The Royal Oak
Michelin-starred Cotswolds gastropub where 800 years of history meets wild, foraged fine dining.
A Michelin-starred gastropub in the Cotswolds village of Whatcote, The Royal Oak combines over 800 years of history with contemporary fine dining. Run by husband-and-wife team Richard and Solanche Craven, this intimate restaurant showcases assured, understated cooking built on wild meats, foraged ingredients, and produce from regenerative farms. The menu changes constantly to capture seasonal availability, with dishes featuring just three or four components to let exceptional ingredients shine. Half the space remains a traditional pub bar, preserving the venue's welcoming, unpretentious character.
A brief summary to The Royal Oak
- The Royal Oak, Shipston-on-Stour, Whatcote, CV36 5EF, GB
- +441295688100
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3.5 hours
- Luxury
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 6 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-3 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-3 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-3 pm
Local tips
- Book well in advance; the restaurant operates limited hours (closed Monday and Tuesday) and seats only a small number of covers. Reservations fill quickly, especially for weekends.
- The tasting menu offers the fullest expression of the kitchen's philosophy and seasonal focus. At £110, it represents exceptional value for Michelin-starred cooking and showcases the constantly evolving menu.
- Arrive with flexibility regarding dietary requirements. The kitchen cannot accommodate serious allergies (dairy, nuts, eggs) but welcomes vegetarian, pescatarian, and gluten-free requests with 48 hours' notice. Vegan menus are not available.
- Visit the bar for a casual pint and snacks if you cannot secure a restaurant reservation. The pub maintains its traditional character and welcomes walk-in drinkers, offering a genuine taste of village life.
- The homemade wholemeal loaf with three house-made butters (including one laced with pork scratchings) is legendary among regulars. Some locals order flasks to take on countryside walks.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
The Royal Oak location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about The Royal Oak
Eight Centuries of Hospitality and Heritage
The Royal Oak stands as one of England's oldest pubs, with roots stretching back more than 800 years. Originally built as an ale house to serve workers constructing the nearby parish church, the building has witnessed centuries of local life and legend. Historical accounts suggest Oliver Cromwell stayed here in 1642 while preparing for the Battle of Edgehill, adding a layer of Civil War intrigue to the venue's story. Today, the Cravens have carefully preserved this heritage while introducing modern culinary excellence, creating a space where history and contemporary gastronomy coexist naturally.A Philosophy of Land and Locality
The kitchen operates on a deeply rooted farm-to-fork ethos that extends far beyond marketing language. Vegetables, rare-breed meats, and eggs come from regenerative farms within walking distance of the pub, strengthening ties to the surrounding landscape and community with every plate. Game is often shot to order, ensuring peak freshness and quality. The wine list celebrates Solanche's South African heritage alongside local cask ales and craft beers from nearby producers, creating a drinks program as thoughtfully sourced as the food. This commitment to locality shapes not just what appears on the menu, but how the restaurant operates within its village context.Micro-Seasonal Cooking and Constant Evolution
The menu transforms frequently—sometimes multiple times daily—based on what the surrounding countryside offers at any given moment. Dishes might be created especially for regular guests, what the team calls a "micro-seasonal snapshot." Wild meats include local roebuck and pheasant; fresh fish arrives directly from day boats. One day guinea fowl might feature prominently; the next, quail takes its place. This nimbleness reflects both the kitchen's technical skill and its genuine commitment to showcasing ingredients at their peak. Assured, understated dishes typically contain just three or four components, allowing each first-class ingredient to command attention without unnecessary elaboration.Refined Presentation Without Pretension
The cooking achieves multi-Michelin-starred presentation standards while remaining entirely accessible and flavour-driven. Sweetcorn transforms into delicate flower-shaped mousse; courgette strips are pickled and grilled, then draped over perfectly cooked venison; smoked eel arrives as an apple sorbet that dissolves on the tongue. Yet beneath this technical sophistication lies genuine hospitality rather than ego. The dining room at the back is bright, airy, and stripped-back modern, creating an intimate setting that feels neither formal nor stuffy. Richard and Solanche's warmth sets the tone—handwritten anniversary cards appear at tables, and the team moves through service with attentive detail that never becomes overbearing.A Pub That Remains a Pub
Half the space functions as a traditional bar where locals gather for pints, snacks, and conversation. This deliberate choice distinguishes The Royal Oak from restaurants that merely tolerate casual visitors. The bar serves the village as it has for centuries, while the restaurant section offers fine dining for those seeking a more elaborate experience. This duality means the venue never feels exclusive or removed from its community—it remains rooted in Whatcote's social fabric while achieving culinary recognition at the highest level.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stratford Upon Avon Bandstand
13.9 km
Historic bandstand in Stratford-upon-Avon offering free summer concerts and a vibrant community atmosphere in a scenic park setting.
