Posted on February 11, 2022
Image credit: Leaf & Ground
The Cotswolds are all about beautiful views. From villages to rolling hills, you can choose to gaze upon a picture of pretty traditional English architecture or vast expenses of thriving nature. While pulling on some sturdy shoes and hiking to a viewpoint is thrilling, sometimes there’s nothing more satisfying than settling into a cosy spot with good food and admiring the gorgeous surroundings. Here are just a few of our favourite spots in The Cotswolds with delectable food and equally delicious views.
The Mount Inn, Stanton
Standing on a mount at the end of the village of Stanton, near Broadway this 17th Century village pub is in a unique position to provide breathtaking, far reaching views across the Vale of Evesham towards the Malvern Hills and the Black Welsh mountains beyond. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset while enjoying anything from a quick snack or three course meal and drink.
The village of Stanway has a beautiful Jacobean House with gardens including a stunning fountain and is located near the historic towns of Broadway and the attractions of Broadway Tower and Sudeley Castle. The route is popular with horse riders and ramblers alike.
The pub itself offers the opportunity to play Boules, darts and dominoes, just ask to borrow the equipment. Have a look on social media to see when the BBQ and speciality food evenings are planned. We also love that the Inn has a varied vegetable and herb garden, ensuring a fresh supply of vegetables for the kitchen.
The Slaughters Country Inn
The Slaughters are a beautiful place to enjoy afternoon tea with stunning manor houses and gardens in the area. You’ll find styles vary from Jacobean to Tudor, cottages to mansions and gardens that are the perfect place to relax.
The Slaughters County Inn serves three different afternoon teas, from a traditional cream tea to an indulgent champagne full afternoon tea! Weather-permitting, tea can be served on the terrace to fully appreciate the garden views.
If you fancy wandering the gardens and finding your own private spot or even further afield on your travels to find the perfect view, an afternoon tea hamper can be arranged along with a flask of hot tea or coffee to complete the day.
The Kings Head Inn, Bledington
A warm welcome greets you at the Kings Head Inn, The Good Pub Guide’s Inn Of The Year 2021, situated on the village green in Bledington.
The green encompasses acres of grass with a pretty stream featuring traversing bridges for the younger members of the family to hop while you sit, enjoy the view and watch the children play. If you visit during the warmer months, keep an eye out for the Morris dancers that stop by to spread their unique brand of joy!
Morris & Brown Cafe at Broadway Tower
As you arrive at the family estate of Broadway the first thing to greet you is the Morris and Brown Cafe. Set in a picturesque location with pleasant seating, it’s an ideal stop for a warming hot chocolate on a cold winter’s day.
Food is served throughout the day from tasty breakfasts to decadent afternoon teas. A grand selection of tea, coffee and favoured hot chocolates alongside tempting homemade cakes are the cherry on top of a visit here.
Before you leave, there’s a gift, accessories and food shop to explore set in the tradition of Capability Brown and William Morris, the inspiration for the cafe’s name.
Leaf & Ground, Dursley
Set in 20 acres of woodland, fields and paths you will find the delightful Leaf and Ground whose ethos is to provide food that is healthy, sourced ethically and where possible, locally with zero waste.
The Cafe freshly prepares all food on site where you can enjoy a substantial brunch, a healthy selection for lunch including vegetarian and vegan options alongside a luscious selection of cakes and pastries. If you prefer to have a picnic in the grounds, you’ll find a well-stocked deli with delights such as sausage rolls and scotch eggs made in the kitchen with Gloucester Old Spot pork, quiches and frittatas, salads along with olives and antipasti. The Hut serves hot drinks and tasty ice creams.
For the younger members of the family, you’ll find an adventurous castle playground, while our four-legged friends are welcome in all areas except the deli.
The Maytime Inn, Asthall
Situated in the village of Asthall just outside one of our favourite towns, Burford, you will find impressive views of the Oxfordshire countryside while enjoying The Maytime Inn. The Inn is located in the charming Windrush Valley and is next to the River Windrush, perfect for a relaxed, tranquil stroll after some delicious food.
Within the garden from Wednesday to Saturday you’ll find a wood-fired pizza menu and a garden bar serving artisan gin, Cotswold Brewery beer and unique wine from Château Lèoube, their sister estate vineyard in French Provence. For the more energetic, there’s also a boules pitch set in the garden. The restaurant offers a seasonal á la carte menu in addition to pub classics and sandwiches, all sourced locally and freshly made by award-winning chefs.