Best Pubs in the Cotswolds

We have eaten at a LOT of pubs in the Cotswolds in the past several years of being in Cheltenham. Lots of salads, melted cheese, and sticky toffee puddings! In this video we recap our five favourite pubs so far.
Please tell me which of these YOU would like to visit, and any other favourites you have that we need to try next!
Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to join us for all of our Cotswolds vlogs, other British travel adventures, and discussions of all things British!
Cheers! XX Dara and Ian
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:44 The Green Dragon Cockleford
4:23 The New Inn in Coln St Aldwyns
6:07 The Queens Head Longford
6:57 The Butchers’s Arms Sheepscombe
10:35 The Mount Inn Stanton
Links to check out:
To learn about The Cotswolds AONB, check out this 3 minute intro video: • What is The Cotswolds?...
My video of “Summer of STP” video showing TEN Sticky Toffee Puddings is here: • Sticky Toffee Puddings...
To watch my entire Cotswolds Series, here is the playlist: • The Cotswolds
Websites for all the pubs mentioned in the video:
The Green Dragon Cockleford: www.green-drag...
The New Inn: www.thenewinnc...
The Queen’s Head Longford: queensheadlong...
The Butchers’s Arms Sheepscombe: butchers-arms....
The Mount Inn Stanton: www.themountin...
#bestpubs #thecotswolds #gloucestershire #england

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

To see the dreamy village of Stanton in more detail: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJSsm5mcmdiriZY OR to see TEN STICKY TOFFEE PUDDINGS check out this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e33Ph6Zqg7t9l7s

[@da90sReAlvloc]

The Cotswolds is beautiful place, and pub grub is usually above average but that food did look amazing 😋 Great video 👍

[@potdog1000]

I commend you both on this selfless task, true martyrs to your craft

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Why thank you! It's worth the extra pounds out of our wallets and the extra pounds around my waist! haha

[@davegreenwood1663]

Done it again Dara .Friday tea time here ,I cannot compete with the scrumptiously dishes you have enjoyed .So im of to the chipy for fish chips and mushy peas.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

haha... yes, this is definitely one that makes the tummy growl! Hope your fish & chips are delish! Bon appetit!

[@WhereisBingle1]

Omg!!! I have no words!!! I went to the Ebrington Arms, very cosy.. in Chipping Campden

[@ians3586]

The Ebrington Arms is on our bucket list. We haven't yet managed to squeeze that one in. I know that it has a reputation of being the best pub in the Cotswolds.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

I'm jealous! We haven't been able to manage a booking there yet... despite trying! Hopefully we can get there next summer!

[@WhereisBingle1]

@@MagentaOtterTravels i know! Also try the George Inn at Lacock ❤

[@TheVaughan5]

Over the past couple of decades pub food has been revolutionised. Many “gastro” pubs can now serve food equal to top grade restaurants. The age of terrible food in the U.K. are long gone, though there are still below standard places of course.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

I agree! I do look out for "gastro pubs". I have also eaten at many fancy over-priced upscale restaurants... and I actually prefer the pubs. Better value and cosier environment. Even a gastropub is not as stuffy as a high priced London restaurant. Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Dara

[@griswald7156]

I can vouch for that , quite a few are all frozen microwaved rolls, frozen vegetables..precooked frozen microwaved portion controlled, tinned vegetables ,commercial desserts,it can be a struggle sometimes..tv dinners basically..let’s hope the new air fryer generation improves things , but I can’t envisage that..

[@griswald7156]

@@Poliss95 you’ve reminded me of the certain environs of a uk transport hub…it was in the 60s,the breakfast was swimming in cold fat…and the waitress had dirty fingernails,I can’t remember if she’d got a fag on or not…i was starving when i entered the cafe…..but in a short period of time my appetite disappeared completely,i couldnt eat anything other than one forkful.

[@griswald7156]

@@Poliss95 I’ve eaten beef dripping on a white crust quite a few times….nice choice..

[@valeriedavidson2785]

There never was "terrible food" in Britain. That annoys me and there always have been places with superb food. I am 84 years old and even in the 1970's there were places that you could find excellent food.

