Set in a 500-acre estate, this Cotswolds hotel offers laid-back luxury and countryside charm with a welcoming feel
The Fish Hotel sits just above one of the Cotswolds’ most idyllic chocolate-box towns, Broadway, in the far southeast of Worcestershire. Its hilltop setting offers sweeping views across rolling fields and neighbouring villages.
Set within the impressive 500-acre Farncombe Estate, the retreat has a relaxed, village-like feel, with various accommodation options within easy reach of central amenities, including its Hook restaurant, reception and lounge bar.
For those keen to explore the Cotswolds on foot, The Fish provides walking maps of local trails. If you prefer to explore by car, Stow-on-the-Wold is just 20 minutes away, while Bourton-on-the-Water can be reached in under half an hour.
The nearest train station is Honeybourne, around six miles from The Fish, and roughly a 15-minute drive. Moreton-in-Marsh is eight miles from The Fish, around a 20 minute drive away, with direct trains to London Paddington. Taxis can easily be arranged from the station, or via the hotel in advance.
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The Fish is the perfect mix of comfort and understated elegance. There are ample open fires and log burners in common areas to complement the farmhouse-inspired interiors, which creates a home-from-home feel.
Thoughtful touches add to the charm. Board games such as Scrabble are stacked in the lounge bar with subtle music helping to create a relaxed, sociable feel while you have a mid-afternoon or evening drink.
At the heart of the estate is the main lodge, where you’ll find the reception, lounge bar and Hook restaurant, with rooms, huts and treehouses dotted across the surrounding woodland and hillside – never more than a couple of minutes’ walk away.
Service at The Fish is welcoming and refreshingly relaxed – staff are skilled at balancing attentiveness without it feeling overbearing. The “buzz for booze” intercom in the shepherd’s hut accommodation was a particular highlight.
Families are equally well catered for, with children greeted by colouring sheets and activities in the bar and restaurant.
Bed and bath
There’s a wide range of accommodation at The Fish, depending on the type of stay you’re after. The cosy huts and treehouses are popular for a more unique countryside escape and come at a higher price point, from £425 per night. Hotel rooms and suites, from £256, offer a slightly more classic (but equally comfortable) option. Some rooms cater for families of up to four with a pull-out sofa bed.
The “Hilly Huts” are the most affordable shepherd’s huts (from £365 per night), sleeping two, and come complete with a double bed, sofa, TV and shower room. “Hideaway Huts” are more spacious, with a separate lounge area, shower room, freestanding bath and the added bonus of a private hot tub.
For families of up to four, the treehouses are a real treat. Instead of a hot tub, you’ll find two heated outdoor baths on the terrace, perfectly positioned to take in the sweeping views.
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Food and drink
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As the name implies, Hook – The Fish’s main restaurant – specialises in seafood, but there’s plenty on the menu for meat-eaters and vegetarians, too. Michelin-starred chef Martin Burge is the name behind the menu, which focuses on fresh, responsibly-sourced fish and flavours that feel special without being fussy. I tried the Cornish mussels in white wine and parsley sauce and a beautifully pan-fried ray wing with peppercorn and capers – both standout dishes.
The lounge bar serves food throughout the day until 9pm, from laid-back lunches to snacks and dinner options, with everything from gourmet burgers and hot dogs to fresh salads on the menu.
Breakfast is also served in Hook, with a continental grazing table and cooked options made to order.
The Fish has ample space to roam and unwind, with woodland trails, open fields and sweeping views across the Vale of Evesham. Families are well catered for thanks to an outdoor play area for children, picnic spots and benches dotted across the grounds.
The boot room is stocked with wellies in all sizes and local trail maps for those keen to explore on foot. There was even a rucksack in my hut, which came in handy for a hike.
There’s also a variety of on-site activities to try, from wine tasting and archery to falconry, axe throwing and even tractor driving. These can be booked directly via the Farncombe estate.
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The main lodge and communal areas (including the restaurant and hotel) are wheelchair accessible, with step-free entrances, ramps and accessible toilets available throughout the building.
Dogs (over a year-old) are welcomed at The Fish. Treats and dog beds are provided and there’s even a dedicated dog bath stocked with luxury shampoo – ideal if you’re going on muddy countryside walks.
Check-in is from 3pm, check-out is by 11am.
The Fish Hotel is a great choice for families. There are children’s menus, outdoor play areas and room options designed to accommodate families with children of all ages and babies. Travel cots are available on request.
Best thing: The little touches that make for a really special stay, from the boot room wellies and jelly beans to the hot tub intercom.
Perfect for: Couples and families looking for a laid-back but elevated stay.
Not right for: Those seeking a more polished, dressed-up style of luxury.
Instagram from: The top of the hill on the walk back to the hotel from Broadway.
Address: The Fish Hotel, Farncombe, Broadway, Worcestershire, WR12 7LH
Phone: 01386 854231
Website: thefishhotel.co.uk
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The Fish Hotel offer a range of seasonal offers and packages throughout the year, such as three nights for the price of two on selected dates.
Fran was a guest of The Fish Hotel
