King’s Head Hotel, Cirencester – Cotswolds Hotel Review

Dating back to the 14th century, the King’s Head Hotel is a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Cirencester.

The building is somewhat unassuming from the outside, but I know that discerning guests will discover a truly unique hotel experience inside.

Although it certainly has a luxury slant, the King’s Head Hotel is, first and foremost, wonderfully comfortable and welcoming. It’s unpretentious and a breath of fresh air amongst luxury hotels in the Cotswolds.

You can find nods to the hotel’s history in every nook and cranny of the hotel. Walk over a panel of glass in the reception which reveals a mosaic from the Roman ruins under the building.

Discover the display of colourful bobbins of thread by the bar area to signify Cirencester’s involvement with the yarn trade in years gone by.

Or see the polo sticks mounted on the wall in the spa to highlight the town’s polo heritage.

Crucially, the King’s Head is not just a hotel. You get the feel that it’s a real social hub with locals and visitors alike, as well as the place for events and special occasions in this charming market town.

The staff are warm and approachable, and it’s easy to see that the team behind the hotel are like one big family.

The result is a home-from-home feel but with the levels of hospitality you’d expect from a luxury establishment.

Here is my honest review of the King’s Head Hotel after staying for two nights.

Location

The King’s Head Hotel is located right in the heart of historic Cirencester. Known as the capital of the Cotswolds, it was England’s largest town back in the Roman times.

Now it’s a comparatively small town that brings buckets of English charm and appeal. In my opinion, the location of the hotel could not be more ideal.

You don’t need to travel far for things to do in the Cotswolds, with plenty to see on your doorstep.

Being right in the centre of town, parking is not readily available at the hotel, but there are a number of public car parks nearby.

I’d recommend parking at the Forum Car Park, which is a five minute walk from the hotel and is free after 3pm.

Just be sure to remember to buy a ticket from 8am the next morning – you can do this in advance or remotely on the PayByPhone app. 

Bedrooms

The King’s Head Hotel is home to 52 bedrooms and nine apartments, many of which are dog-friendly.

Each bedroom is individually styled with unique interiors and furniture. So you could return time and time again, and never have the same experience.

Rooms incorporate muted colours, sumptuous beds, and beautiful bathrooms.

Full of charm and character, with some rooms boasting exposed brickwork and beams, there is nothing clinical about the bedrooms at the hotel.

There are a range of room types to suit each visitor, including Classic, Superior, Feature, Indulgent, and self-catering apartments.

The indulgent rooms are truly stunning and some have freestanding bath tubs for an extra touch of opulence.

I was lucky enough to stay in an Indulgent room, complete with a bespoke handmade bed, a giant squishy sofa, opulent pale pink curtains, original artwork, and a gorgeous view of Cirencester.

The bathroom featured a double sink and delightful White Company toiletries. With more space than I knew what to do with, I felt like a princess in her royal suite.

Food & drink

The hotel offers two restaurants: the main restaurant and the MBB Brasserie. The former is open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Here you’ll find British food with a combination of pub classics and more refined options.

It’s a convivial affair where luxury touches meet rustic charm. Fun artwork adorns the walls to bring a sense of character into the dining space.

This is also where breakfast is served, which comprises a continental buffet and classic cooked options.

The MBB Brasserie offers a more lively affair where you can watch the chefs cook in the open kitchen.

But don’t worry – you won’t be greeted with a Gordon Ramsay shout fest in a Kitchen Nightmares style scenario.

Instead, the setup provides a buzzing backdrop to the meal, where you can witness the talented chefs work their magic on the fresh, locally sourced produce.

The food feels fancy and tastes exceptional, but the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting.

There is also a stylish bar and lounge area serving all your favourite cocktails.

With plush sofas and a roaring log fire that’s perfect for the winter months, it’s a delightful place to relax and soak up the atmosphere with a tipple of your choice.

King’s Head Spa

A vaulted subterranean spa is hidden away in the basement of the hotel. But this isn’t a stuffy basement.

It’s one of stone walls and exposed brickwork, all lined with flickering scented candles. Here you’ll find a haven of peace and tranquility.

Discover a range of treatments, from full body massages and facials to manicure and pedicures.

Chat with the friendly staff about any pain points and let them deliver a bespoke treatment to iron out any tensions and relieve your stress.

After your treatment, sink into the comfy beds of the relaxation room.

Find more luxury spa breaks in the Cotswolds.

Weddings at King’s Head Hotel

The King’s Head Hotel is one of the best wedding venues in the Cotswolds. With a range of gorgeous spaces, the hotel can cater for both intimate gatherings and more lavish affairs.

The large Assembly Room is the star of the show, with grand high ceilings and elegant chandeliers. It also offers a private bar, mezzanine and rooftop terrace for when the sun is shining.

The Vaulted Cellar, Wine Cellar, Panel Room and Library offer more intimate spaces with original architectural features and sophisticated interiors.

With delicious food, an unbeatable wine list, and a friendly team on hand, the King’s Head Hotel would be a truly special venue for any wedding.

Final words

I enjoyed an unforgettable stay at the King’s Head Hotel and I could not have felt more welcomed.

It strikes the perfect balance between homely touches and luxury service that will make you want to return time and time again.

Whether you want to stay within Cirencester or adventure further afield, it makes the ideal base for exploring the many pretty villages of the Cotswolds. 

Rooms at the King’s Head Hotel start from £117 per night, with Room Only, Bed & Breakfast, and Bed, Breakfast & Dinner packages available. There is a charge of £20 per dog per night, if you’re looking to bring a furry friend with you.

This review has been written following a complimentary press stay but all opinions are my own. A huge thank you to the lovely staff at the hotel for having me.

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