Bourton-on-the-Water, one of the Cotswolds' most visited villages, is home to The Willow — a pub that’s well worth a visit for anyone exploring the area. Nestled beside the tranquil River Windrush, The Willow boasts a spacious outdoor dining area that provides the perfect spot for people-watching and soaking up the sunshine on a warm day.
On sunny weekends, dining outside in the shade is the clear choice. Inside, the pub offers a tastefully decorated dining room with a cozy atmosphere. The staff strike a great balance between friendliness and efficiency, managing a steady stream of customers with ease over the busy bank holiday weekend. You can either enjoy traditional table service or place your order conveniently via your phone.
The Willow’s menu features a delightful selection of starters that cater to various tastes. Highlights include cured beef carpaccio with cucumber salsa, Dorset Blue Vinny cheese, pickled radish, and rocket (£9), creamy burrata with marinated tomatoes and sourdough (£12), smoked haddock fishcakes (£9.50), and the soup of the day (£7.50). A personal favourite starter was the cauliflower fritters, served with shredded kale, chilli, toasted sesame seeds, and a cashew nut sauce (£8.50) — the sauce truly elevates the dish. The crispy squid, complemented by chilli, lime, coriander, and sriracha aioli (£9.95), was another standout.
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For mains, The Willow offers classic pub fare with a touch of refinement. Choices include 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 shortcrust pie. Vegetarians are well catered for, with tempting options such as sticky teriyaki cauliflower with courgette and pea rice, pickled mooli, and carrot salad (£15), alongside English pea ravioli featuring heritage tomato, courgette, pea and parsley salsa, and Parmesan cheese (£15.50).
I chose the traditional beer-battered haddock (£19.50) which was excellent — flaky, crispy, and served with house chips, mushy peas, tartare sauce, and lemon. For an extra £2.50, you can add a rich curry sauce for a unique twist. Another hearty choice is the garlic and orange-flavoured half roast chicken, accompanied by tarragon aioli, house chips, and slaw (£20), which makes for a satisfying meal.
In summary, The Willow offers a wonderful dining experience with delicious food, superb service, and a picturesque setting by the river. The staff deserve special praise for keeping up a welcoming and efficient service despite the constant flow of visitors.