If you’re visiting Bourton-on-the-Water, one of the most popular villages in the Cotswolds, Fuller’s The Willow is an excellent spot to pause for a meal. Situated next to the gently flowing River Windrush, this pub boasts a spacious outdoor dining area that’s ideal for people-watching and soaking up the charming surroundings—especially on a warm, sunny day.
While dining al fresco is a favorite here, the interior offers an equally inviting and beautifully designed dining space for those who prefer to stay indoors. Throughout the busy bank holiday weekend, the friendly staff maintained top-notch service despite the steady stream of eager customers craving refreshing drinks or satisfying meals. The pub offers both attentive table service and convenient phone ordering.
The Willow’s menu starts strong with exciting starters like the cured beef carpaccio with cucumber salsa, Dorset Blue Vinny, pickled radish, and rocket (£9), burrata paired with marinated tomatoes and sourdough (£12), and a smoky haddock fishcake (£9.50). A personal standout was the cauliflower fritters served with shredded kale, chili, toasted sesame seeds, and a rich cashew nut sauce (£8.50)—the sauce elevates the dish beautifully. The crispy squid with chili, lime, coriander, and sriracha aioli (£9.95) is another tempting choice.
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For mains, the menu covers classic pub favorites such as an 8oz sirloin steak with peppercorn sauce, baked mushroom, grilled tomatoes, and house chips (£31), as well as Fuller’s London Pride steak and mushroom pie. Vegetarians are well catered for with options like sticky teriyaki cauliflower with courgette and pea rice, complemented by pickled mooli and carrot salad (£15), or English pea ravioli topped with heritage tomato, courgette, pea and parsley salsa, and Parmesan (£15.50).
We went for the traditional beer-battered haddock (£19.50), served with house chips, mushy peas, tartare sauce, lemon, and an optional curry sauce for an extra £2.50. This classic dish lived up to expectations perfectly. Another hearty option is the half roast chicken flavored with garlic and orange, accompanied by tarragon aioli, house chips, and slaw (£20)—more than enough for a satisfying meal.
Overall, The Willow provided a delightful dining experience with great food, a picturesque setting, and fantastic customer service. Kudos to the staff, who managed to keep up with the relentless flow of new visitors without missing a beat.