Stow-on-the-Wold is one of the prettiest towns in Gloucestershire. Think honey-coloured buildings, cosy pubs, tiny tearooms and narrow streets. We’ve assembled a brief guide to help you make the most of this tiny Cotswold market town.
The Old Stocks Inn tastefully combines 17th century charm with the comforts of modern day luxury. Each room is individually decorated, whilst still retaining the spectacular history of the limestone building. If you’re looking for a family-friendly holiday or a charming weekend getaway, this is just the place.
This country house nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds is a quiet and calm sanctuary ideal for spa-lovers looking for a weekend away from the usual nine-to-five. The hotel is traditionally decorated with large comfy four-poster beds, antique furniture and roaring open fires, making it a cosy place to snooze after a day in the spa. The views of the surrounding countryside are beautiful come rain or shine.
Whether you’re looking for a walking holiday, a foodie getaway or, quite simply, a peaceful retreat, The Unicorn has several ‘aparthotel suites’ with plenty of space for the whole family. Each suite is characterised by quintessential Cotswold charm, without sacrificing the modern comforts of the 21st century lifestyle.
Get your foodie fix at…
You’ll find The Vine Leaf tucked away in the honey-coloured courtyard of Talbot Court. It is a family-run restaurant serving freshly prepared light lunches and suppers to suit all budgets and tastes. The mouth-watering slow cooked pork belly with bubble and squeak might just be one of the best in the region!
Located in a traditional Cotswold building, the New England Coffee House specialises in good cups of coffee and top notch customer service. The interior is warm and inviting, so settle in with a full-flavoured latte and wile away the afternoon with a good read.
Another family-run restaurant in Stow-on-the-Wold, The Old Butchers’ ever-changing menu is made with only the freshest and finest ingredients. The service is super friendly too so prepare to feel spoilt from the moment you walk through the door.
Local watering holes…
With a range of thirst-quenching, cask-conditioned ales behind the bar, a selection of tasty bar snacks on offer, and a toasty log burner to enjoy during the depths of winter, this snug Cotswold pub is just too perfect. If you’re a fan of live music, there is a piano in the bar area which is played by local musicians every Sunday evening.
This 500 year old former coaching inn is now used to house some of the Cotswold’s finest real ales and beers. Full of intimate nooks and crannies, this is a splendid pub for huddling in a corner and catching up over a pint and pork scratchings with friends.
With its flagstone floors, low-beamed ceilings and toasty log burner – The Porch House is arguably one of the most welcoming pubs in the Cotswolds. In the summer months there is an outdoor terrace and it is the perfect place to enjoy the sunshine with a refreshing beer.
Don’t miss…
St Edward’s Church
Calling all Lord of the Rings fanatics! The church doors of St Edward’s are believed to have inspired Tolkien to create The Doors of Durin. It is a truly magical and famous sight so make sure you stop by when visiting Stow-on-the-Wold.
Stow-on-the-Wold is a quiet yet popular place to browse the shops, walk the winding streets adorned with quintessential Cotswold buildings, and to fill up on cream tea and cake in some of the best tea shops in the county.
Are you hoping to explore more of the Cotswolds? Then don’t forget to check out our guides to Broadway and Bourton-on-the-Water!
