Cotswolds Pub – A quintessential, traditional Cotswolds pub, the Woolpack at Slad has to be one of the top three establishments we like to visit on a regular basis in the Stoud area. Apart from the fact that it is one of a select number of pubs serving Graeme’s favourite pint of real ale, Old Spot brewed by the Uley Brewery, it’s charm and character just tick all the boxes for us.
Nestled on the side of the hill overlooking Swift’s Hill in the tiny village of Slad, the location of this pub is it has to be said idyllic. It is around 3 miles away from Stroud and a little bit out of the way but will worth the visit.
Walking into the Woolpack feels like you are stepping into an old cottage. With flagstone floors, an open roaring fire (in winter) and church pews to sit on, it has a lovely cosy ambiance. Split across three rooms, it is very small but that adds to the appeal. Apart from it’s Cotswold charm, it attracts visitors from far and a wide because of it’s association with the popular author Laurie Lee.
Famed for his novels Cider With Rosie and When I Walked Out One Summer’s Morning, Laurie was brought up in Slad and lived there until he died. Cider With Rosie was based in the area so it is interesting to read it and picture the scenery first hand. Laurie was a frequent visitor to the Woolpack and would often be found talking to locals and visitors. He is buried in the churchyard opposite and you can pop across to see his grave. A portrait of Laurie can be found hanging on the wall in the pub.
If you have a few hours to spare, we recommend a walk on the Laurie Lee Wildlife Way and we will be doing a separate post about it soon. A walk up to Swift’s Hill to admire the panoramic view across the Stroud district is also well worth the hike. It has a fantastic view on a clear day.
The food at the Woolpack it has to be said is delicious. Whether you fancy a nice wholesome homemade ham sandwich with salad and chips, beer battered cod, mushy peas and chips or local pheasant there is varied menu to choose from. The portions are generous and the Woolpack try and use local produce as much as they can. Chocolate brownies, apple crumble, ice cream and a wide range of deserts are on offer. Who can resist a yummy desert! We highly recommend eating at the pub but be sure to book a table in advance because space is very limited.
On a Summer evening it is lovely to sit outside with a pint of cider or Uley Ale and admire the views. The pub has such a friendly atmosphere and we have had many an interesting conversation with total strangers which does not happen everywhere you visit. That is one of the things we like about the pub, you never know who you are going to meet there and end up having a good chat too. Do visit because we guarantee you will be hooked and you will be returning again!
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