FEW hotels would even contemplate mentioning the name of a rival, let alone suggest them to a customer, but that is part of the whole ethos of the Old Stocks Inn, in Stow, which claims to have the 'warmest welcome' in the Cotswolds.

The newly refurbished boutique hotel in the town's famous square even goes so far as to have a map showing its rivals on the wall and staff at the ready to steer people towards experiences and attractions to make their stay a memorable one.

"If one of our guests says to us, where can we go today to get a great pint or visit a stately home, we give them suggestions. They may be a rival, but we want people to have a wonderful experience when they come into the Cotswolds and we want them to keep coming back," said general manager Charlotte Knowles.

The Old Stocks Inn has undergone a £2million revamp taking four-and-half-months. It reopened in March and boasts a seamless join between the 16th century and a modern boutique hotel with an Anglo-Scandi vibe.

The oak beams have been cleaned and lightened and present a quirky appeal among modern furnishings. Even some of the original 'distorted' panes of glass have been kept which prompt many a response from diners. Pastel colours and glass create a feel of roominess and light.

A bespoke central dining table is designed to bring people together and get people talking.

The 16 bedrooms - which include three family rooms and three garden rooms - were designed around original features. Everything is British from the cushions and throws to the modern stylish light fittings and upcycled tables made from old school desks. Mini bars are provided in each room.

The result is 17th century charm mixed with modern day luxury and a hub for those visiting the area.

Local food is sourced for the kitchen led by head chef Chris White who trained at Claridge's under executive chef Martyn Nail.

Through the day customers can expect a fresh take on great British food from 'small platters' with the emphasis on tasting and sharing, to fine dining in the evening. He brings quirkiness and twists to his menu to get his diners talking, either in the 38-cover restaurant or the separate private dining room seating 18 and ideal for private functions and banquets.

Outside there is a courtyard with a pizza oven serving handmade classics throughout the day.

The bar stocks beers from Purity Brewery, in Warwickshire which uses a reed bed filtration system in the creation of its brews, and spirits from Chase Distillery, in Herefordshire, which are hand-bottled. Cocktails have also been a successful introduction.

Another twist is the adjoining Little Stocks Coffee Shop with artisan coffee, homemade cakes and muffins and upcycled furniture to continue the 'old-meets-new' theme.

Visitors are encouraged to share their adventures by posting Instagram photos on their website, whether its a snap of their meal or a picture of a view they saw when out and about.

The Old Stocks Inn has also started providing gift vouchers which can be redeemed against a dining or accommodation experience.