Athelstan Cottage

Imagine dropping a French bistro into the Cotswolds and you’ve got something a lot like Juliet. Combining a buzzy vibe with an enthusiastic and affable team, plus delightful dishes from beyond France’s borders, it’s easy to see why the place is so popular. The menu largely sticks to the classics, providing satisfying versions of time-honoured favourites; keep an eye on the dish of the day, for treats such as cavatelli with lamb ragù. If you’re celebrating, consider booking the private Piano Bar, where a live musician will soundtrack your evening.

Something of a hidden gem, this inviting brasserie-style restaurant is situated within a Palladian country house hotel, itself secreted down the narrow lane of an attractive Cotswolds town. Chef Jamie McCallum is quietly putting all his experience to use here on straightforward yet refined dishes where each plate is pleasingly uncluttered. A superb beef Wellington shows the kitchen at its best, accompanied by a pot of deep, rich and glossy Madeira reduction. When execution is skilled and ingredients are strong, there’s little need for anything else.