exploring new flavours, appreciates creative plating and wants to get a taste of classic English fare with a unique twist.
The Hive
Run by two sisters and boasting a rustic and relaxed atmosphere, The Hive is a favourite daytime hangout for locals and tourists. Plus, if you’re travelling with a well-behaved dog, they’re welcome to join you for your meal.
Where?
Digbeth Street, Stow on the Wold.
What to order?
The Hive specialises in delicious breakfasts, brunches and lunches. The Hive Breakfast (cacklebean eggs, sourdough toast, Gloucestershire sausage, bacon, mushrooms and homemade baked beans) and The Hive Vegan Breakfast (smashed avo and chilli jam on sourdough toast, homemade baked beans and mushrooms) are two of the restaurant’s most popular dishes.
Who’s it for?
Travellers who want to sit back and enjoy an unpretentious meal made with locally sourced ingredients.
Lumiere Restaurant
The award-winning Lumiere Restaurant is a passion project belonging to husband-and-wife team, Chef Jon and Helen. The focus is on fine dining and seasonal ingredients obtained from a network of local farmers, fishermen, and Jon and Helen’s family-run farm.
Where?
Clarence Parade, Cheltenham.
What to order?
Lumiere Restaurant offers a selection of four menus. The six-course menu is the perfect option for a tastebud-tantalising experience without being too over-the-top. As part of this menu, you can look forward to masterpieces like Severn and Wye smoked eel and mill farm venison. Dessert is Canon Pyon damson soufflé made with sloe gin and yoghurt.
Who’s it for?
If you’re looking for food that will never disappoint, this is the place to be. It’s a top choice for both meat eaters and vegetarians — there’s a standalone eight-course vegetarian menu.
The Potting Shed Pub
Along with its array of five-star establishments, the Cotswolds is also home to its fair share of homely pubs – and The Potting Shed Pub is one of the best. It adds a classy touch to classic pub food while remaining true to British traditions.
Where?
The St, Crudwell, Malmesbury.
What to order?
You can’t go wrong with the pie of the day or beer-battered fish and chips with tartare sauce and minted peas. Be sure to finish off your meal with a tangy raspberry Eton mess or a generous slice of apple crumble topped with vanilla ice cream.
Who’s it for?
You’ll love sitting down to a drink and a meal at The Potting Shed Pub after a day spent sightseeing. The vibe is laid-back and welcoming, and the food is sure to exceed all expectations.
The Wild Rabbit
Located inside a modern British inn, The Wild Rabbit restaurant dishes up a variety of delicious meals, always evolving with the seasons. Thanks to the open kitchen, you can watch the masterful chefs preparing your food and you’ll have a choice between the à la carte menu (available for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday and for dinner on Sunday) and a perfectly balanced tasting menu (available for dinner from Wednesday to Saturday).
Where?
Church Street, Kingham, Chipping Norton.
What to order?
The tasting menu is guaranteed to go down a treat. It’s a six-course flavour extravaganza featuring masterpieces like Cod Grenoblaise, topped with a brown butter hollandaise sauce and a side of romanesco cauliflower and roast loin of Wootton estate venison served with spiced quince, potato and black pudding terrine with a drizzle of bitter chocolate.
Who’s it for?
Those who value fine dining and great wine pairings, but prefer to enjoy their meal in a relaxed setting.
Getting to the Cotswolds: Private jet hire
Now that you know the best restaurants the Cotswolds has to offer, it’s time to start planning your holiday. Ultimately, there’s no better way to visit the Cotswolds than via private charter flights. Here at Air Charter Service (ACS), we specialise in various aircraft charter services, including light jet charter, helicopter charter and more.
For information on how to charter a private plane to suit your requirements, details about our private jet costs or the lowdown on empty-leg seats (and how you can save up to 75% on your flights), please don’t hesitate to contact us.