[@Andy_U]

Hiya. It'd have to be The Queen's Head for me. I'd go all the way through that Specials Board. And in that order, too! Stay safe. All the best to you.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

They really do have excellent food at the Queens Head! I just hate that I can't share an entree... because I really want to try the pudding one day! haha

[@Andy_U]

@@MagentaOtterTravels - Now, see, to me, an entree is a Starter.

[@ians3586]

@@Andy_U you must have spent time in France.

[@Andy_U]

@@ians3586 - Hiya Ian. Yes, I have friends there.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

@@Andy_U it is logical that the word entrée means starter. But in the states it means main course! Go figure. 🤷‍♀️

[@wencireone]

Loved your Britishness, 0 miles less than a metre, perfect 👌

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

I do TRY! Note my pronunciation of raspberry too ;-) I had to do both US and UK on basil, tho...

[@wencireone]

@@MagentaOtterTravels failed on pecan though 😪

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

@@wencireone i just CANNOT endorse saying pecan like a Brit 🤣

[@wencireone]

@@MagentaOtterTravels PPIEW 😉

[@TravelingTramps]

Enjoyed the "Pub Crawl," Dara and Ian. We don't drink either, but, "otter" than that we'd enjoy the beer too! Now, how are we supposed to be able to pick just one? Seems like you two were able to visit all 5. We'd love to too! Gorgeous pubs and towns, but so much nicer with power. All the food looked delicious and lovely views from the Mount Inn! Thanks for bringing us along.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Thanks for coming along, Dave and Kathy! No need to pick a favourite... I think we made the Mount Inn our #1 because we love the village and the view so much!

[@wencireone]

Liked what you did with the pictures at the start 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Thanks so much! This video was quite the project because I had to fish through 3 years of footage for all the clips and videos. We have been to a few of those pubs MANY times!

[@The_Brit_Girls]

Ooh, Otter Bitter! I loved the look of the vegetarian pie...and of course BOTH deserts! I haven't had treacle tart in ages. I was surprised you chose the treacle pie over the STP!

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

It was a REALLY good treacle tart... and now I'm craving pecan pie! Good thing Thanksgiving is coming up!

[@JoeCoachTV]

I love your informative videos! Thanks for sharing this beautiful and interesting place!!👍75

[@The_Brit_Girls]

I have to say that ALL the food you showed us looked amazing! Great reviews!

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Thanks so much! If any silly people in Arizona think Britain has bad food... please share this video with them, LOL!

[@johnadey3696]

Wonderful video as always, I remember one of those village alehouses he describes- just someone's front room with a three piece suite to sit on and a girl board dancing in clogs for entertainment. I remember opening the door and someone shouting "Close the door, you'll let the moths in!"

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

That is an AWESOME story! haha... Thanks for your comment, John! Dara

[@JefPersonalVideos]

Beautiful and amazing view of the place and delicious food thanks for sharing

[@MadameMinima]

1st meal looks already delicious....and I am starving!!!!

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

I think I gained 5 kg editing this video, LOL!

[@introkoreawalkingtour4572]

Wow! It's a really cool video.. big LIKE!!💕!!!!! Thank you so much for sharing the video. My friend!

[@ians3586]

This video brings back such great memories. I really hope the Mount Inn manages to stick around, it's truly a jewel of the Cotswolds. I know they've been having staffing problems. Hopefully that's just been a temporary consequence of Covid.

[@ians3586]

@@Poliss95 I'm sure that's part of the problem. I didn't notice staffing shortages in the UK until the last couple of years. Probably a Brexit/Covid combo. Hopefully it will iron out in the next couple of years.

[@kayhorrell5324]

SO EXCITED YOUR FAVORITE IS THE MOUNT INN…SO LOOK FORWARD TO MEETING YOU THERE !!!

[@ians3586]

@@kayhorrell5324 we are too! We just booked our flights and will be in the UK starting mid-May.

[@WITYTRAVELS]

What a lovely gentleman you had a chat with. Village People. 😂😂 Beautiful farm to table restaurant.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Ian is so friendly... he chatted with the "village people" for ages! They were fun to hear discuss the history of Sheepscombe.

