Bourton on the Water is one of the most charming villages in the Cotswolds, with plenty of activities and scenic spots. But where should you eat while you’re there? Here are some top recommendations.
Having visited Bourton many times, I’ve discovered a fantastic variety of eateries, ranging from budget-friendly options to upscale dining. Many places are situated right by the river, offering picturesque views without breaking the bank.
The Rose Tree is a must-visit, thanks to its prime location overlooking the River Windrush and old stone bridges. The menu includes British classics like pork belly and sea bass with crayfish and caper sauce. It’s reasonably priced, with mains under £20, and is known for its Sunday roasts.
Address: Riverside, Victoria Street, Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BX
Phone: +44 (0)1451 820635
Operating Hours: 11:30 am-8:30 pm, Tue-Sat; 11:30 am-3 pm, Sun (closed Mon)
Must-Try Meals: Pan-fried sea bass, slow-roasted pork belly, roast vegetable and stilton lasagne
Dial House Hotel and Restaurant is perfect for traditional British cuisine, situated in a gorgeous stone building. Their menu ranges from light lunches to hearty dinners and offers a wonderful outdoor dining experience.
Address: 3 High Street, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2AN
Phone: +44 (0)1451 822224
Operating Hours: 7 am-9 pm, Mon-Fri
Must-Try Meals: Pan-roasted hake, slow-roasted pork belly, cornfed chicken
Smith’s is the go-to for a great burger. With options like the Smith’s Classic and the pastrami burger, it’s a local favorite. They also offer a selection of sides, desserts, and cocktails.
Address: Victoria Street, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BT
Phone: +44 (0)1451 810564
Operating Hours: 12 pm-11 pm, Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Smiths Classic Burger, Pastrami Burger, Symplicity is Key (veggie burger)
L’anatra at the Chester House Hotel specializes in authentic Italian dishes with a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant’s European charm makes it ideal for a romantic meal.
Address: Chester House Hotel, Victoria Street, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BS
Phone: +144 (0)1451 820286
Operating Hours: 10 am-10 pm, Tue-Sat; 9 am-10 pm, Mon
Must-Try Meals: Stonebaked pizza, seafood pasta, steak
The Croft offers modern British classics with a twist, using fresh local ingredients. They serve the best breakfast in Bourton, including a full English and smoked salmon on sourdough.
Address: Victoria Street, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BX
Phone: +144 (0)1451 821132
Operating Hours: 9 am-6 pm, Mon-Fri; 9 am-9 pm, Sat-Sun (closed Tue)
Must-Try Meals: Billy’s Smoked Salmon and Scrambled Eggs, The Croft Burger, The Croft Vege Burger
Bourton Riverside Cafe is great for a light lunch with sandwiches, paninis, and jacket potatoes. Its riverside location makes it perfect for afternoon tea.
Address: Riverside, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BP
Phone: +44 (0)1451 820373
Operating Hours: 9 am-5 pm, Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Parma ham and mozzarella panini, tuna jacket potato, bacon and egg sandwich
Alibaba offers delicious Indian cuisine and is part of The Coach and Horses pub. This cozy setting is ideal for dishes like shashlik and chicken tikka.
Address: Stow Road, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2HN
Phone: +44 (0)1451 798478
Operating Hours: 12 pm-11 pm, Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Lamb bhuna, sag aloo, chicken tikka masala
Nearby Upper Slaughter offers fine dining at the Atrium at the Lords of the Manor Hotel, with Michelin-approved set lunches and tasting menus.
Address: Lords of the Manor, Upper Slaughter, Gloucestershire, GL54 2JD
Phone: +44 (0)1451 820243
Operating Hours: 7 am-9 pm, Mon-Fri
Must-Try Meals: Set lunch, tasting menu, vegan tasting menu
The Den is the best vegetarian spot, offering vegan and gluten-free snacks and drinks.
Address: Unit 4, High Street, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2AE
Phone: +44 (0)1451 798120
Operating Hours: 8:30 am-5 pm, Mon-Sat; 9 am-5 pm, Sun
Must-Try Meals: Baguettes, bagels, salads
The Chip Shed is perfect for classic fish and chips, with a range of fish options and alternatives like battered halloumi and vegetarian pies.
Address: Hartley House, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2AL
Phone: +44 (0)1451 828288
Operating Hours: 11:30 am-9:30 pm, Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Cod and chips, scampi and chips, battered halloumi
Bourtanical is ideal for brunch, offering burgers, sandwiches, and homemade cakes with lovely riverside views.
Address: Riverside, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2DP
Phone: +44 (0)1451 822005
Operating Hours: 9 am-5 pm, Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Burgers, sandwiches, homemade cakes
La Reine offers great breakfast and brunch options with local ingredients and a relaxing riverside setting.
Address: High Street, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2AE
Phone: +44 (0)7557 782465
Operating Hours: 8 am-4 pm, Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Full English breakfast, pancakes, mushroom poached eggs
Green and Pleasant specializes in vegan and dairy-free dishes, making it perfect for a light lunch or afternoon tea.
Address: Windrush Cottage, Riverside, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2DP
Phone: +44 (0)1451 810919
Operating Hours: 10:15 am-5 pm, Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Vegan cake, cream tea, Cotswold ice cream (including vegan ice cream)
A short drive away, The Hive in Stow on the Wold is a sister-run cafe perfect for a relaxed lunch or a coffee break.
Address: Digbeth Street, Stow on the Wold, Gloucestershire, GL54 1BN
Phone: +44 (0)1451 831087
Operating Hours: 9 am-3 pm, Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: The Hive breakfast (vegetarian also available), smoked salmon platter, freshly baked pastries
For a blend of antiques and tea, visit Cotswold Antiques and Tea Rooms.
Address: 2 Victoria Street, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BU
Phone: +44 (0)1451 821297
Operating Hours: 9 am-5 pm, Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Cream tea, sandwiches, homemade cakes
The Cotswolds are known for their fresh ingredients, particularly cheeses and ciders. Bourton offers many opportunities to enjoy these local specialties. Main eateries include The Rose Tree, L’anatra, The Croft Restaurant, and Dial House, most of which offer riverside views. Enjoying meals typically happens between 5 pm and 8 pm for dinner, 12 pm and 2 pm for lunch, and anytime between 6 am and 9 am for breakfast.
Many restaurants are pet-friendly, and most are welcoming to families. Beautiful views can be found at places like The Croft, The Rose Tree, and Green and Pleasant Cafe.
From riverside cafes to fine dining, Bourton on the Water presents diverse culinary choices. Which restaurant will you try first?