Lunch, Music and a Little Magic in Stow
There are some days that remind you just how lucky you are to live where you live. A recent lunch at The Old Stocks Inn in Stow-on-the-Wold was very much one of those days.
The Old Stocks Inn is one of those places that feels just right. Nestled in the heart of Stow, it is a 17th-century coaching inn whose restaurant holds two AA Rosettes, serving seasonal British cuisine with a welcome touch of quirkiness. It is the sort of setting that invites a long, leisurely lunch and a really good conversation. Which is exactly what I had.
And somehow, the talk turned to music. It always does around here. Living in the Cotswolds, I have come to realise that this corner of England has an extraordinary musical life. I don’t think people outside the area fully appreciate just what’s on offer. Founded in 2014, Music at Stow in Stow-on-the-Wold presents world-class artists at St Edward’s Church, a stunning 12th-century building just a short walk from where I was sitting.
And what a programme it is. Classical, jazz, blues, sixties classics and West End musicals. And every September, there’s a full music festival that draws visitors from far and wide. Founded in 2014, Music at Stow in Stow-on-the-Wold presents world-class artists at St Edward’s Church, a stunning 12th-century building just a short walk from where I was sitting. And what a programme it is. Classical, jazz, blues, sixties classics and West End musicals. And every September, there’s a full music festival that draws visitors from far and wide.
I have been to several of these concerts now, and each one has been incredible. There is something rather special about hearing exceptional music in such an intimate, beautiful setting. The acoustics are wonderful, the atmosphere is warm, and the standard of performance really is world-class.
If you are not already aware of Music at Stow, I do urge you to take a look at what is coming up. It is one of those hidden gems you’ll be glad you discovered.
