Looking for a peaceful Cotswolds escape from London? The Kings Head Inn in Bledington offers a welcoming countryside retreat with 12 bedrooms, seasonal dining and the atmosphere of a traditional village pub. Located around two hours from London, it provides the perfect base for relaxing breaks, exploring the Cotswolds and enjoying the surrounding countryside.
Originally featured as part of a travel review celebrating wonderful pubs with rooms and great food, this article captures the timeless character of The Kings Head Inn — a place where historic charm, comfortable accommodation and village hospitality come together.
“The time for romantic weekends is after Valentine’s Day scrum,” says Lydia Gard.
“Then you can enjoy some serenity at these wonderful pubs with rooms and great food within two hours’ drive of London.”
A Traditional Cotswolds Pub With Rooms
Elegantly simple: The King’s Head, in Bledington, Oxfordshire, has been modernised without losing its original country charm.
On arriving at this historic inn, I fancied kicking off my wellies and joining the locals at the bar to natter about the rise of the river’s water level. Or twiddling my toes in front of the fire and dozing in my chair with a muddy dog I had befriended snuffling about me.
It’s that inviting – a real flagstone-and-flat-cap joy.
Instead, I was shown to my room for a welcome soak in a deep bath to rid myself of the stresses of city life.
The charm of The Kings Head Inn has always been its ability to combine the character of an old Cotswolds pub with the comfort expected from a relaxing countryside stay.
Village Life, Local Ale and Cotswolds Charm
Later, villagers tumbled into the bar – having walked the dark blustery lanes or rolled up in mud-splattered Land Rovers – to drink the local ale (Hook Norton) and enjoy the warmth and conversation of village life.
Taken over in 2000 by Archie and Nicola Orr-Ewing, the luxury Cotswold inn was cleverly converted from chintz to elegant simplicity.
Everything you could possibly need was neatly provided, from bottles of mineral water to a hairdryer. The bed linen was crisp and luxurious, the beds comfortable and the bathrooms filled with fluffy towels and thoughtful touches.
Stay in Characterful Cotswolds Bedrooms
The original review described the six charmingly wonky ensuite rooms above the pub, with their low beams, unusual corridors and historic character.
Today, The Kings Head Inn offers 12 bedrooms, combining the character of the original inn with modern comfort.
The rooms above the pub retain the charm of the historic building, while the Courtyard rooms provide a quieter and more spacious option for guests looking to relax after a day exploring the Cotswolds.
Whether visiting for a countryside escape, a walking break or simply time away from the city, the rooms provide a comfortable base for your stay.
Accommodation Rooms
Seasonal Dining in a Traditional Cotswolds Pub
Eat in the bar area with its high-backed settles, little stools and heavy wooden armchairs at chunky tables.
An old piano pines for a thigh-slapping, tankard-clinking sing-along.
The restaurant menu includes locally sourced fresh seasonal produce, creating the kind of relaxed dining experience that makes a country pub such a special place.
For a pub there is also a comprehensive wine list – handily, Nicola Orr-Ewing is the goddaughter of wine writer Hugh Johnson.
Today, The Kings Head Inn continues that tradition with seasonal menus, carefully chosen ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere for both residents and visitors.
Fine Dining Gallery
Walking in the Cotswolds From The Kings Head Inn
The Oxfordshire Way runs past the back door, so a good walk is obligatory!
With the beautiful countryside surrounding Bledington, The Kings Head Inn makes an excellent base for exploring the Cotswolds on foot.
From gentle village walks to longer countryside routes, guests can step outside and discover the landscapes that make this area such a popular destination.
A Relaxing Countryside Escape Near London
Whether you are planning a midweek break, a romantic getaway or a longer stay exploring the Cotswolds, The Kings Head Inn offers a combination of historic charm, comfortable rooms, seasonal food and genuine village hospitality.
A short journey from London, but a world away from city life, it remains a destination for guests looking to slow down and enjoy the best of the English countryside.
AvailabilityEvening Standard / estravel 4th February 2005
Updated July 2026
This article has been refreshed to reflect The Kings Head Inn today, including current accommodation, dining and local information, while preserving the original travel review and its character.
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Thinking of staying in the Cotswolds? The King's Head Inn offers comfortable rooms in the heart of Bledington, making a great base for exploring the village and the surrounding countryside.
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