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Top Ten Cotswolds Pubs to Visit (and Why You’ll Want Someone Else to Do the Driving!)

https://shakespeare-coaches.com/2024/04/22/explore-the-cotswolds-from-shakespeares-hometown-shakespeares-coaches-offer-cotswolds-bus-tours-from-stratford-upon-avon/

Cotswolds

Top Ten Cotswolds Pubs to Visit
(and Why You’ll Want Someone Else to Do the Driving!)

The Cotswolds isn’t just about rolling hills, honey-colored cottages, and charming market towns—it’s also home to some of the most historic and characterful pubs in England. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal, a quiet pint of local ale, or a cozy fireplace to warm up after a brisk walk, this region delivers in spades. Yet for many travelers, there’s one big worry: Who’s going to drive? After all, you’ll want to savor those local brews without fretting about navigating winding country lanes.

That’s where Shakespeare Coaches comes in. Our Shakespeare’s Stratford and Cotswolds Tour lets you explore this idyllic region and its historic pubs without putting you behind the wheel. Below, we’ve rounded up ten of the best Cotswold pubs (including a few in or near Stratford-upon-Avon) you can visit—either on our day tour or during an extended stay. We’ll share historical tidbits, local highlights, and plenty of reasons to let us do the driving while you raise a glass to merry old England.

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1. The Garrick Inn (Stratford-upon-Avon)

What Makes It Special
The Garrick Inn proudly calls itself “Stratford’s oldest pub,” and if you’ve wandered the historic streets of Shakespeare’s hometown, you’ll know that’s no small claim. A timber-framed building rumored to date back to the 14th century, The Garrick Inn is steeped in centuries of English pub culture.

Historical & Fun Facts

  • The Name: It’s named after David Garrick, an 18th-century actor and playwright who was a devoted champion of Shakespeare’s work. Garrick organized a famous Shakespeare Jubilee in 1769, helping to cement Stratford’s status as a literary pilgrimage site.
  • Hunted by Plague: Some local legends suggest the building survived outbreaks of plague, with quarantined townsfolk huddling upstairs, telling each other stories over pints of ale.
  • Ale & Atmosphere: Today, you can sample local ales while admiring the sloping floors and low ceilings—an authentic glimpse of medieval architecture.

Why Visit on a Tour

When you join our Shakespeare’s Stratford and Cotswolds Tour, you’ll have ample free time in Stratford to explore the old town center. Pop into The Garrick Inn, enjoy a local brew, and soak in that living history—without worrying about driving afterward.

2. The Dirty Duck (aka The Black Swan) (Stratford-upon-Avon)

What Makes It Special
Located just across from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre on the banks of the River Avon, The Dirty Duck (officially The Black Swan, but rarely called that by locals) is a favorite among actors, theatre staff, and visitors eager to spot a famous face. It’s also a pub with a split identity—the sign on one side reads “The Black Swan,” while the sign on the other says “The Dirty Duck.”

Historical & Fun Facts

  • Actors’ Watering Hole: After evening performances, you might catch members of the Royal Shakespeare Company here, talking shop or winding down with a pint.
  • Name Origins: Locals say American GIs stationed nearby during World War II nicknamed it “The Dirty Duck,” presumably because of the waterfowl waddling around the Avon. Over time, the name stuck.
  • Tipple & Theatre: Shakespeare himself (had he lived in the 20th or 21st centuries!) would likely have wandered here after a show. In Elizabethan times, alehouses frequently abutted playhouses, and Stratford continues this lively tradition.

Why Visit on a Tour

If you’re a Shakespeare enthusiast, sipping a pint next to the theatre that brings his plays to life feels downright poetic. It’s also just steps away from where our tour bus may pick you up, so you can truly indulge in the local ambiance before comfortably rejoining the group.

