Amy Fry discovers the beautiful Cotswolds town of Tetbury, Gloucestershire
Tetbury is recognised for its 16th century Cotswold stone buildings, large cluster of antique shops and let’s not forget the home of HRH Prince Charles ‘Highgrove’ shop. Highgrove sell a curated selection of home and garden merchandise and all profits go to the Prince’s Foundation. The quaint market town is often put to one side when we think of traditional Cotswold towns because the picturesque streets of Castle Combe and Bibury tend to overshadow it. However, in the past few years, Tetbury has seen a few new arrivals on the high-street which are well worth a visit. Antiques are still the highlight of Tetbury, it’s difficult to take 5 steps without stumbling into another fine antique shop. I guess that’s the beauty of the town, you never quite know what you’re going to find in amongst the classic pieces of furniture and charming Cotswold stone. An abundance of tasteful homeware stores, gift shops, bakeries and delicatessens have all been popping up more frequently, so here is a few of our favourites so far.
If you can picture in your mind a traditional Mediterranean delicatessen and wine shop with just enough space inside to fit three people and a dog, then you may as well be at Lola&Co. Lola&Co is run by a passionate Mediterranean Spanish family who enjoy nothing more than to appreciate each other’s company over a glass of red wine and a delicious meal. They wish to share one of life’s many joys: good food and fine wine, with many more enthusiastic food lovers. Adjacent to the deli is Lola&Co’s new Tapas Wine Bar consisting of traditional recipes and wholesome flavours curated by the family.
A classic Cotswolds retreat with a side of culinary perfection. The Close Hotel boasts three separate dining areas, a large garden complete with deckchairs and water features as well as characterful bedrooms and bathrooms to spend the night in. Kick back and relax in the snug with a warm drink or fill your senses with a three-course meal made from local produce inspired by fine country dining.
Do you love bread, pastries and all things delectable? Then head into Knead bakery (pictured), located adjacent to the famous Cotswold butchers, Jesse Smith. It’s difficult to miss this new bakery on Long Street as the shop frontage is bright pink and the pastries look too inviting in the window to simply walk past. Baked with love, they have a huge selection of goodies from almond croissants and custard brioche, to traditional French baguettes and focaccia. Try a selection or, get one of everything like we did… we couldn’t resist!
Walking around a Neptune showroom reminds me of home. No, let’s try that again. Walking around a Neptune showroom makes me wish this was my home. Neptune are an upmarket interior design company specialising in magazine-worthy kitchens. Neptune actually started 20 years ago in Wiltshire with a handmade hammock and today, the appreciation for quality materials and handmade pieces are still embedded into the company. Cotswold interiors company, Closa, have collaborated with Neptune to bring you a stunning vision where modern sophistication is met with traditional country style.
Martin & Malthouse Deli & Bottle Shop
Another fine delicatessen worth talking about is Martin & Malthouse. A farmer-run shop providing quality produce, homemade olive oil and chutneys, and a tasteful selection of alcohol. Pop in for a browse or stay awhile and grab a bite to eat before washing it all down with one of the best coffees in the Cotswolds.
Four floors packed full of beautiful vintage homewares and contemporary lifestyle items; Domestic Science is the shop to visit when you don’t quite know what you’re looking for. On one floor you could be smelling delightful handmade candles and soaps, the next floor you might be browsing the rails of organic cotton dresses, climb one more set of stairs and you can peruse Scandi style children’s toys.
The inconspicuous doorway will lead you past its sister business, Domestic Science, and into a bustling dining area flooded with natural light from the bi-folding doors and skylight. Hidden at the back of the café is a small, but perfectly formed, tranquil water garden, ideal for those warm summer days. With breakfast and lunch on the menu and a selection of drinks, coffees and cakes, everyone will be leaving satisfied. We recommend trying the Belgium waffles with maple syrup, caramelised banana and toasted hazelnuts for an extra indulgent breakfast.
Before you leave your trip to Tetbury, take the short stroll down the steep cobbled street of Chipping Steps and onto Gumstool Hill where the annual woolsack races are held. This is also a great place for that all important Instagram shot with an iconic view of the quaint English town.
Photography by Ransom Photography / Lola & Co / Knead
