Winter Foodie Trail: Where to Eat & Drink Local in the Cotswolds

When the frosty mornings of January arrive, the Cotswolds transforms into a serene winter wonderland. Walking through the Cotswolds, you quickly notice a strong emphasis on local produce. Farms dot the landscape, supplying village markets and farm shops with seasonal fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy. Visiting a farm shop, such as Daylesford Organic or Hobbs House Bakery, offers more than just shopping, it’s a sensory journey where you can sample freshly baked breads, handmade pastries, and cheeses that are the pride of local dairies.

Rolling hills dusted with snow, cozy villages, and roaring fires make it the perfect time for a culinary adventure. If you’re craving local flavors, hearty comfort food, and warming drinks, here’s your guide to exploring the best foodie spots in the Cotswolds this winter.

Start Your Day with a Hearty Breakfast

Caffe Morel - EbringtonWarm up with freshly brewed coffee and a locally sourced breakfast. Their full English, made with free-range eggs and Cotswold sausages, is the perfect way to fuel your day.

Bromley’s of Cotswolds – Chipping Campden and Chipping NortonFrom the first sip of coffee to the last bite of food, every experience here is crafted

No. 32 – BroadwayA boutique café with a modern twist, offering seasonal treats like spiced apple tarts and warming chai lattes. The cozy interior makes it a great spot to relax before heading out to explore.

Lunch: Hearty & Local

The Wild Rabbit – KinghamThis Michelin-starred pub focuses on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Try the venison stew or Cotswold lamb pie for a true taste of winter in the countryside.

The Wheatsheaf – NorthleachKnown for its hearty pies and traditional Sunday roasts, this pub serves comfort food that hits the spot after a morning walk in the chilly air.

Afternoon Tea & Sweet Stops

Daylesford Organic Farm Café – KinghamIndulge in organic, locally sourced treats like cakes, tarts, and freshly baked bread. Their winter teas, made with seasonal herbs, are a perfect way to unwind.

The Bantam Tea Rooms Mouth watering, home-made cakes and scones freshly baked daily in our in-house bakery, gluten free choice available and delicious lunches freshly made on the premises.

Dinner & Drinks: Warming Up the Evening

The Ebrington Arms – Chipping CampdenWith roaring fires and rustic charm, this pub offers locally sourced game and seasonal dishes. Pair your meal with a local Cotswolds ale or a warming mulled wine.

The Bell at SappertonAn intimate inn known for its Cotswold lamb and fresh seafood, perfect for a winter dinner. Don’t miss their signature winter cocktails or a glass of local gin from a nearby distillery.

Tips for a Winter Foodie Trail

1. Dress Warmly: Layer up, as January mornings can be frosty.
   
   
2. Book Ahead: Some restaurants and pubs may have limited winter hours.
   
   
3. Walk Between Villages: The Cotswolds is beautiful in winter, explore quaint villages between meals.
   
   
4. Check Local Events: Farmers’ markets and winter fairs often feature seasonal treats.
   
   

January in the Cotswolds is not just about breathtaking scenery, it’s also a haven for food and drink lovers. From warming breakfasts to indulgent desserts and cozy dinners by the fire in country pubs, your winter foodie trail awaits.

For all the latest on what’s happening in the Cotswolds, check out What’sOn?XL in CotswoldXL Magazine.