After a recent soft launch, the owners of No 1. Cotswolds are slicing the cake for a 'half birthday' – and celebrating the town's warm welcome for their innovative addition to life on Moreton-in-Marsh's High Street.

A unique hub and showcase for artisan foods, drinks and crafts, No.1 Cotswolds is the brainchild of Simon and Julia Wright and friends Craig and Amy Stanley. Together, the four hit upon the idea of blending a restaurant, deli and homewares store under one roof in 2021.

Simon, managing director and co-founder, said: "Having purchased this 400-year-old building, converting it to meet 2020s standards without sacrificing the original charm and character was no mean feat. It took more than 18 months and a lot of imagination to make it all work – but we got there!"

Julia, co-founder, added: "We wanted to share the Cotswolds with everyone. There are so many beautiful areas to explore, whether the towns and villages – but also the crafts, the food, the drinks. And No.1 Cotswolds is a celebration of all of the best of the Cotswolds."

Simon said: "From the oak tables and deli counter which came from a tree (that had come to the end of its life) in a woods just outside Evesham, through to handmade pottery and soaps made with ingredients foraged from local fields.

"Whenever it has been possible to source local produce, that's always been our first choice."

As a hybrid in retail offerings, No.1 Cotswolds represents a new and unique venture and the partnership of Simon and Julia, together with Craig and Amy Stanley, came about when the two couples met in late 2018. 

 A combined passion for celebrating all things Cotswolds quickly became apparent, Said Simon, adding: "But the stand out is the food!"

Craig , executive chef and co-founder, explained: "Throughout my career, I have been passionate about trying to use the most local of ingredients in all my dishes. The quality is just so much better and, to my mind, eating something that has been grown or produced in the Cotswolds adds a special flavour."

And with the first six months trading under their belt the team feel confident and excited about the future.

Amy added: "We are already seeing our regulars as well as new faces – and it is lovely to have been so enthusiastically welcomed to Moreton-in-Marsh."

Looking ahead, Simon Wright admits an ambition to have "maybe five or six restaurants across the Cotswolds." 

He added: "And then who knows? I'd love to see 'No.1 Cotswolds, Covent Garden' bringing a taste of the Cotswolds to London!"

To find out more, visit the shop at No.1 Cotswolds, High Street, Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 0AF, or go to www.no1cotswolds.co.uk  or follow on Instagram & Facebook @no1cotswolds .