Inside award-winning ‘bucket list’ Cotswolds bakery

Otis and Belle was named Best Group of Bakeries in the Cotswolds in 2025 and also picked up four Great Taste Awards for its croissants and sourdough.

The bakery now has four locations across the Cotswolds: Moreton-in-Marsh, Stow-on-the-Wold, Broadway and Cheltenham.

Will Alexander, founder of Otis and Belle, said: “I’ve always loved the simplicity of great bread, and during lockdown, like so many, I found myself spending more time experimenting with sourdough, which really sparked an interest in fermentation and gut health and how good ingredients and traditional methods can make such a difference.

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Otis & Belle, the Cotswolds bakeries. (Image: Becca Pearson)

“I wanted to create a destination where croissants are made properly, and the sourdough is given the time it deserves.

“As much as we respect tradition, we also love having fun with what we do, every month we create a new sourdough special, giving the team the chance to experiment with different flavours, seasonal ingredients and new ideas.

“The same goes for our viennoiserie. It’s where we can really get creative, whether that’s reimagining a classic or introducing something completely unexpected.”

Mr Alexander trained at Le Cordon Bleu in 2011, before developing his craft at Bibendum in London and later became head chef at French bistro Blanchette in Soho.

Otis and Belle is named after Mr Alexander’s two children, Otis and Anabelle.

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Otis & Belle, the Cotswolds bakeries. (Image: Becca Pearson)

It is known for its award-winning sourdough, classic white, seeded, and spelt loaves, as well as a changing selection of pastries and seasonal bakes.

Recent offerings have included raspberry and white chocolate sourdough, frangipane tarts, and crème patisserie-filled cruffins.

The Crème Brulée croissant cubes, with their glossy caramel tops, are a customer favourite.

The bakery also serves goat’s cheese Danish pastries and Croque Monsieurs layered with cheese and onion marmalade.

Otis and Belle has become a popular stop for both locals and visitors exploring the Cotswolds.

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Otis & Belle, the Cotswolds bakeries. (Image: Becca Pearson)

Mr Alexander said: “Whether it’s a morning coffee before work, or exploring the countryside, or a box of pastries for a teatime treat, Otis & Belle has become a must-visit part of the Cotswolds experience.

“And while weekend queues have become part of the ritual, those in the know understand exactly why they’re there: for exceptional freshly baked food, familiar faces and a bakery that feels as much a destination as it does a local favourite.”

The bakery’s approach has earned it a loyal following, with many customers returning daily.

Otis and Belle continues to grow, with each location reflecting Mr Alexander’s commitment to quality, creativity, and customer experience.

The bakery aims to bring “exceptional baking, warm hospitality and a sense of local community” to every customer it serves.