A fresh new chapter is beginning in Lower Dowdeswell, as the site formerly home to Koloshi reopens as The Fox – a new countryside pub with rooms – and it officially opens on Sunday 19 July 2026 to members of the public.
Positioned on the outskirts of Cheltenham on the hugely popular Cotswold Way, the new venue owned by JM Socials is aiming to become popular with locals, as well as a stopping point for walkers exploring the Gloucestershire countryside.
The latest project by the group, which also owns Prithvi, Circo, the Tavern and Jai Ho, aims to transform the well-known roadside spot, near Charlton Kings, into a more traditional pub setting.
The focus will be on seasonal food, local drinks and overnight accommodation – with plans including 10 boutique en-suite bedrooms.
Set within nearly three acres of land, the site also opens up opportunities for a more expansive countryside experience.
Speaking about the vision, co-founder Michael Raphel said: ‘We want The Fox to feel like a proper countryside escape – somewhere people can enjoy great beer, simple seasonal food and genuine hospitality.
'The site gives us nearly three acres to work with, and we’re already planning to grow our own produce on-site to keep things as local and fresh as possible. It’s an incredibly exciting project.’
Longer-term plans for the site suggest an even more ambitious evolution, with ideas for an outdoor wellness and hospitality area featuring shepherd’s huts, saunas and fire pits. If realised, this would position The Fox as more than a pub, but a destination blending food, accommodation and outdoor leisure.
