The Best Sunday Roasts in the Cotswolds (2025 Edition)
There’s something quintessentially British about winding your way through quaint villages or the rolling green hills, then settling in for a Sunday roast with all the trimmings. The Cotswolds, with its abundance of cosy pubs and country inns, doesn’t disappoint. Whether you want a traditional roast in a centuries-old inn or a modern twist in a stylish gastro-pub, here are some top picks to satisfy your Sunday appetite.
What Makes a Great Roast
Before we dive into the recommendations, here are a few notes I look for when judging a roast:
Quality and provenance of the meat (local, well-sourced)
Perfect roast potatoes (crispy exterior, fluffy interior)
Generous Yorkshire puddings - very important coming from a Yorkshire gal!
Seasonal vegetables, well cooked
Good gravy / jus (not watery)
Fab accompaniments
Warm, welcoming atmosphere (fireplace, wooden beams, local character)
Reasonable value, especially given rural location
These touches can turn a “just okay” roast into a memorable one.
Top Roasts to Try Across the Cotswolds
Here are roasts I’d confidently recommend, organised loosely from north → south / east, to cover different parts of the region.
The Feathered Nest — Nether Westcote
This charming inn is one of the most loved roast spots in the heart of the Cotswolds. Their kitchen (with a 3 AA Rosette rating) serves beautifully cooked beef, pork belly, or other seasonal meats with all the proper trimmings: crisp roasties, Yorkshire puds, seasonal veg, and rich gravy.
The setting is warm and comfortable, making it ideal for lingering over a long Sunday lunch.
The Halfway at Kineton (Guiting Power area)
If you’re exploring the less-travelled parts of the Cotswolds, The Halfway is a gem. Their roast menu includes “double spud” (roast and mash) and Yorkshire puddings often filled with slow-cooked brisket.
The pub has a relaxed, village feel — perfect after a countryside walk.
The Horse & Groom — Bourton on the Hill
This pub has earned a Bib Gourmand for its food, and their Sunday roast is something special. Expect a three-meat sharing roast (beef, pork, chicken) with both roast and mashed potatoes, and Yorkshire puddings loaded with beef shin.
It’s a great option if your group wants variety or wants to share and try a bit of everything.
The New Inn — Coln St Aldwyns / near Bibury
A little off the beaten path, The New Inn offers creative takes on roast with joints like 12-hour short rib or slow-roasted pork belly, while still keeping the roast format with seasonal vegetables and trimmings.
If you’re visiting the scenic Bibury area, this is a smart lunch stop.
The Bell Inn — Langford (With additional pubs by the same group)
The Bell Inn is well known for its solid, no-fuss Sunday roast. As part of a small group of pubs (The Lamb at Shipton, The Fox at Broadwell) they maintain consistent standards of good roast – think well-cooked meat, crisp potatoes, seasonal veg.
It’s a trustworthy choice in more rural spots.
The Double Red Duke — Bampton
A stylish pub with a contemporary feel, The Double Red Duke serves roasts cooked over fire or embers, giving them a deeper, smoky character. Options include beef, pork belly, or a whole chicken to share.
The interior and ambiance are also strong points — ideal if you want roast in a more elegant setting.
Having spent my parents anniversary here for dinner it certainly is fabulous for a special occasion!
The Swan — Southrop
Close to Thyme (the boutique hotel/estate), The Swan offers highly seasonal cooking, and their Sunday roast is a highlight. The ambiance is intimate, the food locally focused.
If you’re staying or wandering nearby, it’s a perfect roast lunch destination.
The Potting Shed — Crudwell
This pub mixes rustic charm with creative flair. Their roast choices include beef and pork, with some interesting side dishes and a butcher’s plate option for variety.
It’s great for groups where some prefer a roast and others want different pub classics.
This is one of my favorites where we are regular visitors.
The Bull — Burford
While primarily known as a hotel (part of the recent renovation wave in Burford), The Bull also offers stunning roast dinners on Sundays. Expect bold flavor, generous portions, and a polished setting.
It’s a strong choice if you want something a bit elevated, perhaps paired with an overnight stay.
Honourable Mentions / Other Spots
The Lamb Inn, Burford — classic menu, solid quality, sometimes a vegetarian Wellington alternative.
The Three Horsehoes, Burford — offers roasts within a more “gastro pub” style environment.
The Falcon, Painswick — a charming Georgian pub with very good roast options, especially if you’re in the southern side of the Cotswolds.
The Sun, Hook Norton — slightly beyond the classic Cotswolds border, but notable for good roast versions (chicken, pork, beef) and roast potatoes praised for perfection.
Tips for Enjoying Roasts in the Cotswolds
Reserve ahead — many of these places fill up quickly on Sundays, especially in good weather.
Check timing — some pubs serve their roast only during a limited window (e.g. 12pm–3pm).
Ask about joints — if you prefer beef, pork, lamb, or even a mixed roast, see what’s available that day.
Vegetarian / fish options — many pubs now offer alternatives (roast cauliflower, nut roast, etc.), but availability can be limited, so check menus or call ahead.
Go local — the best roasts often come when meat, veg, potatoes are from local farms or producers.
Pair intelligently — a crisp ale or a good glass of red will complement a rich roast beautifully.
Lizzie x