[@sunnyonion3461]

I just found your channel and you seem to be stalking my life. I spent most of the 1980s riding from Jill Gabb’s horse yard and drinking at The Mount when it was run by Lynn and Colin. You’re taking me back to my 20s. Great memories, I now live in the Caribbean, so it’s great to revisit my younger life. Thank you.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

That's interesting to hear that you live in the Caribbean now! My husband Ian was born in Jamaica and now we live in Cheltenham. Sounds like the reverse of your story! So fun to hear that you spent time going to so many of these places that we love and visit frequently. We are constantly having American visitors come over and we show them our beloved Cotswolds. And we will be going to the Open Gardens day tomorrow in Stanton with some American friends!

[@IamaDutch-Kiwi]

Oh that food trail- Not to mention the pubs themselves. All with their own charm and history. No longer just the place for a Pea, Pie and (S)Pud but culinary delights on one's plate. The sticky toffee puddings did vary here and there but needless to say, ever plate was sent scraped clean, back to the kitchen. Loved this Dara and Ian. Yes indeed Ian, someone had to do this and I am sure no tears were shed in the process. 😂 😂! I think I need to note the names of those pubs for future planning.🤗 Have a wonderful weekend. 👍 💖 🙏 🇳🇱 🙋‍♀ 🇳🇿

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Thanks for watching, Anita! Yes, we definitely enjoyed the "research" for this video! I hope you enjoy your weekend down under. When do you head back?

[@IamaDutch-Kiwi]

@@MagentaOtterTravels I fly to Australia next weekend till the 23rd. Then one more week before I return to Schiphol Airport. So 1 month to go. Time has just flown. 💖

[@TheWrightLifeTravelChannel]

There is nothing quite like a country pub! Everything looked so yummy. And, I love a bitter!

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Then you must try the OTTER bitter ;-)

[@TheWrightLifeTravelChannel]

@@MagentaOtterTravels we have tried it, but marked it a 3 out of 5 in out app!!

[@britainonabudget]

I really appreciate all the work you two put into providing us with the comprehensive information we need. Your sacrifices are numerous. 😁

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Let's be honest... eating loads of STP was no sacrifice. Sifting through 3 years of footage to compile this video WAS! hahaha

[@britainonabudget]

@@MagentaOtterTravels Oh yeah! You know I hear that 😂

[@alisonbowen2547]

Wonderful recommendation’s and mouthwatering closeup’s of delicious looking food!! Will be following your advice when I visit the Cotswold’s this Spring 😊

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

There are so many great pubs! I have discovered several more since posting this video. I recommend looking at Google reviews to help you find a place to eat when you are in an unfamiliar town in Britain. Although, I have posted 25 videos about the Cotswolds... and I pretty much have food that I show in each video about a village or town. So hopefully that will be helpful to you as well! I'm excited for your trip. Let me know how it goes!

[@WITYTRAVELS]

The sign over the bathroom is very funny!

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

I thought so too! I also liked the sign on the outside which said they were serving "PROBABLY the finest food and ales"!!! As a marketer, I thought that was super funny!

[@WITYTRAVELS]

@@MagentaOtterTravels don't want to come off as arrogant!

[@WITYTRAVELS]

One day we'll try Otter Bitter for you! The first stp sounds so good!

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Deal! Come in the summer and we'll watch you drink it ;-)

[@ImByAbdul]

Wow, I'm indeed so amazed by the beauty of this compilation video but being that I've had lots of inward eating I prefer the spot where you had your meal outside. Great experience indeed

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Yes, eating outside on a summer day with a beautiful view of nature and lovely architecture is THE BEST! That is why the Mount Inn is such a favourite of ours. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment. Cheers! Dara

[@BakkerfeelingAdventures]

There you are making it look like a hard job or and ordeal but my o my what a nice challenge. And now i have to make some lunch as this got me quite the appetite. Those dishes look amazing. Seems like you enjoyed yourselves. I know your feeling of that one place so good you drive an extra mile for it. Oh my and more than one place too. 🤤

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Thanks for watching! Editing this video made me constantly hungry!!! 😂

[@MadameMinima]

I have to say that all the food you have shown us just looked amazing and so delicious. Hard to choose one for a winner! I would surely try them all...but without the pint. But also the charm and the ambiance of each pub are so interesting. Each one has its own style but all are just inviting. Thanks for sharing.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

I agree, these places have great food AND great ambiance AND almost all of them were in very picturesque settings. All the things!

