Welcome to the Cotswolds Pub Crawl (No, Not a Rehab)
Alright, you’ve got a weekend, a thirst for something stronger than artisanal coffee, and a vague idea that the Cotswolds are more than just postcard‑perfect thatched roofs. You’re here for the best pubs to stay in the Cotswolds, and you expect a guide that feels like a meme‑infused news article with a splash of sarcasm. Buckle up, because we’re about to turn your rural getaway into a legendary drinking itinerary that even your Instagram followers will envy.
Why the Cotswolds? (Besides the Instagram Likes)
First off, let’s address the elephant in the meadow: why bother with the Cotswolds when you could be at a rooftop bar in London? Because the Cotswolds offers the perfect blend of:
- Scenic backdrops that make your beer look like it belongs in a museum.
- Historic pubs that have been serving ale since before your grandparents were even a thing.
- Low‑key vibes that let you hear your own thoughts (or the clink of glasses) without the city’s honking chorus.
In short, it’s the only place where you can sip a craft IPA while a sheep watches you judge its fashion sense.
How We Curated This List (Spoiler: It Involved a Lot of Beer)
We didn’t just Google “best pubs to stay in the Cotswolds” and copy‑paste the first five results. No, we employed a rigorous, scientifically‑questionable method:
- Scoured TripAdvisor reviews while sipping a pint of local ale (to keep the research authentic).
- Asked the locals—who are basically the human version of Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer—for their favorite watering holes.
- Cross‑referenced each spot with the Strategies Beer Home page to ensure they meet our high standards for atmosphere, beer selection, and Wi‑Fi speed (because you’ll need to post that meme).
The result? A curated, unapologetically witty guide that’s as reliable as your favorite meme page.
The Top 10 Pubs Where You Can Stay (and Not Just Crash on a Bench)
These aren’t just places to grab a drink; they’re destinations where you can actually spend the night, wake up to the smell of fresh scones, and maybe even learn how to brew your own beer (yes, we’re looking at you, Make Your Own Beer enthusiasts).
1. The Lygon Arms – Broadway
Located in the heart of Broadway, The Lygon Arms is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto the set of a period drama—if that drama had a fully stocked bar and free Wi‑Fi. Their Old English Ale is as smooth as a well‑edited TikTok, and the rooms are so cozy you’ll consider moving in permanently.
- What to drink: Lygon’s Special Bitter, a 4.5% masterpiece.
- Room tip: Book a suite with a fireplace for that extra “I’m living my best life” vibe.
2. The Royal Oak – Chipping Campden
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a medieval knight who just discovered craft beer, The Royal Oak is your jam. The timber‑framed interior, combined with a rotating selection of local ciders, makes it a must‑visit.
- What to drink: Campden Cider, a sweet‑and‑tart delight.
- Stay tip: Their loft rooms have exposed beams that scream “Instagram gold.”
3. The Bell at Stow-on-the‑Wold – Stow-on-the‑Wold
The Bell is literally a bell‑shaped building (yes, you read that right). It offers a selection of real ales that would make a hop‑head weep. Plus, you can stay in their adjoining guesthouse, which is perfect for those who want to keep the booze flowing without the hassle of a nightly Uber.
- What to drink: Stow Stout, dark, rich, and unapologetically bold.
- Room tip: The “Bell Suite” comes with a private patio—ideal for sunrise selfies.
4. The King’s Arms – Cirencester
Cirencester’s historic capital status is no joke, and the King’s Arms lives up to the regal name. Their Royal Porter is a perfect blend of malt and mystery, and the rooms are fit for a queen—if the queen enjoyed craft brews and Netflix binges.
- What to drink: King’s Porter, a 5% amber delight.
- Stay tip: Request a “Royal Suite” for that extra cushion of luxury (and extra room for your beer fridge).
5. The Plough – Great Tew
Don’t let the name fool you; this place is anything but boring. The Plough serves a rotating “Tap of the Week” that showcases the best of the Cotswolds’ micro‑breweries. Their guest rooms are tiny but mighty—think boutique hotel meets hostel chic.
- What to drink: Tap of the Week (check the chalkboard for today’s surprise).
- Room tip: The “Plough Loft” is perfect for solo travelers who still want a taste of luxury.
6. The Old Bell – Stroud
The Old Bell is a historic inn that has been serving patrons since the 1500s. It’s the perfect spot for those who love a good ghost story with their pint. Their selection of real ales is extensive, and the rooms are decorated with antique furniture that will make you feel like you’ve time‑traveled.
- What to drink: Stroud Stout, a robust, smoky brew.
- Stay tip: Book the “Ghost Suite” for a night of spooky vibes (and maybe a midnight ghost tour).
7. The Fox & Hounds – Bourton-on-the‑Water
Known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” Bourton-on-the-Water is a picture‑perfect village, and the Fox & Hounds is its drinking hub. The beer garden overlooks the River Windrush, making it the ideal spot for a lazy afternoon sip.
- What to drink: Fox IPA, a hop‑forward masterpiece.
- Room tip: Their river‑view rooms are perfect for those who want to wake up to gentle water sounds instead of city sirens.
