Christmas Dinner at The Green Dragon

Christmas dinner should be one of the nicest meals of the year.  For me, as much as I love cooking it, I have no love for the clean up afterwards nor for the hours of roasting and prep.  On the big day, I like to be firmly planted in my chair with a glass of Scotch in one hand and a mince pie in other.  However, more often than not, I am found sitting on the floor assembling Legos and playing dolls.  Either way, it is nice to have a meal out, provided one is guaranteed of it being something truly special.  So, for this Christmas, my recommendation is The Green Dragon pub in Cockleford near Cowley.


Tucked away in a quiet hamlet surrounded by woods, a pond, and the best countryside, this 17th century pub is well known for it's outstanding local food, great pints, gorgeous location and it's mice (more on these later).  Food is local, usually organic and often is freshly caught that very morning in the case of pheasant and venison.  The chefs are of an extremely high standard- this is not 'pub grub' but the height of English country cuisine.  There are three roaring fireplaces and the beauty of the old, traditional country pub has been carefully maintained throughout.  


For the drinkers, real ale abounds, there is an excellent wine list, as well as a fine selection of malt whisky.


The Christmas Day (2010) Menu, £59.95 per person and £39.95 under 12’s, is as follows:

Eggs Benedict (Toasted English Muffin with Home Cooked Ham, Poached Egg & Hollandaise Sauce)

A Salad of Roasted Carrots, Parsnips, Sweet Potatoes & Cranberries with a Sweet Onion Dressing

Smoked Trout, Smoked halibut & Smoked Salmon Terrine with a Tomato & Lime Salsa

Leek & Potato Soup with Crispy Lardons of Smoked Bacon

Champagne Sorbet

Traditional Roast Breast of Turkey with Chestnut & Cranberry Stuffing, Bacon wrapped Chipolata, Cranberry Sauce & Gravy

Pan Fried Baby Lamb Fillets in Rosemary Butter served with Cauliflower Puree and Pear & Mint Salsa

Whole roasted Partridge filled with Pork Sausage meat & Granny Smith Apples wrapped in Pancetta with a rich Merlot Jus

Monkfish Tails marinated in Moroccan Spices with a Sweet Pimento & Red Pepper Fondue & Tempura King Prawns

Arborio Risotto with Butternut Squash, Sweet Potatoes, Parsnips in a Rosemary & Black Pepper Cream

All served with Roast Potatoes, Buttered Carrots, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts & Honey Glazed Parsnips

Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce

Tian of Rice Pudding cooked with Nutmeg & Thick Double Cream served with a Fruit Compote

Cheese & Biscuits

White and Dark Chocolate Marble Cheesecake with Champagne Cream

Coffee & Petit Fours

Sounds alright to me!  Please do make sure to call in advance and book, as The Green Dragon is very popular and will fill up fast.  Contact details are:

The Green Dragon Inn

Cockleford, Nr Cowley, 

Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL53 9NW, 

Tel: +44 (0)1242 870 271, Fax: +44 (0)1242 870 171

Email: green-dragon@buccaneer.co.uk

Website: http://www.green-dragon-inn.co.uk/

See it & Explore the Area on Google Street Map: http://bit.ly/eLHUha

As for the mice, I was referring to the those carved into various bits of furniture, all of which was made for the pub by famous craftsman Robert Thompson, "The Mouse Man of Kilburn." 

Cotswolds Markets Guide

The Ragged and Old Morris perform at the Stroud farmers' Market

This is an attempt at a 'Markets Guide' for the Cotswolds.  Market can mean a lot of things.  In this case, it means Farmers Markets, Weekly Retail Markets, and Markets held by the laudable WI (Women's Institute).  Local Farmers Markets offer outstanding food at an exceptional value, typically all locally grown/produced/reared and almost always organic.  There are many producers whose food can only be bought in local markets and small shops, so a visit to one of these markets is sure to give the traveler a true taste of the Cotswolds (sorry).  The weekly Retail markets are great for finding bargains and unusual local crafts, and the WI markets are ideal for all manner of homecraft with a very high level of quality.  Finding and offering details on every market in the area was no small task and I am sure there are plenty more out there- so please 'comment' on this post if you know of a great market that should be listed!

Farmers' Markets

A visit to one of the many Farmers’ Markets in the Cotswolds is an ideal way of sampling the region’s produce. The list below provides information about when these local Farmers' Markets take place.

Banbury	First Friday in the month, 8:30 am – 1:30pm
Berkeley	Third Saturday in the month, at the Town Hall, 9am – 12:30pm
Bourton-on-the-Water	Fourth Sunday in the month in the Countrywide Stores, 9:30am – 1:30pm
Cheltenham	Second and last Friday in the month, located by the Long Gardens on the Promenade, 9am – 3pm
Chipping Norton	Third Saturday in the month, Market Square, 8:30am – 1pm
Chipping Sodbury	Second Saturday and the last Thursday of the month and located by the Clock Tower in the town centre, 9am – 2pm
Cirencester	Second and fourth Saturday in the month, takes place in the Market Place, in the centre of the town, 9am - 1pm
Dursley	Second and fourth Saturday, at the Town Hall, 8:30am – 2pm
Gloucester	Every Friday at The Cross and Southgate Street, 9am – 3pm
Lechlade	Every Third Thursday in Market Square, 8:30am - 1pm.  Country market every Thurs in church cottage, next to st lawrence church on the market place.
Nailsworth	Fourth Saturday in the month in Mortimer Gardens in the town centre, 9am – 1pm
Stow-on-the-Wold	Second Thursday in the month in Market Square, 9am – 2pm
Stroud	Every Saturday in the town centre, 9am – 2pm
Thornbury	First and third Thursday in the month at St Mary Centre, 9am – 1pm
Winchcombe	Third Saturday in the month in the back lane car park, town centre, 9am – 2:30pm
Witney	Third Thursday in the month, Market Place, 8:30am – 1:30pm
Woodstock	First Saturday in the month, in front of Town Hall, 8:30am – 1:00pm