[@bobbyxhilone9224]

YUMMMMM!!! I can't imagine ANY American pub and/or restaurant being able to compare with any of these places, Dara. Wow. They all look delish, and your food commentaries were excellent!! (You both must get a heck of a lot of exercise to be able to stay so slim and still indulge in these goodies! 👍😋)

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

In addition to a LOT more walking when I'm in the UK, I also pretty much always share an entree with Ian when we eat out. Which is why I was low key whining about the Queens Head. Only place I've been where they forbid you from sharing an entree!!! Maybe I should order a dessert as my entree... now THERE's an idea! haha

[@griswald7156]

Dara, i think you’ve singled out top pubs by recommendation….i d like to see you choose your own by of “its dinner time ,ooh look there’s a pub over there” and see what transpires…

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

@@griswald7156 I have done that loads of times as well. I’m getting pretty good at figuring out if it’s a Gastropub by checking out the menu and having a peek at the decor. We ate at a couple really wonderful places in our travels, I can think of one in Herefordshire, and one in Northumberland.

[@griswald7156]

@@MagentaOtterTravels id like to see what you make of a pub that’s not considered gastro…”the skirrid inn “would be a good starting point..

[@griswald7156]

@@MagentaOtterTravels the “Druid stone hotel” Haverfordwest….booking essential…..what does that imply…? Go for an early July sunset time..

[@gerrymccartney3561]

It's a hard job but some one has got to do it. The rest of us admire you for putting yourselves though such a tough trial.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

You are most welcome! I am willing to sacrifice so dearly for that magenta otter tribe💖🤣

[@ians3586]

Thank you for recognizing our sacrifice.

[@WaysideWade]

This seems to show a clear difference between pubs in the States and over there. Also, I have no problems with going left. 🍻 ♀️➡️

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Haha good to hear Wade! And yes, British pubs are definitely next level!

[@Top.Mallorca]

Very good informations! Regards from Spain! Like!

[@kayhorrell5324]

Great video on pubs, Dara/ Ian….

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Awww so good to hear from you! You and Steve have been in our thoughts 💕 XX

[@ians3586]

Thank you Kay. Obviously this wasn't an exhaustive survey and there are still a number of places we need to visit. Top of Dara's list is the Pudding Club and mine is the Ebrington Arms. Since we don't drink, most Brits would probably conclude this is more a review of restaurants than a proper evaluation of pubs.

[@The_Brit_Girls]

I loved the tableware in the second pub. Very attractive. It was great to see all the dogs at the Butcher's Arms. Oh my, no electricity in the village until the early 1960s?

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Most all of these are gastropubs... they do have rather fancy ingredients and tableware. And sometimes are a bit pricey. But WORTH IT! And thanks, I had to include that local resident interview because I thought his historical stories were so fascinating!

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

@@Poliss95 incredible!

[@TheTopperChef]

Excellent vlog! Thanks for sharing.

[@cornwallglory]

Wow what a selection of grub, yum 😋 I think that treacle tart and clotted cream looked incredible! But all pubs had some wonderful food ❤

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Yes, they are all great! And yes, I would like a slice of that treacle tart with clotted cream right now!😋

[@cornwallglory]

@@MagentaOtterTravels what’s the treacle tart like in Texas or is it not a thing? 🥰

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

@@cornwallglory we don’t have treacle! But pecan pie is extremely popular here in Texas, because we have lots of pecan trees and pecans grow here. In a couple weeks at Thanksgiving it will be eaten in many homes here in Texas! If you took the layer of pecans off the top of the pie, what’s left would be similar to that treacle tart I had at the Green Dragon.

[@cornwallglory]

@@MagentaOtterTravels wow that sounds delicious and I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving 🥰

[@paulroyal1523]

They all look amazing x

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

That was a FUN video to make!!

[@user-zy5eb1sc5q]

Fantastic food

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Thanks for watching! We have found even more wonderful pubs, so I will be doing an updated version of this video with more suggestions 😋

[@philipmason9537]

I’m gonna be eating at all of these given time !

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Yay! Tell 'em Magenta Otter sent you and that they should watch my video ;-) LOL! Bon appetite!

