Posted on November 13, 2025
As the festive season unfolds, The Cotswolds becomes a gastronomic festive wonderland. Think roaring fires, candlelit suppers, and long, indulgent lunches. Whether you’re after a traditional Christmas feast, a quirky culinary experience, or a hands-on festive workshop, there’s something for every palate this season.
Festive Dining Options
The Lygon Arms
For a quintessentially Cotswolds Christmas, The Lygon Arms in Broadway is hard to beat. This iconic coaching inn transforms into a festive retreat each December, offering elegant afternoon teas, winter tasting menus, and a traditional Christmas Day lunch in its 16th-century setting Think roaring fires, fairy-lit courtyards, and impeccable service.
THE PIG
Over in Barnsley, The PIG blends rustic charm with refined, home-grown dining. Their “25-mile menu” makes the most of the season’s local produce, with comforting dishes like slow-cooked game and spiced puddings. It’s the perfect spot for a long, leisurely meal with family and friends.
Cowley Manor
At Cowley Manor, modern design meets country grandeur. Across December, guests can enjoy carefully curated festive feasts, Champagne brunches, and winter tasting menus in their newly renovated restaurant. Pair a meal with a spa treatment or winter walk through the grounds for an extra indulgent escape.
Calcot & Spa
For something more relaxed, Calcot & Spa near Tetbury offers comforting, contemporary dining with a seasonal twist. Expect roaring log fires, locally sourced ingredients, and festive menus ideal for family gatherings. It’s equally lovely for a festive afternoon tea or Christmas Eve supper.
The Bell
In the pretty village of Sapperton remains a favourite for hearty seasonal dining. With a warm welcome and a menu of locally sourced classics, it’s ideal for relaxed winter meals. Excitingly, its sister pub, the historic Tunnel House Inn, is currently undergoing renovation and is set to reopen in spring, expanding the area's selection of elegant dining destinations.
The Fish Hotel
Perched high above Broadway on the Farncombe Estate, The Fish Hotel combines rustic chic with laid-back luxury. Its signature restaurant, Hook, serves beautifully crafted seasonal dishes with a focus on local ingredients and bold flavours, a modern Cotswold twist on festive dining.
The Green Dragon
Situated in the heart of The Cotswolds, this quintessential country pub that feels made for the festive season. With timber beams, a crackling log fire, and hearty, chef-led menus celebrating local produce, it’s an inviting spot for relaxed Christmas dining. Expect plenty of comforting classics, warm hospitality, and a truly traditional feel, a lovely escape for those wanting an authentic countryside experience.
Quirky & Unique Festive Food Experiences
Three Ways House Pudding Club
For something a little different, the Pudding Club itself is an unmissable quirky night out. Guests are treated to a light savoury main before a grand parade of puddings begins, each one richer and more nostalgic than the last. It’s a delicious and thoroughly British way to embrace the festive season.
Igloo
In Cirencester, Igloo offers a modern take on seasonal dining. With its contemporary design and locally inspired menu, it’s a lively choice for festive get-togethers. Their Bottomless Christmas Menu offers cocktails and classic Christmas dishes is especially popular for casual celebrations. They’re also super pet friendly, so your four legged best friend can come along too!
Cotswold Supper Clubs
For a truly memorable evening, keep an eye out for Cotswold supper clubs and pop-up dining experiences. These one-off events, often hosted in converted barns, manor houses, or candlelit marquees, offer chef-led tasting menus that showcase regional produce. It’s an intimate, creative way to experience fine dining in a new setting.
The Kitchen at Primrose Hill Farm
This rural-chic pop-up restaurant on the edge of the North Cotswolds offers “Christmas Dine & Dance” events, combining festive lunch/dinner menus with music and atmosphere. It’s perfect if you want food with flair.
The Fox
The festive spirit is equally strong at The Fox, head to Oddington for a seasonal menu which celebrates local farming and traditional flavours. Stylish interiors and a welcoming atmosphere make it a standout winter spot, enhanced by their live music on Christmas Eve, offering a magical way to begin the celebrations.
Festive Cookery Classes & Workshops
Daylesford Cookery School
For hands-on food lovers, Daylesford Cookery School near Kingham is the ultimate festive destination. Their December calendar includes seasonal cookery days, Christmas baking classes, and workshops on festive entertaining.
Baking Cotswolds
Those with a sweet tooth should explore Baking Cotswolds, found in Burford, the classes are run above a picturesque tearoom and offer delightful Christmas baking sessions. From spiced biscuits and mince pies to show-stopping yule logs, these classes are designed for all skill levels and make a wonderful festive day out for families.
The Natural Cookery School
With intimate classes in a state-of-the-art professional kitchen in Nailsworth, you’ll find a range of wonderful Christmas classes. While their regular calendar covers global cuisines, they also offer Christmas Bites and festive themed sessions making use of seasonal produce and local organic ingredients, ideal for those who want a slightly different cookery experience in a relaxed setting.
Thyme Cookery School
A well beloved favourite, Thyme is running plenty of festive cooking classes, from their long standing ‘Festive Instinctive Cook’ to a simpler yet just as elegant ‘Festive Canapés & Apéritifs’ class. No matter what sort of festive class you’re looking for, Thyme will most certainly offer something to your needs.
The Buttery Dish
For an artisanal approach, The Buttery offers bespoke festive workshops tailored to seasonal baking and cooking. Each class is beautifully crafted and intimate, celebrating slow, joyful foodmaking. Their gift cards also make a thoughtful Christmas present for budding bakers or passionate home cooks.