Posted on April 01, 2022
Whilst many local pubs in The Cotswolds lend themselves to cosy Sunday roasts around an open fire, with flagstone floors, muddy wellies and even muddier dogs, others come into their own in summer months, with river frontage gardens, sun-drenched terraces and the perfect spaces for outdoor dining this summer. We’ve put together a round-up of the best pub gardens in The Cotswolds, from award-winning design to children’s activities and the best view...
Maytime Inn, Burford
The 17th century Maytime Inn near Burford has stunning views across the rolling Oxfordshire countryside from its award-winning garden. There’s plenty to keep all ages entertained, including an outdoor bar, a boules pitch and live music nights. The menu changes seasonally and features locally sourced produce, meat and fish sharing platters and plenty of ‘pub favourites’ with a modern, homemade twist to keep all the family happy. Coffee is roasted locally in Witney and teas are blended by Jeeves and Jericho only 3 miles down the road.
The Old Swan and Minster Mill, Minster Lovell (main pic)
The Old Swan in Minster Lovell is the ideal place to enjoy a pie and a pint either on the terrace or within the beautiful grounds set in 65 acres of gardens, woodland and wild flower meadows. The pies are hand raised by their own pie master and served with creamy mash plus a sauce and recommendation of brew to match. The sister hotel, Minster Mill offers a more grown up al fresco dining experience on the banks of the River Windrush (main pic). The restaurant has been awarded three AA rosettes so you know you’re going to enjoy some tasty grub, from a full English breakfast to a relaxing lunch or romantic dinner. Private dining is also available.
The Ebrington Arms
We have shared our love for The Ebrington Arms in our winter journal post on ‘the best country pubs in The Cotswolds’ – and whilst it is cosy and characterful inside, the Victorian walled garden is the perfect spot to enjoy their award-winning menu (voted The Good Pub Guide’s 'Country Dining Pub of the Year 2019') and home-crafted ales. There are plenty of great walks that could conveniently start or end at their front door, including popular Broadway Tower and the National Trust’s Hidcote Gardens.
The Trout Inn, Lechlade
There aren’t many pubs where you can arrive by boat, but The Trout Inn in Lechlade offers exactly that. There’s a great wild swimming spot at Buscott Weir too (read our full guide here), if you fancy a quick dip to cool off before lunch. The home-cooked, honest country menu is all cooked to order by proprietor Penny and her team, with produce that is sourced locally and meat being fully traceable. You’ll find plenty of local ales and ciders to quench your thirst as you watch the tooing and froing on the river as you dine.
The Perch, Oxford
Another great riverside location, on a beautiful stretch of the River Thames is one of Oxford’s oldest pubs, The Perch. In the summer after a stroll across Port Meadow, relax in the shade of the ancient willows with a Pimms in hand in the most quintessentially English of spots. There is a real focus on ‘farmhouse fare’, with a fantastic Ploughman's and homemade pies, puddings and preserves, with the aim to provide a relaxing spot regardless of whether a walker, student, family, adventurer or muddy dog.
The Angel, Burford
Located in the beautiful town of Burford, you will find the Angel run by the King family since 2011. The pub has won a number of awards including Cotswold Pub of the Year, Hook Norton Brewery Food Pub Of The Year and has received an AA Rosette for their cooking, making it a must if you’re in the area. The beautiful walled garden and sun terrace have been recently landscaped.
The menu is based on fresh seasonal produce and cooked to order by chef Mike Burket and his team where you will find delicious charcuterie board, pie of the day amongst the usual pub fair.