[@philipmason9537]

@@MagentaOtterTravels 👍👍

[@GENerationXplorers]

What an amazing mission! Love that you both take on all the tough missions! Wow, The Green Dragon, what a great name and sign, its like stepping into a pub from The Lord of the Rings! Otter Bitter? Yikes. Lovely presentation on the salad and pie. Both desserts looked marvellous! The New Inn, what a lovely surrounding, good innbetween point, liked what you did there! 😂The Queens Head gastro looks lovely, i rarely eat lamb, but that looked nice, no entree sharing? Boo! Wont be visiting that one! The Butchers Arms looks welcoming and rustic, what a nice place! Lovely food that looks so fresh it was jumping off the plate. The Mount Inn, what a lovely signage, views to definitely return for. Food that good with views? The Mount Inn wins but The Green Dragon also charmed. Great share 👍

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

You are the most attentive viewer ever! Thank you for coming along and leaving such a lovely comment!💕

[@GENerationXplorers]

@@MagentaOtterTravels ah thanks Dara, you are both very easy to watch no matter what subject you lay your talents to!

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

@@GENerationXplorers you are too kind!

[@yasminshikingmission]

An awesome mission 😂😂 brilliant all the food looked amazing! I need to take on this mission 😅

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Yes, you do! And you can hike the Cotswold trail in between pubs! The mount inn is right along the trail!

[@markhirschmann9967]

If you are based in Cheltenham you should also try getting to the Forest of Dean as it has some wonderful walks and pubs eg The White Hart in Newnham which is along the Severn river which is great to sit outside during summer, also the Woodman in Parkend to name a few

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Thanks so much for your recommendations! We ate at the Red Lion Wainlode (near Down Hatherley) along the Severn last summer and it was delicious! Are you new to my channel? I just had another new subscribers yesterday from the Forest of Dean. Nice to hear from you! Cheers! Dara

[@PostcardAndAPint]

Well that was difficult to pick a favourite!! They all looked amazing. We’re not too much into the puddings but the mains and starters looked incredible. The halloumi looked divine. We will be putting all 5 of these on our to visit list. Cheers 🍻

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Let’s meet up! You have a pint and we will have a pudding! Lol

[@RhubarbAndCod]

Hahah... you would encourage the Otter Bitter! I feel like the treacle tart would be similar to our butter tarts we enjoy here in Canada... but that STP?? Looked fantastic! Also the prosciutto, peach and goat's curd salad was just the sort of thing we'd order. So glad the residents voted to bring in electricity, but I'm not sure John meant those village people! Thanks for this Dara! These places looked lovely, and such great food all around!

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

When he said village people, I could not resist! LOL Yes, the food you make is definitely the same vibe as these fancy gastropubs... such quality ingredients and tasty combinations! I loved your overthinking STP video ;-) Thanks for watching, Susan! Have a great weekend XX Dara

[@christabuchanan5889]

Obviously I have a very soft spot for the Butchers Arms, but next time please let’s try again to make it to Mount Inn!! ❤

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Yes, we must make the Mount Inn next time!! And we have now found better fish & chips closer to us as well ... Joel will be happy ;-)

[@ShaneNixonFamily]

Oh my. This just reminds of just how long it has been since we had some decent pub grub. Not helping making my morning muesli any more palatable. 😂 Note to self, don't watch gastro pub videos over breakfast. 😀 How does a pub forbid entree sharing? I'm not sure how that works? When we go out we may share a whole bunch of entrees and a couple of mains between the 4 of us. Note to self, don't take kidlets out for dinner once they've reached adult size portions. Now it's like, you just want the chips don't you? Oh no daddy, I want you're having... I love a good sticky date pudding but I am intrigued by the treacle pie. Sugar pie, that's my kind of jam. I loved the chat with Mark and John. I had to giggle a bit when Ian introduced them as having lived in the village... It reminded me of Little Britain (or possibly a Monty Python sketch) 😍 Dog friendly is great too. We're going for a road trip after Christmas and taking our greyhound Cassie. A couple of the places we'll be eating at have outdoor eating areas so we'll get to take her. It will be the first time we've gone away with the doggo so we're really looking forward to it. Plus it is a bit of a farm stay. Nothing like the Cotswalds though. Although there is a castle. Which for Oz is kind of weird. 😂 Another absolute belter Dara. Next time the challenge is 5 gastro pubs in one weekend. And....Go.... 🏃‍♀🏃‍♀🏃‍♀😂

