For Ben Cobb, a move to the Cotswolds was never part of the original plan, but it quickly became one of the best decisions he’s ever made.
As Men’s Editor-at-Large of The Sunday Times Style and a columnist for Esquire, Ben is widely regarded as a leading voice in contemporary menswear and culture. A renowned fashion journalist and tastemaker with over two decades shaping editorial direction, he previously served as editor-in-chief of influential titles including Another Man, LOVE and ES Magazine.
With his debut collection for British brand Aubin launching this October, Ben’s work is rooted in observation, culture and creativity. Ben shares the places, routines and local favourites that have shaped his life in the countryside.
After years of searching, we found our cottage in 2022. The original idea was to use it for weekends but, after a lengthy renovation project, we couldn’t resist and moved here full-time 18 months ago. It’s one of the best decisions we ever made.
It’s hard to choose one but if you insist: Chastleton House. Aside from 400 years of family history, what makes Chastleton so magical is its Marie Celeste atmosphere. Peeling 60s wallpaper, scattered Noel Coward books and old clothes piled on chairs, what’s not to love?
There are so many. The magnificent views from Rousham House and Kiftsgate Court Gardens are hard to beat but I probably get the most joy looking out over our enchanted garden from the comfort of bed.
A long walk across nearby fields taking in woodland via The Lady’s Well – an ancient site steeped in folklore – and the haunted church in Wilcote. Perhaps a “refresher” at our village pub on the way home.
Straw Kitchen for breakfast (the bacon-sandwiches are next-level) then next door to Wychford Pottery followed by a visit to the Rollright Stones.
Where the worst potholes are. That Satorelli’s pizza is the best pizza this side of Naples. And the secret “free” entrance to Blenheim Palace grounds.
Worton Kitchen Garden. This hidden-away spot uses produce so local most of it can be found growing or wandering around your table. The food is exceptional, my favourite is the spicy Tuscan fennel sausages with coco beans. Simon, the owner and chef, has created something special.
The Ultimate Picture Palace in Oxford. I’m a film fanatic and this 115-year-old art deco independent cinema is a treasure; its eclectic programming rivals The Prince Charles Cinema in Soho. Another cultural fix is our 80-year-old neighbour Harvey, one of the most erudite individuals I’ve ever met.
Our village pub, The Royal Oak. It’s a great place to catch-up with regulars and bring visiting friends. Evenings there always take unexpected turns – in the best way. In fact, my new fashion collection with Aubin, is the result of a conversation at the bar with the brand’s founder Peter Williams. We may or may not have had a few ciders.
That it is full of A-listers, disgraced MPs, burnt-out rock stars, bankers, influencers and tourists. There are plenty of them but the truth is the Cotswolds has an amazing mix of personalities from all kinds of backgrounds. The sense of community and welcoming atmosphere has been a revelation. We’ve made so many new friends here and have to head to London for a rest.
Mysterious. Social. Ancient.
Image credit – Ben Cobb. Follow Ben on Instagram here
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