In a nutshell
With a gorgeous garden, seriously scrumptious food and a new walking watering hole, we’re already planning our next visit to The Bear of Rodborough.
The review
To start
Drenched in September sun and desperately trying to keep the gloriously long summer alive, the beer garden at The Bear of Rodborough invites you in with its fun deckchairs, luxurious seating and patio heaters to keep away the chill.
The Pavilion Bar, we soon discovered, is a handsome little hut that sits on the lawn and offers so much more than just your average bar snacks or pub grub. Taking our seats in one of the wicker armchairs, we perused the menu to take our pick from the huge selection.
With something for tiny tots to weary walkers in need of a refuel, the menu boasts some real gems with classic snacks that we loved, including free-range Scotch eggs, burgers so big and juicy that diners struggled to hold them, and the bountiful charcuterie board which we opted for.
Foodie favourites
Far from a disappointment, the charcuterie board featured beautiful cuts of Parma ham, chorizo and delicious stuffed peppadews. With warm bread, perfectly plump olives and zingy gherkins, it was the perfect thing to share in the leafy garden.
After much deliberation, our main course choices were the 12oz Old Spot gammon with free range eggs, pineapple and chunky chips; and the quinoa, black rice, sweetcorn, pineapple and ginger salad.
Featuring a succulent cut of meat, the gammon was cooked beautifully, served with two eggs with bright orange yolks and chips that were both crisp on the outside and deliciously fluffy inside.
The salad was a great choice for a warmer day, with zingy slices of refreshing pineapple and punchy ginger making it a winning dish.
To finish
With all the little touches thought of, The Bear of Rodborough is located just off Rodborough Common, the perfect watering hole and rest stop for walkers and families who want to bring along their furry friend.
The bar itself even features a jar of dog treats for fluffy companions and jelly beans, nuts and snacks for human owners. On dry days, the patio heaters mean you can keep cosy with a hot drink even in the winter and on wet days, the chic country interiors will welcome you inside with ease.
Finishing off with a perfectly frothed latte and some homemade shortbread biscuits, we were already planning our next visit, with the table tennis and giant Connect Four sure to go down well with the rest of our family.
SoGlos loves
Keen walkers can call in at The Bear of Rodborough this Christmas for a scrumptious glass of mulled wine or an indulgent hot chocolate which will be served from the Pavilion Bar.
Top tip
Boasting a great children’s menu, head to The Bear with the whole family. Kids can enjoy the generous gardens and games, whilst adults can enjoy the stunning setting.
What next?
For more information, see The Bear of Rodborough, call (01453) 878522 or visit Cotswold-inns-hotels/thebearofrodborough directly.
By Sophie Bird