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

A castle in Oz? Wow! No no no... I can't do 5 gastropubs in one weekend. That would totally do me in! haha Here's the deal with the "no sharing" policy. You can't say "bring that £30 meal for me and an extra plate for my wife". That is not allowed. So instead Ian got the lamb and I ordered a bowl of soup. Which was the hottest soup on record... it was like molten lava from the center of the earth. I had to wait a full hour before I was able to consume it... by which time everyone else was done eating and ready to leave!

[@ShaneNixonFamily]

@@MagentaOtterTravels ah yes that would be mildly infuriating. We're always sharing stuff. Often because we all want a taste. I think the technical term for molten lava soup is too hot. 😂

[@whiterose.5684]

If in the Cotswolds try the beers from the local Donnington Brewery.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Yes, I believe the Mount Inn is a Donnington pub. 👍

[@JohnandCaraRetiredTravellers]

Oh my goodness every meal looked amazing I don’t think I could choose one for a winner! Mark & John were so fun to watch, loved their stories! Great video Dara! Nice drone shots Ian! ~Cara 💖

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

They were interesting characters! I thought it was cute how Ian plopped down and talked to them for about 20 minutes while I was inside with our friends waiting for our food LOL!

[@JohnandCaraRetiredTravellers]

@@MagentaOtterTravels I loved it!!!!

[@155stw]

Nice! The smallest town in Somerset we’ve been to is. Burnham-on-Sea. Most other towns we just drive through....on the way to Cornwall

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Somerset is "on the way" to Cornwall, but does have some wonderful things to appreciate in its own right. I'm glad to have people around me who point those things out to me ;-) Cheers! Dara

[@fasteddie406]

Best thing is living in these villages in the late spring or summer (the non tourist ones ) take the dog for a walk and get a couple pints of cider and a meal or bar snack meal...(butchers arms style)

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Absolutely! We went to The Green Dragon last night and it was HOPPING! Packed with locals... people AND dogs! 😉

[@youtubecreators284tanoskitchen]

Wow So Nice 👍🌹👍🌹😍

[@griswald7156]

I’ve been to. “The Air Balloon” pub…which is great if you’re going to see the view at Birdlip..

[@ians3586]

We have driven so many times and Dara keeps saying she wants us to eat there. We have a disagreement on that because I believe we did eat there but it was at least 20 years ago. Either way, we should give it another try.

[@griswald7156]

@@ians3586 i like it because the setting is a vignette I can’t get out of my head…its just magical with a sunset at birdlip maybe..its unpretentious inside i think they give you a raffle ticket…and shout blah blah teen ! And here you haven’t got to go into a maze of lanes….its on the main trunk road to Salisbury off the M5..nice alternative to Gloucester services…usually a few characters in there.rather than the homogenous crew that get into the G-services..

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

It is in a great location, and not far from us. Ian claims we ate there donkeys ago... but I def need to go check it out again!!

[@griswald7156]

@@MagentaOtterTravels you ate their donkeys !….that tells me the food must have been really good.. About a mile away from the pub is the viewpoint ,it is spectacular….free to park…but be careful with your suspension ,its a bit holey Moses..

[@griswald7156]

@@ians3586 when we dined at the air balloon,inside was quite distinctive we dined on a raised platform almost a minstrels gallery, Bordered by a wooden balustrade…that and the raffle tickets should nail it for you..and there were steep steps down to get into johns room..

[@jacketrussell]

Been to the Butchers Arms several times. Top pub. 👍

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

It is such a wonderful place! Now you need to visit the Mount Inn and report back 😉

[@jacketrussell]

@@MagentaOtterTravels We like the Carpenters Arms as well.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

@@jacketrussell the one in Winchcombe?

