Pubs
In recent years the gastro-pub phenomenon has arrived in the Cotswolds. There are still many pubs serving the usual Ploughman’s lunch, streak and kidney pie and vegetable lasagne. However if your taste is more for seared tuna and pak choi, then you will have no trouble funding such items on the menu in pubs, particularly in the south of the region.
Several establishments have changed hands in recent years with older tenants giving way to younger landlords with an eye on metropolitan tastes. Neutral contemporary décor, squashy sofas and innovative menus, not dissimilar to those that you would find in central London, are the order of the day. This is perhaps not surprising as many of the owner chefs have worked in City restaurants and are attracted to the Cotswolds by the opportunity to run their own place in beautiful surroundings.
The Ragged Cot at Hyde, near Minchinhampton is under new management and offers an adventurous menu in a light, contemporary setting. An ideal spot for an informal supper. Starters cost around £7.00 and include the likes of breaded lamb sweetbreads and crab pate on toast. Main courses vary from £11-£17 and feature several interesting fish and meat choices. The fish on offer may be turbot or grey mullet. There is at least one vegetarian option in both courses. Puddings include stalwarts such as sticky pudding and fool but also the likes of Strawberry Daiquiri Sorbet and Toasted almond ice cream with chocolate sauce.
The Bell at Sapperton has a strong following with locals and visitors. The food is usually good and there is a very attractive Mediterranean style outdoor eating area.
Whilst not at the same heights of catering excellence, The Wild Duck in Ewen is popular year round with both locals and visitors. The garlic bread, Wild Duck Burger and battered cod and chips are highly recommended. The giant chess set in the attractive garden is a magnet for young children. There are high chairs and a separate children’s menu. You can also stay at the pub in one of its 12 rooms. The Potting Shed in Crudwell, under the same ownership as the Rectory Hotel opposite, is attracting customers from far and wide for its adventurous mix of traditional and gastro fare. Vegetarians are well served. The menu includes fish and chips, beetroot and goats cheese tart and wild mushroom pancakes. Save room for puddings such as Grand Marnier mousse, passionfruit jelly and hazlenut shortbread. There is also a comprehensive coffee and tea menu. The pub is light and airy and features several dining areas including secluded alcoves.
The Royal Well Tavern in Cheltenham offers an attractive, imaginative dining experience which has been recognised by a Michelin "Bib Gourmands" award. The chef has worked in the famous River Cafe in London. Starters might include Cornish rock oysters or soused herrings, beetroot and horseradish with buckwheat blinins. Main courses include salt cod, mussel and bream stew. Prices are reasonable and the service is friendly. The same owner/chef runs the Wheatsheaf in Northleach and I am reliably informed makes the best Bloody Mary in Gloucestershire.
The Old Boathouse in South Cerney, makes the most of its location with a decked terrace with tables overlooking Lake Six in the Cotwolds Water Park. The pub itself features lots of light wood and glass. The main dining room is light, airy and child-friendly. There are also informal sitting areas and the menu has something for everyone. Open seven days a week, last orders for food are taken around 9pm.
Other good pubs to try include The Swan at Southrop, supermodel Kate Moss’ local, the Falcon Inn at Poulton, Hare & Hounds at Fosse Cross near Chedworth, Kings Head at Bledington, New Inn at Coln Saint Aldwyns, Five Mile House in Duntisbourne Abbots, and the Tunnel House at Coates which is popular with students from the Royal Agricultural College and Princes William and Harry.
The large number of high quality gastropubs will impress your friends visiting from the City.