The Star Inn Ashton Under Hill

Tucked away in the heart of the Cotswolds, The Star Inn at Ashton Under Hill isn’t just a pub—it’s the village’s living room. Everyone from locals to weekenders raves about it, and for good reason. This isn’t a flashy gastropub; it’s a genuine, warm hub where the beer is perfectly kept and the welcome is genuine.

What makes it matter so much? For individuals, it’s a sanctuary after a long walk on Bredon Hill—a place to sink into a real ale and a bag of crisps without any pretence. For families, it’s a lifesaver. The garden is safe for kids to run wild while parents catch up, and the menu always has something to please a picky eater or a foodie. It’s the glue that holds the community together, a spot where you can bump into a neighbour, share a pint, and hear the local gossip.

Take the regular quiz night on a Wednesday. It’s packed—not with ringers, but with teams of grandparents, teenagers, and couples. The prize is a bottle of wine, but the real win is the laughter and the banter that echoes through the low-beamed rooms. Or consider the annual summer barbecue, where the pub’s owner, Dave, fires up the grill while kids play cricket on the green. These moments are why it’s a village treasure.

Want to make the most of it? Here’s the simple trick: go mid-afternoon on a Tuesday. That’s when the log burner is lit, the lunch crowd has thinned, and you can grab a quiet corner with a book. Another pro tip: always ask for the “off-menu” steak and kidney pudding—it’s not listed, but regulars know it exists. And if you’re walking the Cotswold Way, plan your stop here for the boot-cleaning station and a cold pint of cider.

Even if you’re just passing, park in the village hall car park (the pub’s is tiny) and stride in. The Star Inn is more than a good pub; it’s a lesson in how a single business can anchor a community. It proves that when you pair a cracking landlord with a roaring fire and decent chips, you don’t just serve food—you serve belonging. So next time you’re near Ashton Under Hill, do yourself a favour: step inside, pull up a stool, and stay a while.