Cheltenham’s Best Bars: A Local’s Guide to Unwinding in Regency Style
Ah, Cheltenham. A town synonymous with elegant Regency architecture, the thrill of the racecourse, and, as I’m here to tell you, a surprisingly vibrant and diverse bar scene. As a local who’s spent more than a few evenings exploring its watering holes, I can confidently say that whether you’re a connoisseur of craft beer, a lover of classic cocktails, or simply seeking a cozy spot to catch up with friends, Cheltenham has a bar that will tickle your fancy. Forget generic recommendations; let’s dive into the real heart of Cheltenham’s nightlife, from sophisticated cocktail lounges to relaxed pubs with character.
For the Craft Beer Aficionado: Where to Find the Perfect Pint
Cheltenham has seen a fantastic surge in appreciation for quality craft beer in recent years, and thankfully, several establishments have risen to the occasion. If you’re someone who appreciates a well-hopped IPA, a rich stout, or an experimental sour, these are your go-to spots.
The Glorious Art House
Nestled in the heart of the town, The Glorious Art House is more than just a bar; it’s a community hub with a serious dedication to craft beer. They boast an ever-changing selection of cask ales and craft kegs, often featuring local breweries alongside national favourites. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, with a mix of students, locals, and visitors all enjoying the quality offerings. What I love about this place is their commitment to showcasing smaller breweries, meaning you’re likely to discover something new and exciting with every visit. Keep an eye on their social media for tap takeovers and special events. They also have a great selection of gins and other spirits, but it’s the beer that truly shines here.
Brewhouse & Kitchen
Located on Royal Well Road, Brewhouse & Kitchen is a brewpub that takes its beer seriously. They brew their own beer on-site, offering a unique selection of house-brewed craft ales. Beyond their own creations, they also stock a wide range of guest beers from other reputable breweries. The vibe here is modern and spacious, with plenty of seating and a friendly, knowledgeable staff who are always happy to guide you through their beer list. It’s a great place to go if you want to try a flight of different beers and really explore the nuances of brewing. They also serve food, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed evening meal accompanied by some excellent brews.
The Strand (formerly The Frog & Parrot)
While its name might have changed, The Strand on The Strand (yes, it’s on a street called The Strand!) has retained its reputation for a solid selection of craft beers and a lively atmosphere. It’s a popular spot, particularly with a younger crowd, but it welcomes everyone. They often have deals on craft cans and bottles, and their tap selection is consistently good. It’s a great place to start your evening before heading elsewhere, or to simply settle in for a few hours and enjoy the buzz.
Cocktail Culture: Sophistication and Mixology Mastery
Cheltenham isn’t just about pints; it also excels in the art of the cocktail. Whether you’re after a perfectly stirred Martini, a zesty Mojito, or an innovative concoction, these bars are where the magic happens.
The Botanist
You can’t talk about cocktails in Cheltenham without mentioning The Botanist. Situated in the heart of the town, this popular chain is renowned for its botanical-themed cocktails and stunning interior. The decor is lush and verdant, making it a beautiful place to enjoy a drink. Their cocktail menu is extensive, with classic twists and unique creations that are both delicious and aesthetically pleasing. Their ‘hanging kebabs’ are also legendary, making it an ideal spot for both food and drinks. It’s a great place for a pre-dinner cocktail or a relaxed evening catching up with friends. Their expertise in gin is also noteworthy, with a vast selection to choose from.
The Montpellier Wine Bar
A true Cheltenham institution, The Montpellier Wine Bar exudes classic elegance. While it might have ‘Wine Bar’ in its name, their cocktail game is seriously strong. They offer a refined atmosphere perfect for those seeking a more sophisticated experience. Their mixologists are skilled in crafting both timeless classics and bespoke creations. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a perfectly made Old Fashioned or a crisp French 75 while soaking in the opulent surroundings. It’s a wonderful spot for a date night or a celebratory drink.
Le Champignon Sauvage Bar (adjacent to the restaurant)
For an truly exclusive and refined experience, the bar adjacent to the Michelin-starred Le Champignon Sauvage restaurant offers an unparalleled level of sophistication. While not a traditional ‘bar’ in the pub sense, this intimate space provides an exceptional drinks menu. Expect expertly crafted cocktails using premium ingredients, and an atmosphere of understated luxury. It’s perfect for those looking for a special occasion drink in a truly memorable setting. Advance booking is often recommended due to its intimate size.