Weekly Retail Markets

Weekly retail markets occur in the following towns during the days indicated:

Banbury Market

Thursdays & Saturdays
Held at Market Place.  Banbury has a historic Charter Market in the town centre square market with 100 stalls. You'll find a wide variety of products including fruit and veg, clothing and footwear, tools and carpets and garden plants.  Open 8:30am - 4pm.

Carterton Market

Thursdays
A weekly market is held on Thursdays in Black Bourton Road, 8:00am – 4:00pm

Cheltenham “Thursday Market”

Thursdays
Henrietta Street Car Park, Lower High Street.  Fresh local fruit and vegetables can be found as well as clothes, cds and plants. 

Cheltenham Racecourse Market

Sundays

Flea Market Items and Antiques, plus House Clearances, 9am – 2pm

Cirencester's Charter Market
Mondays & Fridays
Held in the Market Place on Monday and Friday each week.
This market is one of the oldest charter markets in the country, having been mentioned as early as 1086 in the Domesday Book. It forms a vital part of the Town Council's policy of fostering a thriving town centre. It is a shopping experience not to be missed. That it is particularly attractive seems to be proved by its regular selection by film crews looking for a typical country market as a backcloth for advertising on television.  The Cirencester Market usually runs from 9am to 3pm.

Evesham Market
Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays
Evesham Central Market, 9am-5pm, 81 High Street

Fairford Market
Wednesdays
The Market is open every Wednesday from 8.30 am - 11.30 am in Fairford Community Centre.  Items sold:

• Sponge, fruit cakes and cookies
• Savouries like steak and kidney pies
• Local honey, homemade marmalade, jams and chutneys
• Fresh seasonal vegetables
• Farm fresh Free Range eggs
• Plants, bedding plants, seasonal flowers, herbs
• Cards which can be made to order for any occasion
• Crafts including handmade soft toys, knitted baby clothes
• Beads and Jewellry
• Special Events Table

Gloucester – Cherry & White Market

Fridays
The Cherry & White market is held in King's Square in the heart of Gloucester.  There's around 40 stalls selling the freshest fruit and veg, meat, household goods, clothes, jewellery, plants and lots more.  King's Square is a large pedestrianised area with seats surrounded by shops and stores so it's a great place to go to grab yourself a bargain and then sit and watch the world go by.  9am – 4pm.

Moreton-in-Marsh Market
Tuesdays
Moreton-In-Marsh market is Gloucestershire's biggest market with around 250-300 stalls located in this pretty historic town in the heart of the Cotswolds.

Visitors come from miles to visit this market with its fantastic range of goods on sale from the friendly traders. Well worth a visit

Stroud – The Shambles Market

Wednesdays, Fridays & SaturdaysLocated in The Shambles, off the High Street in Stroud, The Shambles Market is held on Fridays and Saturdays from 8am-4pm and on Wednesdays from 8am-3pm. There are two sections: the outdoor market which has food stalls selling fruit and veg (including organic), cheese, pet supplies, greetings cards, wrapping paper, olive oil, war gaming and fantasy figures, children's clothes and toys, wooden gifts, bric-a-brac, plants and fresh fish.

The indoor market is held in the adjoing St Laurence Church Hall. Here you'll find second hand books, comics, CDs, DVDs, watches and jewellery, vintage clothes, hand made clothes and jewellery, antiques and collectables, sweets, candles and old local photographs. Both markets have both regular and casual stalls, so whichever day you visit you never know quite what you'll find!

Tewkesbury Market

Wednesdays & Saturdays
An open air Market is held twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The main shopping areas are on High Street, Church Street and Barton Street. Very popular town market with 60-80 stalls.

WI Markets

Women's Institute markets started in 1919 to provide a place where surplus homemade and home grown produce could be sold to the public.

WI markets are worth looking out for, as they stock delicious home-grown and home-made foods. Days vary, but usually  held on Thursday or Friday mornings. Contact the local Visitor Information Centres for full details or the Gloucestershire Federation of Women’s Institutes.

Cheltenham:Thurs 10.15 - 11.45,   The Foyer, Everyman Theatre, Regent Street

Cheltenham (Warden Hill): Fri 9.00 - 10.30,   United Reformed Church Hall, Salisbury Avenue, Warden Hill 

Chipping Campden: Fri 9.00 - 11.00,   Lower Room, Town Hall

Cirencester: Fri 8.30 - 11.30,   Bingham House, Dyer Street

Coleford: (closed Jan & Feb) Fri 10.00 - 11.30, Coleford Community Centre

Fairford: Wed 9.30 - 11.00, Palmer Hall, Fairford

Gloucester: (closed for 2 weeks after Christmas) Thurs 8.30 - 1.00 Wheatstone Hall, (City Museum Building), Bunswick Rd

Greet & Winchcombe: Thurs 9.45 - 10.30,   Conservative's Men's Working Club, Abbey Terrace, Winchcombe

Lechlade: Thurs 9.00 - 11.00,   The Methodist Church Hall, High Street

Minchinhampton: Thurs 9.00 - 11.00 Market House, The Porch Room

Nailsworth: Fri 9.30 - 11.00,   Mortimer Room, Old Market

Newent: Fri 10.00 - 11.00,   Newent Memorial Hall

Northleach: Thurs 9.45 - 10.30 (Mid May to end June 9:45 - 11:00), The Cotswold Hall

Painswick: Fri 10.00 - 11.00,   Painswick Town Hall  


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Could this be The Ultimate Cotswolds Pub Guide?

