Michelin Star restaurants in the Cotswolds
The dining scene in this glorious part of the country has long been highly regarded, but with an increasing number of Michelin Star restaurants in the Cotswolds, we thought we would shine the spotlight on a few. The establishments that hold the much-coveted stars are a varied and diverse bunch, but all have a solid commitment to exceptional dining. Likewise, a passion for using the fabulous local produce that the Cotswolds is so renowned for. Alongside this list of fabulous foodie finds we’ve highlighted where you can stay too, so planning your discovery of Michelin-starred restaurants in the Cotswolds is as easy as…pie.
The Royal Oak | Whatcote
To give you an idea of how old this lovely pub is, Oliver Cromwell is reputed to have stayed here before the Battle of Edgehill in 1642. It’s a place full of character and charm and its original purpose in life was as a drinks shelter catering for the workers building the local church. You can expect a strong farm-to-fork ethos with much of the sensational produce coming from small providers in the hills and valleys that surround the village. The focus is very much on what chef-owner Richard Craven describes as ‘proper country food’. The menu is tightly seasonal, and dishes may appear fleetingly, depending on what is available. The little village of Whatcote is close to Shipston-on-Stour and just a 20-minute drive from Stratford-upon-Avon.
Where to Stay
Woodfields – 4 miles High Pump Cottage – 10 miles Suncroft – 11 miles
Salt | Stratford-upon-Avon
Tucked away in the historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon, Salt is the dreamchild of Paul Foster and came into being following a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign. Just one-and-a-half years after opening Salt was awarded Stratford-upon-Avon’s first Michelin star, and just goes from strength to strength. The ethos here is clean and unfussy and while the plates might look simple, the flavours are complex, a tribute to the skill of the kitchen. There is also the Chef’s Table – where parties of four to 10 diners can enjoy an intimate and very personal, fine dining experience.
Where to Stay
Trinity Cottage 33 Percy Street Beecham Farmhouse – 4 miles
Daylesford Organic | Daylesford
The proud recipient of a Michelin Green Star, which demonstrates a huge commitment to sustainability, Daylesford has been sowing its organic seeds for more than 40 years. Their passion for sustainable farming, animal welfare and the environment set a high benchmark. At their Cotswold outpost, you’ll find an elegantly rustic eating space attached to the farm shop. The Old Spot is for pizza and wood-fired deliciousness, the Legbar is for drinks and nibbles, while the Trough Café is an airy open dining room and courtyard that showcases the uber-fresh produce picked just steps away.
Where to Stay
Poppy Cottage – 3 miles Teagles Cottage – 4 miles Brock Cottage – 6 miles
Le Champignon Sauvage | Cheltenham
This unassuming restaurant tucked away in ‘the Suffolks’ in the Regency town of Cheltenham has been delighting diners for more than 30 years. The husband and wife team of David and Helen Everitt-Matthias have created a dining experience that is both warm and welcoming, yet also modern and original. The menu changes seasonally and focuses on the finest local ingredients. Open for lunch and dinner, there is both a set menu and an a la carte option to choose from.
Where to Stay
Otley House Old Chapel – 7 miles The Hayloft – 7 miles
Lumiere | Cheltenham
The lucky souls of Cheltenham have not one but two Michelin Star restaurants to choose from. Lumiere sits behind a simple white façade and doorway, which belies the divine dining experience within. The food here is classical and interesting and many of the vegetables and herbs come from their 15-acre small holding. Lunch is available on Friday and Saturday, while they open for dinner from Wednesday to Saturday.
Where to Stay
Hillview Hideaway – 6 miles Locks Cottage – 10 miles Orchard Cottage – 11 miles
The Dining Room | Malmesbury
Holder of not just a Michelin Star but also a Michelin Green Star, the Dining Room at Whatley Manor is an exceptional gastronomic dining experience. The menu is seasonal and creative and somewhat rarely for dining at this level, includes vegan options. The menu descriptions are sparse, which just adds to the intrigue. Their green credentials come from their commitment to be as sustainably efficient as possible. Local and ethical suppliers form their food chain and they work with their partners to reduce food packaging too.
Where to Stay
Wynyard Mill – 2.5 miles Barns Lee – 9 miles 27 Horsefair – 2 miles
Bybrook | Castle Combe
Set within the confines of a fabulous 14th-century manor house, the Bybrook is the epitome of fine dining. Expect elegance and a delicious seasonal menu, curated by executive chef Robert Potter, who oversees a kitchen band of equally talented chefs. The extensive kitchen gardens enable Bybrook to keep their food miles down too. The seven-course menu is available Wednesday to Sunday and can be tailored to vegetarian and vegan diners.
Where to Stay
Christie’s Cabin – 4 miles Swangrove House – 4 miles Middle Barn – 9 miles
Restaurant Hywel Jones at Lucknam Park
Grand, opulent, and formal, this wonderful restaurant is all the things you would expect from a fine-dining establishment at the top of its game. And Restaurant Hywel Jones most definitely is at the top of its game having held a Michelin Star since 2006. Even the arrival is impressive as you enter the mile-long beech-lined driveway to begin your experience with cocktails in the library or drawing room. A la carte and seasonal tasting menus are available.
Where to Stay
The Orangery – 2 miles Ivy Cottage – 2 miles Bluebell Cottage – 2 miles
The Olive Tree | Bath
Secreted away in the basement of the Queensberry Hotel, the Olive Tree has held its Michelin Star since 2018 and currently remains the only restaurant in Bath to be the proud holder of one. Head chef Chris Cleghorn has curated an innovative and personal menu that puts the fabulous local produce front and centre stage. Six and nine-course tasting menus sit alongside a pescatarian offering, as well as both vegetarian and vegan tasting menus.
Where to Stay
Stables Batheaston – 4 miles Old Stables – 7 miles Belvedere – 10 miles
Read more: Best pubs in Burford
