Our ongoing series, TOAST Guides, highlights unique haunts across the UK, from farm-to-table eateries to scenic walking routes. For the latest instalment, we explore the best dining, shopping and cultural destinations in and around Cheltenham, Gloucestershire.
To the west of the Cotswolds, nestled between rolling pastures, you’ll find the spa town of Cheltenham. Beyond its attractive facade, with its market squares and Regency architecture, there is a wealth of independent craft stores, unique restaurants and artisan food stalls to discover. With the help of our TOAST Cheltenham store team, we bring you our guide to the area.
Gloucestershire Guild
From basketry to ceramics, glasswork to textile art, the Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsman has been supporting makers across many different disciplines since 1933. In addition to selling these handmade products from its shop and gallery in Montpellier, the guild holds exhibitions, demonstrations and craft skills workshops.
18 Rotunda Terrace, Montpellier Street, GL53 7NA
DEYA
Independent brewing company DEYA is known for its traditional British beers and mixed fermentation ales. Owner Theo Freyne opened the doors to his first Cheltenham taproom in 2018, and a second, larger premises just one year later. Furnished with picnic-style seating that fosters a communal experience, the brewery also serves natural wine, cider and non-alcoholic drinks.
Units 27 and 33/34 at Lansdown Industrial Estate, Gloucester Rd, GL51 8PL
Domaine 16
Dishing up inventive French food which incorporates locally-made cheeses, Domaine 16 is cherished by Cheltenham residents. Its intimate ambience and gluten-free-friendly menu make it a reliable place to stop by and enjoy a comfort meal – or one of the wine and cheese evenings hosted by owner Stephanie.
16 Regent Street, GL50 1HE
The Aroid Attic
Cheltenham’s one-of-a-kind plant nursery is frequented by locals seeking rare botanicals. The knowledgeable team is on hand with care advice while you browse. Upon visiting The Aroid Attic, you’ll soon want to return to attend one of its popular terrarium or pot-painting classes, held monthly either in-store or at a nearby coffee shop.
Bath Road, GL53 7NA
The Cheeseworks
You may not manage to try all of the cheeses in this space in a single visit, which is why The Cheeseworks also offers a subscription service. A selection of four cheeses is sent to your door every one, three or six months, with vegetarian and blue cheese-free boxes available. The perfect gift for yourself or a fellow fromage enthusiast.
5 Regent Street, GL50 1HE
Badlands
This longstanding store sells records across a range of genres, but with a focus on classic rock, particularly Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan. The founders, Philip and Steven Jump, are avid music fans, arranging gigs for emerging artists and indie bands in venues across town. The retailer also stocks exclusive vinyls, CDs and posters.
11 St George's Place, GL50 3LA
Cheltenham Farmers Market
On the second and last Friday of every month, the city-centre Promenade transforms into the award-winning Cheltenham Farmers Market. Stalls line the street selling regional and high-quality produce, including meats and charcuterie, fresh fruit and vegetables, preserves and pickles, artisan cakes and pastries, cheese and plants.
The Promenade, GL50 1PJ
Cheltenham Craft Market
Established in 2008, the Cheltenham Craft Market takes place every third Saturday of the month, giving small-scale artists and craftspeople a physical platform to promote their work. Handmade homewares, vintage clothing and original artworks are on offer at this vibrant community event.
The Promenade, GL50 1PJ
Cleeve Hill
Cheltenham is situated at the base of Cleeve Hill, the highest peak of the Cotswolds. Countless trails cover its 1,000 acres of verdant land, including The Cotswold Way, a scenic walking route which joins Chipping Campden to the city of Bath. Views from the top of the hill extend to the Malvern Hills, and on a clear day, to the Black Mountains of Wales.
Southam, GL52 3NF
The Wilson
The town’s largest gallery and museum, The Wilson has won awards for its impressive display of fine art and archaeology. Its permanent collection includes a library of handmade books, watercolour paintings by naturalist Edward Adrian Wilson and ornate furniture from the British Arts and Crafts Movement. There are also seasonal exhibitions and artist talks.
51 Clarence Street, GL50 3JT
TOAST
Our Cheltenham shop stands proud on the Promenade, housing a curated selection of TOAST womenswear, menswear and homeware. An enthusiastic team is there to welcome you every day of the week.
82 Promenade, GL50 1NB
Words by Bébhinn Campbell.
Image 1 and 3: Courtesy of DEYA.
Image 2: Robyn Hardyman Ceramics at Gloucestershire Guild.
Image 4: Courtesy of The Aroid Attic.
Image 5: Courtesy of Domaine 16.
Image 6: Courtesy of The Cheltenham Trust.
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