Guide to the best restaurants in the Cotswolds

If you’re looking for Cotswolds restaurants to dine out at, then I’m sure you’ll be completely bowled over by what this beautiful part of England has to offer.

Those who follow me on Instagram will know how much I adore this part of the UK – and as a foodie myself, I’m always impressed at the quality of restaurants.

Those green pastures give you a hint regarding the fertility of the land in this area, and the fresh seasonal produce grown and raised here never fails to impress. 

The best restaurants in the Cotswolds include a clutch of Michelin-starred eateries, as well as some that come highly recommended by the foodies’ bible.

Others are more up-and-coming, so I’d recommend getting in while you can still benefit from great-value prices and not having to wait weeks for a table.

Based on my years of experience exploring the Cotswolds, plus a handful of recommendations from the locals, I’ve compiled the ultimate guide to the best restaurants in the Cotswolds, including my personal favourites.

Which will you be dining at? 

1. Lumiere, Cheltenham

Address: Clarence Parade, Cheltenham GL50 3PA

Best for: A sweet tooth

Accolades: Michelin recommended

Lumiere can be found in the smart Regency town of Cheltenham, close to the main shopping district in the centre.

At this Michelin recommended pick, I know you’ll find a warm welcome and contemporary takes on British classics. 

I love the stylish, neutral interior that sets the scene for a fine dining experience, ensuring the food takes centre stage.

I’d recommend saving space for dessert, as the sweet treats can be the most memorable part of a meal here. 

Discover hotels in Cheltenham if you plan to stay in the area.

2. The Dining Room at Whatley Manor, Malmesbury

Address: Malmesbury SN16 0RB

Best for: Vegans

Accolades: One Michelin star

Boasting a Michelin star to its name, The Dining Room at Whatley Manor offers a refined dining experience to discerning guests.

I adore the magnificent setting, within an ivy clad country house surrounded by a dozen acres of glorious grounds. 

Ricki Weston has a strong commitment to locally sourced, seasonal produce, and I think the romantic, peaceful space is ideal for celebrating a special occasion.

Set menus include options for vegans, pescatarians and vegetarians, while the wine list features biodynamic, vegan and vintage options. 

I’d recommend booking a stay at Whatley Manor to get the full experience.

3. Purslane, Cheltenham

Address: 16 Rodney Road, Cheltenham, GL50 1JJ

Best for: Seafood fans

Accolades: Michelin recommended

Purslane is another of the top restaurants in the Cotswolds, and like Lumiere can be found in the heart of elegant Cheltenham.

I’d recommend this one as a great pick for seafood fans, as produce from all over the British Isles is used liberally within the range of imaginative dishes served here.

I love that this eatery has a laid-back, neighbourhood vibe and service is attentive yet relaxed.

Diners can order from an a la carte menu or opt for tasting menus of five or seven courses, with or without a wine flight. 

4. The Coconut Tree, Cheltenham

Address: 59 St Paul’s Road, Cheltenham GL50 4JA

Best for: Fans of spice

Accolades: N/A

Though not yet included in the Michelin Guide, I’d highly recommend The Coconut Tree in Cheltenham – particularly for those with a penchant for spice or cocktails.

Sri Lankan street fare is the speciality here, and exposed brickwork within gives the restaurant a casual, contemporary feel.

This place is ideal for vegan diners as there are more meat and fish free options on the menu here than dishes featuring those ingredients.

If you’ve never tried Kotthu, Hoppers or Wadey Wadey before, prepare for a taste sensation. 

5. Le Champignon Sauvage, Cheltenham

Address: 24-28 Suffolk Road, Cheltenham, GL50 2AQ

Best for: A classic Michelin experience

Accolades: One Michelin star

You can expect seamless service and perfectly executed food every single time at Le Champignon Sauvage, as this Michelin-starred eatery has been run by a pair of experts for over three decades. 

Classic French dishes form the backbone of the menu, and are prepared with the freshest seasonal British produce.

Owner and head chef David Everitt-Matthias isn’t afraid to add his own touches, however. I’d recommend making dessert a priority as these are one of the menu’s highlights here. 

6. 5 North Street, Winchcombe

Address: 5 North Street, Winchcombe, GL54 5LH

Best for: A neighbourhood feel

Accolades: Michelin recommended

For a welcoming atmosphere and an intimate, neighbourhood feel, I’d recommend heading to 5 North Street in mediaeval Winchcombe.

I think the food here is every bit as picture perfect as the streets in this beautiful Cotswolds town. 

There are four menus to pick from, covering lunch, dinner, Sundays and vegetarians.

While the food is constantly evolving here, the produce is always as fresh and local as possible. The unfailing aim is to treat diners to a taste of the Cotswolds, which I think is an admirable objective.

7. YOKU, Cheltenham

Address: 131 The Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1NW

Best for: Superb sushi

Accolades: N/A

YOKU is a stylish sushi restaurant located at the luxurious No.131 hotel. Dark, exquisite interiors meet exceptional Japanese sushi and Asian dining.

