Cheltenham is a Regency spa town in Gloucestershire, England. It’s at the heart of the Cotswolds and is a vibrant place with plenty of cafes, restaurants and alfresco dining lining the Promenade and bustling Montpellier.
There are many great things to see and do in Cheltenham, from visiting the architecture to going for a walk or running around the famous racecourse.
Here are five of the most popular things to do in Cheltenham:
– Visit one of the many museums in Cheltenham that showcase both history and contemporary art
– Walk around the famous racecourse that has been hosting events since 1831
– Explore some of Cheltenham’s beautiful parks
– Find a place for a picnic amongst the beautiful flowers at Imperial Square, locally known as the ‘beer gardens’ and watch as people stroll through the city
– Attend one of its famous four festivals: Jazz, Science, Music and Literature
– Grab a bite to eat at one of Cheltenham’s many restaurants; group dining and booking website Squaremeal lists 88 restaurants within 10 miles of Cheltenham at the time of writing, so you have plenty of choice!
Why you should consider eating outside in Cheltenham
Right now, you might fancy outside dining because of the Covid situation and feeling safer, or perhaps it’s the only option at many places, but it’s actually a great idea to eat outdoors more. Did you know there are even some health benefits associated with alfresco dining?
One of the best benefits of going to an outdoor restaurant is that you get to enjoy your meal in a more natural environment with a pleasant atmosphere and a good view. There are plenty of benefits for people who go out to eat more often, including lower blood pressure and better immune system.
Eating outside is a way to get your mind and body on the right track.
Do you spend too much time inside? Do you feel like an outsider? Do you need a fresh perspective on life? If so, then maybe it’s time to eat outside today!
Here are some of the many reasons why:
- Eating outdoors helps you focus more
- Eating out in nature is a great way to reduce stress
- Dining outside gives you better air quality and natural ventilation
- If you need to socially distance then this can be easier outdoors
- It’s a great way to catch some sunrays and make vitamin D!
Best places to dine outside, in Cheltenham
But sometimes it might be difficult to find the perfect place for outdoor lunch or dinner in Cheltenham, so we’ve put together a list of some of the best places to eat outside in Cheltenham with great food, seating and/or amazing views.
Find something here suitable for all tastes, budgets and styles.
Enjoy.
Rising Sun Hotel Cheltenham
I’m pretty sure the Rising Sun Hotel in Cheltenham has the best views over the town and sunsets to view from their large glass windows, as well as from their perfectly positioned beer garden.
Located on Cleeve hill, the highest point in the Cotswolds, they are not just a hotel, but a bar and restaurant open to all with freshly cooked pub classics.
Imperial Garden Bar
Otherwise known as the ‘beer gardens’ by locals, the Imperial Garden Bar has really upped its game in recent times with this beautiful Orangery Garden Bar where you can grab a slice of cake and coffee, whilst watching the world go by.
Imperial Gardens – great for picnicking too!
With its beautiful flower arrangements, the Imperial Gardens in Cheltenham are also a picturesque spot in the heart of the town, perfect for a picnic. Or why not grab some food and drink from one of the many independent cafes across the road in Montpellier and enjoy on this flowered lawn.
No 131 The Promenade
Dine outside inside at No 131 in Cheltenham with their amazing covered terraced, so you can eat outdoors no matter what the weather!
Sisu pancakes
How totally Instagrammable is the gorgeous shopfront and pink bistro set at pancake and cake shop Sisu Pancakes? It’s adorable!
The Curious Cafe, Bath Road
The Curious Cafe is nestled in the heart of Bath Road in Cheltenham. An independent family ran cafe with great food and always busy. It’s pretty dinky inside, but has a secret garden out back.
Queens Summer Garden
The lavish Queen’s Hotel in Cheltenham has a beautifully decorated summer garden for a unique outdoor dining experience.
Dunkertons Cider Bar
A quirky and cool cider bar under a marquee, with tasty street food on certain nights of the week. Lit up with festoon lighting, this outdoor bar and dining area looks great as dusk hits.
Wow all sounds great
I love eating outdoors! These look like beautiful places for it.