Tramway Bridge
13.9 km
Historic 1826 red brick pedestrian bridge over the River Avon, blending industrial heritage with tranquil riverside views in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Countess of Evesham
14.0 km
Indulge in traditional British cuisine at The Countess of Evesham, a charming restaurant on the waterside in Stratford-upon-Avon, surrounded by natural beauty.
Stratford Waterside Market
14.1 km
Discover unique artisan treasures and vibrant street food in Stratford-upon-Avon's charming riverside market.
Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall
14.2 km
Explore Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall: A historic site where the Bard's journey began, rich in culture and literary heritage.
Shakespeare's England
14.2 km
Discover the enchanting world of Shakespeare's England in Stratford-upon-Avon, where literary history meets picturesque landscapes and rich culture.
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council
14.2 km
Explore Stratford-upon-Avon and its rich heritage at the Town Council, your gateway to local culture and events in Shakespeare's hometown.
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall
14.2 km
Elegant Palladian landmark in Stratford-upon-Avon, blending rich history, Shakespearean heritage, and civic tradition since 1767.
The Old Slaughterhouse
14.2 km
Discover the intriguing history of Stratford-upon-Avon at The Old Slaughterhouse, a charming museum filled with engaging exhibits and local heritage.
Sinister Stratford
14.2 km
Explore the darker side of Stratford-upon-Avon with Sinister Stratford's captivating tours of haunted history and folklore.
Garrick
14.2 km
Step into Stratford-upon-Avon's oldest pub, where medieval charm meets hearty fare and centuries of captivating history.
Stratford-upon-Avon Antiques Centre
14.3 km
Uncover unique antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, where history and charm meet.
Stratford-Upon-Avon
14.3 km
Explore the scenic hiking trails and historical beauty of Stratford-Upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare and a haven for nature lovers.
Stratford Herald
14.3 km
Discover the vibrant community of Stratford-upon-Avon through the pages of the Stratford Herald, a local newspaper publisher capturing the essence of this Shakespearean town.
Stratford Historic Buildings Trust
14.3 km
Discover the architectural treasures of Stratford-upon-Avon at the Stratford Historic Buildings Trust, a beacon of heritage and history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Compton Verney Art Gallery and Park
8.3 km
Explore world-class art and serene Capability Brown parkland at Compton Verney’s historic Georgian mansion.
British Motor Museum
11.4 km
Explore the world’s largest collection of historic British cars and discover the rich heritage of Britain’s motor industry in the heart of Warwickshire.
Stratford Fountains
11.7 km
Discover Stratford Fountains, a peaceful water garden oasis blending serene beauty with Stratford-upon-Avon’s rich cultural heritage.
Charlecote Park
12.4 km
Explore an Elizabethan manor steeped in history and surrounded by 180 acres of tranquil deer park near Warwick.
National Trust - Hidcote
12.6 km
Explore the enchanting Arts and Crafts garden rooms and sculptures of Hidcote Manor, a National Trust gem in the Cotswolds.
Kiftsgate Court Gardens
13.0 km
A legendary Cotswold garden where three generations of women gardeners cultivated rare plants and the world's largest rose.
Broughton Castle
13.4 km
Explore Broughton Castle, a moated Tudor manor steeped in Civil War history, stunning gardens, and centuries of family heritage near Banbury.
The Rollright Stones
13.7 km
Explore the enigmatic Rollright Stones, a trio of ancient megaliths steeped in legend and prehistoric ritual on the Oxfordshire-Warwickshire border.
The Recreation Ground
13.7 km
A lively riverside park in Stratford-upon-Avon with family play areas, scenic walks, and vibrant community events throughout the year.
Stratford Butterfly Farm
13.7 km
Explore the UK's largest tropical butterfly paradise nestled in Stratford-upon-Avon's heart, where rainforest magic and exotic insects await.
Shakespeare's Funerary Monument
13.8 km
A solemn tribute to Shakespeare’s legacy, this limestone monument in Holy Trinity Church marks the final resting place of England’s greatest playwright.
Stratford Big Wheel
13.8 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Stratford-upon-Avon from the accessible and family-friendly Stratford Big Wheel.
