Celebrating Local Flavours: A Conversation with Chris Davey, The Cotswold Guy

Celebrating Local Flavours: A Conversation with Chris Davey, The Cotswold Guy

Nestled in the heart of Guiting Power, The Cotswold Guy farm shop is more than just a destination for gourmet produce; it is a celebration of the region’s rich artisanal heritage. We caught up with Chris Davey, the man behind the brand, to explore how passion, provenance, and community have shaped his thriving business.

Chris’ journey began with a simple challenge: sourcing the best local produce in one place. “I was inspired by how many artisans there were in the Cotswolds,” he explains. “Originally, I couldn’t find everything I wanted from a single supplier, so I started driving around, collecting eggs with golden yolks from local farms, artisan oils, and even truffle oil. It became a celebration of what the Cotswolds has to offer.”

‍

The location in Guiting Power, a charming and unspoilt village, initially appealed to Chris as a potential production kitchen. “It had space for a kitchen and a boutique farm shop at the front, which is such an amazing window into the business,” he says. The timing was serendipitous, just after lockdown, and the move perfectly combined practicality with charm.

From the outset, Chris’ approach has been about more than just selling produce; it is about connection. The local response has been overwhelmingly positive. “The support in the village has been amazing. People are genuinely impressed by what a little village like this can offer—great shops, pubs, and an incredible sense of community.”

It is this connection that keeps locals and visitors returning. Chris maintains a personal touch with his customers, even facilitating bespoke orders via WhatsApp. “I like keeping it personal. If someone wants a beef Wellington or a dinner party menu, I’ll talk with them directly. It’s really important not to depersonalise that interaction.”

While the shop is deeply rooted in Guiting Power, its appeal extends far beyond. Londoners frequently make the trip, and social media has even drawn visitors from overseas. “We get people travelling from Wales and further afield to enjoy the flavours and care we put into everything,” Chris notes proudly.

The surrounding Cotswold countryside doesn’t just provide inspiration; it shapes the menu. “Our offerings are influenced by what we can source locally and seasonally. We’re famous for our beef Wellington, using local beef, and we source lamb, pork, and game from trusted local farms.” Even the humble sausage roll has achieved fame, thanks to famous footballer David Beckham, who has publicly claimed it as his favourite. By prioritising independent suppliers, Chris ensures that every dish tells a story of the region’s culinary richness.

For Chris, success is about sharing the Cotswold experience with even more people. “In five years, I’d love to see our products in the retail market across the UK, so more people can enjoy what we offer.” While growth is on the horizon, the ethos remains the same: quality, community, and a personal touch.

From humble beginnings to a boutique destination celebrated by locals and visitors alike, The Cotswold Guy exemplifies how a love for local produce can create not just a business, but a community hub. Chris Davey’s journey is a reminder that the Cotswolds’ charm isn’t just in the scenery; it is in the people and the flavours they bring to the table.

Breakfast has quickly become a firm favourite with the CotswoldXL team, and it’s clear why, the quality and flavours are second to none. For more information or to plan a visit, visit here.