With the arrival of warm, sunny days, nothing beats enjoying a refreshing pint outdoors—especially by the riverside. Nestled on the banks of the River Thames on the edge of the Cotswolds, The Riverside in Lechlade is the perfect setting to soak up the sun and unwind.
Approaching Lechlade, The Riverside effortlessly commands attention, standing proudly amidst the village’s quaint stone buildings. As you cross the charming Ha’penny Bridge, the sight of canal barges moored along the river sets the scene for this picture-perfect pub experience.
Parking is convenient with a nearby pay-and-display lot, charging reasonable rates from £1.20 for an hour to £12 for a full day, making it easy to spend a leisurely afternoon here.
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Recently revamped with a £350,000 refurbishment, The Riverside feels like a completely new venue. Though I hadn’t visited before the renovations, the fresh, polished look is instantly inviting. Inside, the spacious bar area offers plenty of seating—including cozy booths and a pair of armchairs by a warm log-burning fireplace—combining comfort and style effortlessly.
The bar features an impressive selection of local brews, including Cotswold stout and cider, alongside offerings from the nearby Arkell’s Brewery in Swindon, just 10 miles away.
Food here is served from noon until 8:30pm. The menu features everything from light bites—like paninis and chicken wings starting at £7.95—to more filling choices such as burgers and pizzas from £13.95.
I chose a bacon and camembert panini with a side of golden chips (£4 extra) and settled at one of the riverside benches. The pub’s motto, ‘Better by the water,’ truly comes to life as I enjoy the tranquil environment. Despite its location near the main road, the gentle sounds of traffic fade into the background, leaving only the fresh air and river views.
The panini was a delightful treat: warm, creamy camembert melted inside the soft bread, enhanced by a flavorful kick from the chili jam. The generous portion of chips and crisp side salad completed the meal perfectly.
My peaceful lunch was accompanied by some unexpected guests—two friendly ducks who seemed quite interested in sharing my chips. One even waddled around my feet throughout, offering charming company without any need for feeding.
Though it was a quiet Tuesday afternoon when I visited, I expect The Riverside to bustle as warmer days continue. With ample space indoors and a spacious garden by the river, it’s an ideal destination for friends and families to gather and enjoy the sun. I’m already looking forward to my next visit.