THE Ragged Cot is a 17th century traditional country pub in the Cotswolds. Jeff Bolitho went for an overnight stay there with his wife.

IT IS worth taking a trip to the Ragged Cot in Minchinhampton for the journey alone.
Surrounded by acres of stunning National Trust land as you travel through the common leading to the inn, the panoramic views are a spectacular sight to behold.
When you arrive, the warmth and hospitality on offer are unmistakable.
You are given a glimpse of the restaurant as you enter the premises to whet the appetite for later. The friendly service that greeted my wife and I as we checked in at the bar area also set the tone for an enjoyable stay.
Our room - one of nine at the pub - was impressive, offering comfortable armchairs and bed, bathroom including a walk-in shower, tea and coffee making facilities and television.
It was spacious whilst offering a homely feel, with paintings and drawings adorning the walls and beams on the ceiling adding to its character and charm.
After relaxing in the room we headed to the bar area to enjoy a drink before making our way to the restaurant. The Cotswold Ale can be recommended and the convivial atmosphere provides a relaxing setting.
We then moved to the restaurant where a mouth-watering menu awaits guests. 
I chose a delicious carrot and fennel soup for my starter, while my wife enjoyed the chicken liver parfait with ciabatta crisps and mixed salad.
The soup was thick and full of flavour, offering the perfect antidote to a cold winter's night.
I then went for the 10oz sirloin steak with roasted vine tomatoes, portobello mushrooms and skinny chips with a peppercorn sauce. It was a sumptuous, satisfying dish that was cooked to perfection.
My wife chose the whole roasted sea bass which was accompanied by crushed new potatoes, salsa verdi and cavalo nero. The fish was delicious and the meal was as appetising as it sounds.
I finished with the dark chocolate mousse pot with cinder toffee, while my wife opted for the banana tarte tatin.
Both were exquisite desserts and rounded off the meal perfectly.
The service was excellent and the portions generous, leaving no guest craving anything more.
The high quality of food was matched by a hearty full English breakfast the following morning, which would set up guests perfectly for an invigorating meander around the stunning countryside.
The Ragged Cot offers everything you would desire for a pleasant stay in the Cotswolds - fine hospitality, welcoming accommodation and excellent food.