Revamp marks new chapter for Cirencester country house hotel

With a new chef, a brand-new £250,000 kitchen and freshly refurbished garden restaurant, Stratton House Hotel & Spa near Cirencester is setting its sights on becoming the Cotswolds' favourite family country house hotel.

By Emma Luther  |  Published

Stratton House Hotel & Spa wants to redefine what it means to dine out in the Cotswolds.

The family-owned, 17th Century and Grade II listed country house hotel near Cirencester has just invested in a £250,000 kitchen transformation and refreshed its garden restaurant.

It's also brought in a dynamic new head chef to make the most of heritage and seasonal ingredients.

And the aim is to debunk the myth that Cotswold country house hotels are old-fashioned and inaccessible.

Owners Aidan and Sarah Stevens want locals and visitors to feel at ease to drop in for a casual bite to eat and are keen to offer a relaxed, friendly welcome.

The couple said: 'We’re turning the idea of the traditional country house hotel on its head.

'Why shouldn’t it be a place for everyone — including younger people — to enjoy good food and great company?

'It’s often seen as something from a bygone era but we’ve made it our mission to change that perception.

'We’ve invested in creating an experience that feels fresh and modern while still rooted in British hospitality.

'Think fresh, seasonal flavours, a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere and a sense of occasion without the fuss.

'We want people to feel welcome, enjoy good food at a fair price and have a comfortable, well-cared-for experience.'

The British cuisine-focused menu includes heirloom dishes of beetroot-cured salmon, slow-cooked pork cheek with olive oil mash, poached plaice, roast haddock or leek and portobello mushrooms.

And it's all served in the newly refurbished garden restaurant with outdoor and indoor seating, overlooking the private walled garden.

This summer, there's a seasonal events programme with summer cocktails evenings, a August garden party and September quiz.

Aidan said: 'There’s loads of parking, your dogs are more than welcome and we’ve got an award-winning spa — Stratton House is more than a hotel — we aim to become the Cotswolds' favourite family country house hotel. Give us a go!'

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