Driving up to The Pig in the Cotswolds feels like stepping into a postcard-perfect slice of English countryside bliss. Set within a 17th-century listed building in Barnsley, this latest addition to The Pig’s portfolio beautifully merges rustic charm with contemporary elegance. Framed by verdant gardens crafted by the late Rosemary Verey, the property also introduces a delightful first for The Pig – a characterful village pub.
From the moment you arrive, the warm welcome sets the tone. A log-burning fire crackles in the reception area, enveloping you in a homely, cosy atmosphere. Inside, the design draws inspiration from the flourishing gardens, with herbal greens, dusky pinks, and soft purples echoing the seasonal blooms beyond the windows. Floral wallpaper, antique furnishings, and exposed beams evoke a charming nostalgia, while thoughtful touches, such as a Roberts radio softly playing classical music and indulgent homemade cookies add to that homely feel.
The bedrooms are a triumph of comfort and character. My room featured sweeping garden views, antique rugs, and a freestanding dusty pink bathtub – an invitation to unwind pre-dinner. The bathroom was stocked with Bramley toiletries and bath salts, and the attention to detail throughout, from the floral motifs to the soft furnishings, was impeccable.
A short stroll through the manicured grounds leads to the Fieldhouse Spa, a serene haven nestled in the heart of the Cotswold countryside. The outdoor hydrotherapy plunge pool offers breathtaking panoramic views of the rolling hills, becoming especially magical at sunset. Inside, exposed stone walls and a tranquil relaxation room set the tone for complete rejuvenation.
The spa features five treatment rooms, a sauna, steam room, and well-appointed changing rooms. With a concise yet thoughtful menu of six treatments using natural Welsh skincare brand Tribe517, it’s perfect for those who prefer simplicity over endless choices. I opted for the bespoke massage, a deeply restorative treatment that expertly melted away tension. The skilled therapist’s precision, combined with Tribe517’s luxurious products, left me feeling weightless and entirely renewed – a true escape from the everyday.
Dining at The Pig is a celebration of local, sustainable produce. The 25-mile menu, which changes regularly, highlights the best of the region’s seasonal offerings, all sourced from the kitchen garden or local suppliers.
The meal began with indulgent sticky pork belly bites and perfectly crispy fishcakes, paired with a seriously dunkable lemon mayonnaise that set the tone for what was to come. Each dish embodied the essence of the Cotswolds, with fresh ingredients and bold, yet comforting flavours that truly capture the spirit of the place. Mains included tender lamb neck and fillet of lily loa wild bass, with sides like heritage carrots sprinkled with Marmite oats and a decadent cheddar and leek gratin. Desserts were equally delightful; the wildflower gin-infused jelly and Lenny’s treacle tart served with sauternes ice cream were memorable finales to an extraordinary meal.
The bar, though intimate, exudes charm and character. Shelves of antique glassware – a signature Pig hallmark line the windows, casting delicate reflections that add to the room’s allure. The drinks menu is a celebration of creativity, featuring garden-inspired cocktails alongside classic favourites reimagined with a Pig twist. After dinner, we retreated to a snug warmed by an open fire, savouring Pig Reserve sparkling wine, crafted in collaboration with winemaker Dermot Sugrue. It was one of those rare, timeless moments – a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication that stays with you long after the visit.
Mornings at The Pig begin with a farm-to-table feast. From eggs freshly laid by on-site hens to poached eggs with smashed garden peas and garden chilli, a charming twist on the classic avocado toast – everything is as local as it gets, and truly delicious. For those wanting a closer look at the estate’s ethos, the daily 11 a.m. kitchen garden tour with the head gardener offers insight into the produce that defines the menu.
The Pig in the Cotswolds is a celebration of English heritage infused with modern indulgence. Whether you come for the tranquil gardens, rejuvenating spa, exceptional food, or simply to soak up the charm of the countryside, this retreat promises to leave you refreshed, inspired, and longing to return…so much so, I’m already planning my next spring escape to relive its magic.
The Pig in the Cotswolds, Barnsley, Cirencester GL7 5EE