3. The Eight Bells (Chipping Campden)

What Makes It Special
Chipping Campden is often hailed as one of the loveliest towns in the Cotswolds, famed for its terraced High Street and medieval market hall. The Eight Bells, located near St. James’ Church, is a Grade II-listed 14th-century building that once served as a “bailiff’s dwelling.” It’s now a cozy pub and inn, popular with walkers finishing a leg of the Cotswold Way.

Historical & Fun Facts

  • Name & Church Bells: The pub’s name is a nod to the church next door, which houses eight bells that have rung out across the countryside for centuries. Legend says the bells were once rung to signal the opening of local fairs, which would bring traveling salesmen and entertainers into town—likely ensuring a busy night at the pub.
  • Stone Floors & Local Ales: Inside, you’ll find thick Cotswold stone walls, worn flagstone floors, and locally brewed ales on tap. Traditional Sunday roasts and hearty pies are crowd-favorites.
  • Medieval Charm: Some visitors report feeling like they’ve stepped back in time, especially if they grab a seat near the original stone fireplace.

Why Visit on a Tour

Our day trip includes a stop in Chipping Campden, so you can wander the High Street, pop into the Market Hall, and perhaps drop by The Eight Bells. Let us handle the road, so you don’t have to skip that second ale.

4. The Red Lion (Chipping Campden)

What Makes It Special
A classic English pub with a welcoming atmosphere, The Red Lion is perched right on Chipping Campden’s scenic High Street. Its pastoral beer garden is the perfect place to relax after exploring the town’s historical spots.

Historical & Fun Facts

  • Name Frequency: “Red Lion” is famously one of the most common pub names in Britain, often linked to the badge of John of Gaunt or referencing the red lion of Scotland introduced by James VI & I.
  • Wool Trade Heritage: Given the pub’s central location, you can imagine medieval wool merchants, fresh from the market, quenching their thirst here. Chipping Campden thrived on the wool trade, and many locals credit these traveling traders for the vibrant pub culture that remains.
  • Local Fare: Try some of the region’s best ciders along with a hearty lunch or dinner. The menu often features seasonal produce grown on nearby farms.

Why Visit on a Tour

Because The Red Lion is in the heart of Chipping Campden, you can enjoy a swift half-pint or a leisurely meal without missing your pick-up. Shakespeare Coaches ensures you won’t have to worry about navigating those narrow streets afterward.

5. Snowshill Arms (Snowshill Village)

What Makes It Special
Snowshill is a tiny, postcard-perfect village perched high on a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Cotswolds countryside. The Snowshill Arms is a cozy refuge for those wandering the narrow lanes, known for its old-fashioned charm, real ales, and rustic decor.

Historical & Fun Facts

  • Eccentric Past: Snowshill is home to Snowshill Manor, once owned by Charles Paget Wade, an eccentric collector of everything from toys to Samurai armor. It’s said Wade would occasionally host bohemian-style gatherings, and local lore suggests The Snowshill Arms saw its fair share of colorful guests.
  • Village Brew Traditions: Historically, small villages often brewed their own ales. It’s rumored that Snowshill Arms might have had a local microbrew long before microbrews were trendy.
  • Filming Location: Snowshill’s charm has led to cameo appearances in period dramas, occasionally flooding the pub with film crews.

Why Visit on a Tour

Our day tour includes a stop in Snowshill Village, giving you time to soak in the views and pop into the pub if you fancy. Having a dedicated driver means you’re free to nurse a pint while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

6. The Porch House (Stow-on-the-Wold)

What Makes It Special
Stow-on-the-Wold is one of the highest towns in the Cotswolds, historically famous for its robust sheep fairs. The Porch House, part of a larger inn, bills itself as “England’s oldest inn,” with records suggesting parts of the building date back to AD 947!

Historical & Fun Facts

  • Over a Millennium Old?: There’s debate, but local tales hold that an early hermitage or lodging might have existed here well over 1,000 years ago. Over centuries, it evolved into the charming stone building we see today.
  • Secret Rooms & Priest Holes: Stories abound of hidden rooms used by persecuted clergymen or bootleggers. True or not, the nooks and crannies lend an air of mystery.
  • Sheep & Ale: In the medieval period, Stow-on-the-Wold was a mecca for wool traders. The Porch House would’ve catered to drovers and merchants, all exchanging news and coin while sipping local ales.

