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The Old Butchers: A Culinary Gem in Stow-on-the-Wold

A family-run culinary haven in Stow-on-the-Wold, blending rustic charm with exceptional seafood and charcoal-grilled delights.

4.5

The Old Butchers in Stow-on-the-Wold is a family-run, upscale restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional seafood and European cuisine. Housed in a former butcher’s shop, it offers a rustic yet cosy setting with a menu emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients, including a nose-to-tail ethos and a focus on shellfish and charcoal-grilled meats. Open Tuesday to Saturday, it welcomes diners seeking a memorable, refined dining experience in the Cotswolds.

A brief summary to The Old Butchers

  • 7 Park St, Cheltenham, Stow-on-the-Wold, GL54 1AQ, GB
  • +441451831700
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
  • Luxury
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Tuesday 12 pm-2 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-2 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-2 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-2 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-2 pm

Local tips

  • Book in advance as seating is limited and the restaurant is popular, especially for dinner service.
  • Try the seafood platter or the charcoal-grilled steaks for signature dishes that showcase the kitchen’s strengths.
  • Visit on a sunny day to enjoy the heated covered terrace seating for an al fresco experience.
  • Note that the restaurant is closed on Sundays and Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
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The Old Butchers location weather suitability

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A Family Legacy in a Historic Setting

The Old Butchers began its journey in 2005 when Pete and Louise Robinson transformed a former butcher’s shop in Stow-on-the-Wold into a beloved dining destination. The building’s heritage as a butcher’s shop is reflected in the restaurant’s name and its commitment to quality meat dishes. The family-run nature of the restaurant shines through in the warm, attentive service, with Louise managing front of house and their daughter Millie often welcoming guests. This intimate, personal touch creates a welcoming atmosphere that balances professionalism with heartfelt hospitality.

Distinctive Menu with a Seafood and Charcoal Focus

The menu at The Old Butchers is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients with a strong emphasis on seafood and charcoal-grilled meats. It features dishes such as Cornish lobster mac ‘n’ cheese, Scottish langoustines, Dover sole, and a variety of shellfish including oysters and mussels. The kitchen embraces a nose-to-tail philosophy, ensuring minimal waste by creatively using all parts of the animal. Meat lovers can enjoy expertly cooked steaks and slow-cooked calves liver, while seafood enthusiasts will find an array of fresh and inventive options. The menu changes regularly to reflect seasonal availability and supplier freshness.

Atmosphere and Interior Charm

Inside, The Old Butchers exudes rustic charm with stone brick walls, wooden tables, and a feature wine shelf that adds character to the cosy dining room. The ambience is lively yet relaxed, making it suitable for both casual meals and special occasions. There is also limited outdoor seating on a heated, covered terrace, perfect for warmer days. The restaurant maintains a balance between a vibrant buzz and comfortable intimacy, ensuring diners feel at ease without overcrowding.

Drinks and Dining Experience

The drinks list complements the menu with a fine selection of wines, spirits, and local beers including bitters and ales. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate, often recommending pairings that enhance the dining experience. Service is consistently praised for being warm and attentive, with the owners often engaging personally with guests. The restaurant’s maximum table size is six, preserving an intimate dining environment and allowing for personalized attention.

Practical Information and Accessibility

The Old Butchers operates Tuesday to Saturday, serving lunch from 12 pm to 2 pm and dinner from 6 pm to 9 pm, and is closed on Sundays and Mondays. It welcomes children and families but cannot accommodate prams or strollers inside, and lacks baby-changing facilities. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and offers free WiFi. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity and limited seating. The location in the heart of the Cotswolds makes it a perfect stop for visitors exploring the region’s cultural and culinary heritage.

A Celebrated Destination in the Cotswolds

Over the years, The Old Butchers has earned a reputation as one of the finest dining spots in the Cotswolds, combining high-quality food with a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Its commitment to fresh, locally sourced produce and the skillful blending of European culinary traditions have made it a must-visit for gourmets and casual diners alike. Whether indulging in a seafood feast or savoring a perfectly grilled steak, guests leave with a memorable taste of the region’s best offerings.

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