Dark and chilly winter evenings are perfect for huddling in the corner of a country pub with friends, catching up over beer and supper. The Cotswolds have cosy pubs aplenty – here are 12 of our favourite places to go...
Located just a stone's throw from Chipping Campden, you'll find this award-winning, picture-perfect pub located in the village of Ebrington where thirst-quenching ciders, award-winning ales and tasty pub lunches are on the menu. Recline in a comfy armchair in front of the large open fire with a pint of Yubby Bitter to hand before retreating to the restaurant for dinner.
The Lion Inn, Winchcombe
A traditional pub with enviable contemporary interiors, The Lion Inn in Winchcombe is a charming spot to sink a few ales or enjoy a glass of full-bodied red. Cosy up in front of the roaring fire while you peruse the menu bursting with delicious dishes - order The Lion's pork scratching and caramelised apple sauce to nibble on while you choose.
The Wild Rabbit Inn, Kingham
Expect stripped back Cotswold stone walls, roaring open fires and soft leather arm chairs when you come to Kingham's Wild Rabbit Inn. There is plenty of tasty seasonal produce on the menu, with game featuring heavily during the colder months. Relax with a pint of Hooky while you soak up your rustic surroundings.
The Village Pub, Barnsley
Only a short stroll from the Barnsley House Hotel, The Village Pub is your quintessential countryside watering hole, complete with brick-work walls, stone flooring, open fires, cosy armchairs and a warm welcome. Enjoy a delicious dinner over a bottle of wine and while the evening away in the pub's atmospheric setting.
The Bathurst Arms, North Cerney
Nestled in the bucolic village of North Cerney, The Bathurst Arms is the ideal location to enjoy locally sourced food and hand-drawn ales in beautiful surroundings. After exploring the local area, or trying one of the pub's recommended walks, enjoy a long lunch in the warm, relaxed environment of The Bathurst Arms.
The Kings Head Inn, Bledington
One of our favourite countryside pubs for a roast dinner, The Kings Head Inn in Bledington is not just worth a visit on a Sunday but any day of the week! Positioned on a picturesque village green, surrounded by rolling Cotswold greenery, the inn is the perfect place to escape the cold and warm up next to the roaring fire, with a round of drinks and a bite to eat.
The Royal Exchange, Hartpury
While away a cold, dark evening, eating and drinking with friends and family at this Hartpury based pub. Owned by a local farming family, The Royal Exchange serves up delicious local produce - try a plate of the Gloucester Old Spot pork belly casserole or the chef's pie of the day, whilst warming your feet by the toasty log burner.
Snowshill Arms, Snowshill
In the beautifully unspoilt village of Snowshill you'll find the Snowshill Arms, a 15th century pub with charm and character in abundance. Following a visit to Snowshill Manor and Garden, or a walk in the village's surrounding scenic countryside, rest up in front of the fire with a pint of Donnington Brewery ale to hand and something tasty to eat.
The Fleece Inn, Bretforton
Burrowed in the chocolate box village of Bretforton, The Fleece Inn is only a short while away from the rolling Cotswold Hills and is a quintessential country retreat. With delicious English staples on the menu, roaring fires and a setting steeped in history, it may come as no surprise that The Fleece Inn holds a number of awards including the County Winner at the National Pub & Bar Awards 2018.
Railway Inn, Cheltenham
It may be hidden away from Cheltenham's busy town centre but for those fortunate to come across the Railway Inn will be glad they have! With intimate lighting, wooden flooring, plenty of cosy seating and roaring log fires, it's a wonderful location to spend a damp and dreary evening. We recommend going along hungry - there are plenty of mouth-watering Thai barbecue dishes to try.
Seagrave Arms, near Chipping Campden
After a chilly afternoon exploring the Cotswold market town of Chipping Campden, you can warm up fireside by visiting the Seagrave Arms, only five minutes' drive away. Quell those comfort food cravings with one of the hearty pub classics on offer including dishes such as the Seagrave Cheese Burger. Enjoy alongside a few jars of local ale or glasses of wine. Yum!
The Lamb Inn, Great Rissington
After a day exploring the nearby splendour of Blenheim Palace or Bourton-on-the-Water, The Lamb Inn is the perfect cosy retreat to unwind with friends and family. This dog-friendly pub is warm, welcoming and full of charm and character. Curl up in front of the fire with man's best friend at your feet and enjoy a bottle of wine or perhaps some of the local ale.
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There are plenty more charming pubs to visit in the Cotswolds...
Real ale pubs in the Cotswolds