Holy Trinity Church
13.8 km
Discover the oldest building in Stratford-upon-Avon, where Shakespeare was baptized and laid to rest beside the tranquil River Avon.
Clopton Bridge
13.9 km
Explore Stratford-upon-Avon's iconic 15th-century Clopton Bridge, a historic stone crossing with 14 arches and scenic River Avon views.
Chain Ferry
14.0 km
Experience a charming, hand-cranked crossing on Britain’s last chain ferry, linking Stratford’s cultural heart with tranquil riverside meadows.
Essential places to dine
The Royal Oak
0.0 km
Michelin-starred Cotswolds gastropub where 800 years of history meets wild, foraged fine dining.
The Oak Room Restaurant
5.9 km
Elegant dining in a historic setting at Ettington Park, where refined British cuisine meets warm, attentive service.
the scenic supper
9.4 km
Experience farm-to-table dining in a stunning Cotswold glasshouse with seasonal menus and panoramic countryside views.
The Ebrington Arms
12.4 km
A timeless Cotswold village pub offering rustic charm, gourmet dining, and cozy country accommodation in idyllic Ebrington.
The Orangery Restaurant
12.5 km
Charming dining with scenic views at Charlecote Park’s historic Orangery Restaurant, perfect for light bites and cream teas.
The Baraset Barn
13.4 km
Charming countryside restaurant and boutique hotel near Stratford-upon-Avon, blending rustic heritage with vibrant global cuisine and modern comfort.
Aladdin's Indian Dining
13.7 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors in a warm, elegant setting with award-winning chefs and attentive service in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Bistrot Pierre - Stratford-upon-Avon
13.8 km
Relaxed French dining with scenic river views in Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic Swan’s Nest Hotel.
The Boat House
13.8 km
Historic riverside dining with fresh seafood, scenic views, and warm hospitality in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
The View
13.8 km
Enjoy fresh British fare with stunning panoramic views over Warwickshire countryside at The View, a charming farm-based restaurant near Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Rooftop Restaurant at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre
14.0 km
Savor seasonal British cuisine with stunning river views atop Stratford’s iconic Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
Dirty Duck
14.0 km
Historic riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon offering quality British fare, vegan options, and a lively atmosphere loved by locals and theatre actors alike.
No 44 Restaurant
14.0 km
Elegant dining by Stratford’s Waterside with seasonal British-European cuisine and two AA Rosettes for excellence.
The Barge and Quarterdeck
14.1 km
Charming waterside restaurant and bar in Stratford-upon-Avon, famed for wood-fired pizzas and scenic canal views.
Thespians
14.1 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, blending tradition with a welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Italy's Little Secret
14.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of Italy at Italy's Little Secret, a charming boutique restaurant in Stratford-upon-Avon, perfect for food lovers.
Boutique Jsk
14.1 km
Discover unique women's fashion and local craftsmanship at Boutique Jsk, a stylish independent shop on historic Sheep Street in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Vinegar Hill Wardrobe
14.2 km
Discover elegant ladies’ fashion in the historic charm of Stratford-upon-Avon’s Vinegar Hill Wardrobe boutique.
Auburn Fox Home
14.2 km
Discover unique furniture and homewares with personalized service in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Daisy Chain Gift Company Ltd
14.2 km
Award-winning boutique in Stratford-upon-Avon offering unique contemporary gifts, design-led cards, stylish stationery, and premium gift wrap.
Marks and Spencer
14.2 km
A trusted British retail destination offering quality food, clothing, and convenience in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Jigsaw
14.2 km
Discover timeless British womenswear and accessories at Jigsaw, Stratford-upon-Avon's elegant fashion boutique on Bridge Street.
Jack Wills
14.2 km
Discover timeless British fashion and contemporary style at Jack Wills in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic High Street.
Razzle Dazzle
14.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique costume treasures in the cozy charm of Razzle Dazzle, Stratford-upon-Avon’s beloved boutique.
Lush Cosmetics Stratford Upon Avon
14.2 km
Discover fresh, handmade, and ethical beauty products at Lush Stratford Upon Avon, where sustainability meets vibrant community spirit.
Accessorize
14.2 km
Discover stylish accessories, clothing, and jewelry at Accessorize in Stratford-upon-Avon, where fashion meets Shakespearean charm.
Any Witch Way
14.2 km
A mystical boutique in Stratford-upon-Avon offering crystals, candles, tarot, and witchcraft treasures in a charming antique centre setting.
