Bourton on the Water is one of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds, with its charming stone cottages and the lovely River Windrush flowing through it. If you ever visit, here are some of the best pubs you should check out.
I’ve been visiting the Cotswolds for years and Bourton on the Water always stands out, especially when it comes to enjoying a pint. Many of the local pubs are historic, offering wonderful views of the river and plenty of outdoor seating.
Here are some top pubs in Bourton to enjoy a drink by the river in summer or cozy up in winter. You definitely won’t go thirsty or hungry here.
Best Pubs in Bourton on the Water
Over the years, I’ve tried many pubs in Bourton, and these are my favorites based on atmosphere, food and drink quality, service, personal experiences, and customer reviews.
The Mousetrap Inn:
A traditional 19th-century country inn located on the main street, just steps from the River Windrush. This pub offers a great selection of beers, wines, and ciders along with some of the best food in the village. My top recommendation for eating and drinking in the Cotswolds.
The Duke of Wellington:
This pub, just a short walk from the river, is one of the cheapest in Bourton. It’s great for a pint and a bite, offering deals like their Sunday carvery and other weekday specials. It’s also a family-run spot perfect for a classic roast dinner or catching a live sporting event.
The Willow:
Known for its cozy atmosphere with a log burner for winter evenings and a lovely patio overlooking the river for summer days. The menu has great options including pub classics and more imaginative dishes. Ideal for lunch, main meals, afternoon tea, and Sunday roasts.
The Kingsbridge:
Located right by the river, with a lively atmosphere thanks to weekly quiz nights and other entertainment. They offer special deals on meals and drinks. A fun spot to have a few drinks in the evening.
The Old Manse:
This ivy-covered pub dating back to 1748 is one of the oldest in the village. It boasts a great selection of real ales and a menu with classic pub dishes. It’s also a great place to stay as it’s right on the river.
The Old New Inn:
This historic pub sits in the heart of Bourton and is home to the Model Village attraction. It’s dog-friendly and serves a variety of real ales, ciders, wines, and cocktails alongside light bites and sharing platters.
Hawkstone Arms:
Operated by the Hawkstone Brewery, co-owned by Jeremy Clarkson, this pub offers some of the best beers and ciders in the Cotswolds. They have food trucks on site and a top selection of local specialty beers.
The Wheatsheaf Inn:
Located six miles from Bourton, this 17th-century coaching inn combines a pub and restaurant with a charming beer garden. Their food menu is excellent, with specialties in classic pub grub and a great Sunday lunch.
The Slaughters Country Inn:
Just 1.5 miles from Bourton, this pub at Lower Slaughter serves a variety of local ales and ciders. They have a fantastic menu featuring local cheeses and meats. This upmarket venue is worth a visit for its quality.
The Plough Inn:
Located in the tiny village of Ford, this pub won the Casque Mark certificate of Excellence in 2023. With a focus on cask ales and traditional British cooking, locals swear by their fish pie and other hearty dishes.
FAQs about Pubs in Bourton on the Water:
Best Pubs: The Mousetrap Inn, The Kingsbridge Inn, and The Old Manse House are among the top pubs, each with their unique charm and offerings.
Tipping: Tipping for drinks isn’t necessary, but for meals, a 10%-15% tip for good service is customary.
Pub Locations: Most pubs are along the Windrush River, making it easy to explore several during your visit.
Average Price: A pint in Bourton averages around £4.44, with the Duke of Wellington and Kingsbridge Inn offering some of the cheapest options.
Famous Pubs: The Hawkstone Arms is the most famous pub, co-owned by Jeremy Clarkson.
Oldest Pub: The Old Manse Hotel is over 250 years old, boasting historical charm.
Main Street: Lansdowne is the main street with many top pubs like the Mousetrap and The Willow.
Now you know where to enjoy some of the best pubs in Bourton on the Water, from the historic Old Manse Hotel to the lively Kingsbridge Inn. While live music isn’t common, the atmosphere and local beers make any visit to Bourton unforgettable.