Fashion innovator George Davies, celebrated for creating iconic brands like Next, George at ASDA, and Per Una for Marks & Spencer, has embarked on a new journey in the heart of the Cotswolds. Together with his wife, Arlene, he has transformed a 17th-century limestone building on Broadway’s High Street—formerly a local doctor’s surgery—into House of George, a boutique hotel and restaurant that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern British craftsmanship.
This elegant ten-bedroom retreat exemplifies thoughtful restoration, preserving architectural authenticity while showcasing bespoke interiors. Arlene Davies, a National Design Academy diploma holder, collaborated with Laura Cole of The Cole Collective to curate a visual concept that celebrates connection—to guests, neighbors, and the picturesque village itself. Each room features custom British-made furnishings from esteemed makers such as Rapture & Wright, Abraham Moon, Cotswood Fine Furniture, and Cotswold Oak Joinery, complemented by artwork from The Stratford Gallery and distinctive glassware by Carrie-Anne Funnell.
At the heart of House of George is Moda, a refined 30-seat restaurant helmed by head chef James Wilson. Formerly of Michelin-starred Newt in Somerset, Wilson brings a confident, cross-cultural culinary style inspired by his experience in top Scandinavian kitchens including Helsinki’s one-star Gron and Stockholm’s two-star Palace and Oaxen Krog. Moda offers an evolving nine-course tasting menu that highlights the season’s finest local produce, alongside an exceptional vegan counterpart featuring wild and foraged ingredients.
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Upcoming autumn dishes include Cornish Lobster with Dill and Lobster Butter Sauce, Spiced Duck with Boudin Noir and Squash, and a Sea Buckthorn, Earl Grey & White Chocolate dessert. James’ signature hand-cut Beef Tartare is elevated with a hay-smoked oil emulsion, wild garlic seed capers, and a sumptuous smoked bone marrow and lovage vinaigrette.
Moda also caters to diverse dining preferences with an à la carte menu and a weekday set lunch priced attractively at £40 for two courses and £45 for three. On Sundays, guests can enjoy a rustic farm-to-table roast crafted from locally sourced Longhorn beef and Gloucester Old Spot pork, supplied by Martins Meats and Worcester Produce farms.
The inviting House of George bar welcomes guests with a warm, pub-like ambiance featuring exposed Cotswold brickwork and plush red seating. The cocktail menu pays homage to George Davies’ illustrious career with inventive creations like The 1981, a spirited blend of vodka, gin, rum, reposado tequila, Cointreau, Earl Grey syrup, and milk. Nearby, the Snug offers a cozy retreat centered around a roaring fire and country-inspired comforts, while the private dining room, Il Fronte Della Casa, accommodates up to ten guests for intimate gatherings.
For George, House of George represents a fresh chapter of creativity beyond fashion: “Breathing new life into this remarkable building and crafting a special place for Broadway has been a joy and privilege,” he reflects. Arlene adds, “Every detail celebrates the soul of the Cotswolds, creating a place where guests feel truly at home.”
James Wilson shares his excitement about opening Moda: “I’m proud to bring my culinary vision to Broadway, collaborating with fantastic local producers under the support of George and Arlene. Together, we aim to create an exceptional dining experience that captures the spirit of this beautiful region.”
Moda is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The tasting menu is available Monday through Saturday evenings and Saturday lunchtimes, with a special Sunday lunch service. House of George offers an intimate, authentic refuge that marries heritage, hospitality, and innovative cuisine.