For Alan Gleeson, autumn is one of the most rewarding times to experience the Cotswolds’ thriving food scene.
Having lived and worked in the area for 15 years, he’s watched a community of farmers, bakers, brewers and restaurateurs shape a region that’s as celebrated for its food and drink as it is for its outstanding areas of natural beauty.
As Executive Chef at The Fox at Oddington, championing the region’s producers and seasonal ingredients is central to his philosophy. Beyond the kitchen, however, Alan is a supporter of the local food scene, with a keen appreciation for the cafés, bakeries, pubs and restaurants that make the Cotswolds such a distinctive place to eat and drink.
Here, he shares the places he recommends most often, from favourite coffee stops and bakeries to cosy pubs and restaurants well worth seeking out this autumn.
For me, it’s the pubs. There’s a real sense of the seasons changing in the Cotswolds, and autumn is when that starts to shine through on menus. Game begins to appear, dishes become heartier, and there’s a stronger focus on seasonal ingredients across the region. It’s also the time of year when our pies make their return at The Fox, which always feels like the true start of autumn for me.
Grouch in Moreton-in-Marsh. Consistently great coffee and a favourite of mine.
KNEAD in Cirencester. Founder Kris was my Head Pastry Chef at The Rectory in Crudwell back in 2018, and I’ve loved seeing what he’s built since. He’s created a fantastic collection of bakeries across the Cotswolds, all known for seriously good bread and pastries.
I’d probably make my way into Cheltenham and visit Baker & Graze in the Suffolks. They do a great breakfast and brunch, and it’s somewhere I find myself recommending regularly.
The Woolpack at Slad. It’s a proper pub with a strong focus on local produce, and its location in the heart of the Slad Valley only adds to its appeal.
I’m looking forward to visiting the recently renovated Tunnel House near Cirencester. It’s a great country pub.
Juliet in Stroud. They’re doing things the right way. It’s a brilliant neighbourhood bistro with an ever-changing menu that really celebrates great produce.
The Beehive in Montpellier, Cheltenham.
Honestly, it’s wherever Sam Brown happens to be working that night. If he’s behind the bar, it’s worth a visit. Otherwise, The Rectory in Crudwell is hard to beat.
Henne in Moreton-in-Marsh. Owners Darren and Nick provide exceptional service and have created something really special. The attention to detail, quality of the food and warm hospitality make it a place more people should have on their radar.
It has to be The Fox at Oddington. Chloe our Head Chef has absolutely nailed the Sunday lunch offering, and the organic sirloin from the Wootton Estate is beautiful. After a walk in the countryside, it’s exactly the kind of meal you want to sit down to.
Image credit:
KNEAD Bakery
Ed Schofield for Juliet Restaurant
The Rectory Hotel
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