Pubs with Character: Traditional Charm and Local Brews
Sometimes, you just want a good old-fashioned pub experience. Cheltenham has a wealth of pubs that offer history, character, and a warm welcome. These are the places where you can enjoy a pint of real ale, soak up the local atmosphere, and perhaps even catch some live music.
The Royal Oak, Prestbury
Just a short trip from the town centre, The Royal Oak in the charming village of Prestbury is a quintessential English pub. It’s renowned for its excellent Sunday roasts, but don’t let that fool you; it’s a fantastic spot for a drink any day of the week. They serve a good selection of local ales and have a cosy, traditional interior with a roaring fire in the winter. The garden is also a delight in the warmer months. It’s a local favourite and offers a true taste of village pub life just on the edge of town.
The Exmouth Arms
Located on Bath Road, The Exmouth Arms is a popular local pub with a friendly vibe. It’s known for its good selection of beers and wines, and it’s often a lively spot, especially on weekends. They have a decent outdoor seating area which is great for people-watching on a sunny afternoon. It’s a reliable choice for a casual drink and a chat with friends. They also serve food, offering hearty pub classics.
The Eagle Inn
The Eagle Inn, often affectionately called ‘The Eagle’, is a classic pub on St George’s Road that has a loyal following. It’s known for its unpretentious atmosphere, good value drinks, and a friendly crowd. It’s the kind of pub where conversations flow easily, and you feel instantly welcome. They often have a decent range of real ales on tap, and it’s a great place to experience a more down-to-earth side of Cheltenham’s pub culture.
Unique and Quirky Spots: Beyond the Ordinary
If you’re looking for something a little different, Cheltenham also offers some unique bar experiences that stand out from the crowd.
The Fire Station
This unique bar, located in a converted fire station, offers a truly distinctive setting. The interior retains many of the original features, creating a quirky and memorable atmosphere. They offer a good range of drinks, including cocktails and beers, and it’s a popular spot for its novelty and its lively vibe, especially later in the evening. It’s a great conversation starter and a fun place to spend an evening with friends.
Chelt ‘N’ Tonic (various pop-up locations)
While not a permanent venue, keep an eye out for Chelt ‘N’ Tonic, a local initiative that often hosts pop-up gin bars and tasting events around town. Following their events is a great way to discover new gins and enjoy unique tasting experiences in different, often surprising, locations. This is for the true explorer and gin enthusiast. Check out their social media for upcoming events.
Insider Tips for Navigating Cheltenham’s Bar Scene
As a local, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make the most of Cheltenham’s bar scene:
- Check for Happy Hours: Many bars, especially those on the busier streets like Promenade and Clarence Street, offer happy hour deals on cocktails and sometimes beer. It’s worth checking individual venue websites or social media pages for the latest offers.
- Book Ahead for Popular Spots: On weekend evenings, particularly in places like The Botanist or The Montpellier Wine Bar, booking a table is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
- Explore Beyond the Centre: While the town centre has plenty of options, don’t hesitate to venture slightly out into neighbourhoods like Montpellier, Bath Road, or even Prestbury for some hidden gems.
- Embrace the Local Brews: Cheltenham and the surrounding Cotswolds area have some fantastic local breweries. Don’t be afraid to ask bar staff for recommendations on local cask ales or craft beers. For a deeper dive into the world of beer, you can explore resources and local news on dropt.beer insights.
- Consider a Designated Driver or Taxi: Cheltenham is a walkable town centre, but if you plan on sampling a few too many, especially if you’re exploring areas further afield, plan your transport. Taxis are readily available, and services like Uber also operate here.
- Dress Code: Generally, Cheltenham is quite relaxed, but for the more upscale cocktail bars or wine bars, smart casual is always a safe bet. For pubs, anything goes!
- Stay Updated with Dropt.beer: For the latest trends in beer, brewery news, and bar spotlights, keeping an eye on platforms like Dropt.beer can give you a heads-up on new openings or special events happening not just in Cheltenham, but across the UK’s beer scene. You can even find some great deals on craft beer by exploring their shop.
Conclusion
Cheltenham’s bar scene is a delightful mix of tradition and modernity, elegance and casual charm. From the meticulously crafted cocktails in sophisticated lounges to the hearty ales in traditional pubs and the innovative brews in dedicated craft beer havens, there’s something for every palate and occasion. So, next time you find yourself in this beautiful Regency town, venture out, explore, and discover your own favourite spot. Cheers!
