The Cotswolds offer a variety of exceptional dining options, from historic pubs like The Porch House in Stow-on-the-Wold—England’s oldest pub dating back to 947 AD—to trendy street food vans at Dunkertons Park in Cheltenham, and even upscale meals at Daylesford Organic farm shop. But one unexpected spot to enjoy a meal is right beside the runway at Cotswold Airport, a private aviation hub nestled a few miles southwest of Cirencester.
Having driven past the airport many times, tantalized by the sight of retired commercial aircraft parked just off the roadside, I never imagined it as a place to grab breakfast. Yet, the discovery of the AV8 restaurant right next to the runway changed that.
Cotswold Airport, the largest private business aviation airport in the southwest, serves mostly general aviation enthusiasts who stop by to refuel or explore. It’s not your typical dining destination, which made my visit all the more intriguing. As I pulled into the parking lot, passing the air control tower and glimpsing the vast Boeing 747 “Negus”—retired from British Airways in 2020 and now a public exhibit—I felt the excitement of a one-of-a-kind breakfast spot.
Stepping inside AV8, the aviation theme is unmistakable. Model planes hang from the ceiling, and aircraft memorabilia decorate the space, creating an atmosphere that’s playful yet welcoming. While outdoor seating is available, I chose a window seat indoors to enjoy runway views as light aircraft elegantly took off during my visit.
For breakfast, I ordered the ‘Wingman Waffles’—two toasted waffles layered with smoked bacon, topped with a poached egg, and drizzled with Canadian maple syrup. Priced at £9.20, the portion was generous and satisfying. The waffles were delightfully soft, the bacon perfectly cooked, and the maple syrup added just the right amount of sweetness. Although the poached egg was a bit rubbery, it was easy to set aside without detracting from the overall experience.
The menu also features a full English breakfast for £11.50, including sausage, bacon, hash browns, poached eggs, baked beans, grilled tomato, and mushrooms. For a lighter option, breakfast baps filled with bacon, sausage, or vegan sausage are available for £6.50. The lunch menu offers a range of choices from burgers and pizzas to paninis and loaded chips, with prices starting at £9.
Open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm, AV8 combines a quirky setting with enjoyable food, making it the perfect spot for anyone looking for a unique morning meal with a side of aviation excitement.