In uncertain times, the quintessential British staycation has never been more appealing. Tucked away in the picturesque Cotswolds, The Killingworth Castle offers an extraordinary blend of history, hospitality, and haute cuisine, making it a must-visit retreat just a 90-minute drive from London.
This magnificent 17th-century inn, affectionately known as “The Killy,” predates monumental events from the execution of Charles I to the Great Fire of London. When Thomas Killingworth first served ale here, Galileo was under house arrest, and Isaac Newton was yet to be born. Today, this storied pub stands as a testament to centuries of tradition, now reborn as one of the UK’s top gastropubs.
Since Jim and Claire Alexander took ownership in 2012, The Killingworth Castle has undergone a remarkable transformation. Its manicured gardens and inviting beer garden create an idyllic setting, especially on warm summer days. Inside, the roaring hearth and welcoming bar set the scene for what is truly a unique dining experience.
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At the heart of The Killy’s allure is head chef Adam Brown, whose pedigree includes stints at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay and Le Champignon Sauvage. Brown’s compact, modern British menu dazzles with dishes such as scallops in cider beurre blanc, generous chicken liver parfait with toasted brioche, lamb saddle, and an exceptional roasted chicken breast accompanied by barley risotto, morels, and asparagus. Paired with a dry Riesling, this is gastropub dining elevated to an art form and worth every mile of the journey.
For those reluctant to leave, the converted 17th-century stables offer eight uniquely charming rooms. Featuring exposed brickwork, ancient beams, and four-poster beds, the accommodations blend period character with contemporary comfort. Nearby, the historic village of Wootton invites leisurely exploration, while the vibrant town of Woodstock is home to the breathtaking Blenheim Palace, Churchill’s birthplace, with its grand estate providing a full day of discovery.
The Killingworth Castle also offers a renowned breakfast, including a hearty full English that prepares guests perfectly for a day venturing through the stunning Cotswolds countryside.
Room rates start at £169 per night, with packages including dinner and breakfast from £316.75 per room based on two guests. For an extended stay, two nights with dining and breakfast start from £460.40.
This is a rewarding destination where history and hospitality meet – the quintessential weekend escape that stays with you long after you leave.