The Lygon Arms

The story of The Lygon Arms begins long before the Tudor building you see today. Records show a coaching inn stood here as early as 1377. At that time, it was known as The White Hart, a name associated with King Richard II, whose personal emblem was the white stag. This suggests that the inn held significance even in medieval England.

The structure most visitors recognize today dates to the early 17th century. The Trevis family owned and managed the inn for roughly 150 years, overseeing its role as a key stop for travelers moving between London and Wales. During the Elizabethan period, the inn provided fresh horses, meals, and overnight accommodation for coach passengers, a function it continued to serve well into the following century.

The English Civil War proved a defining moment for the inn. Charles I met supporters here, an association remembered in the King Charles I Suite, where his coat of arms still appears, notably missing the lion’s face. Oliver Cromwell also stayed at the inn shortly before the Battle of Worcester on September 3, 1651, the decisive conflict that secured victory for Parliament. His visit is marked today in the Cromwell Room, where his portrait hangs beside a 17th century fireplace.

Following the Civil War, The Lygon Arms returned to its role as a coaching inn, serving traders and travelers for another 250 years. In the early 20th century, the arrival of motorcars changed travel patterns, and the inn gradually became a destination rather than a stop along the road.

Royal visits in this period included King Edward VII in 1905 and the future Edward VIII in 1913. As its reputation grew, the guest list expanded to include politicians and cultural figures, such as Mary Pickford, Sir Michael Redgrave, Elizabeth Taylor, and Richard Burton during their stay in 1963.

The Lygon Arms is a good example of traditional Cotswold architecture that has developed steadily over the centuries. The main building dates back to the early 17th century and is constructed from local limestone, with tall gables, mullioned windows, and steep stone slate roofs that give it a classic country look. Above the entrance, the carved doorway dated 1620 still stands, framed by decorative stonework and pilasters. Inside, original timber frames, exposed beams, and large stone fireplaces reflect the building’s early days as a coaching inn for travelers using established routes.

Over time, the property expanded in ways that respected its original character. In the early 20th century, architect C.E. Bateman added new gabled wings and a dining room with bay windows, increasing space while keeping the historic feel intact. Many older features were carefully kept in place, including 17th century staircases, fireplaces, and decorative plasterwork, helping maintain a sense of continuity throughout the building.

More recent updates focused on making the hotel comfortable without losing its history. Guest rooms and suites blend original features with custom furnishings, textured fabrics, and warm lighting. Public areas were redesigned into relaxed lounges and shared spaces, while original stone walls and historic details were restored where possible. 

Grill

The Grill is the main restaurant at The Lygon Arms and focuses on seasonal British cooking with an emphasis on local sourcing. Chef James Martin designs the menu and reflects a balance between familiar classics and dishes shaped by what is available from regional farms, fisheries, and producers. Starters lean toward traditional flavors ranging from soups and terrines to seafood and vegetarian options, while the grill section forms the backbone of the menu. Steaks are grass-fed, outdoor reared, and dry-aged for 30 days, then cooked simply and served with classic sauces and sides.

Alongside this are mains that change with the seasons, including British fish, slow-cooked meats, and vegetarian pasta dishes. Desserts and puddings continue the British theme, while the wine list focuses on well-chosen international bottles that pair easily with the menu.

The Grill also offers a dedicated children’s menu, making it suitable for family stays. On Sundays, the restaurant serves a traditional lunch with both two-course and three-course options, centered around roast meats and seasonal accompaniments.

Tavern

Tavern is the most relaxed dining option at The Lygon Arms, offering casual meals, light bites, and familiar pub-style food. It works well for guests who want something informal, whether that means a quick snack, an easy lunch, or dinner. The menu centers on classic pub favorites, supported by a small selection of heartier dishes. Snacks and small plates are ideal for sharing and include traditional bar food alongside simple plant-based choices. Main dishes focus on well-known comfort flavors, with burgers, fish and chips, slow-cooked meats, and pasta. Blackboard specials change regularly, allowing for seasonal dishes and daily additions.

Sharing boards are a popular option, especially for groups or relaxed evenings. These usually feature local cheeses, cured meats, vegetables, and traditional accompaniments. Tavern is also a practical choice for families and mixed groups, with flexible options that suit different appetites and dietary needs. Vegetarian and plant-based dishes are clearly marked, making it easy to choose.

The Lygon Bar & Lounges

The Lygon Bar & Lounges provide an informal space for food and drinks throughout the day. Located just off Broadway High Street, the lounges are often used by guests looking to take a break after sightseeing or walking in the surrounding countryside. Seating areas are spread across several rooms, some with fireplaces, making the space practical in both colder and warmer months.

The food menu focuses on light meals and familiar dishes rather than formal dining. Options include small plates, sandwiches, burgers, and traditional British favorites, which work well for casual lunches or relaxed evening meals. The drinks list is extensive, covering cocktails, local gins, beers, wines, and Champagnes, alongside non alcoholic options.

