Award Winning Outdoor Dining: The Fuzzy Duck Armscote’s Beautiful Garden Restaurant
The Fuzzy Duck Armscote in Warwickshire is the perfect escape for food lovers and nature enthusiasts. Known for its stunning outdoor dining space, this 18th-century coaching inn has created a delightful balance between rustic charm and modern comfort. With an award-winning garden restaurant and an atmosphere that makes you feel at home, The Fuzzy Duck is much more than just a place to eat it's an experience.
Recently recognised as the Best Boutique Stay in Warwickshire at the Muddy Stilettos Awards, this gem continues to charm locals and visitors alike. So, what makes this spot so special? Let’s take a closer look.
Why Outdoor Dining with Awards Matters?
Outdoor dining has become more than a trend it’s now an essential part of what makes a dining experience memorable. When you visit a venue with a celebrated outdoor space, you can expect more than just a good meal. Awards like those won by The Fuzzy Duck highlight exceptional attention to detail, from creative landscaping to mouth-watering seasonal menus.
The Appeal of Alfresco Dining
Picture this: the gentle rustle of leaves, the warmth of the sun or a cosy fire pit on cooler evenings, and the sound of laughter as you enjoy a delicious meal outdoors. That’s the magic of alfresco dining. It brings together great food and the beauty of nature, creating an atmosphere that’s hard to replicate indoors.
What Makes an Award-Winning Space?
Winning awards isn’t just about looking good; it’s about creating a complete experience. At The Fuzzy Duck, the garden is carefully designed with comfortable seating, plenty of greenery, and thoughtful touches like heaters and blankets for year-round enjoyment. Combine this with top-notch service and incredible food, and it’s easy to see why this spot stands out.
Spotlight on The Fuzzy Duck’s Stunning Garden
The garden at The Fuzzy Duck isn’t just lovely it’s unforgettable. Lush plants, vibrant flowers, and intimate seating areas create the perfect setting for long lunches, relaxing afternoons, or romantic dinners. Whether you’re catching up with friends or spending time with loved ones, this garden is a little slice of heaven.
Recognition and Accolades
It’s no surprise that The Fuzzy Duck’s garden has been recognised over the years. Alongside its recent Muddy Stilettos award, it’s also been celebrated for its food, service, and overall experience. Guests regularly rave about the peaceful atmosphere and attention to detail, making it one of Warwickshire’s top dining destinations.
A Beautifully Landscaped Courtyard
The Fuzzy Duck’s courtyard is described on its website as “beautifully landscaped,” featuring mature planting, bespoke seating areas, and a fire pit for cosy evenings. Guests frequently highlight the lovely garden in reviews, with Booking.com users praising it as a peaceful oasis for late-afternoon drinks.
Awards & Accolades for the Garden
A detailed look at the prestigious awards recognising The Fuzzy Duck’s garden excellence.
Muddy Stilettos Awards
Best Boutique Stay in Warwickshire 2025 (WarwickshireWorld)
Best Boutique Stay in Warwickshire 2017 (warks.muddystilettos.co.uk)
Les Routiers: Bed & Breakfast of the Year 2016
AA Culinary Accolades: Two Rosettes for culinary excellence
AA Inn Rating: Four-Star Inn for exceptional styling and comfort
These honours underscore The Fuzzy Duck’s commitment to an award winning outdoor dining experience that seamlessly marries garden charm with gourmet innovation.
Seasonal Menus & Alfresco Offerings
At The Fuzzy Duck, the menu is as impressive as the setting. Using locally sourced ingredients and even herbs and edible flowers from the garden, the dishes are fresh, creative, and absolutely delicious. From light summer salads to hearty winter meals, every plate is designed to complement the natural surroundings.
How The Fuzzy Duck’s garden-inspired dishes and outdoor ambience create unforgettable dining experiences.
From Garden to Plate
Herbs, edible flowers, and locally foraged produce from Warwickshire suppliers inform the Fuzzy Duck’s seasonal menus. Dishes like “Quack & Chips” (confit duck leg with truffle & parmesan fries) showcase this garden-to-plate philosophy.
Signature Outdoor Dishes
Heritage Tomato & Burrata with basil oil and garden micro-greens
Confit Duck Leg served with winter-garden cabbage and black-currant jus
Elderflower Spritz cocktail courtesy of locally sourced cordials and garden herbs
Each menu change celebrates the changing seasons, inviting guests to enjoy a fresh alfresco dining experience in Warwickshire year-round.
Why The Fuzzy Duck Should Be Your Next Dining Destination
Here’s why you should book a table at The Fuzzy Duck:
The Garden: An award winning outdoor space that’s perfect for any occasion.
The Food: Seasonal menus with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
The Experience: A warm, welcoming atmosphere where every detail has been thought of.
Proximity: Only 5 miles from Stratford-upon-Avon, with ample parking and easy road access.
Multi-Award Status: Recognised by Muddy Stilettos, AA, Les Routiers, and featured in the Michelin Guide for both accommodation and cuisine.
Plus, with boutique accommodation on-site, it’s the ideal spot for a weekend getaway.
Practical Information & Booking
Outdoor seating is available during regular service hours, and guests can enjoy drinks and cocktails in the garden without ordering food.
Location: Ilmington Road, Armscote, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 8DD
Opening Hours:
Tue–Sat: 10:00 am–11:00 pm
Sun: 10:00 am–6:00 pm
Contact & Bookings: +44 (0)1608 682635 or book a table at The Fuzzy Duck Armscote
During the summer, an Aperol bar adds an extra touch to the alfresco experience. For guaranteed outdoor seating, call ahead to reserve your table.
More Than Just an Award-Winning Pub
The Fuzzy Duck is more than a fantastic dining venue an award-winning pub combining old-world charm and contemporary sophistication. Recognised for its exceptional garden and alfresco dining and its warm and welcoming atmosphere, it has become a firm favourite for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re dropping by for a perfectly poured pint, a leisurely meal, or just to soak in the ambience, you’ll find a stylish pub that’s every bit as friendly as it is.
A Boutique Pub Stay Like No Other
Planning an overnight getaway? The Fuzzy Duck offers a boutique pub stay that’s second to none. With beautifully styled rooms, high-quality amenities, and thoughtful touches like Frette linens and Lefroy Brooks bathrooms, every detail is designed to make your stay unforgettable. Unsurprisingly, this charming spot was recently named the Best Boutique Stay in Warwickshire at the Muddy Stilettos Awards.
Guests can wake up to a delicious breakfast, enjoy a morning stroll in the garden, and explore the surrounding Cotswolds countryside before settling back for an evening in the award-winning pub. Whether it’s a romantic retreat, a family celebration, or a weekend escape, The Fuzzy Duck is the perfect boutique stay.
What to Look for in an Award-Winning Venue?
When scouting for top-tier outdoor dining, prioritise:
Landscaping & Comfort – Heated seating areas, sheltered nooks, ambient lighting.
Culinary Creativity – Menus that reflect local produce and innovative pairings.
Service Excellence – Attentive staff trained in al fresco service nuances.
Guest Feedback – High review scores on platforms like TripAdvisor and Booking.com.
Wrap-Up
The Fuzzy Duck isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a destination. With its award winning garden, inspired menus, and welcoming vibe, it’s the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy some of the best outdoor dining in Warwickshire. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or simply fancy a treat, this is a venue that delivers on every level.