The charming market town of Northleach remains one of the Cotswolds’ most treasured hidden gems.
Tucked away amidst lush greenery, this tranquil village is conveniently located off the bustling A40 and a mere 90-minute drive from Birmingham.
It also boasts one of the area’s top pubs – The Wheatsheaf Inn – recently featured in a Michelin guide as one of the UK’s most charming and snug spots.
The esteemed guide showered the inn with accolades.
Its pub was hailed as “true as can be” to the utopian ideal of a classic pub, while the inn itself was praised as a stylishly comfortable place to rest.
The Michelin guide wrote: “England’s venerable coaching inns are the ancestors of today’s pubs, and The Wheatsheaf Inn, in the Cotswold town of Northleach, is as true as can be to the classic, slightly utopian ideal of a public house as a welcoming place for a drink, a delicious bite to eat and an attractive, comfortable room for the night.”
The rave write-up concluded: “If only there were more places like this, the world would be all the better for it.”
This pub puts a modern twist on traditional English country cuisine and, as per Michelin, this is served in an environment of relaxed sophistication.
They note: “The crowd is stylish without intimidation. Kate Moss is something of a local talisman, and her portrait hangs in the dining room.”
For those considering an overnight stay at the Wheatsheaf, there are 14 elegantly decorated rooms to choose from, each equipped with everything you might need – some rooms even feature copper baths for a dash of vintage elegance.
After enjoying a delightful meal and a restful night, you can explore the quaint village of Northleach. A key attraction is the impressive parish church, which has been a central feature of the town since 1100.
The current St Peter and Paul’s Parish Church retains little of its original structure, but its grandeur as it looms over the town is undeniable.
Despite a population of just under 3,000, this village packs a punch.
This charming hamlet also boasts being the filming location for the BBC comedy This Country, featuring Daisy May Cooper and her brother Charlie Cooper as cousins Kerry and Kurtan Mucklowe.
The Market Square, located in the town centre, is a hub of activity, particularly on Saturdays when the weekly market takes place.
At the end of the main street, you’ll find the Old Prison, now transformed into a splendid cafe serving breakfast and lunch, perfect after exploring the historic site.
Constructed in the 1790s, this building was once a model prison, inspiring improved care and rehabilitation of prisoners across Britain – it even served as a blueprint for London’s Pentonville Prison.
For those up for a longer excursion, the Cotswolds Wildlife Park is a mere 20 minutes away. This park is a favourite among young families.
If you prefer a more leisurely stroll, there’s plenty to discover in the surrounding countryside.