PUBS
The Three Horseshoes at Asthall, a newly opened pub by Daylesford
We were recently invited down to the Three Horseshoes, Asthall, the fourth pub to Daylesford’s pub group, Daylesford Stays. Following a light refurbishment (previously being The Maytime), the pub offers simple seasonal food and six cosy bedrooms, a large garden with an outdoor bar and incredible views across the rolling Cotswolds hills.
BY ARCHIE CAWTHRA
2 February 2024
The Three Horseshoes is an 18th century pub set in the quintessential Cotswold village of Asthall, The Three Horseshoes has always been a local’s pub, renowned for its warm welcome and generous community spirit. In the early 1900s, the pub’s farrier innkeepers replaced the horseshoes of travellers passing through the village. In 1977, it was renamed The Maytime and today the pub has returned to its roots, becoming The Three Horseshoes in honour of its history and heritage.
As well as locals, the pub has always been popular with those visiting the area, which is home to some of the prettiest towns and villages in England. From antiquing in Stow-on-the-Wold; to meandering through the gardens of Asthall Manor; or enjoying the Cotswold ‘gateway’ of Burford with its famous High Street which rises from the church and the river, there is no shortage of things to do.
The Three Horseshoes serves a comforting menu of seasonally changing dishes made with local produce from Daylesford Organic; craft beers and ciders; and a considered wine and cocktail list. Long been a favourite draw, the sun-soaked garden is The Three Horseshoes’ best kept secret. Overlooking the Windrush Valley, it is abuzz in the summer months with groups of friends catching up over chilled rosé and cocktails, and families making use of garden games and the converted horsebox, from which wood-fired pizzas are served. In the winter, it is the perfect spot to enjoy a pre-lunch Bloody Mary by the fire pit whilst wrapped up in a sheepskin blanket.
Six refreshed bedrooms have been designed with these guests in mind, as somewhere to lay one’s head whilst exploring the area. Small but perfectly formed rooms cocoon guests in the signature Daylesford palette of natural tones and materials. King or super-king-sized beds, fine linens, walk in showers and signature Bamford products provide the simple elements of luxury associated with Daylesford Stays. Drawing inspiration from The Three Horseshoes’ history for its interiors, the room names have an equestrian nod, whilst the design details throughout the pub allude to the craftsmanship of its farrier heritage.
Whilst we were at the Three Horseshoes, we spoke with Roger Williams, the Head Chef, where he gave us an insight of how the hospitality industry has changed over the years and his inspirations being a cook.
What got you interested in cooking?
“I started as most do in this trade…by washing up. I was keen to become more involved in cooking, so my Head Chef allowed me to assist on the cold section. Cooking is a trade that you have to love as there are hard times and long hours, but conversely there are also some amazing moments and the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life.”
How has the hospitality industry changed over the years?
“The industry has changed massively over the years, and even more so since the pandemic. I think businesses are a lot more understanding than they used to be and more supportive of a work-life balance. This is so important to me now that I have a child, I can’t imagine not having time off in school breaks to spend time with him.”
What is your favourite dish to create?
“It very much depends on how I’m feeling on the day, but most of the time I love playing around with classic dishes and thinking of ways to elevate them and make them more exciting. I also have such a sweet tooth, so I’m always keen to make sweet treats!”
What is your favourite part about working for a pub?
“I’ve worked in a variety of different pubs and the best thing for me is the wonderful characters that you come across! I’ve really found my place and a sense of comfort at The Three Horseshoes – it is so much more than a pub to me. I have been here for nearly ten years and it’s been brilliant to be part of the business as it has grown and evolved. It really is a magical place that feels like my second home.”
