You know that feeling when you walk into a historical building and expect it to smell like mothballs and damp wool? Honestly, that was my biggest fear before visiting The Old Stocks Inn Stow on the Wold. The Cotswolds is full of these "time capsule" hotels where you're afraid to sit on the furniture.
But this place is different.
It’s a 17th-century coaching inn, sure. It has the wonky floors and the golden honey-colored stone that makes tourists lose their minds. Yet, the vibe inside is remarkably fresh. It’s like someone took a classic British pub and gave it a Scandinavian soul. They call their staff "the troupe," which sounds a bit theatrical, but it actually fits the energetic, unpretentious service they aim for.
What Most People Get Wrong About The Old Stocks Inn
Most people think staying in a Grade II listed building means sacrificing comfort for "character." You know the drill—showers that have the pressure of a leaky faucet and Wi-Fi that only works if you stand in the garden near the bins.
The Old Stocks Inn Stow on the Wold basically flips that script.
When the hotel was refurbished around 2015, they didn't just slap a coat of paint on the walls. They kept the original beams and the thick stone pillars but added super-fast internet, smart TVs, and Nespresso machines. It's a weirdly satisfying mix. You’ll be looking at a wall that’s been standing since the English Civil War while charging your iPhone via a USB port built into the headboard.
✨ Don't miss: Hotel Gigi San Diego: Why This New Gaslamp Spot Is Actually Different
The Room Situation
They have 16 bedrooms, and honestly, no two are the same. If you're tall, you need to be careful. Seriously.
- The Great Rooms: These are the ones you want if you’re celebrating something. They have super king beds and roll-top baths that are big enough to swim in.
- The House Rooms: A bit smaller but still stylish.
- The Garden Rooms: These are tucked away and feel a bit more private.
- The Bunker: This is their family room, featuring a triple bunk bed for kids and even an Xbox. It’s a smart way to keep children entertained while the parents actually get a second to breathe.
One thing I loved? The "tipple" in the minibar. It’s complimentary. Usually, hotel minibars are a trap where a bottle of water costs five pounds, but here they actually want you to enjoy a drink on the house.
Why the Location Actually Matters
You’ll find The Old Stocks Inn Stow on the Wold right on the Square. This is key because Stow is the highest town in the Cotswolds. Back in the day, it was a massive hub for the wool trade. Right outside the front door, you’ll see the original penal stocks.
They’re a bit of a grim reminder of how they used to handle criminals, but now they’re mostly just a backdrop for awkward tourist photos.
Being in the heart of the town means you’re steps away from the "Tolkien Door" at St. Edward’s Church. It’s that famous north door flanked by two ancient yew trees. People say it inspired the Doors of Durin in Lord of the Rings. Whether that’s true or just a very successful local legend, it’s worth the two-minute walk from the hotel.
🔗 Read more: Wingate by Wyndham Columbia: What Most People Get Wrong
Eating and Drinking
The restaurant at the inn holds 2 AA Rosettes. The food isn't just "pub grub." It’s seasonal British stuff with some actual imagination. You might find something like a "Parcel in a Puddle" (which is basically a fancy soup and pastry combo) or locally sourced beef.
The bar is a highlight too. It’s brass-topped and serves craft ales from Arkell’s Brewery, who actually bought the inn recently. If you're there in the summer, they have a "secret" walled garden with a pizza oven. There is nothing better than eating a wood-fired pizza in a garden that’s been enclosed for 200 years.
Is It Worth the Trip?
If you're looking for a formal, white-tablecloth experience where everyone whispers, this isn't it. The Old Stocks Inn is loud, colorful, and a bit quirky. It’s the kind of place where the resident dog might greet you at the door.
Some people find the "Scandi-Cotswold" aesthetic a bit jarring compared to the more traditional hotels nearby, like the Porch House or The Stag. But that’s exactly why it works. It feels alive.
A few things to keep in mind:
💡 You might also like: Finding Your Way: The Sky Harbor Airport Map Terminal 3 Breakdown
- Parking: It’s limited. Since it’s right on the square, finding a spot can be a nightmare during the Saturday market.
- Steps: Because it's an old building, there are lots of levels and narrow stairs. If you have mobility issues, definitely call ahead to see which rooms are accessible.
- The Wind: There’s an old saying: "Stow on the Wold, where the wind blows cold." It’s true. Even in July, that hill catches a breeze. Pack a sweater.
How to Make the Most of Your Stay
If you're planning a visit to The Old Stocks Inn Stow on the Wold, don't just stay in the room. Grab one of the hotel’s "Cotswold Bucket List" maps. They have these curated guides for walks and hidden spots that most people miss.
Start your morning with a coffee at their little cafe that spills out onto the pavement. It’s the best spot in town for people-watching. Then, head out to Bourton-on-the-Water—it's only ten minutes away—but get there early before the coach loads of tourists arrive.
When you get back, skip the fancy wine and try a local gin from the bar. They partner with Chase Distillery, and it’s a much better way to end a day of hiking through the Gloucestershire mud.
Book your room directly on their website if you can. They usually throw in better perks than the big booking sites, and in a town this popular, every little extra helps.
Actionable Next Steps
- Check the Calendar: Avoid the biennial sheep fairs if you hate crowds, but definitely aim for a Saturday if you want to see the local farmers' market in full swing.
- Room Request: Ask for Room 21 if you want the "oldest" feel, but be prepared for a low ceiling. If you want a view of the action, ask for a room overlooking the Square.
- Book Dinner Early: The restaurant fills up fast, especially on weekends. Don't assume you can just wander in at 7:00 PM and get a table.
- Footwear Matters: You’re in the Cotswolds. Bring boots. The "tures" (narrow alleys) and footpaths around Stow are beautiful but notoriously muddy.
This place isn't just a bed for the night; it's a way to see the Cotswolds without feeling like you're in a museum. It’s comfortable, it’s a bit weird, and it’s arguably the best base for exploring this corner of England.