The Champagne Bar sits within the lounge areas and offers a quieter setting for evening drinks or small gatherings. It is often used after dinner or as an alternative to the main dining spaces, particularly for guests who prefer a calmer environment.

The Russell Room

The Russell Room is a quieter dining space at The Lygon Arms, commonly used for afternoon tea. The room has a more intimate layout than the main restaurant areas. In the mornings, the Russell Room is also used for breakfast service. It is one of the spaces within the hotel where dogs are welcome, allowing guests traveling with pets to dine without needing to use outdoor areas.

The afternoon tea features a mix of savory sandwiches, homemade scones with jam and cream, and a variety of sweet treats, all complemented by premium teas, coffee, or optional champagne. The hotel provides a separate menu for dogs, which makes the Russell Room particularly practical for pet-friendly stays. This combination of afternoon tea service and dog-friendly dining sets it apart from the other venues on site.

The Lygon Arms was named Most Charming Cotswolds Wedding Venue 2024. This 16th-century inn has licensed spaces for civil ceremonies and offers a range of rooms for weddings and receptions, with options for exclusive use of the hotel. The venue allows flexibility for private dining, workshops, and spa treatments for guests, and local experiences in Broadway can be arranged to complement the celebration.

The Edinburgh Room
Venue type and style: A light-filled room with large windows overlooking the Cotswolds countryside. Suitable for smaller ceremonies and receptions, providing a calm and intimate setting.
Capacity: Up to 50 guests

The Drawing Room
Venue type and style: A first-floor room with an original fireplace and courtyard views. Its private, intimate atmosphere works well for small gatherings.
Capacity: Up to 18 guests

The Cromwell Room
Venue type and style: Oak-panelled and historically significant, this room was where Oliver Cromwell stayed before the Battle of Worcester in 1651. Ideal for very small weddings, offering a historic atmosphere.
Capacity: Up to 12 guests

Exclusive Use
Venue type and style: The entire hotel can be booked exclusively for larger celebrations. Guests gain access to all lounges, bars, private gardens, and the Great Hall, which features a vaulted ceiling and a minstrel’s gallery.
Capacity: Up to 80 guests

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

The Lygon Arms is known for its renowned spa, offering a calm retreat. Guests can enjoy the indoor pool and a fully equipped Technogym. The spa also provides a range of treatments, including massages, facials, body therapies, nail care, and seasonal wellness packages. During summer, a retractable roof allows the pool area to open to the sky, creating a unique experience. Fitness enthusiasts can use the studio, and the spa also features heat facilities such as a sauna and steam room for a complete wellness session.

Just a short drive from The Lygon Arms, Broadway and the surrounding Cotswolds offer a range of experiences for visitors. You can start your day with a visit to Broadway Tower, perched on a hill within massive parkland and woods, where sweeping views of the countryside make for a perfect morning walk.

Not far from there, Cotswolds Farm Park gives a hands-on glimpse of farm life, letting you meet the animals and see how a working farm operates. For those interested in local flavors, a trip to the Cotswolds Distillery offers tours and tastings, showcasing regional spirits crafted with care. Sports and leisure enthusiasts can enjoy Cheltenham Racecourse or a round at Broadway Golf Club, while shoppers might head to Bicester Village for designer finds just a short drive away.

The area is rich in culture as well. History and architecture fans can explore Shakespeare’s Birthplace, admire classic motoring at the Cotswold Motoring Museum, or wander through the miniature charm of The Model Village. Wildlife lovers will enjoy Cotswold Wildlife Park, while outdoor adventurers can discover trails and activities like Cotswold Quadding or visit the Heart of England Forest.

The Lygon Arms offers a festive escape in the heart of the Cotswolds, with cozy lounges, roaring log fires, and historic surroundings creating a warm holiday atmosphere. Guests can enjoy traditional festive meals, including multi-course Christmas dinners, Christmas Day lunches with all the trimmings, and light bites on Boxing Day.

During the lead-up to Christmas, visitors can enjoy festive dining in the Grill or a special festive afternoon tea. Private festive dining is also available for smaller groups seeking a more intimate experience. The quieter period between Christmas and New Year, known as Twixmas, includes organized countryside walks, spa visits, and other activities, allowing guests to enjoy the serene festive atmosphere of the inn.

The Lygon Arms is not only a place to stay but also a venue where both corporate events and private celebrations can be accommodated. Travelers visiting for work can expect a calm setting suited to meetings, workshops, and team retreats, with dedicated spaces. For those planning personal occasions, the hotel also hosts private dinners, family celebrations, and small social events. The atmosphere is relaxed, with chef-prepared menus and flexible room layouts that work well for different group sizes. If you are considering timing your stay around an event or planning one during your visit, it is best to get in touch with the hotel team for details and arrangements.