10 best restaurants in Bourton-on-the-Water

One of my favourite villages in the Cotswolds is the wonderfully charming Bourton-on-the-Water, with its pretty waterways and characterful buildings. 

If you’re looking for the best places to eat in Bourton-on-the-Water, I’m pleased to tell you that it has quite a range of pubs, restaurants, independent cafés and tea rooms.

These eateries give the village quite a convivial vibe, which I think is part of its appeal.

I also believe that your trip wouldn’t be complete without experiencing afternoon tea in Bourton-on-the-Water. It’s a classic way to spend the afternoon in a historical English village.

From cafés to restaurants, here are my favourite restaurants in Bourton-on-the-Water.

1. L’Anatra Italian Kitchen 

Address: Victoria Street, Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire GL54 2BS

Best for: An Italian dinner

From the Chester House Hotel you can get delicious Italian fare including pizza, pasta, steak and seafood.

The restaurant is bright and airy and I don’t think you can beat their takeaway pizza enjoyed down by the river.

Discover more of the best hotels in Bourton-on-the-Water.

2. Smiths of Bourton

Address: Victoria Street, Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire GL54 2BT

Best for: Burgers and beers

Looking for mammoth burgers and brilliant beers? Smiths of Bourton has your name on it. 

Tuck into decadent homeland burgers at this boutique burger joint with mouth-watering sides to boot.

Plus, you’ll be missing out if you don’t enjoy one of their famous bespoke cocktail here too. 

3. The Riverside Café

Address: Riverside Cheltenham, Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire GL54 2BP

Best for: Light bites

Looking over the river, in the heart of the village, is The Riverside Café. It’s worth a trip for a snack and a coffee as you watch the world go by.

There’s a full breakfast menu if you’re looking to start the day right, or you can tuck into fresh sandwiches, jacket potatoes, salads, cream teas, cakes, and more.

4. Bakery on the Water

Address: 1 Sherborne Street, Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire GL54 2BY

Best for: Delicious baked goods

Bakery on the Water has a charming little riverside garden where you can enjoy food from the artisan bakery. You’re also able to nip into the café itself if the weather isn’t in your favour.

Alternatively grab some delicious baked goods and make a picnic of it down by the river (hint: I’d recommend snaffling one of their sausage rolls!).

5. The Rose Tree Restaurant

Address: Victoria Street, Bourton-On-The-Water, Gloucestershire GL54 2BX

Best for: Riverside dining

Another beautiful riverside spot, The Rose Tree Restaurant is set in a characterful grade II listed cottage. 

As a family-run restaurant, you can expect a very warm welcome and a laid-back atmosphere. 

Here you can expect traditional British cuisine plus a tempting selection of wines and beers. I love the river-facing garden for when the sun is shining.

6. Green & Pleasant

Address: Windrush Cottage, Riverside, Bourton-on-the-Water, Cheltenham GL54 2DP

Best for: A quaint spot

Green & Pleasant is another café serving up classic light bites and sandwiches, located in a quaint spot.

The food may not win any awards, but it’s perfect for a quaint and laid-back dining spot. 

7. Kingsbridge

Address: Riverside, Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire GL54 2BS

Best for: Hearty pub grub

For classic and hearty pub fare but right on the river, I’d suggest enjoying a meal at the Kingsbridge pub. It’s undoubtedly one of the best pubs in Bourton-on-the-Water.

If the weather is good, be sure to enjoy a pint or a glass of wine in the decked beer garden; perfect for soaking up the atmosphere.

8. The Duke of Wellington

Address: 1 Sherborne St, Bourton-on-the-Water, Cheltenham GL54 2BY

Best for: Sharing platters

Another of the best restaurants in Bourton-on-the-Water is another pub: The Duke of Wellington.

Family run and with a friendly atmosphere, this is a pub with a range of food options. I’d recommend checking out their sharing platters.

9. The Atrium at Lords of the Manor Hotel

Address: Upper Slaughter, Cheltenham GL54 2JD

Best for: Michelin recommended dining

While this one is located a 10 minute drive from Bourton-on-the-Water, believe me when I say it’s worth the short trip!

Delve into the tantalising tasting menu at The Atrium in Upper Slaughter, which showcases the best of the season’s produce. 

The setting is both intimate and grand, with a glass dome at the centre of the room which adds a sense of occasion. 

Discover more of the best luxury hotels in the Cotswolds or the top Michelin star restaurants in the UK.

10. The Slaughters Country Inn

Address: Lower Slaughter, Gloucestershire GL54 2HS

Best for: High quality pub food

Another option which is just outside of Bourton-on-the-Water, The Slaughters Country Inn is only a five minute drive away in Lower Slaughter.

Here you’ll find high quality pub food, with all the classics you’d expect in a relaxed dining environment. 

This is also a great spot to treat yourself to an afternoon tea complete with homemade sandwiches and scones. Champagne optional but recommended!

Do you have any favourite restaurants in Bourton-on-the-Water? Let me know in the comments!

Read my guide to the best things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water or discover the best hotels in the area.