[@jacketrussell]

@@MagentaOtterTravels The one in Miserden near Birdlip.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

@@jacketrussell we went to the Carpenters Arms there! It’s in my video of Miserden 😉

[@AidanEyewitness]

Very good information, but not just information, you capture the charm and ambience of the locations very well. The photography of the food looks good - food can be a bit difficult to photograph. The wood-style titles work well. The locals telling the story of the 10 pubs and pints for 1d added an extra element.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

I do love a "man on the street" interview! And Ian is so friendly... he makes friends everywhere he goes! haha

[@JohnDuffy-vc8wr]

All.

[@MadameMinima]

I am only 19 seconds into the video and am already doubling up with laughter. Oh, Ian, it must be hard to devote yourself to trying all the food. We all really feel sorry for you 😂😂

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

You know we love to eat! 🤣

[@ians3586]

Thank you for recognising what a sacrifice this was.

[@jfergs.3302]

There wasn't one I wouldn't happily try if in the vacinity. Re a fave, I'm leaning towards The Mount, a) for the portion size, and b) the views :) Though it was close with the Green Dragon. Topping all their desserts with a physalis, ha, I used to eat those by the punnet. Sadly I can't remember seeing them in the shops around here for a good while now.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

I’ve never seen those golden berries in a shop! Funny that you used to eat them all the time.🤣 Yes the Mount Inn has great views AND food… a wonderful thing about Cotswold pubs like these🏆

[@jfergs.3302]

@@MagentaOtterTravels I used to get the berries in Asda. But out of curiosity i've just googled 'physalis near me', and it comes up they're in Asda (still), M&S, and Waitrose. Now i've shopped in both Asda and Marksies this week, and if they are there they're blummin' well hidden, cos i didn't see any. Maybe they're in 'selected stores only' as the ads sometimes say 🙂

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

@@jfergs.3302 guess you need to go to a giant Waitrose in London! Lol

[@MikeandTeresaExplore]

Hi Dara, nice video. Slightly controversial though as I don't think you can say these are the best, they are all amazing though with fabulous food. Your description is much nearer the mark they are your favourites. I say this having had similar comments when saying such and such is the best. Also I see the link to Otter ale, but mmmmm. I've been to the The Butchers’s Arms but must be well over 20 years ago and its been on our list to return. M&T

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Well, Mike, you know how this KZbin game is played... I had to go for the search term that scored the best. I couldn't say "our 5 favourite pubs in the Cotswolds that we have eaten at so far..." LOL! But actually, that is the accurate description ;-) Same with my "best animal parks in the Cotswolds" video. I haven't been to them ALL. But I did spend two years and a million hours editing these videos that will only get a moderate number of views, so it was a calculated investment, haha! How many of these have you eaten at? Please visit the Butcher's Arms and let me know what you think! We really want to try Ebrington Arms but haven't been able to snag a reservation yet. Also, we tried the Wheatsheaf in Northleach which was supposed to be top tier... it was only OK and very pricey. Would love to hear your favourites! Cheers! Dara

[@BeforeIKicktheBucket1]

Difficult to answer...hm.. All of them!! ;-) Nice compilation, useful reviews...and it does not seem you have gained any pounds 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 Congrats!

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Oh I definitely gained a few! But honestly it's worse when I'm living here in Texas because I'm not nearly as active as I am all summer when I'm running around Britain! haha

[@tonywilkinson6895]

I went British racing green with envy! I’d have eaten any dish on that video with relish. Ps the old bloke at the end showed bad form sticking his two finger’s up.✌🏼🫢

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Oh yeah, like Churchill, LOL! Glad you enjoyed the lovely green car and the delicious food! ;-)

[@wencireone]

Don't just hate those old things called "New" 😁

[@wencireone]

@@Poliss95 I rest my case 😉 from here in the South

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

I find it amusing!

[@wencireone]

@@MagentaOtterTravelswhat and me too 😉

[@jillhobson6128]

Don't you miss UK country pubs in the US? I'm not talking about the food but the ambience, architecture etc. Even inner city pubs can be so friendly and welcoming.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Yes, absolutely! It is a rainy day here in Texas... I could go for a nice warm fire in a cosy pub with some fried halloumi and a STP!

[@joasama9763]

Best

[@dorianevans9527]

I think you like restaurants more than you actually like pubs. Any pubs you might recommend that serve no or indifferent food ?

