Nestled in the picturesque village of Frampton-on-Severn lies what is said to be the UK’s longest village green. Just a short three-mile drive from the M5, this expansive green welcomes visitors with its charm, especially on a bright, sunny day.
At the northern end of the green stands The Bell Inn, one of two pubs anchoring either side of this idyllic spot. It’s an ideal location to soak up the village’s peaceful atmosphere, watch a local cricket match, or enjoy freshly prepared local dishes.
The pub boasts ample outdoor seating, accommodating nearly 200 guests. During my early July visit on a Tuesday afternoon, although there were no scheduled outdoor events, the warm sunshine lured me to nab a sunny table and make the most of the day.
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The Bell Inn captures the essence of a traditional English village pub. Despite its position on the main road, stepping inside felt like escaping to a tranquil countryside retreat. The uplifting 29°C warmth paired perfectly with the calm surroundings, inviting a relaxing afternoon.
Arriving at lunchtime, I scanned the menu, which reflected typical Cotswold pub pricing. Starters, such as crusty bread with olives and hummus, start at £7, while mains begin around £19, including a hearty steak burger served with fries, onion rings, and coleslaw.
For lighter appetites, the pub offers “light bites” available Monday to Saturday from noon to 5pm, with granary open sandwiches priced at about £9.
The House Club sandwich caught my attention. Packed with grilled chicken, smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, and a fried egg, it was priced at £12. I added a small portion of fries for £3 to round out the meal.
After ordering at the bar, I settled outside to enjoy the sunshine. Frampton-on-Severn is a favorite among walkers and cyclists due to its nearly flat terrain, and I watched several visitors pause at The Bell for a refreshing break.
Shortly after, my meal arrived looking vibrant and inviting. The fillings were generously packed between two thick slices of crusty granary farmhouse bread, with the bright salad ingredients adding a pop of color.
However, the sizeable sandwich soon presented a challenge: how to eat it without creating a mess? The fried egg’s oozy texture complicated attempts to squish the sandwich together for easier handling.
I resorted to eating with a knife and fork, but cutting through the crusty bread and dense fillings was no easy task. Eventually, I gave in and deconstructed the sandwich, enjoying each ingredient separately.
Despite the eating challenge, the flavors were excellent. The grilled chicken was tender and well-cooked, the fried egg perfectly runny, and the lettuce crisp and fresh. While a portion this large might be viewed as a “problem” to some, it slightly disrupted the sandwich experience for me.
Still, The Bell Inn left a lasting positive impression. The friendly locals and the pub’s welcoming atmosphere make it a place I’d happily return to. Next time, I plan to enjoy a countryside walk and revisit for lunch — I had particularly eyed the warm goat’s cheese salad on the menu, which tantalized my taste buds for a future visit.