Stow-on-the-Wold is one of the best-known of the small towns in the Cotswolds, and it’s easy to see why so many people hurry to visit year after year! It’s the very definition of a traditional Cotswold village, with a rich history, honey-coloured streets and breathtaking surrounding countryside.
It’s easy to work up an appetite during a visit to this charming Cotswold gem, so why not give one of these lovely restaurants and pubs a try? We’ve picked ten of our favourite places to eat in Stow-on-the-Wold.
The Porch House
There has been an inn on this site since 947AD, and the Porch House is certainly full of period details, from flagstone floors to uneven beamed ceilings and wood burning stoves. The main dining room is a pleasing mixture of both modern and traditional décor, while the conservatory and courtyard garden are lovely for enjoying the great outdoors alongside your meal! The menu changes regularly to showcase the seasonal local produce - expect a lovely selection of tasty, rustic dishes, served in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
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The Bell
Located on the edge of Stow-on-the-Wold, this is another pub bursting with traditional charm. With crackling log fires, uneven slab floors and old wooden beams, not to mention a beautifully landscaped garden, it’s easy to while away an afternoon here at any time of year. The menu is inspired by the local countryside, meaning it’s classically seasonal and full of traditional British dishes. Whether you’re just nipping in for a refreshing pint of real ale or sitting down to a three-course dinner, you’re bound to be impressed by this lovely Cotswold pub.
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The Kings Arms
The Kings Arms serves everything from cream teas to quick lunches and hearty dinners. The pub has plenty of character, with cosy tables by the fire and plenty of exposed brick and quirky décor in the carefully-thought-out restaurant. The bar area is usually busy, with a cosy atmosphere and a good selection of real ales, lagers, wines and spirits (as well as hot and soft drinks). You might even get to hear the stories of the hotel ghosts! Meanwhile, the restaurant combines a contemporary feel with the traditional atmosphere, serving local produce and generous portions.
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The Sheep
This spacious, colourful restaurant combines retro furnishings with traditional elements, creating a unique spot to enjoy a meal. From the long, wooden bar to the wood-fired pizza oven, there’s plenty to interesting details to enjoy as you dig into your food – be it a full English breakfast or a Sirloin steak. If the weather’s good, you can even sit in the garden, which comes complete with a feature fireplace for cooler evenings! The extensive bar menu also caters to everyone’s taste, although the Expresso Martini is highly recommended!
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The Hive
If you’re looking for a cosy, welcoming place to nip into for tea and cake, or even a delicious lunch, the Hive is a lovely choice. Serving a delicious breakfast, brunch and lunch menu, as well as a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, it’s a wonderful little place to pop into and recover after an adventurous day exploring the Cotswolds. Dogs are welcome in front part of the restaurant, and the friendly staff and charming atmosphere mean that many people find themselves visiting again and again!
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The Old Butchers
As the name suggests, this restaurant used to be a butcher’s shop before the current owners transformed it in 2005. Now it’s a popular restaurant that combines casual dining, a friendly atmosphere and a large menu, creating an eatery which suits all tastes. Despite the name, they focus mainly on seafood (although there’s something to suit all tastes). The menu changes daily to work with whatever fresh produce is currently available.
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The Queens Head
The Queens Head is a good choice if you’re looking for a traditional English pub. Serving a selection of warming, hearty meals, accompanied by a good selection of local ales and spirits, this is a real old-fashioned retreat, full of friendly locals, welcoming staff and plenty of original details. Why not sit back and enjoy a beer and some good conversation, or even treat yourself to a delicious Sunday roast?
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The Old Stocks Inn
This 17th Century coaching inn has been recently refurbished, turning it into a boutique hotel with a unique restaurant. The food is traditional British cuisine, with a twist. All the ingredients are locally sourced, changing regularly to reflect what’s available in the local area, while the well-thought-out wine menu is carefully planned to match whatever meal you choose. They also have a charming café (The Little Stocks Coffee Shop) where you can grab a quick bite or even indulge in a cream tea!
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The Talbot
The Talbot is a recently refurbished pub with a large open bar and seating area, games room and regular live music. They serve a large menu of traditional pub food, from sharing platters to burgers, as well as a selection of regular ales. Dogs are welcome, making it a great choice for a family meal after one of the area’s lovely walks! This welcoming local pub is a great choice for refuelling during your Cotswold break.
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The Stag at Stow
Previously called the White Hart, parts of this historic building date all the way back to the 12th Century. Join the locals relaxing in the dog-friendly bar, or settle into the side lounge or back bar in the oldest parts of the building. There’s also a small beer garden, and even a resident ghost called George! The Stag serves a wide menu in its charming restaurant, including lunch, evening meals and Sunday roasts, all based around traditional, hearty British meals. The log fire, well-spaced tables and quirky décor makes for a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, perfectly suited for enjoying a delicious meal.
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If you’re planning a cottage holiday in Stow-on-the-Wold, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to try the delicious food on offer throughout the town. From cosy pub lunches to quirky cafes and sleek restaurants… what will catch your eye?
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