The Woolpack at Slad

There are too many pub guides in England to count and guides for The Cotswolds are no exception.  But what is a website for this beautiful part of the world without a guide to its vast range of outstanding drinking havens?  I really had no choice.  

Here is how this guide is different, and why it just might be the ultimate Cotswolds Pub Guide... 

I've gathered together all the pubs and put them through a few filters to arrive at a list of what I hope to be some of the very best drinking experiences to be had in a proper pub setting.  Here are the criteria that each pub in this list all meet:

They serve Real Ale and are members of CAMRA.

CAMRA campaigns for real ale, real pubs and consumer rights. They are an independent, voluntary organisation with over 100,000 members and have been described as the most successful consumer group in Europe. CAMRA promotes good-quality real ale and pubs, as well as acting as the consumer's champion in relation to the UK and European beer and drinks industry.  Essentially, this is a mark of quality and a commitment to being a great pub.

A Village Setting

Although this eliminates plenty of great pubs in cities like Cheltenham, Gloucester and Stroud, I was looking for pubs in the villages where there is both a very real sense of community as well as outstanding views and walks nearby.  This is especially good if the pub has...

Outdoor Drinking

If you're in The Cotswolds on a beautiful summer's day, why on earth would you want to sit indoors?  All of these pubs have outdoor drinking areas- beer gardens, picnic tables with a view, even outdoor games at some.

A Roaring Fire

In the colder months, what better cure for the winter blues than sitting in a lovely village pub by a roaring fire and sharing a pint (or two) with friends?  Even the smell of the burning logs as one walks up the path is enough to justify the necessity of a good fire in any pub.

Participate in LocAle

CAMRA LocAle is a new initiative that promotes pubs stocking locally brewed real ale. The scheme builds on a growing consumer demand for quality local produce and an increased awareness of 'green' issues.

Traditional Pub Games

There is always a great sense of fun at pubs that offer customers games to play, and these pubs usually have a very enjoyable and friendly atmosphere whilst offering the drinker a pleasant diversion during their visit.  All these pubs offer traditional games such as darts, cribbage and quoits.  A few have a proper Skittles alley and one even has a tennis court!

So, if these criteria mean 'great pub' to you, this is your Ultimate Cotswolds Pub Guide!

Pubs are arranged alphabetically by village.

AMBERLEY

AMBERLEY INN
GL5 5AF
'Amberley' fork on Minchinhampton Common
Tel. Stroud (01453) 872565
Fax: 01453 872738
e-mail:info@theamberley.co.uk
website:http://www.theamberley.co.uk/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/9lAbgE
GREENE KING Ruddles County
JOHN SMITH'S Bitter
WADWORTH 6X
2 star hotel in attractive countryside between the Vale of Berkeley and the Cotswold Hills, the pub offers excellent views. Rather basic public bar.

BLACK HORSE
Littleworth, GL5 5AL
North end of Village
Tel. Stroud (01453) 872556
website:http://www.blackhorseamberley.co.uk/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/ahPchf
RCH Old Slug Porter
STROUD BREWERY Tom Long
STROUD BREWERY Budding
TAYLOR Landlord
GUEST BEER Two Guest Ales
Lively local in village at edge of Minchinhampton Common. Conservatory style extension in bar overlooking valley with magnificent views across the Nailsworth Valley to Selsley Common. Guest beers - often from Stroud Brewery. Good value pub food served until 2200. Park on the common - it's worth a short walk. Stroud CAMRA Pub of the Year 2009.

ANDOVERSFORD

ROYAL OAK
Gloucester Road, GL54 4HR
On A436 in village centre
Tel. Cheltenham (01242) 820335
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/cx8bBw
SHARP'S Doom Bar Bitter
WADWORTH 6X
WICKWAR Brand Oak Bitter
GUEST BEER Regular
Popular and friendly village local set in good walking country. Several guest ales include local Cotswold brewers. Good range of home-cooked food available in the comfortable lounge or the unusual galleried restaurant.

ASHLEWORTH

BOAT INN
The Quay, GL19 4HZ
Beyond Tithe barn on road to "The Quay"
Tel. Gloucester (01452) 700272
website:http://www.boat-inn.co.uk/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/9d9i1b
GUEST BEER Beer range varies
Unique, unspoilt country pub beside the Severn. Owned by the same family for 400 years this spotless gem has a small front parlour with a huge built-in settle and a pair of antique settles adorn the cosy back room. Rush mats, houseplants and fresh flowers enhance the pub. Shove-ha'penny, dominoes and cribbage are played. The ever-changing range of guest beers, mainly from local micros, are served direct from the cask. Lunchtime rolls and ploughman's are available. The courtyard is ablaze with flower tubs and there are seats and tables under cover for cooler days. The pub is a frequent CAMRA award-winner. The pub has its own mooring for river visitors. Closed all day Monday.

