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Summer in the Cotswolds brings pub gardens into full bloom. The air is warm, the pints are cold, and there’s a gentle buzz from walkers, cyclists, and locals soaking up the long evenings. Everyone loves a good country pub, and while there are plenty of celebrated names in the region (and rightly so), we’re also partial to a few under-the-radar favourites that don’t tend to make the headlines (but should).
Here’s our shortlist, blending well-known classics with some lesser-trodden gems. All are dog-friendly, full of charm, and serve excellent food.
The Woolpack, Slad
Dog-friendly | Mains from £14–£23
Made famous by Laurie Lee’s Cider with Rosie, The Woolpack has a quiet cult following among those who know the Slad Valley well. It’s small, authentic and packed with character. Chalkboard menus, great beer, and the kind of valley view that makes you want to linger all afternoon. It’s not a secret by any means, and tourists love a visit, but it never tries too hard, and that’s exactly why we love it.
The Porch House, Stow-on-the-Wold
Dog-friendly | Mains from £16–£30
Said to be England’s oldest inn, The Porch House is a well-established favourite in the north Cotswolds. It manages to strike the perfect balance: smart without being stuffy, characterful without being kitsch. Come for the historic charm and stay for the modern British menu, excellent wine list, and a peaceful garden tucked behind the main high street. It’s reliable, welcoming, and always a joy.
The Green Dragon, Cockleford (Near Cowley, Cheltenham)
Dog-friendly | Mains from £14–£24
Tucked into the countryside south of Cheltenham, The Green Dragon feels like the kind of place you stumble upon after a long walk. Think roaring fires in winter, generous plates of pub classics, and a garden that backs onto open woodland. It’s relaxed, very welcoming, and refreshingly unpretentious. Dogs are very much part of the family here.
Fostons Ash, The Camp, Near Stroud
Dog-friendly | Mains from £16–£26
Located between Painswick and Miserden, this pub feels like a true local secret. Expect friendly service, proper seasonal dishes (plus a decent pizza in the summer months), and a peaceful garden on the edge of the Cotswold escarpment. It’s a perfect pitstop for those walking the Cotswold Way, and yes, dogs are warmly welcomed both inside and out.
The Lamb Inn, Crawley (Near Witney)
Dog-friendly | Mains from £15–£28
Set just outside Witney, this 18th-century inn pairs rustic surroundings with quietly confident food. It’s not on the usual tourist trail, which is exactly why we like it. Expect a thoughtful, locally sourced menu, an excellent drinks list, and a sun-drenched terrace for long lunches. Dogs are greeted with water bowls and smiles.
A Few Practical Notes
All of the above pubs are dog-friendly (with dogs welcome inside as well as in the gardens), and most offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Prices typically range between £14–£30 for mains, and it's always worth booking ahead, especially for weekend lunches or sunny afternoons.