The Cotswolds Distillery is a gem of an English distillery in the heart of the Cotswolds.

With its charming Cotswolds stone architecture and idyllic location on the outskirts of Stourton village, the distillery offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

As we recently became parents, we took our (then) 4-month-old twin girls on this cask-buying adventure. What follows are some curated recommendations from both us and the distillery team. As always, you can save these recommendations, along with more, for your next visit using this Google Map.

And for a taste of the Cotswolds at home, be sure to pick up a bottle of our #06 single cask from the Cotswolds Distillery - an English Single Malt Whisky matured in a New American Oak Cask that just tastes like warm banana bread and candied pecans. Enjoy! 

So here we have a rolling glossary of some of the most common you’ll come across, not just with our Heart Cut bottlings but whisky in general, to help you decipher any label or tasting note.

Travelling to the Cotswolds Distillery

We recommend driving, as the Cotswolds Distillery is located in the heart of the countryside. However, if you’re using public transport, the nearest stations are Moreton-in-Marsh and Banbury, both of which offer easy access to the Cotswolds Distillery via taxi.

Where to stay

We stayed in a quaint Airbnb with views of fields and forests near Cotswolds Distillery—it was the perfect escape! If you prefer hotels, indulge in luxury at one of the many boutique options recommended by Mr & Mrs Smith near Cotswolds Distillery.

Visiting the Cotswolds Distillery

The Cotswolds Distillery is a must-visit, so be sure to book ahead. Plan for 2-3 hours to enjoy the tour, a tasting session, and perhaps a cocktail or snack at the popular Still House Cafe. If you’re driving, the Cotswolds Distillery offers a driver’s pack, allowing you to savour your whisky later at your own pace.

Where to eat

For lunch, check out Roots + Seeds Kitchen Garden, where fresh produce from their own garden takes centre stage. The area is also full of gastro pubs focusing on local ingredients and seasonal produce—The Wild Rabbit, The Bull in Charlbury, and The Chequers are all excellent spots close to the Cotswolds Distillery.

Where to drink

The Cotswolds is sprawling with brilliant local pubs. Most of these are also renowned restaurants - so you’re never far from a snack. While the afternoon away, with a neighbouring dog at your feet and a locally made beer or G&T in hand - we’re also a big fan of Garden Swift gin from Capreolus , another Cotswolds-based distillery and makers of excelled Eaux de Vie. Our top three? The Chequers, The Kingham Plough, and The Fox at Oddington - all great spots, and the last 2 have luxurious hotel rooms on site.

Where to caffeinate

Grouch Coffee in Moreton-in-Marsh is a great independent spot for coffee and baked goods. We also had a very luxurious breakfast and coffee (with babies!) at Daylesford Organic.  La Boulangerie Artisian is also a must for coffee and croissants when visiting the Cotswolds Distillery.

Other fun things to do

Get outside! The area has many stunning walks dotted with charming pubs along the way. For something a bit more relaxing, book a treatment at the Bamford Spa or Thyme. One afternoon there and you’ll be fully rejuvenated and ready to take on the world.

ENJOY! 🥃