AVENING

BELL
29, High Street, GL8 8NF
Village centre on B4014
Tel. Stroud (01453) 836422
website: http://www.dursley-cotswolds-uk.com/bell_avening.htm 
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/bFf19X
GREENE KING IPA
ST AUSTELL Tribute
ULEY Bitter
Pleasantly refurbished old stone-built inn located in the centre of the village. Efficiently run and comfortable, the exposed stone walls adorned with horse brasses and tankards give the traditional rustic appearance to the interior: one a pleasant open bar with a wood burning stove, the other a dining area. The regularly changing guest beers from independent local breweries. Good typical pub fayre available seven days a week, until 2130.

BIRDLIP

GOLDEN HEART 
Nettleton Bottom, GL4 8LA
On A417
Tel. Cheltenham (01242) 870261
e-mail:info@thegoldenheart.co.uk
website: http://www.thegoldenheart.co.uk/
BRAKSPEAR Bitter
FESTIVAL Golden
GUEST BEER Two Guest Ales
This 300-year old Cotswold Free House stands beside the only stretch of single carriageway of the Gloucester to Swindon trunk road. Much of the original pub remains, although adjoining cottages have been absorbed to create extra rooms. The small bar, which is almost hidden beyond a huge open fireplace, overlooks a stone paved patio, garden and meadows beyond, where cattle graze. No muzak or machines here – just conversation and the opportunity to enjoy award-winning dishes at reasonable prices. There are two en-suite guest bedrooms. Good Pub Guide - Pub of the Year 2009.

BOURTON-ON-THE-HILL

HORSE AND GROOM
GL56 9AQ
On A44
Tel. Blockley (01386) 700413
website: http://www.horseandgroom.info/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/90Y7na
GOFFS Jouster Ale
GUEST BEER Regular
Grade II-listed Georgian stone inn that has been family run since 2005. Serves award winning contemporary food in an attractive dining area. The light and airy bar has been tastefully refurbished with an open fire. Ideal for visits to nearby Moreton-in-Marsh and the Batsford Arboretum, the pub has five en-suite rooms. Delightful sheltered garden has plenty of seating, with views over the Cotswold countryside.

BROAD CAMPDEN

BAKER'S ARMS
GL55 6UR
Signed off B4081, at NW end of village
Tel. Evesham (01386) 840515
DONNINGTON BB
STANWAY Stanney Bitter
WELLS Bombardier
GUEST BEER Regular
Fine old village local and genuine free house (owners celebrating their 13^th year), first licensed as a public house in 1724. A photograph of the building (1905) shows it as the village bakery and grain store. It boasts Cotswold stone walls, exposed beams and a fine inglenook. Also displayed - and dated 1969 - is a carpet depicting the pub and the following description: pictorial rug represents 1,000 hours' work by the late Neville Hallam of Wythall, Birmingham in appreciation of the happy times spent in the Bakers Arms. Excellent food is available in the new dining room extension and there is a children's play area.

BROADWELL

FOX INN 
The Green, GL56 0UF
Off A429 (Fosse Way), in centre of village
Tel. Cotswold (01451) 870909
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/9MOEDF
DONNINGTON BB
DONNINGTON SBA
Attractive one-bar stone-built pub overlooking village green. The original flagstone flooring remains in the bar area. Interesting collection of water jugs. Good food and a very friendly atmosphere. Separate dining room. Small garden. Caravan Club site. Aunt Sally played. Ideally placed for a visit to the National Trust owned Chastleton House. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome. North Cotswold CAMRA sub-branch Pub of the Year 2007.

BROCKHAMPTON

CRAVEN ARMS 

Kingsbury Street, GL54 5XQ
Off A436 in the centre of village in a cul-de-sac
Tel. Cheltenham (01242) 820410
Fax: 01242 820570
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/95iv9M
OTTER Otter Ale
SHARP'S Doom Bar Bitter
GUEST BEER Regular
Traditional spacious 17th century stone freehouse with a guest beer often from a Gloucestershire brewery. The pub is set in an attractive setting with great views and lovely walks. A beer festival is held in August in the sizeable garden. Food is served every day except on Sunday evenings. Handy for visits to Sudeley Castle.

CERNEY WICK

CROWN
GL7 5QH
Tel. Swindon (01793) 750369
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/aBlulO
WADWORTH 6X
WICKWAR Cotswold Way
A refurbished and extended pub close to Cotswold Water Park. Home cooked food.

CHARFIELD

PEAR TREE INN
6, Wotton Road, GL12 8TP
B4058 - 1.5 miles from J14 on the M4
Tel. Falfield (01454) 260663
website: http://peartreecharfield.webs.com/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/9XfriD
BUTCOMBE Bitter
OTTER Bitter
GUEST BEER Regular
A genuine free house, this traditional village pub is situated on the main Charfield road. There is a public bar and a comfortable lounge dining room, where local artists display their work. Live music on Thursdays and quizzes on Wednesdays. Dogs are welcome in the public bar. Locally reared Aberdeen Angus steaks a specialty.

CHIPPING CAMPDEN

EIGHT BELLS
Church Street, GL55 6JG
Tel. Evesham (01386) 840371
Fax: 01386 841669
e-mail:neilhargreaves@bellinn.fsnet.co.uk
website:http://www.eightbellsinn.co.uk/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/dlFjqZ
HOOK NORTON Best Bitter
GUEST BEER Regular
13th Century inn with cobbled courtyard with underground priest passage. Egon
Ronay recommended.