Why Visit on a Tour

Our itinerary gives you generous time in Stow-on-the-Wold. The Porch House is right in the center, so you can pop in, taste a local ale, and still have time to browse antique shops and savor the panoramic views.

7. The Bell (Stow-on-the-Wold)

What Makes It Special
Another gem in Stow-on-the-Wold, The Bell is a bit off the main square, giving it a more tranquil vibe. It’s known for its warm welcome, local breweries on tap, and hearty traditional meals like steak-and-ale pie.

Historical & Fun Facts

  • Coaching Inn Heritage: Some historians believe The Bell was once a coaching inn, providing lodging and fresh horses for travelers heading north or south through the Cotswolds. The stable block out back hints at that heritage.
  • Civil War Rumors: During the English Civil War (mid-17th century), Stow-on-the-Wold witnessed several skirmishes. Legends say wounded soldiers might have been treated (and comforted) here.
  • Ghostly Guests: A few ghost stories swirl around The Bell, involving flickering lights and mysterious footsteps late at night. Staff chalk it up to the building’s storied past.

Why Visit on a Tour

Because you won’t be driving, you can indulge in a robust local ale or a comforting glass of cider. Then step out into the crisp Cotswold air to continue exploring Stow’s atmospheric lanes before meeting up with the tour bus.

8. The Mousetrap Inn (Bourton-on-the-Water)

What Makes It Special
Bourton-on-the-Water—nicknamed “The Venice of the Cotswolds”—is famed for its low stone bridges crossing the River Windrush. The Mousetrap Inn, a classic 19th-century inn, offers a cozy spot to enjoy seasonal dishes and carefully selected craft beers after a scenic wander along the river.

Historical & Fun Facts

  • Christie Connection?: Rumor has it the name might be a nod to Agatha Christie’s famous play “The Mousetrap”, though there’s no definitive record. Still, the inn leans into the mystery vibe with its snug corners.
  • Silver Screen: Bourton-on-the-Water has caught the eye of multiple film crews for its storybook ambiance, sometimes bringing actors—and curious fans—to pubs like The Mousetrap.
  • Local Ingredients: Don’t miss the local cheeses and farm-sourced meats on the menu; the Cotswolds is a hub of artisan food producers.

Why Visit on a Tour

Our day excursion includes a stop at Bourton-on-the-Water, which many consider the jewel of the Cotswolds. Instead of steering your car down winding lanes, relax on the bus, then enjoy a leisurely stroll to The Mousetrap for a pint and a plate of classic English fare.

9. The Old Manse Hotel (Bourton-on-the-Water)

What Makes It Special
Overlooking the tranquil River Windrush, The Old Manse Hotel (which doubles as a pub and restaurant) boasts an enviable waterside terrace. On warm afternoons, you can sip an ale outside while ducks glide beneath the arched bridges.

Historical & Fun Facts

  • Built in 1748: Its origin as a traditional manse (the house of a clergyman) reflects the deeply rooted Christian heritage of the region. At some point, it was converted into an inn, welcoming travelers to this quaint corner of Gloucestershire.
  • Classic Cream Teas: If you’re not quite in a pub-grub mood, The Old Manse is also beloved for its cream teas—scones with jam and clotted cream—plus a dash of local history on the side.
  • Merriment & Mysteries: Some claim a local vicar in the 1800s was partial to brewing his own ale in the manse cellar, sharing it with parishioners during harsh winters. True or not, it adds to the pub’s romantic charm.

Why Visit on a Tour

Imagine sipping your afternoon ale with a riverside view, then meandering back to the tour bus at your leisure. By leaving the driving to us, you can delight in a local craft beer or a perfectly brewed coffee without fretting about the route home.

