The Killingworth Castle (Glympton Road, Wootton, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1EJ) is closing out 2025 with a trio of achievements worth celebrating. Recently ranked as the 17th best pub in the UK by the Good Food Guide, newly reaffirmed as one of the Top 50 Gastropubs for 2026, and now welcoming new Head Chef Edward Dutton, the pub enters the festive season in exceptional form. In keeping with the celebrations, the venue is also now wrapped in a large red bow for Christmas.
Proudly independent, food-led and complete with stylish rooms, The Killingworth Castle’s new placing at number 17 in the Good Food Guide’s inaugural UK pub list, alongside its continued presence in the Top 50 Gastropubs, reinforces its reputation as a destination worth travelling for.
Committed to raising the bar even further, the kitchen now operates under the leadership of new Head Chef Edward Dutton. Having recently departed the renowned kitchens of Claridge’s, Edward brings a fine dining background, an impressive list of awards and deep familiarity with industry accolades. Passionate about British agriculture and committed to local sourcing, his farm-to-plate philosophy closely mirrors that of The Killingworth Castle. Working alongside him is newly appointed Sous Chef Rob Mason, whose training includes time at The Cricketers in Clavering under Jamie Oliver’s father, followed by positions at several Michelin- and AA-recognised restaurants including The Cottage and Hampton Manor.
Owned and operated by husband and wife team Jim and Claire Alexander, the pair have nearly two decades of experience in Cotswolds hospitality. Their journey began with The Ebrington Arms, a village pub they fully refurbished and transformed into an award-winning venue before later selling. The Killingworth Castle followed as their next major project.
Dating back to 1637, The Killingworth Castle sits in the village of Wootton near Woodstock. Purchased in 2012 in a deteriorated state, Jim and Claire carefully renovated the property to restore its historic charm and culinary potential. The pub has held Michelin recommendation status for eight consecutive years, earned 3 AA Rosettes every year from 2024–2026, and was named among Condé Nast’s Best Cotswold Restaurants of 2025.
To mark the many successes of the year, a striking giant red bow now decorates the building’s exterior — a visual celebration of recent achievements and festive spirit.
Independent, decorated with multiple awards and serving standout seasonal food, there has never been a better time to visit The Killingworth Castle.