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While most of us are sad to see the summer months ebbing away, it does herald the beginning of the cosy season. What is more comfortable than a crackling fire in an old English pub? The Cotswolds are brimming with picturesque and historic pubs that offer a pint and a roaring fire. But how do you know which ones are worth visiting? Here are my (as a local!) best 6 Cotswolds pubs for a pint in front of the fire.
Lion Inn, Winchcombe
Comprised of small rooms and an intimate bar, the Lion Inn can’t help but feel cosy and cute. At the front of the pub, there is an open, stone fireplace that looks like it has seen a few bar brawls and illicit love affairs.
Owned by Butcombe Brewing, the beer is as amazing as you expect. If beer isn’t your thing, there is a decent wine list, as well as soft drinks and even cocktails. The menu is simple, with all the big hitters you expect. Think beer-battered haddock, pie of the week, and the more adventurous pheasant schnitzel.
As well as a perfect place to enjoy a pint while playing one of their many games on offer, there are also nine en-suite rooms available. Situated in the centre of the village, they are a perfect choice if you are looking to explore the Cotswolds and Cheltenham.
2. Ebrington Arms, Ebrington
A stone’s throw from the Fosse, The Ebrington Arms is everything a country pub should be. Uneven floors, century-old beams, open fireplaces, and most importantly, delicious beer! This old stone building has been a pub for over two hundred years, so there is all the character you would expect.
The simple menu offers some fantastic interpretations of English pub classics, as well as some innovative dishes. And this isn’t just a winter pub. With ample outdoor seating in the English country garden, this pub is one for all seasons.
If you are looking for somewhere cosy and well-located to stay away from the crowds, there is also a selection of rooms offering a bed and breakfast stay with on-site parking.
3. The Fleece, Bretforton
Not technically in the Cotswolds, this pub is in Bretforton, which is just on the edge of Broadway. This National Trust pub is well worth the detour, earning multiple awards for being one of the best traditional pubs in the U.K.
Originally built in the fifteenth century, this pub was originally a Tudor farmhouse. The small rooms have roaring open fires and old furniture. Unlike lots of pubs, it still retains its rustic charm. A popular place with locals, expect to see regular customers toasting chestnuts on the fires and discussing farming.
The menu offers traditional pub food, which is reasonably priced. The beers on draft are from local producers, including Wye Valley and Purity. Seasonality and locality are important here, and you can expect to see the names of local producers on the menu.
4. The Chequers, Chipping Norton
Just off the main high street, this cosy, Medieval pub looks like it's straight out of a Harry Potter set. You will usually find a row of locals sitting at the bar, with a roaring open fire to warm yourself.
Affiliated to the Fuller’s Brewery, you can expect some satisfactory pub food, although perhaps nothing to rave about. The beers on draft are worth exploring. There is also a folk night, a quiz, and an acoustic night once a month.
5. The Wild Rabbit, Kingham
The gastro pub is owned by Daylesford Organic, and it shows. Everything is as impeccably styled as you would imagine. The bar has multiple fires, including an impressive double-sided fireplace, perfect for enjoying a new book in front of.
The bar serves local beers from Hawkstone and Hook Norton Brewery, and there is an almost overwhelming wine list and cocktail menu. The food is quite expensive for a pub, but it's definitely aiming more for fine dining than comforting pub grub.
6. The Lygon Arms
This 600-year-old hotel oozes decadence and old charm without being austere and overbearing. Arranged into smaller rooms, it is easy to find a cosy nook in front of a crackling fire.
The bar area serves everything you expect. There isn’t a full food menu, but you can order bar snacks and sandwiches. You can also enjoy a quintessential afternoon tea.
If you are looking for a cosy pub with a roaring fire, the Cotswolds is a top destination. This list will help you seek out the best there is on offer!
What are your favourite cosy Cotswolds pubs?
