Rupert Parker stays at Horse and Groom Inn, a friendly and welcoming 16th Century Cotswolds Pub.
Located in the beautiful village of Upper Oddington, close to the Historic Market town of Stow-on-the-Wold, the dog-friendly Horse and Groom Inn is the archetypal country pub. Expect stone flags on the floor, a roaring wood fire and plenty of locals. Both the beer and the food here are excellent and there’s also a select wine list. Don’t expect anything fancy but the rooms are cosy and comfortable, and you’re guaranteed a good night’s sleep.
The Cotswolds is not exactly an unknown destination as its one of the most popular destinations in the English countryside. Gentle farmland, villages with yellow stone houses and soaring churches all set in peace and quiet. Yet it can appear appalling twee, stuffed with Range Rovers and green wellies. Fortunately, the Horse and Groom Inn brings you back down to earth.
This is the oldest working inn in the Cotswolds, established in 1584, with excellent local ales on tap, a draw for locals and visitors alike. There are just seven rooms with five above the pub and two in a cottage ten yards away. All have en-suite bathrooms, TV & DAB radio, Nespresso coffee machine and tea making facilities, plus iron and ironing board.
We stayed in Room 1, all textured rugs, and snug throws with pristine linen on a very comfortable bed. A welcome basket was provided complete with bottle of water, crisps, snacks and biscuits. There were posh cosmetics in the bathroom and a USB charging adaptor was provided. Even though the room was above the bar, it was completely silent at night.
Food is of gastropub quality, sourced locally where possible and a map on the menu shows you where the suppliers are. Stalwarts such as Liver and Bacon and Slow Cooked Belly Pork share the bill with Asian-influenced starters. Of course, there’s a substantial roast on offer on Sundays. Breakfasts are copious so don’t miss out on a Full English.
There’s a separate lounge for hotel guests and, as well as the main bar, there’s also a cosy “Snug” adjacent. Wi-Fi is free throughout, there’s ample parking and plenty of tables outside to take in the country air.
The Horse and Groom Inn is dog-friendly, and three guest rooms are designated for dogs and their owners. When you arrive dogs are usually greeted before owners, and complimentary dog beds, biscuits and blankets are supplied. The large beer garden is completely enclosed and has its own stream, a real attraction for four-legged visitors.
The Horse and Groom Inn proves that historic doesn’t mean basic. Rooms and facilities are bang up to date, yet you still can dream you’re back in the 16th century as you soak up the atmosphere in the bar. It makes a perfect base to explore this wonderful English landscape on foot and maps and guides are provided. Close by is the market town of Stow-on-the-Wold. And it’s an easy 20-mile drive to Shakespeare’s Stratford on Avon or the racecourse at Cheltenham.
Tell Me More About The Horse And Groom Inn
Room rates in April at the Horse and Groom Inn start from £109 per night for a Standard Double room, or from £119 per night for a Dog-Friendly Double or Twin room.
The Inn is a short taxi ride from Kingham station which is on the direct line from London Paddington.
The Horse & Groom Inn Upper Oddington, Moreton in Marsh, GL56 0XH
E: info@horseandgroomcotswolds.co.uk T: 01451 830584