Ivy'ss Vintage Decor & Gifts
14.2 km
Explore a charming vintage shop in Stratford-upon-Avon, featuring unique decor and gifts that offer a glimpse into the past.
Wilfreds of Stratford
14.3 km
Discover timeless sweets and local charm at Wilfreds of Stratford, a beloved confectionery shop on Stratford-upon-Avon's historic High Street.
The Pewter Room
14.3 km
Discover handcrafted pewter treasures in the heart of Shakespeare’s hometown – a unique gift shop with timeless charm and local character.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Howard Arms Ilmington
8.7 km
A charming 400-year-old Cotswold inn blending historic warmth, fine dining, and stylish comfort in the heart of Ilmington village.
The Bear
13.8 km
Historic riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon serving classic ales and comforting British fare in a warm, cosy setting with scenic river views.
Cox's Yard, Stratford-Upon-Avon
14.0 km
Lively riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon blending casual dining, sports, and scenic views by the River Avon.
The Bull - El Toro | Stratford-Upon-Avon
14.1 km
A lively fusion of Spanish tapas and English pub charm in Stratford-upon-Avon, serving exceptional food and drink in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Officers Mess - 1940's Cocktail Bar
14.1 km
Step into the 1940s at Officers Mess, Stratford’s premier cocktail bar blending vintage charm, world-class drinks, and vibrant live entertainment.
Rose & Crown
14.1 km
Classic English pub charm with hearty fare, friendly service, and a spacious garden in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
That Little Gin & Prosecco Bar
14.1 km
A cozy, intimate gin and Prosecco bar tucked away in Stratford-upon-Avon, offering an extensive spirit selection and warm, friendly vibes.
Windmill
14.1 km
A welcoming traditional British pub in Warwickshire serving classic dishes and local brews in a cozy, community-focused setting.
The Keys
14.3 km
A friendly and inviting pub in Stratford-upon-Avon with a quirky garden, great drinks, and classic pub fare in a relaxed atmosphere.
All Bar One Stratford Upon Avon
14.3 km
Stylish wine bar in Stratford offering diverse dining, full bar, and a relaxed, accessible atmosphere near Shakespeare’s birthplace.
The Phoenix
14.3 km
A vibrant independent bar in Stratford-upon-Avon offering craft beers, authentic Neapolitan pizza, and a leafy rooftop terrace for a lively social experience.
The Avon Lounge
14.4 km
A lively cocktail bar in Stratford-upon-Avon known for friendly hosts, great music, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for evening socializing.
The Stratford Alehouse
14.5 km
A cozy micropub in Stratford-upon-Avon celebrated for exceptional real ales, live music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Avenue Club
15.5 km
A friendly and affordable bar with live music and games, offering a relaxed social scene in Stratford-upon-Avon’s industrial heart.
Eight Bells Inn
15.6 km
Historic 14th-century inn with cozy rooms, classic pub fare, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Chipping Campden.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
14.1 km
Explore the vibrant community of The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club, where bridge enthusiasts gather for games, camaraderie, and local culture in a picturesque setting.
Fat Cat Comedy Club
14.3 km
Discover the joy of laughter at Fat Cat Comedy Club in Stratford-upon-Avon, where each show promises an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Caz Bar Nightclub
14.3 km
Experience Stratford-upon-Avon's glamorous late-night vibe at Caz Bar, a vintage cellar nightclub with live DJs, dancers, and premium drinks until dawn.
Stratford Play House
14.4 km
Discover the vibrant world of performing arts at Stratford Play House, where drama, comedy, and culinary delights come together in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Neon
20.8 km
Leamington Spa’s largest nightclub, Neon delivers vibrant music, themed nights, and a dynamic party atmosphere every Friday until dawn.
Altoria Nightclub
21.5 km
Experience Leamington Spa’s vibrant nightlife at Altoria Nightclub with diverse music floors, VIP service, and a unique rooftop terrace open till 3 am.
The Cavern
21.6 km
A vibrant night club in Warwick offering energetic music, lively dancing, and a social atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Smack
21.6 km
Leamington Spa’s energetic and affordable two-floor nightclub with a storied past and a lively, if sometimes challenging, atmosphere.
2 PIGS
41.4 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
Coco
41.5 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
The 21 Club
41.6 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Popworld - Cheltenham
41.7 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
41.7 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
41.8 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.
Thirteen Degrees
41.8 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Business Friendly
