Whether you’re heading into town from Ladies Day, the St Patrick’s Day celebrations or the Gold Cup – we share our local Gloucestershire knowledge on the best bars to head to after a day at Cheltenham Festival
The Promenade
Boasting a list of rare tipples and one of the best interiors in the Cotswolds, No. 131 is a new restaurant and bar with 11 bedrooms, set in the heart of the town. The bar, known as Crazy Eights, is a cool, bustling place to catch up on the day’s successes. Don’t miss the decadent Chrysanthemum cocktail - mixed from a 1916 recipe by influential cocktail creator Hugo Ensslin – comprising of dry vermouth, benedictine, absinthe and bitters. Or ask one of the bar staff – always happy to recommend something for the indecisive drinker.
Parabola Road
Nestled in the Montpellier district, Hotel Du Vin’s classic Georgian exterior and luxurious interior is just what the doctor ordered after a day out at the races.With a selection of fine wines to enjoy in the Laroche wine tasting room and a purpose built cigar shack, the Hotel Du Vin is the go-to bar for Cheltenham’s well-dressed clientele. Don’t miss the Jockey Club cocktail – mixed with Gin, Amaretto, a squeeze of lemon juice and Angostura Bitters – all served in a Martini glass.
1 - 3 Montpellier Villas
A well known haunt of the racing crowd, The Beehive is a quality pub in Montpellier with a buzzing, unpretentious atmosphere – guaranteed to be packed out with tweed-wearing revellers come Gold Cup week. Make sure you try a pint of Bees Knees, with notes of Mexican Orange Blossom Honey and brewed just down the road near Bristol.
Bayshill Road
The warm, intimate bar set within the Chapter hotel boasts open fireplaces and a library as a backdrop to its killer cocktail range. Sit on one of the elegant sofas or relax in the conservatory as your waiter delivers drinks to you – no need to go to the bar! Don’t miss: The Gran Mimosa - a drop Gran Marnier French orange liqueur, a splash of orange juice and a drop of Orange Curacao. Topped with Champagne.
18–20 Suffolk Parade
Sip champagne in style on The Daffodil’s circle balcony, overlooking the bustling restaurant and open kitchen below. The former cinema boasts an Art Deco interior and plenty of space to accommodate the Race Week hoards. Don't miss a number of jazz acts performing every night through race week.
5 Royal Well Place
Tucked away behind the Promenade, The Tavern is a pub that mixes quirky design touches with vintage style, while serving up a mean cocktail selection and a decent pint. Don’t miss a quality pint of craft beer from The Tavern’s ever-changing cask ale selection.
2 Rotunda Terrace, Montpellier Street
Specialising in Champagne and cocktails, Soho Bar is also in Cheltenham’s upmarket Montpellier area. Known for its good music and even better cocktails, the bar attracts an eclectic crowd. Don’t miss a glass of Laurent-Perrier upstairs in the Champagne Bar.
The Jolly Brewmaster
39 Painswick Road
If all you want after a day at the races is a decent pint, then head over to The Jolly Brewmaster. A traditional style pub with a friendly local feel and a top selection of cask ales and ciders – but still located in the Montpelier area.
11 Montpellier Arcade
If liquor is your thing, then John Gordons needs to be your first stop in Cheltenham. The specialist whisky, wine & champagne saloon bar in Montpellier is an intimate venue, with an impressive back bar selection. Don’t miss the Siblings gin, locally made by a quartet of siblings in Gloucestershire, best served with tonic and blueberries.
10-11 Suffolk Parade
Whether you want a pint of Guinness or a good glass of wine, make sure you visit the popular Retreat for a post-racing tipple. A vibrant wine bar with a cosy outdoor area at the back – it’s sure to have a boisterous atmosphere full of fellow race goers and locals alike. Make sure you order a bottle of Santome Prosecco to celebrate (or commiserate).
Hungry after all that drinking? Take a look at some of Cheltenham's finest restaurants and curry houses.
If you’re looking for somewhere to start your day at Cheltenham Festival, check out the best places to head for breakfast.