CLEARWELL

LAMB INN
The Cross (Newland Road), GL16 8JU
On Redbrook road from centre of Clearwell
Tel. Dean (01594) 835441
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/blsW5J
WYE VALLEY Bitter
GUEST BEER Three Guest Ales
Former iron miners' pub, over 200 years old. A long-term favourite with local CAMRA members. Lounge is former British Legion room. Cosy bar with settle and log fire. Always at least one guest beer from enthusiastic landlord. The ever changing guest beers from local micro-breweries. Pub is 50 yards from ancient "Clear Well" in historic village. Clearwell is situated en route to the Wye Valley and Clearwell caves are nearby. Closed Monday-Wednesday and Thursday lunchtime.

COLD ASTON

PLOUGH
GL54 3BN
Centre of Village
Tel. Cotswold (01451) 821459
e-mail:info@theploughcoldaston.com
website:http://www.theploughcoldaston.com/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/aglGwZ
DONNINGTON BB 
HOOK NORTON Best Bitter 
GUEST BEER Regular
A small stone-flagged country pub high in the Cotswolds. The attractive village went by the name of Aston Blank as far back as the Doomsday Book. The bar is small, despite having been made by combining what was most of the living accommodation of the original 17^th century cottage. There are low oak beams - mind your head as you enter. The pub has a reputation for good food and is often busy in the first part of the evening. Lookout for beers from North Cotswold. Small carpark.

CRANHAM

BLACK HORSE INNGL4 8HP
Off the A46 or B4070
Tel. Painswick (01452) 812217
BATH GEM
BUTCOMBE Bitter
COORS Hancocks HB
WICKWAR Brand Oak Bitter
GUEST BEER Regular
A 17th-century, stone-built free house almost hidden up a side road in the lower half of Cranham village. The bumpy car park, low lintel on entry and the landlord's corny humour may put newcomers off, but persevere. Fine ales and hearty country style dishes amid the ambience of lively conversation will remind the visitor of an earlier age. A log fire dominates the main bar; there is a small lounge and two more rooms upstairs for meals (no food on Sunday evening). Extensive woods nearby make this area a magnet for walkers. Quoits played.

DIDMARTON

KING'S ARMSThe Street, GL9 1DT
A433
Tel. Didmarton (01454) 238245
Fax: 01454 238249
e-mail:enquiries@kingsarmsdidmarton.co.uk
website:http://www.kingsarmsdidmarton.co.uk/
EXMOOR Ale
OTTER Otter Ale
TAYLOR Landlord
ULEY Bitter
GUEST BEER Regular
The smart but low-key frontage belies a warm and welcoming 1652 coaching Inn with stabling for 15 horses. A Grade 2 listed building it was leased from Beaufort estate in 1745 for 1000 years at 6d per year! The style and comfort gradually increase as you progress around the central counter from the hop strewn games/public bar to the excellent restaurant, where food is served from 1200-1430 and 1800-2130. The well-maintained walled garden includes a petanque pitch and smokers' pavilion.

DUNTISBOURNE ABBOTS

FIVE MILE HOUSE
Old Gloucester Road, GL7 7JR
Off A417, leave at Centurion Services
Tel. Cirencester (01285) 821432
website:http://www.fivemilehouse.co.uk/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/aBadb2
DONNINGTON BB
TAYLOR Landlord
YOUNG'S Bitter
Beautifully restored old pub, a roadside inn that has its roots in the 18^th century and has changed little over the last 60 years. The tiny bar is virtually unchanged and strictly no food, but leads to a smart dining room. The menu is deservedly popular and the portions generous (booking advisable). A small tap room is created by two venerable curving settles around a wood-burning stove, and steps down lead to a snug and then to an old cellar, available for functions. The garden has a well and the remains of a smithy. The main road has moved a few yards, leaving the old Ermin Street empty if not exactly quiet. There is a well appointed "Palais Fumant" for the smokers. A CAMRA National Inventory of Heritage pub.

DURSLEY

OLD SPOT INN
2, Hill Road, GL11 4JQ
By bus station and free car park
Tel. Dursley (01453) 542870
e-mail:enquiries@oldspotinn.co.uk
website:http://www.oldspotinn.co.uk/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/dAWR1V
ULEY Old Ric
GUEST BEER Five Guest Ales
Excellent, independent, free house named after the Gloucester Old Spot pig. Built in 1776 as a farm cottage that became a school and then became a pub late last century and now lovingly refurbished by the owner. The pub has an intimate atmosphere with low ceilings, bar billiard table, log fire and has masses of brewery memorabilia. A superb watering hole for Cotswold Way walkers with four guest ales. Good value doorstep sandwiches and Old Ric beer sausages available at most times except Friday and Saturday evenings, strictly no chips! Enjoy the secluded garden with a boules pitch. The pub hosts a beer festival in August. CAMRA "Pub of the Year" 2007-8.

EBRINGTON

EBRINGTON ARMS
GL55 6NH
Off B4035
Tel. Paxford (01386) 593223
website: http://www.theebringtonarms.co.uk/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/bjYPm2
STROUD BREWERY Organic
ULEY Bitter
GUEST BEER Two Guest Ales
17th Century Cotswold stone-built village pub in a beautiful village just two miles from Chipping Campden and Hidcote Gardens.Two rooms with flag-stoned floors, one with the bar and the other the dining that holds a lovely open fireplace, and a walled beer garden.  Excellent range of food from local suppliers. Open seven days  a week with a limited menu Sunday evenings. Three en-site rooms, one with a four-poster. There is a monthly quiz night (every 3rd Sunday) and food evenings (second Tuesday).  CAMRA North Cotswold Pub of the Year 2009 and 2010.

