The Hollow Bottom

The food was amazing too. We shared the salt & pepper squid to start, then I had the chalk stream trout and my husband ordered steak. Exquisite! We’ll be back. As a pregnant woman, I often dread going out and finding only basic soft drinks, since lemonade, Coke or orange juice gets repetitive really quickly. The hollow bottom has a small range of zero % cocktails and plenty of other choices, so they’ve got it right for people who don’t drink alcohol.

The lamb shoulder was generous and hit all the right notes, with seasonal vegetables, double spud, creamy cauliflower cheese and a Yorkshire pudding. We also shared lemon posset with summer fruits and shortbread, plus an affogato. I didn’t have room, but made some, and both simple classics were well done. To start, the cured Cornish mackerel with pickled cucumber, Greek yoghurt and bitter leaves was clean, sharp and balanced. I hope they keep playing with the cure and accompaniments. I like seeing people try something different with mackerel. I’m a big rarebit fan too. Their version was straightforward and enjoyable, though milder than the cheddar bite, mustard kick and Worcestershire and ale boldness I usually aim for in my own. We booked a late Sunday lunch after hearing The Hollow Bottom in Guiting Power had reopened under new management. The pub was fairly full, and diners seemed genuinely pleased to see it back. I didn’t know its history, but overheard locals say it had once been under the Dunkerton’s folks, then lost its spirit and focus during its most recent period with Young’s Pubs. Locals had stopped coming as much, and seemed ready to give the new owners another chance. The decor, horse racing art, fireplace and cushions all make the place feel homely, with clear links to local racing. The chef-owners are Nathan Eades and Liam Goff, who also run The Halfway at Kineton and The Horse & Groom at Bourton-on-the-Hill. I learned that while eating and reading the “What’s On” flyer and chatting with locals. I haven’t been to those other pubs, but here the food feels simple, local, carefully chosen and elevated. The care behind the food, service and atmosphere comes across as confident and well intentioned, not forced. You feel in safe hands. The wine list looked strong, with good by-the-glass options, and the bar was well stocked and nicely presented. As we left, people in the bar area near the restaurant were watching the Women’s Soccer Final, which England went on to win. The area is beautiful, and the pub is well appointed. I was glad to hear locals say they were happy it was back. It’s a strong return from a talented team, and I wish them success. The staff were lovely, genuine and helpful. People clearly care about this beautiful little pub and its warm atmosphere, including the team running it. We’ll be back. If you haven’t been, or it’s been a while, it’s worth a visit.

We heard about this pub, hallow bottom, while visiting Northleach and couldn’t have been happier with our experience. The venison scotch egg starter was cooked perfectly, and both the fish and chips and steak were outstanding. Save room for pudding, they’re definitely worth trying. Great, thank you! I’d highly recommend it.

Breakfast by the fire the next morning was a delight, with coffee, croissants, smashed avocado and poached eggs. We slept in the Fairy house, a comfortable snug with soft linens, warming decor, lovely furniture, a TV, espresso machine and Bramley products. Dinner for six on Saturday was absolutely delicious, and the cosy pub had just the right Christmassy feel. The pickled gherkins are always a favourite. We had a mix of trout and scotch egg starters, followed by steak, venison burger, flat iron chicken and pork chop. The chocolate/olive oil dessert was wowzers! Staff were friendly and attentive, and it was lovely seeing dogs and children there. It’s a real salt of the earth pub, done with great attention to detail. A glorious country retreat with hearty food, warm ambience and great service. We’ll be coming again!