Whether you’re looking for a cosy pub, a trendy bar or a venue with cold beers and live music – Cheltenham will always have something to suit your needs.
1. 131 and Crazy EightsThe Promenade
Boasting trendy vibes, a list of rare tipples and one of the best interiors in the Cotswolds, No. 131 is a restaurant and bar with 11 bedrooms, set in the heart of the town. There are a great selection of cocktails on the menu, and the bar staff are always happy to recommend a beverage for the indecisive drinker.
2. Hotel Du VinParabola Road
Nestled in the Montpellier district, Hotel Du Vin is the go-to bar for Cheltenham’s well-dressed clientele. There are comfy leather sofas in abundance and a relaxed atmosphere - perfect for catching up with friends after work. Wine lovers can enjoy tasting sessions in the Laroche wine tasting room with a purpose built cigar shack.
3. The Beehive1 - 3 Montpellier Villas
Tucked away in the trendy back streets of Montpellier, the recently renovated Beehive is a cosy pub with a buzzing and unpretentious atmosphere. Make sure you try one of the locally sourced real ales on offer, as the Beehive has been voted as one of the top real ale pubs in Cheltenham.
4. The Montpellier ChapterBayshill Road
The warm, intimate bar set within the Chapter hotel, boasts open fireplaces and a library as a backdrop to its killer cocktail range. Recline into one of the 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.
5. The Daffodil18–20 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 weekend hoards. Make sure you get there between 6-8pm on Fridays for half price bottles of prosecco.
6. The Tavern5 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.
7. Soho Bar2 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 newly opened Champagne Bar.
8. John Gordons 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.
9. The Retreat10-11 Suffolk Parade
Whether you want a pint of Guinness or a good glass of wine, make sure you visit the popular Retreat for an evening tipple. A vibrant wine bar with a cosy outdoor area at the back – it’s always packed with locals and has a boisterous atmosphere at the weekend.
10. Wild Beer30 Cambray Place
Wild Beer is a newcomer to Cheltenham but it’s already had a big impact on the town due to its quirky-tasting beers and laidback vibes. The drinks menu is ever-changing with no less than 20 draft beers on tap and there are plenty of tasty dishes on offer – each designed to accompany your beverage.
11. Aquavitae10 Ormond Place
Aquavitae is a contemporary and popular bar with a cocktail menu to match. It has a welcoming and informal environment and it’s the ideal venue to catch up with friends over a drink at the end of the week. If you’re feeling peckish, there are plenty of small plates on offer too.
Hungry after all that drinking? Take a look at the top curry houses in Cheltenham.
If you’re looking for somewhere to start your day, check out the best places to head for breakfast in Cheltenham.