FORTHAMPTON

LOWER LODE INN
GL19 4RE
Follow sign to Forthampton from A438 (Tewkesbury to Ledbury)
Tel. Tewkesbury (01684) 293224
e-mail: info@lowerlodeinn.co.uk
website: http://www.lowerlodeinn.co.uk/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/cc9vjQ
DONNINGTON BB
SHARP'S Doom Bar Bitter
WYE VALLEY Bitter
GUEST BEER Two Guest Ales
A 15th-century brick built pub standing in three acres of lawns with river frontage, looking across the River Severn to Tewkesbury Abbey. A family run pub that has been licensed since 1590. A popular stopover for boats using the recently upgraded  moorings. Private slipway. Camping and Caravan Club hide-away site. Day fishing is available. Approach roads liable to flooding in winter. A ferry service operates from the Lower Lode Lane picnic site on the Tewkesbury side of the river from Easter to mid-September.

FRAMPTON MANSELL

CROWN INN
GL6 8JG
Off A419 - Cirencester to Stroud Road opposite Texaco garage
Tel. Cirencester (01285) 760601
e-mail: enquiries@thecrowninn-cotswold.co.uk
website: http://www.thecrowninn-cotswold.co.uk/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/bWECMD
BUTCOMBE Bitter
STROUD BREWERY Budding
ULEY Laurie Lee's Bitter
GUEST BEER Regular
This pub dates back to at least 1633, when it was known to be a "cider house" with an adjoining village slaughterhouse. It was also one of the first premises to be recorded under the 1727 Licensing Act. It is a three-roomed pub with each room having an open fire. The pub has a 12 bedroom hotel annexe, ample car parking and exquisite views over the Golden Valley.

FRANCE LYNCH

KING'S HEAD
Lynch Road, GL6 8LT
Follow 'France Lynch' sign in centre of village
Tel. Stroud (01453) 882225
website: http://www.kingsheadfrancelynch.co.uk/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/b2mQXf
OTTER Bitter
SHARP'S Doom Bar Bitter
YOUNG'S Bitter
Friendly single-bar pub in middle of compact village of narrow winding streets. Eating area is an extension of the bar. Enjoy the superb newly-reclaimed garden plus children's play area. Village name denotes former Huguenot connections. French and Flemish weavers came to this wool-rich area in search of employment when their ownnative industry foundered. The superb reclaimed garden has a safe children's play area and a creche is provided on Friday evenings(1900-2100). The pub has quiz, crib and cricket teams. Live jazz, blues or folk music performed on Monday evenings. No food on Sunday evenings.

FROCESTER

GEORGE INN
Peter Street, GL10 3TQ
Tel. Stroud (01453) 822302
Fax: 01453 791612
e-mail:enquiries@georgeinn.co.uk
website:http://www.georgeinn.co.uk/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/aVlFGI
CALEDONIAN Deuchars IPA
SHARP'S Doom Bar Bitter
GUEST BEER Two Guest Ales
A warm and friendly village pub with home-cooked food using local produce. The pub, at the foot of Frocester Hill, has been dispensing hospitality since the early 18th century when it was a coaching inn, serving the horse-drawn coaches travelling between Gloucester and Bath. Once called, The Royal Gloucester Hussars, the pub was renamed in 1998. There are at least two frequently changing guest beers plus Weston's Old Rosie cider, along with occasional beer festivals. Stroud CAMRA sub-branch Pub of the Year 2007.

GRETTON

ROYAL OAK
Gretton Road, GL54 5EP
On main Winchcombe-Gretton road, 1.5 miles from Winchcombe.
Tel. Cheltenham (01242) 604999
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/9ubTWd
DONNINGTON BB
GOFFS Jouster Ale
STANWAY Stanney Bitter
GUEST BEER Two Guest Ales
A warm welcome is assured from the family owners of this popular Cotswold pub set in two acres. All the regular beers are from Gloucestershire breweries and the home cooked food can be eaten in the L-shaped bar or the conservatory with its outstanding views across the Vale of Evesham. The Royal Oak dates from about 1830 and the building probably became a public house between 1868 and 1870, having been converted from two cottages. Children's play area. The Gloucestershire-Warwickshire railway runs past bottom of garden. Live music on Wednesdays. You can work up a thirst by booking the pub's tennis court.

HAWKESBURY UPTON

BEAUFORT ARMS
High Street, GL9 1AU
Less than 1 mile from A46, near A433 turn
Tel. Didmarton (01454) 238217
website:http://www.beaufortarms.com/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/cpgb0G
WICKWAR Brand Oak Bitter
GUEST BEER Three Guest Ales
This early 17th Century Grade II listed traditional Cotswold stone Free House in
a historic village. Popular with locals and passing trade, it has two comfortable bars with low-beamed ceilings with an interesting collection of pub, brewery, local memorabilia and period dentist chairs. The stables dining area offers good value food. Wickwar Screech cider is available. Added attractions include a pleasant garden with a six-foot statue of a silver Yale mythical beast, a skittle alley/function room with a well and popular pub games such as cribbage and darts. This friendly welcoming pub has been a local CAMRA award winner on many occasions.

KINETON

HALFWAY HOUSE
GL54 5UG
Tel. Cotswold (01451) 850344
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/c90i4V
DONNINGTON BB
DONNINGTON SBA
Lovely stone country pub halfway between the two Guitings. Open log fire. Large attractive garden. Extensive menu and good value food. The interior had one bar into a L-shaped room with tables and a pool table. There is a separate small eating area. No fond on Sunday & Monday night.

