WELCOME TO MY CASTLE It’s cosy inside at the Killy; chef Chris Ellis runs the kitchen; if you’re staying, you must have the cooked breakfast
WHY IT’S GREAT The Killingworth has history: it’s a 17th-century watering hole on the edge of the Cotswolds, not far from Oxford, on what used to be the high road to Wales. When you walk through the door, the first impression is of warmth and personality – a smiling face ready to pour you a drink, a relaxed atmosphere (old wood tables, stone floors and the come-hither glow of a wood-burning stove). Unlike many good-eating pubs, you’re welcome just to have a drink, which means ‘The Killy’ feels part of the community. You’ll find locals propping up the bar with visitors from further afield, and the buzz of conversation adds to the charm.
THE FOOD BIT I’ve eaten here a couple of times – before the rooms were added – and the food has been good, but it’s even better since head chef Chris Ellis arrived from sister pub The Ebrington Arms last year. I recommend whetting your appetite with a plate of radishes and unapologetically garlicky aïoli while you read the menu. You only have to look at the list of cheeses on offer (rollright, ragstone, berkswell, among others) to know these are people who know their food.