10. The Catherine Wheel (Bibury)

What Makes It Special
Described by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England,” Bibury enchants visitors with Arlington Row’s 17th-century weavers’ cottages. The Catherine Wheel sits just a short stroll from these famous cottages, making it an ideal pit stop for a thirst-quenching break.

Historical & Fun Facts

  • Legend of the Name: “Catherine Wheel” pubs are often named for the wheel of Saint Catherine—an early Christian martyr’s symbol. Some pubs displayed a wheel sign, which over centuries became iconic in rural England.
  • Wool-Weaver Tradition: Bibury’s weavers once drank at a local tavern near their cottages. Whether or not it was The Catherine Wheel is uncertain, but locals do claim a centuries-old lineage for this inn.
  • Seasonal Ales & Ciders: Try local craft ales or ciders, perfectly suited for a warm summer evening or a crisp autumn afternoon.

Why Visit on a Tour

Our itinerary includes a stop at Bibury, allowing time to explore Arlington Row and maybe duck into The Catherine Wheel for a quick rest. Since you’re not behind the wheel, you can indulge in a cider or two before returning to the coach.

Why Take a Tour Rather Than Drive?

1. Stress-Free Sipping
Let’s face it: the best part of a pub crawl in the Cotswolds is sampling local ales, ciders, and maybe even a glass of English sparkling wine. If you’re the driver, that’s off the table—or at least severely limited. With Shakespeare Coaches, you can confidently say “yes” to that second pint.

2. No Navigational Nightmares
England’s country lanes can be a joy to wander on foot—but by car, they can be tight, winding, and occasionally confusing. Throw in a dash of questionable phone signal, and you might be cursing your sat nav. With a guided tour, all you have to do is hop on and off the coach.

3. Expert Guides & Local Lore
Our guides don’t just drive you from point A to point B; they fill you in on fascinating history and offbeat stories you might otherwise miss. This includes the hidden tales of pub names, local brewing traditions, and how certain inns survived everything from plagues to royal decrees.

4. Maximizing Time & Seeing More
We’ve curated the route to ensure you savor the highlights of Stratford-upon-Avon and the most charming Cotswold villages—without spending hours figuring out an itinerary. From the moment you board at the start of the day to when we drop you off, your main job is to have fun and soak up the atmosphere.

5. Eco-Friendlier Option
Carpooling (in this case, coach-pooling) is more sustainable than having multiple cars congest the small roads. You’ll reduce your carbon footprint while still enjoying the best of rural England.

Final Cheers: Book Your Cotswolds Pub Adventure

There you have it—ten fantastic pubs scattered across Stratford-upon-Avon, Chipping Campden, Snowshill, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Bibury. Each has its own story to tell, from medieval plague survival tales to connections with Shakespearean actors and centuries-old brewing traditions. By traveling with Shakespeare Coaches, you’ll experience these time-honored watering holes in the best possible way—worry-free, relaxed, and ready for a pint or two.

Instead of wrestling with a road map or designating a driver who misses out on the fun, let us do the heavy lifting. Our Shakespeare’s Stratford and Cotswolds Tour invites you to:

  • Wander the historic streets of Stratford-upon-Avon and imagine Shakespeare’s footsteps crossing the threshold of old taverns.
  • Explore the storybook villages of the Cotswolds, sampling ales and local delicacies at centuries-old inns.
  • Relax and toast to new friendships and memories, knowing you’ll be whisked back to your starting point in comfort and safety.

Ready to Clink Glasses with the Past?
From Tudor beamed ceilings to hidden smugglers’ rooms, these pubs epitomize English history, hospitality, and hearty fare. Book your spot with Shakespeare Coaches, and experience them without the hassle of driving. After all, the only thing better than discovering Britain’s most scenic region is doing so with a pint in hand and zero worries about the journey home.

Cheers to your Cotswolds adventure—let the pints, pies, and picturesque views be the highlights of a day you’ll never forget!