MINCHINHAMPTON

CROWN INN
High Street, GL6 9BN
Tel. Stroud (01453) 882357
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/amFCst
BATH GEM
BUTCOMBE Bitter
GUEST BEER Regular
Village centre hotel. Australian landlord has an extensive collection of sheep farming items.

MISERDEN

CARPENTERS ARMS
Arreton Cottage, GL6 7JA
Centre of village
Tel. Cirencester (01285) 821283
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/d3ubXa
WADWORTH 6X
WYE VALLEY HPA
GUEST BEER Regular
Friendly village pub. Cosy interior with good value food.

NAUNTON

BLACK HORSE
GL54 3AD
Off B4068
Tel. Cotswold (01451) 850565
website:http://www.blackhorsenaunton.co.uk/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/cHf3dN
DONNINGTON BB
DONNINGTON SBA
A traditional Cotswold stone village pub, one of the small but magnificent estate of the nearby Donnington Brewery. Set in a picture postcard village in the Windrush valley just off the B4068. Built in the 1870s, it was originally a row of tiny cottages and retains the proportions of a farmworker's home. The cosy front bar has a flagstone floor, low black beams and built in pews, while the small snug to the rear is now a dining room. Disabled access via a side door. An excellent centre for exploringthe Cotswolds. A full day's ramble described in a leaflet from the pub is very popular with walkers and the horse racing fraternity alike. Dog friendly.

RODBOROUGH

PRINCE ALBERT
Walkley Hill, GL5 3SS
At the top of Walkley Hill
Tel. Stroud (01453) 755600
website:http://www.theprincealbertstroud.co.uk/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/djBUnU
FULLER London Pride
OTTER Bitter
STROUD BREWERY Budding
GUEST BEER Regular
Lively, stone-built Victorian pub located on the top of Walkley Hill on the Rodborough and Minchinhampton road out of Stroud. The pub manages to be simultaneously bohemian, homely and welcoming. It has an imaginative colour scheme and an eclectic mix of furniture and fittings, including chandeliers. Art exhibitions and themed nights are held including quizzes, backgammon, crib, scrabble, folk music, stand-up comedy, live bands and even political hustings. Children and dogs welcome. Bar meals are served Thursday-Saturday. There is free internet access and Wi-Fi.  Closed lunchtimes Monday to Thursday.

SHIPTON MOYNE

CAT AND CUSTARD POT
The Street, GL8 8PN
On Tetbury Road
Tel. Tetbury (01666) 880249
Google Street View:  http://bit.ly/btqHMT
TAYLOR Landlord 
WADWORTH IPA
WADWORTH 6X
WICKWAR Brand Oak Bitter
Pretty village pub with fascinating history and a unique pub sign, see the plaque inside. Has been in the same family for 124 years (5 generations). An equestrian haunt, reflected by the memorabilia on the walls. The busy main bar can appear to be the hub of the local dog walking society, while the quieter snug is popular with families. The open plan layout copes with the increasing popularity of the food. Attractive front garden.

SIDDINGTON

GREYHOUND INN
Ashton Road, GL7 6HR
Southern edge of village on the main road
Tel. Cirencester (01285) 653573
website:http://www.wadworth.co.uk/cirencester/greyhound/
Google Street View:  http://bit.ly/cN0Ayz
WADWORTH IPA
WADWORTH 6X
WADWORTH JCB
GUEST BEER Seasonal Beers
17th century inn nestling between the canal and the railway line, both long disused. The pub has been much extended recently to include a carvery. The warm and welcoming appearance is assisted by an inglenook fireplace in the lounge, a wood-burning stove in the public bar. Exposed beam ceilings and flagstone floors. This old village local's reputation for good food fills the large front dining room. There is a deceptively large garden, which gets busy in the summer and on festival weekends, with a small smoking shelter by the entrance.

SLAD

WOOLPACK
GL6 7QA
On B4070
Tel. Painswick (01452) 813429
website:http://www.thewoolpackinn-slad.com/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/9NgjKe
ULEY Bitter
ULEY Old Spot
ULEY Pigor Mortis
ULEY Laurie Lee's Bitter
GUEST BEER Regular
Popular, 16th century pub clinging to the side of the Slad valley with superb views. Popular with walkers. Achieved fame through the late 'Cider with Rosie' author, Laurie Lee, who was a regular. The pub has been thoughtfully restored including the addition of wooden settles in the end bar. Well-behaved children are welcome in the end room while the three bars serve the award-winning Uley beers with cider and perry and one of the guest beer is usually from Stroud Brewery. No food available on Sunday or Monday evenings. Sunday lunches are served from 1300, booking advisable. Outside there is a small grassed slope and a raised decked patio area. Be prepared for on road parking.

SOMERFORD KEYNES

BAKERS ARMS
GL7 6DN
Centre of village
Tel. Cirencester (01285) 861298
website:http://www.thecompletechef.co.uk/html/bakers_arms.html
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/9TK8im
COURAGE Best Bitter
WADWORTH 6X
Convivial village pub with a large garden. A good range of interesting home-cooked food. Special food evenings. Guest Beers.

STANTON

 

MOUNT INN Old Snowshill Road, WR12 7NE
Tel. Stanton (01386) 584316
website:http://www.themountinn.co.uk/
DONNINGTON BB
DONNINGTON SBA
Popular pub perched on hill above the village, with expansive view. Has a large garden particularly pleasant on summer evenings. Games include French boules (sets available) and woodlice racing! Cricket memorabilia.