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

I’m unusual because I don’t drink alcohol. Most people judge pubs partially by what they have on tap… but that’s lost on me. But I think many Gastropubs have delicious food in and unpretentious environment at a better value than an upscale restaurant .

[@britainonabudget]

Pickled beetroot and grilled halloumi + OTTER BITTER? Get me to the Green Dragon nooooooow.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

We shall take you there... come visit!

[@britainonabudget]

@@MagentaOtterTravels As soon as I can!!

[@wencireone]

Venison burger, I bet that was deer😉

[@ians3586]

It was rather!

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

It was, but worth it! haha

[@dannydorko7075]

the village people haha

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Thanks for noticing! I was waiting for someone to... ;-)

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

@@Poliss95 😂🤣

[@lizbignell7813]

And people say British food is terrible!! I am about to start to cook but l don’t think it will be as good as anything you had at these super looking pubs.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Stupid cows... anyone who says Britain has bad food is just stupid. And they should be shown this video! Hope you have a nice dinner, Liz! Cheers! Dara

[@lizbignell7813]

Thanks, Dara.

[@johnclements6614]

Otter do some good beer.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

With a name like OTTER it has to be good ;-)

[@harrydance1969]

The “pub” in Stanton for over 30 years has been nothing but weird. Never ever welcoming and insists upon 20c trad opening hours? Many a Walker has tried to get a pint on a sunny busy Saturday afternoon (or bank holiday) to be told they have stopped serving for the afternoon and will open again in the evening. Even on weekend days when there is lots of desperate customers?! They often don’t open their beer garden and I’ve seen them inform around 60 customers in said garden in the middle of the afternoon “we’re closing now”. Never once in 3 decades have I ever felt that the place hasn’t had the attitude like it’s doing me some sort of a favour? It’s some kind of cultural tradition there? Very very very strange business/place. Much better to plan walks in the area to visit the Trumpet in Broadway.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

I've driven by The Trumpet a million times... must stop in there sometime based on your recommendation. We have observed that the hours at the Mount Inn are quite odd and unpredictable... I hear you! But the food is great if you are lucky enough to be there when they are serving LOL

[@harrydance1969]

Love you and your channel but these look like awful pubs? Some don’t even look like particularly good restaurants? There are so many amazing pubs still surviving in the Cotswolds but alas these homogenous country, Disney cliches of what are no more than restaurants being run from what was once a pub or coaching inn seem to be everywhere. I’m glad it means the businesses can survive but they’re all the same and they’re certainly not pubs.

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Well, I went to one of these favourite pubs last Friday night and just about got kicked out! The Green Dragon. They had messed up my reservation and told me we were not on the list. Quite inconvenient, since we were meeting up with friends from Texas who had just driven there from Manchester! After a lengthy interrogation they finally let us sit and eat dinner. I enjoyed the food, but it was a bit disconcerting. I'd love to hear what pubs are your very favourites in the area!!

[@dh7211]

@@MagentaOtterTravels Glad they found you a table! I popped into the 'The Chequers' in Chipping Norton today (its always a cracking little pub), which is one I'd recommend (and I believe its been used in commercials due to its atmosphere). The Crown & Trumpet in Broadway is wonderfully quirky and the Queens Head in Stow on the Wold is charming (when not too busy). The Castle at Edgehill? The Rose and Crown at Ratley? The Black Horse at Shipton on Stour is a tad more workman-like and "functional" but a charming mid 20 century fitout survives in the ancient building. The Fleece Inn at Bretforton (near Stanton)? I think you'd like the Seven Tuns Inn in Chedworth (which is more of a restaurant) as its a charming location and building - and you can walk to it from the Chedworth Roman Villa. The Wheatsheaf in Northleach is modern, but nice! (With a great terraced garden for fine weather). The Dover's Bar in Chipping campden has a nice traditional bar/pub? The Salford Inn in Salford (nr Chipping Norton)? I'll stop now! :-) Love your videos!

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

@@dh7211 cheers mate! We have been to Seven Tuns and Wheatsheaf... will have to try the others!

[@AltayFamily]

Difficult to answer...hm.. All of them ;-) Nice compilation, useful reviews...and it does not seem you have gained any pounds 🤣🤣 Congrats..

[@MagentaOtterTravels]

Oh, I did. But it was worth it! Lol.