8. The Crown – Tetbury
The Crown is a classic English pub with a modern twist—think traditional wood paneling paired with a curated list of international craft beers. The rooms are spacious, and the staff will happily recommend a beer based on your zodiac sign (yes, we’re serious).
- What to drink: Crown’s Choice, a seasonal brew that changes monthly.
- Stay tip: The “Crown Suite” includes a mini‑fridge—perfect for storing that bottle you’ve been saving all week.
9. The Black Horse – Winchcombe
Winchcombe is a hidden gem, and The Black Horse is its crown jewel. The pub offers a selection of locally sourced ales and an on‑site kitchen that serves hearty pub grub. Their upstairs rooms are simple, clean, and perfect for a quick night‑cap before you head out the next day.
- What to drink: Winchcombe Wheat, a light, citrusy brew.
- Room tip: The “Horse Stable” rooms are budget‑friendly without skimping on comfort.
10. The Swan – Lower Slaughter
Last but not least, The Swan sits on the banks of the River Eye, offering a tranquil setting that feels like a scene from a Wes Anderson film. Their selection of ales is curated to complement the scenic surroundings, and the rooms are cozy enough to make you never want to leave.
- What to drink: Swan Saison, a fruity, effervescent delight.
- Stay tip: Book the “Swan Loft” for a panoramic view of the river and the surrounding hills.
How to Make the Most of Your Pub‑Stay Experience
Now that you have the holy grail of best pubs to stay in the Cotswolds, let’s talk strategy. Because being a responsible adult (or at least pretending to be) means planning ahead.
1. Book Early, Drink Later
The Cotswolds sees a surge of tourists during spring and summer. If you wait until the last minute, you’ll either end up in a cramped hostel or, worse, a campsite with no Wi‑Fi. Use the Contact page on Strategies Beer to ask for any partnership deals that might give you a discount on your stay.
2. Pair Food with Beer Like a Pro
Don’t just order a pint and a plate of chips. Look for dishes that complement the flavor profile of your brew. For instance, a rich stout pairs beautifully with a hearty beef stew, while a crisp pale ale shines alongside fish and chips. If you’re feeling adventurous, ask the bartender for a “beer‑and‑cheese flight”—it’s the culinary equivalent of a meme mashup.
3. Keep the Meme Game Strong
Every great pub night needs a meme soundtrack. Create a playlist that mixes classic rock, modern pop, and those viral TikTok tracks that make you want to dance on the bar top. Bonus points if you caption your Instagram stories with witty one‑liners like “When the ale is smoother than my love life.”
4. Explore the Local Breweries
The Cotswolds is home to several micro‑breweries that offer tours and tastings. Schedule a visit to Custom Beer producers to learn the art of brewing. You might even discover a new favorite that you can later order through Dropt.beer.
5. Use the Right SEO Keywords (Yes, Even While Drunk)
If you’re a content creator, sprinkle these phrases throughout your blog post or social media caption:
- best pubs to stay in the Cotswolds
- Cotswolds pub crawl
- stay in Cotswolds pubs
- drinking in Cotswolds
- historic Cotswold pubs
Google loves natural placement, and your followers love authenticity. It’s a win‑win.
Bonus: A Mini‑Guide to Brewing Your Own Cotswold‑Inspired Ale
If you’re the type who thinks “I could brew my own beer” after a few pints, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a quick, no‑nonsense recipe that captures the essence of the Cotswolds—think earthy malt, a hint of honey, and a dash of floral hops.
- Gather Ingredients: 5 kg Maris Otter malt, 500 g honey, 30 g East Kent Goldings hops, and a pinch of sea salt.
- Mash: Heat 15 L of water to 68 °C, add malt, and hold for 60 minutes.
- Boil: Bring to a boil, add hops at 60 minutes, honey at 10 minutes, and sea salt at the end.
- Ferment: Cool to 20 °C, pitch a reliable English ale yeast, and let it work its magic for two weeks.
- Condition: Bottle with a small amount of priming sugar, store for another two weeks, and enjoy.
Once you’ve perfected this brew, consider Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer. It’s the easiest way to turn your hobby into a side hustle without leaving the comfort of your Cotswold cottage.
Final Thoughts (And the Snarky CTA You Didn’t Know You Needed)
There you have it—your ultimate, meme‑laden, sarcasm‑sprinkled guide to the best pubs to stay in the Cotswolds. Whether you’re a seasoned ale‑connoisseur or a casual drinker who just wants a cozy spot to unwind, these pubs have you covered. Remember, the Cotswolds isn’t just about rolling hills and picture‑perfect villages; it’s about the stories you create over a pint, the friendships forged in dimly lit corners, and the inevitable morning after when you realize you’ve become an unofficial “beer historian.”
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, charge your phone (you’ll need it for those epic selfies), and start planning your pub‑stay adventure. And if you’re feeling extra ambitious, Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer—because nothing says “I’m a serious adult” like turning your love of hops into a thriving brand.
Ready to book your next drunken pilgrimage? Click the links, grab a pint, and let the Cotswolds work its magic. Cheers, you magnificent, meme‑loving wanderer.
