
Thinking of staying in Stow-on-the-Wold for your Cotswolds adventure? You’re in for a treat! This charming market town is one of the prettiest spots in the area with its honey-coloured stone buildings, antique shops, cozy tearooms and easy access to nearby villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Upper Slaughter.

If you’re planning a romantic countryside escape or a relaxing weekend without a car, or a solo trip with a good book and a cup of tea, I’ve put together a list of the best hotels in Stow-on-the-Wold. I’m also sharing where I personally stayed and why it completely won me over.
These recommendations are based on my personal stay (at The Stag at Stow), guest reviews and how easy it is to get around especially if you’re not driving.
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Why Stay in Stow-on-the-Wold?
If you’re deciding where to base yourself in the Cotswolds, Stow is a smart pick. Here’s why:
- 🚆 It’s car-free friendly! With a train to Moreton-in-Marsh and a short taxi or bus ride, it’s one of the most accessible towns in the Cotswolds without a car.
🚘 Read here on how to get to Stow without a car from London!
- 🧁 You’re surrounded by charming cafés, historic pubs, and local boutiques which are all walkable.
- 🏡 It has a warm village feel but still offers plenty of accommodation choices.
- 📸 St. Edward’s Church (with that magical door) has some history to it.
There’s something about waking up in the heart of the Cotswolds. You can enjoy a slow morning with tea and scones, wander through antique shops or snap a photo at the picturesque town square.
Best Hotels in Stow-on-the-Wold
To help you choose where to stay in Stow-on-the-Wold, I’ve grouped the top hotel picks by style and comfort. If you’re looking for boutique or a classic inn or budget stays, there’s lots of options waiting for you.
Top Pick: The Stag at Stow

I stayed here during my winter trip and couldn’t have picked better. The location is perfect, right in the heart of town.
It had a couple of quirks but nothing that took away from the stay.
➡️ Read my full review here ⬅️
Boutique and Luxury Hotels
2. The Old Stocks Inn
Beautifully restored with a modern twist, this inn mixes tradition with a bit of playful design. The rooms are full of personality and their restaurant is a lovely place to dine after a day of exploring.
Why stay here? Beautifully designed rooms • Central location
✨ See photos, reviews, and rates for The Old Stocks Inn
3. The Porch House
England’s oldest inn and full of character. Expect creaky floors and a pub that feels like home.
Why stay here? Historic charm • Excellent food and atmosphere
⭐️ Read reviews and book your historic stay here
4. The Sheep on Sheep Street
Trendy and casual, with modern rooms and a cool garden bar. Their pizza is a local favourite.
Why stay here? Stylish rooms • Outdoor garden seating
🐑 Click here to check reviews and book The Sheep
Is Stow-on-the-Wold walkable?
Yes, the town is compact and charming. You can walk to restaurants, shops, and most hotels easily.
Mid-Range Picks
5. The Bell at Stow
This cozy pub with rooms is just a few steps from the market square.

Why stay here? Pub-style stay with charm • Comfy beds and hearty breakfast
🛎️ Browse guest reviews and book a stay at The Bell
6. Stow Lodge Hotel
Set in private gardens, this Georgian building offers a peaceful stay. It’s a little more traditional in style, with great service.

Why stay here? Classic countryside feel • Quiet setting
🏠 Read reviews and see availability for Stow Lodge Hotel
7. Number Four at Stow
Just outside the town centre but worth the short walk. Rooms are modern and spacious, with exceptional service.
Why stay here? High-rated customer service • Good for couples or solo travellers.
🛌 Read guest reviews and book Number Four here
Value Stays in Stow-on-the-Wold
8. The Unicorn Aparthotel Suites
A luxury-style aparthotel with fully equipped kitchens and elegant interiors. Ideal for longer stays or families.
Why stay here? Has a kitchenette • Great for extended stays
🦄 Check reviews and compare prices at The Unicorn Suites here
9. The Kings Arms
Traditional and full of personality. The rooms are cozy and the downstairs pub is a local favourite.
Why stay here? Affordable and authentic • Popular pub on-site
🛡️Read reviews and Book The Kings Arms here
Things to Consider Before You Book
- WiFi: Most places offer free WiFi, but speeds may vary in older buildings.
- Breakfast: Many hotels include a continental breakfast. Double-check if you prefer a hot option.
- Parking: Limited in town. Be sure to ask if your hotel includes free parking.
- Accessibility: Some historic inns have narrow staircases and no elevators. If mobility is a concern, check before booking.
- Luggage Storage: Ask in advance if your hotel can hold bags before check-in or after check-out.
Map of Hotels in Stow-on-the-Wold
Use the map below to see where each hotel is located in town. It’ll help you plan based on walking distance to restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Which Hotel Should You Choose?
Each place has its own kind of magic.
✨ Love bold design? Try The Old Stocks Inn.
🏰 Prefer something historic and intimate? Go with The Porch House.
🌿 Want the best mix of comfort and value? The Stag at Stow is my pick.
👨👩👧👦 Traveling with family or staying longer? The Unicorn Suites gives you more space and flexibility.
Stow has a way of making you slow down and breathe a little deeper. Wherever you stay, the experience will be one to remember.
Hotel Alternatives Nearby
If you can’t find availability in Stow or just want to explore nearby villages, here are a few great options to consider:
Hotels in Bourton-on-the-Water
Just a 5-minute drive or a quick taxi ride away, Bourton is one of the most charming spots in the Cotswolds. Think riverside walks, cute bridges, and plenty of tearooms.
Cozy cottages & Airbnb-style stays
Want something more private? Stow and the surrounding villages offer lovely cottage rentals. Perfect for a longer stay or traveling with friends.

For those with a car: Upper Slaughter hideaways
If you’re driving, look into Upper Slaughter. It’s a tiny village tucked in the hills with peaceful country inns and postcard-perfect views.
FAQs About Hotels in Stow-on-the-Wold
Q: Do hotels in Stow include breakfast?
A: Many do, especially inns and boutique hotels. Always check what’s included when booking.
Q: Can I visit Stow-on-the-Wold without a car?
A: Absolutely. The nearest train station is Moreton-in-Marsh, and a quick taxi or bus ride brings you right into town.
Q: Is Stow-on-the-Wold a good base for Cotswolds travel?
A: Yes, especially for car-free travelers and first-timers!
Q: Are there any pet-friendly hotels in Stow?
A: Several pubs with rooms welcome furry friends. Please check policies in advance.
Q: When should I book?
A: Book 2–3 months ahead for peak season.
Staying Without a Car?
Stow-on-the-Wold is one of the easier Cotswold towns to reach by public transport. You can take a train to Moreton-in-Marsh from London or Oxford, then hop on a bus or taxi to Stow. Most of the hotels in town are within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the market square.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Stow-on-the-Wold is such a beloved spot in the Cotswolds. With its storybook charm at every turn, it’s the kind of place that stays with you long after your visit.
I’ve gathered some of the best places to stay in Stow-on-the-Wold to help you plan your own Cotswolds escape. I hope this guide has been helpful and brings you one step closer to your dream trip.

If it made your travel planning a little easier, I’d be so grateful if you shared it with a friend or fellow wanderer. Every share helps more travelers discover the magic of Stow.
A stay in Stow feels like stepping into a picture-perfect postcard. And once you’ve been, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again.
📌 Before You Go…


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Happy Travels,
