The traditional town of Chipping Norton (known as ‘Chippy’ to the locals) is a perfect example of the beauty of the Cotswolds. Treat yourself to a cottage break in this cosy little hideaway and you can spend your days strolling through the cobbled streets, admiring the honey-coloured stone houses and drinking in the centuries of history.
Of course, no Cotswold break is truly complete without at least a couple of visits to a cosy local pub. Imagine wooden beams, crackling fires and pints of real ale… If this sounds like your perfect afternoon, we’ve picked out seven of our favourite pubs near and in Chipping Norton, all of which are well worth paying a visit during your stay.
The Blue Boar
Located at the end of the High Street, the Blue Boar was originally an old coach house, and dates all the way back to 1641. With original wooden beams, cosy wood burner and exposed brickwork, it’s a wonderful place to retreat whatever the weather. The pub serves a large range of lagers, real ales and wine, which complement its menu of freshly prepared, seasonal food. The pub also holds regular events.
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The Fox
This is one of many pubs owned by the local Hook Norton Brewery, and underwent a large renovation in 2016. With the wooden floor and log burner, the Fox still retains plenty of its period charm, making it a great place to visit with the family. The pub’s links with the brewery are clear in the delicious selection of local ales on offer at the bar, as well as the wide menu of food options, which contains traditional Hooky Beer battered fish and chips!
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The Chequers
This medieval pub is nestled in the heart of Chipping Norton, and is a wonderful choice for real ales, fresh food and a friendly atmosphere. With its traditional wooden bar, cosy corners and unique details, it’s a lovely place to spend time. When the sun shines, there’s also a light and airy extension which really brings the outside in. Just around the corner from the Chipping Norton Theatre, it’s a great opportunity to enjoy a meal or a drink before taking in a show. The kitchen makes the most of the area’s seasonal produce to provide fresh, delicious food, while the bar serves a selection of Fuller’s ale and craft beers, as well as wine, spirits and soft drinks.
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The Wild Rabbit
The Wild Rabbit is actually around 10 minutes’ drive from Chipping Norton, but it’s so lovely we just had to include it! Constructed from Cotswolds stone, this 18th Century Inn has been carefully restored and updated to make the most of the beautiful original features, let in light and open the space... and it has certainly worked! It’s a amazingly beautiful space with a lovely garden. The pub is part of the Daylesford estate, one of the most sustainable organic farms in the UK, so you can be sure to enjoy locally sourced, organic ingredients. The food is a careful combination of modern and traditional, making it a fantastic choice if you have something to celebrate, or just fancy treating yourself during your break.
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The Red Lion
Set away from the High Street, The Red Lion is less frequented by tourists, but is still a delightfully traditional Cotswold pub. The majority of the people who visit here are locals, but visitors are welcome and the whole place has a friendly atmosphere which reaches all the way out to the garden (where you’ll find the pizza oven!). The Red Lion serves an extensive food menu and a lovely selection of real ales, making it a great choice if you’re after some peace and quiet after a long day exploring the Cotswolds.
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The Salford Inn
5 minutes from the town, you’ll find The Salford Inn, a warm, friendly and traditional pub with a great atmosphere. There’s a children’s play area and the pub also welcomes dogs, so the whole family can enjoy a delicious, freshly-prepared meal together. The menu changes every day and everything is sourced from local suppliers, so you can be sure you’re enjoying fresh ingredients that support local businesses.
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The Greedy Goose
5 minutes’ drive from the town, the Greedy Goose is a popular country pub serving modern, fresh comfort food. They use local produce whenever possible, and have a regularly changing menu based on seasonal ingredients. From quick lunches to Sunday roasts, there’s bound to be something which whets your appetite! They also serve a range of cask ales and specialist beers, as well as a selection of over 30 wines. Either cosy up in the modern, welcoming dining room, settle by the roaring fire, or enjoy the fresh air in their garden.
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Once you’ve eaten and drank your fill, there’s nothing like heading back to your cosy holiday to sit back and relax. Our selection of holiday cottages in Chipping Norton are perfectly placed for discovering everything this delightful Cotswold town has to offer. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend getaway or a trip with the whole family, book your next Cotswold cottage break today.