Just a few miles from Stow-on-the-Wold and the famed Daylesford Organic farm shop lies Oddington, a village regularly named among the most upscale in the UK by The Telegraph. Though the village itself is small—essentially a cluster of houses, a 12th-century church, and a village hall—The Fox at Oddington stands out as a significant attraction for visitors near and far.
The pub has a notable reputation, drawing in famous personalities from the so-called ‘Chipping Norton Set,’ including David Beckham, Jeremy Clarkson, and Prue Leith, former presenter of the Great British Bake Off. Locals credit The Fox as one of the defining features that give Oddington its posh reputation, with many visitors coming expressly to experience this beloved establishment.
Stepping inside The Fox, the attention to detail in its branding immediately catches the eye—from the charming fox silhouette on the doormat to the cheeky “For fox sake” emblazoned on the bar. The pub perfectly embodies the idyllic Cotswolds countryside aesthetic: rustic flagstone floors, exposed wooden beams overhead, and an eclectic mix of wooden seating that invites a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you half expect to see someone strolling in with a Barbour jacket and wellies, evoking classic country English style without any pretentiousness.
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The interior is surprisingly spacious, offering a relaxed bar seating area at the front with large bay windows perfect for a casual drink or light snack. Towards the rear is a more formal dining area, ideal for those seeking a full meal. Beyond that, the spacious pub garden beckons with manicured hedges, fragrant lavender, and green-and-white striped parasols—an inviting spot for sunny days outdoors.
When it comes to drinks, The Fox celebrates local producers wholeheartedly. On offer is Hawkstone Premium Lager from Jeremy Clarkson’s brewery just six miles away, priced at £7.25 a pint, alongside Hawkstone Cider (£6.80) and Deya Steady Rolling Man (£7.50) from Cheltenham’s Deya Brewing Company.
The food menu similarly boasts local provenance, with ingredients sourced from nearby Daylesford Organic farm shop. Delight in rosemary focaccia served with Léoube extra virgin olive oil for £7, or indulge in a main like the chargrilled Daylesford pork ribeye in cider and mustard sauce for £34. A cheese board featuring Daylesford cheddar, onion confit, and sourdough crackers is also available for £10.
On my visit, I opted for a half-pint of Hawkstone cider paired with the Daylesford focaccia, settling into a window seat where the warm sunlight bathed the honey-colored Cotswold stone cottages outside. The focaccia arrived promptly—three thick slices, fluffy inside and beautifully crusty outside—with an olive oil dish marked by the pub’s signature fox silhouette, a lovely thoughtful touch.
The focaccia was wonderfully flavorful, and while I wished for a second helping of olive oil to soak the bread more generously, the simplicity of the combination was satisfying. Though my visit was brief, The Fox left a lasting impression, promising a delightful setting to return for a leisurely meal. Expect typical Cotswold pricing, with mains ranging from £24 to £44, where the inviting atmosphere is as much part of the experience as the food itself.