“You

“You
and me baby ain’t nothin but mammals, so let’s do it
like they do on the discovery channel.”

Unlike Nineties rock band Bloodhound Gang, I’m talking about
hibernation, when the winter months call on our animal instinct to
layer up and crawl into a tiny ball. But if you’re going to
hibernate, why not
make a weekend of it and do it in style?

The Wheatsheaf Inn is our cave
of choice. Located just two hours outside of London in the quaint
market town of Northleach (think 16th-century limestone houses with
an ancient church), this smart gastropub and chic countryside inn
has all the makings of a perfect hideout: roaring fires, cosy
interiors, world-class fare (and it won’t cost you an arm and a
leg).

Once a coaching inn and stopover on the road to London, The
Wheatsheaf was transformed by London couple Sam and Georgie Pearman
of the Lucky Onion into a gastropub for the stylish residents (and
second-home set) of the Cotswolds. Later turning the former stables
into 14 bedrooms, The Wheatsheaf Inn is now a fully-fledged
destination in itself. It was even Kate Moss’ hotel of choice for
her wedding guests. Need we say more?

Rooms

Cotswolds locals may never know the pleasure of rolling right
into bed after a hearty meal at The Wheatsheaf restaurant. Rooms
are simple, stylish and not trying too hard to channel ‘country’
with luxurious Farrow & Ball colours in muted tones, subtle
wallpaper and heavenly double beds which sink down just the right
amount. For those wanting that bit more, request room one with its
grand, freestanding bath – and enjoy with a bottle of prosecco
ordered from the bar, of course.

What’s for breakfast?

Downstairs in the main dining room is a small continental buffet
with muesli, granola, yoghurts, and more. Hungover? Order the full
english or the pancakes with crispy bacon from the à la carte menu
and help yourself to the Berocca and paracetamol in the large glass
jar. No judgment here.

How about lunch and dinner?

Famed for using high-quality ingredients, The Wheatsheaf
restaurant is always abuzz with lively locals and friendly visitors
settling in for a long lunch or boozy dinner. Halfway between local
pub and London restaurant, its two main dining rooms and private
room mix large wooden tables, worn armchairs by the fire and padded
leather banquettes with varnished floors and painted walls in slate
and pistachio. The menu is simple, rustic and locally led. Stand
out dishes are the twice-baked cheddar soufflé, Portland pearl
oysters and heritage carrot salad followed by the Chateaubriand for
two for the main. The meat is thinly sliced and utter
melt-in-the-mouth perfection. At
Christmas, they offer feasting-style menus for lunch and supper
and have a private room that seat up to 18 people.

Is there a bar?

Yes, in the main dining room the bar offers a selection of
regional beers, organic cider, a great wine list and some mean
cocktails. The bloody Mary is one of the best we’ve had.

Amenities

There is a small spa
treatment room, a cosy TV room and private dining room. All rooms
come with Bramley bath products, free wifi and a flat screen Bang
& Olufsen TV.

Things you should know

Some of the rooms facing the garden can get noisy during the
summer months and room five is above the kitchen.

Within a short walk you can find…

The sweet market town of Northleach with its cobblestone streets
and limestone houses, an antique church and walking paths into the
Cotswolds countryside. A short drive will lead you to the luxurious

Bamford Spa and Daylesford Farmshop & Café, perfect for a
girls day out – morning yoga, spa treatment and a healthy organic
lunch.