This is one to visit before it becomes too well known, and I had the most memorable meal here (for all the right reasons!).

Take a seat at one of the tables or sit at the bar, where you can witness the food being prepared right in front of your eyes.

Discover exquisite flavours, beautifully presented dishes and superlative cocktails. 

8. The Lamb Inn, Burford

Address: Sheep St, Burford OX18 4LR

Best for: A beer garden

Accolades: Three AA rosettes

The Lamb Inn also remains off the Michelin radar – for now! I’d recommend booking a table while you can still take advantage, as a plethora of culinary delights awaits.

The restaurant in Burford does already boast three AA rosettes for the quality of its food. A gorgeous, grassy beer garden is yours to enjoy on a sunny day too.

Here you can tuck into the likes of cauliflower Mornay, broccoli and mushroom gnocchi, the catch of the day, beer battered fish and chips or a brisket beef burger. 

This restaurant also has rooms, I’d really recommend booking an overnight stay at The Lamb Inn.

9. The Village Pub, Barnsley

Address: The Village Pub, Barnsley GL7 5EF

Best for: Pub with rooms

Accolades: N/A

Staying with the theme of good pub grub, The Village Pub in Barnsley, Gloucestershire is prized for the quality of its sausage and mash. Among other dishes, such as a substantial and lip-smackingly delicious Sunday lunch.

This is a Cotswolds pub with rooms, too, so you can stay over if the wine list is just too tempting to resist (I don’t blame you!). Or browse other hotels in Barnsley for more options.

10. The Royal Oak, Whatcote

Address: The Orchard, Whatcote, CV36 5EF

Best for: Local game

Accolades: One Michelin star

The couple running one of the oldest pubs in England are experts in exceptional local fare and fine wines between them. Which may explain why this Cotswolds pub holds a Michelin star.

Foraged and organic ingredients influence the menu at The Royal Oak, alongside local game.

I love that the dishes are understated, showing off the flavour of each component to its full advantage. Craft beers are available here, as well as a range of carefully selected wines.  

11. The King’s Head, Bledington

Address: The Green, Bledington, OX7 6XQ

Best for: Great pub grub

Accolades: N/A

The King’s Head at Bledington is a real find, not least because it’s just a few miles from both Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Norton. English dishes made from fresh local produce are the order of the day here.

Portions are hearty, yet the food is elegantly executed and packed with flavour. Dishes like devilled kidneys, a melon starter and pork belly give the menu a retro feel.

Yet these are offered alongside thoroughly modern mains like tiger prawn linguine, Indian-style vegan curry and a dry aged beef burger. 

If you fancy staying overnight, I’d recommend booking a bedroom at The King’s Head.

12. The Dining Room at Lords of the Manor, Upper Slaughter

Address: Upper Slaughter, Cheltenham GL54 2JD

Best for: A laid-back lunch

Accolades: N/A

A grand manor house constructed from the characteristic Cotswolds stone sets the scene for a most memorable meal in picturesque Upper Slaughter.

There are two on-site eateries to choose from: The Atrium or the less formal The Dining Room.

The Dining Room is the more relaxed choice, and I think it’s the ideal place for a laid-back lunch in a countryside setting.

There are standard and vegan a la carte menus to pick from here, and both complement the Cotswolds location completely. 

I’d really recommend booking an overnight stay at Lords of the Manor Hotel.

13. Ox Barn at Thyme, Southrop Manor Estate

Address: Southrop School, Southrop, Lechlade GL7 3PW

Best for: Local provenance

Accolades: Michelin recommended

The converted barn building complements Ox Barn’s farm-to-fork philosophy perfectly. I love that many ingredients are sourced from the kitchen garden here, or the local estate. 

Children aged over 12 are welcome to dine here, so it’s a great way to introduce youngsters to the importance of food provenance.

As well as flavour, of course. The menu is brief but offers sufficient choice, from baked chickpeas to sea bream or sirloin.

I don’t think you can go wrong with booking an overnight stay at beautiful Thyme.

14. The Atrium at Lords of the Manor, Upper Slaughter

Address: Upper Slaughter, Cheltenham GL54 2JD

Best for: Dining like a Lord or Lady

Accolades: One Michelin star

The Atrium is the Michelin-starred restaurant at Lords of the Manor, where you can dine beneath a magnificent glass dome.

Classic and modern influences work in synergy here to produce a range of carefully crafted dishes.

The Atrium’s tasting menu is offered as a vegan or standard variant. These comprise eight courses preceded by delectable canapés. Either can be accompanied by a finely-tuned wine flight. 

I’d highly recommend this option if you’re looking for a memorable fine dining restaurant in the Cotswolds.

15. The Double Red Duke, Clanfield

Address: Bourton Rd, Clanfield, Bampton OX18 2RB

Best for: All-day dining

Accolades: Michelin recommended

Housed in a 17th century Cotswolds inn, the Double Red Duke in Clanfield offers timeless appeal. And I just love those super photogenic sun shades!

