The Mount Inn, Stanton

A traditional pub in the heart of the Cotswolds

The Mount Inn is a village pub located in Stanton, near Broadway, in the county of Worcestershire. The establishment presents itself as a traditional pub committed to excellence and occupies a 17th-century building situated at the edge of the village, on an elevation that gives the business its name. Its position offers panoramic views over the Evesham valley, towards the Malvern Hills and, beyond, the Welsh Black Mountains.

The pub is part of the tied houses of Donnington Brewery, a local brewery with which it maintains an affiliation. Its traditional ales are served in the establishment, which also offers a varied menu designed for walkers, locals and those looking for a full three-course meal.

Local produce kitchen

The kitchen prepares dishes to order and uses ingredients from local suppliers whenever possible. The company emphasises that it works with local producers and local brewers, and that this closeness contributes to the flavour of its dishes. The menu is complemented by a drinks list in which Donnington Brewery ales take centre stage.

A building with history

The building that the pub now occupies dates from the early 17th century and was originally a farmhouse. Over time it housed a cobbler's workshop, a tearoom and an off-licence. In 1897, when it was known as 'The Bank', it was sold to Richard Arkell on 11 October for £604, passing into the hands of Donnington Brewery. The brewery's first tenant was John Troughton, followed by Samuel B Richardson and then his son Billy Richardson, who ran the premises until 27 July 1962.

For years it operated as an off-licence, as it did not obtain a licence until 1947, at a cost of £1,000. Before that date it was known as 'The Five Elms' and the sale of drinks inside was not permitted, so tenants made cider in a shed located in what is now the car park to be drunk on the other side of the gate, next to five elm trees that no longer exist. Local tradition adds that customers were drawn outside by the installation of a dartboard and that stray darts ended up in those trees.

Surroundings and activities

The pub is on the Cotswold Way national trail and Stanton is a popular walking destination from Broadway. The establishment presents itself as a place of rest for those exploring the area on foot or on horseback, with stables available in the village. Inside there is a large inglenook fireplace where you can dry off and warm up, as well as pub games.

In the warmer months there is a large garden and a terraced area to enjoy outdoors. From that terrace it is possible to hear the whistle of the locomotives of the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire steam railway. The pub serves as a stop for exploring the neighbouring village of Stanway, with its Jacobean Stanway House and gardens and what is described as the largest gravity-fed fountain in the world, as well as the historic towns of Broadway and Winchcombe, with attractions such as Broadway Tower, Sudeley Castle and the aforementioned railway.

Opening hours and operation

The establishment is closed on Mondays. From Tuesday to Saturday it opens in two shifts, midday and evening, with kitchen service in shorter windows than the bar hours. On Sundays it opens only at midday, with food until 15:00, and remains closed in the evening.

Location and contact

The Mount Inn, Stanton, Nr Broadway, Worcs. WR12 7NE · Phone: 01386 584316 · Email: enquiries@themountinn.co.uk