More than just a postcard-perfect village, Bourton-on-the-Water is quietly serving up some of the Cotswolds’ most enjoyable food experiences. From hearty breakfasts to riverside lunches and local produce you can take home, this is the perfect destination for a leisurely day of grazing and tasting.

Here’s how to eat your way through a foodie’s dream day in Bourton.

Stop 1: Breakfast at The Croft

📍 Riverside location on Victoria Street
Start your day with a proper breakfast at The Croft, one of Bourton’s best-loved cafés. Overlooking the River Windrush, it’s ideal for sitting down to a relaxed morning meal with the sound of water flowing nearby.

Whether you’re craving a full English, smashed avocado on toast, or a veggie breakfast with perfectly poached eggs, The Croft’s menu hits the spot. Pair it with a strong coffee or pot of local tea, and you’ll be fuelled up for exploring.

☕ Tip: Arrive early to grab a riverside table, especially on weekends.

Stop 2: Browse for Local Treats & Produce

Just a few doors down is Bourton’s local Co-op, and it’s surprisingly well-stocked with regional produce. If you’re staying nearby or just love a good food souvenir, take a peek inside.

You’ll often find:

Cacklebean Eggs – renowned for their rich orange yolks
Todenham Manor Farm meat – high-welfare beef, pork and sausages from a Gloucestershire farm
Locally made chutneys, jams, cheeses, and even gin

Great for picnic supplies, or for taking a little taste of the Cotswolds home with you.

🛒 Tip: Bring a cool bag if you’re planning to stock up.

Stop 3: Lunch at The Old New Inn

📍 Next to the Model Village
When midday hunger strikes, make your way to The Old New Inn, a charming spot just off the high street. Behind the historic inn is a spacious beer garden, one of Bourton’s best-kept secrets, perfect for relaxing in the sunshine.

Expect a menu filled with satisfying classics: fish and chips, baguettes, homemade soup and seasonal specials made with fresh, local ingredients. With friendly service and plenty of space for groups or families, it’s the ideal lunchtime retreat.

🍺 Bonus: Try one of their locally brewed ales or a crisp Cotswold cider.

Stop 4: Afternoon Ice Cream on the Green

After lunch, take a stroll along the river and treat yourself to a classic cone. Bourton is home to several ice cream spots, with everything from clotted cream vanilla to more adventurous flavours like rhubarb crumble or lemon meringue. Head to Box Bush for their experimental weekly specials and delicious homemade gelato.

🍨 Local Pick: In the Summer, you’ll spot Allan and his ice cream cart by the river, which is well worth a try! He even stocks doggy ice creams for those hot days with your four-legged friends.

Stop 5: Tea & Cake at a Cosy Café

When it’s time for an afternoon break, settle in for tea and cake at one of Bourton’s character-filled tearooms. Chestnut Tree Café and La Reine and many more offer delicious homemade bakes served with proper English tea or delicious coffee.

If the weather is warm, enjoy it outside under the trees—if not, indoors by a window watching the world go by is just as good.

🍰 Must-try: Classic Victoria sponge or lemon drizzle.

Optional: Foodie Souvenirs Before You Leave

Before heading home, pick up a few edible gifts to remember your trip by. In addition to the Co-op’s great local offering, the village’s shops stock:

Handmade truffles
Locally brewed gin and cider from The Cotswold Distillery
Locally coffee beans from a selection of coffee shops
Cotswold fudge

Perfect for thank-you gifts—or keeping all to yourself!

A Tasteful Way to Spend the Day

With its welcoming pubs, riverside cafés and access to truly local produce, Bourton-on-the-Water offers a full day of foodie enjoyment. Whether you're here for a quick bite or to eat your way through the village, you’ll leave full and happy.

🌿 Tip: Planning a weekend stay? Use this guide to build your own Bourton food trail!

Quick Foodie Checklist

✅ Book breakfast at The Croft in advance during holidays

✅ Visit the Co-op early for the best local produce selection

✅ Grab a table in The Old New Inn garden (walk-ins welcome, but sunny days fill up fast)

✅ Try something sweet from an independent café

✅ Don’t leave without Cacklebean eggs or a wedge of local cheese!

Ready to experience the charm of Bourton-on-the-Water? Book your stay at The Old New Inn and immerse yourself in the heart of the Cotswolds. We look forward to welcoming you!

A Foodie’s Day in Bourton-on-the-Water: Best Eats, Treats & Local Favourites