STRATTON

DRILLMAN'S ARMS
34, Gloucester Road, GL7 2JY
On old A417, 200 yds from A435 Cheltenham Road.
Tel. Cirencester (01285) 653892
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/b5fzuN
SHARP'S Doom Bar Bitter
GUEST BEER Regular
Lively Georgian Inn, perched beside the main road, with small convivial lounge, public bar and skittle alley. A freehouse run by the same couple for nearly twenty years. The low beamed ceilings, open fire, horse brasses, brewery pictures and excellent beer, more than compensate for the slightly obtrusive fruit machines. Pool table in rear bar. Fresh flowers grace the immaculate toilets. Very reasonably priced standard pub fayre. Summer beer festival. Outside seating plus small car park at the front. Live music is performed on Saturday evening. Buses to Cheltenham and Gloucester stop close by.

THE CAMP

FOSTONS ASH INN
Slad Road, GL6 7ES
B4070
Tel. Gloucester (01452) 863262
e-mail:fostonsashinn@tiscali.co.uk
Google Street View:  http://bit.ly/d9u5kw
GREENE KING IPA
GREENE KING Abbot
WICKWAR Brand Oak Bitter
One-bar, grade 2 listed, Cotswold stone pub, named after a former turnpike keeper. Extensive range of good food. Garden and children's play area with patio area. Refurbished in October 2006.

Tormarton

MAJOR'S RETREAT
 High Street, GL9 1HZ
Off A46, 2 miles north of M4 junction 18
Tel. Badminton (01454) 218263
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/bWWsTf
BUTCOMBE Bitter
OTTER Bitter
ULEY Pig's Ear
GUEST BEER Two Guest Ales
The pub changed its name to avoid confusion with the Portcullis in Chipping Sodbury. This pub is the focal point of the ancient village of Tormarton. Built in the 1700s its modest Virginia creeper-covered stone frontage belies its spacious, unassuming main bar. It has an oak-panelled restaurant which provides freshly-cooked generous meals at modest prices, weekday evenings and lunchtimes at weekends. The friendly landlord/owner takes pride in his fine selection of beers sourced mainly from local breweries he gives a warm welcome to all. Six en-suite guest rooms are available.

TYTHERINGTON

SWAN INN 
Duck Street, GL12 8QB
1 mile East of A38 between Falfield and Almondesbury
Tel. Thornbury (01454) 412380
website:http://www.swan-inn.com/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/c8w9at
BATH GEM
FULLER London Pride
GUEST BEER Regular
This 16th century coaching inn is situated in the quaint village of Tytherington, near the A38 and junction 14 of the M5. Its friendly, welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by the low ceilings and two wood burning inglenook fireplaces in the main bar. The pub has a reputation for food, which is freshly cooked and locally sourced. The separate Village bar has a dart board and table games. There is a large function room, a spacious child friendly garden and en extensive car park.

ULEY

OLD CROWN
17, The Green, GL11 5SN
On B4066 at top end of village
Tel. Uley (01453) 860502
website:http://www.theoldcrownuley.co.uk/
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/bDaEHp
ULEY Bitter
ULEY Pig's Ear
GUEST BEER Regular
GUEST BEER Three Guest Ales
Welcoming, attractive whitewashed freehouse, built in 1638 and set in the picturesque Uley Valley. The pub has a pleasant walled garden that is safe for children. The cosy main bar has a low-timbered ceiling. The pub is close to Uley Brewery and the Cotswold Way and it is popular with walkers. The guest ales are mainly sourced from local breweries. The pub has four en-suite double rooms and the good-value home-cooked food is served 1200-1400 & 1900-2100.

WINCHCOMBE

PLAISTERERS ARMS
 Abbey Terrace, GL54 5LL
B4632 - in town square
Tel. Cheltenham (01242) 602358
Fax: 01242 602360
e-mail:plaisterers.arms@btinternet.com
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/9JNTrX
GOFFS Jouster Ale
TAYLOR Landlord
GUEST BEER Regular
Two-bar, multi-level 15th century pub in the centre of ancient Saxon town. Large
garden at rear with a decorative patio and children's facility. Good choice of
home cooked food.

WOODCHESTER

OLD FLEECE
Rooksmoor, GL5 5NB
On A46
Tel. Stroud (01453) 872582
Google Street View: http://bit.ly/asS5pb
BASS Draught Bass
BODDINGTONS Bitter
INTERBREW Flowers Original Bitter
JOSHUA TETLEY Bitter
CASTLE EDEN Ale
Friendly roadside food-orientated pub. Large main bar with restaurant leading
off one end. Live jazz on Sunday lunchtime.

RAM INN 
Station Road, GL5 5EQ
'South Woodchester' turn from A46 and follow signs
Tel. Stroud (01453) 873329
Google Street View:  http://bit.ly/aOlyVi
BUTCOMBE Bitter
BUTCOMBE Gold
STROUD BREWERY Budding
STROUD BREWERY Organic
ULEY Old Spot
GUEST BEER Regular
The pub celebrated its 400th birthday in 2001 and is located in superb walking
country close to Woodchester mansion. It offers beers from local breweries. Good
value food is served in a separate restaurant area. A new extension has added a lounge area, wheelchair access and a new toilet block. Dog friendly. The pub is a regular venue for the Stroud Morris Men.http://bit.ly/bFf19X