The Old Stocks Inn
The low-down
The edgiest hotel in the Cotswolds. This 16-bed former coaching inn boasts hipster-cool interiors while respecting its 17th-century roots.
What makes it special?
It’s slick design. There might be acres of Cotswolds’ loveliness to explore outside its walls but inside, it’s could be more likened to a trendy east London cafe. Care has been taking to restore the original features though, resulting in a hotel that celebrates its country origins but offers all the modernisms city dwellers yearn for.
We’re talking snazzy furniture in lemon yellows and minty blues, set against the original stone walls. Exposed bulbs hang from beams, and prints and lightboxes displaying mantras line slanted staircases. Expect all your usual comforts; ultra-modern TVs and sound systems, speedy Wi-Fi, Nespresso machines and fully kitted-out bathrooms.
The owners – Charlotte and Richard – couldn’t be nicer. And the warmth and attentiveness of the rest of the staff is admirable. It’ll have you falling in love with the place, just like them.
Ideas for ‘us’ time
Snuggle up in the library beside the bar and get stuck into the impressive board game collection. The bar has its own game too, where you can roll a dice to order a surprise Prosecco in any number of flavours.
You’re in prime footing for some of the best bits of the Cotswolds at The Old Stocks Inn. Satisfy your sweet tooth with an afternoon tea at nearby Bourton-on-Water or discover shelf upon shelf of organic goodies at famous Daylesford Farm. Oh and FYI, there’s a pocket-sized bucket list in your room, filled with even more of the hotel’s top things to do.
Very soon, The Old Stocks will open its pop-up Secret Garden. A sunny terrace where you can enjoy wood-fired pizzas and drinks.
The dinner for two
You won’t need to wander far for gourmet food, which is ideal for slumping into the hotel bar afterwards. Dinner at The Old Stocks’ restaurant is traditional British with a some added flair. Designed to tickle taste buds, dishes are creative and the very best quality, with ingredients from local farmers and bakers. Head Chef, Wayne Sullivan has modelled his menu on his time on MasterChef: The Professionals. He appeared on the hit show last year reaching the semi-finals. The petite but premium wine list has all tastes covered and after dinner, you can enjoy craft beers, creative cocktails and Chase Spirits at the bar.
Anything else?
Don’t forget to pop into the neighbouring Little Stocks Coffee shop. There are artisan coffees and teas, irresistible sarnies and crumbly cakes.
The Old Stocks Inn, The Square, Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire GL54 1AF
W: www.oldstocksinn.com
T: 01451 830666
E: [email protected]
Read our full review of The Old Stocks Inn
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