Diners can enjoy their feast within a garden room or the more traditional restaurant with wooden beams.

There are pub grub and main menus here, or you can drop in for breakfast or Sunday lunch. Whatever time of day you visit, I know that sublime food and superb service are assured. 

Book a stay at the Double Red Duke.

16. The Wild Rabbit, Kingham

Address: Church Street, Kingham, OX7 6YA

Best for: Organic produce

Accolades: Michelin recommended

If you’re planning a visit to the Daylesford Organic farm shop (and I recommend that you do), don’t miss the chance to dine at The Wild Rabbit in nearby Kingham.

This is a modern take on the classic Cotswolds country pub, and is Michelin recommended.

An open kitchen keeps you entertained while you wait for your food to arrive. The ingredients are often foraged, freshly picked and organic.

From a Daylesford egg starter with nasturtium velouté via herb-crusted lamb saddle to an organic pear for pud. I think this place is perfect for those who like to eat as naturally as possible. 

17. The Chequers, Churchill

Address: Church Road, Churchill, OX7 6NJ

Best for: Grills

Accolades: Michelin recommended

A light airy space that somehow manages to create a cosy ambience – I reckon The Chequers has got it spot-on. Food-wise it’s the same story, and this place also has a welcoming local feel.

The food is classic and portions substantial. While the husband-and-wife team behind the helm runs things completely seamlessly.

Vintage knick-knacks, craft beers and a focus on the Josper grill help to make this place stand out. 

18. The Bell Inn, Langford

Address: Langford, GL7 3LF

Best for: Sharing menus

Accolades: Michelin Bib Gourmand

Situated near Burford, I love that this 16th century inn is also packed with character and local charm.

The menus at The Bell Inn offer lots of choice, and include Sunday, a la carte, kids’,  pudding and feast menus. The latter are designed for sharing. 

Pizzas are also a highlight and feature plenty of meat-free toppings, as well as a few spicy, Mediterranean-style ones like nduja and salami.

Do book at least a week ahead for the sharing menu and you’ll need a party of eight or more. 

Book an overnight stay at The Bell Inn.

19. The Potting Shed, Crudwell

Address: The Street, Crudwell, SN16 9EW

Best for: Kitchen garden fare

Accolades: Michelin recommended

The Potting Shed in Crudwell is a Michelin-recommended Cotswolds restaurant with an on-site kitchen garden.

Much of the food served here is based on the freshest produce. In any case dishes are invariably seasonal, filling and delicious. Menus do, of course, change along with the seasons. 

I love that this place also offers lots of character. Think oak beams, barn-like buildings and a fireplace hewn from local stone.

Menus offer sufficient choice without being overwhelming: you can pick between around five starters plus about nine mains. 

Find hotels in Crudwell if you fancy staying overnight in the area.

20. The Old Butchers, Stow-on-the-Wold

Address: 7 Park Street, Stow-on-the-Wold, GL54 1AQ

Best for: Fish and meat fans

Accolades: Michelin recommended

If you’re staying in the Cotswolds hub of Stow-on-the-Wold then you cannot miss The Old Butcher’s.

The building was once the local meat store and today there’s a good selection of meat and seafood on the menu. 

An interesting layout adds appeal to the menu: dishes are categorised as shellfish, small plates, raw, fried or charcoal-grilled dishes.

There’s also a list of around half a dozen other mains such as twice-baked souffle, lobster mac ‘n’ cheese or Yorkshire grouse.

I’d definitely recommend trying the desserts, and with around 10 to choose from, I know you’re in for a real treat!

Browse hotels in Stow-on-the-Wold if you plan to stay in the area.

21. The Painswick, Painswick

Address: Kemps Lane, Painswick, Stroud GL6 6YB

Best for: Afternoon tea

Accolades: N/A

The Painswick is a beautiful boutique Cotswolds hotel with 17 bedrooms – and trust me when I say that the food here isn’t half bad, either.

In addition to the tasting or a la carte menus, I’d also recommend savouring a sumptuous Cotswolds afternoon tea here. 

The seven course tasting menu offers good value, and allows diners to sample a range of dishes made with seafood, meat, fruit and chocolate paired with more unusual ingredients like monks’ beard (a spinach-like leaf), cime di rapa (a type of turnip) or the Asian yuzu citrus fruit. 

If you have any recommendations for Cotswolds restaurants then do let me know in the comments – I always love hearing from you!

Looking for more Cotswolds inspiration? Discover more of my Cotswolds articles:

• 15 luxury hotels in the Cotswolds
• 15 best brunch spots in the Cotswold
• 23 fun things to do in the Cotswolds
• 14 best spa breaks in the Cotswolds
• 15 lovely spots for afternoon tea in the Cotswolds

Or check out my Cotswolds villages guides:

• Castle Combe
• Bibury
• Upper Slaughter
• Burford
• Cirencester
• Lower Slaughter
• Stow-on-the-Wold
• Bourton-on-the-Water