The Stag at Stow

Offering a lovely overall package that includes bedrooms and a warming atmosphere, this cosy pub makes a perfect base for exploring the Cotswolds. The 19th-century building has been renovated into a fine-looking property, with a bar area where every local and their dog can have a relaxing drink. The cooking is generous in both size and flavour, with a roll-call of pub classics and stand-out desserts like the terrific apple and walnut crumble. Several themed evenings offer particularly great value for money, be it ‘pie night’ or ‘steak and a pint’.

Sister to The Wild Rabbit in Kingham and the Daylesford Organic Farm, this immaculately refurbished 19C Cotswold inn is bursting with style and character, boasting flagged floors, exposed stone walls and an impressive wood-fired oven. The menu covers all bases – from pizza to Hereford sirloin on the bone – and uses top quality ingredients from their estate in unfussy, generously sized, tasty combinations. Make a night of it with a stay in one of their stylish bedrooms.

Lords of the Manor is an appropriate name for a 17th-century Cotswolds hotel, and Atrium is an equally apt name for this restaurant located within the hotel's inner sanctum. A large skylight allows natural light to flood into the compact dining room, where diners are served a tasting menu all at the same time. The dishes come with attractive modern presentation and their greatest strength is in the natural flavours of the central ingredients, which are ably cooked by kitchen team. A wine pairing and overnight stay will make an event of your visit.

There may be Daylesford cafés spread all around London now, but this is the mothership. Found in the heart of the Cotswolds, you enter this stylishly rustic eatery through the farm shop, before dining in a choice of areas: head to the Legbar for charcuterie and nibbles, the Old Spot for pizzas and wood-roasted specials, or the main Trough Café for something a bit more substantial. Everything is organic, with much of the produce coming from the on-site farm and providing a fabulous base for the well-executed dishes – the range of beautiful salads is often the highlight.

‘henne’ refers to Marsh Henne, the original name of the Cotswolds market town which has this likeable restaurant at its heart. Run by two friends, it's a place filled with passion and enthusiasm, with plenty of care put into dishes that are well described by the service team. Local produce is showcased on the surprise tasting menu, where the best courses have an appealing simplicity about them, like hand-dived scallops enhanced by pickled celery, apple and yuzu oil. Go for the wine pairing to complete the experience.

Just down the road from the Daylesford Farm Shop is the Bamford family’s stylishly modernised country pub. It's constantly packed with contented diners and it's no wonder why as this is an utterly charming place, looking every inch the quintessential Cotswolds inn. Accomplished cooking offers plenty of appeal, with the natural flavours of the farm’s superb organic ingredients underpinning the menu. Look out for the live music and occasional supper clubs, and if you want to continue your Cotswolds adventure then stay over in the luxurious bedrooms.

In a tranquil Gloucestershire village sits this 17th-century mellow stone inn, which offers a warm welcome and plenty of rustic charm, from its fireplace to its exposed timber. The appealing menu of hearty, well-cooked dishes is likely to include pies, fish & chips and a choice of locally reared steaks from the grill – plus a roast on Sundays. For desserts, expect modernised versions of classic recipes like steamed puddings and crumbles. Cosy bedrooms are also available if you want to explore the area.