Two new free trails will be run by Cheltenham BID throughout the summer – a new Monster Hero Safari trail and an enhanced Augmented Reality (AR) version of the Hidden Cheltenham Trail.
The Monster Hero Safari is a town centre experience where families are tasked with hunting down 10 monster superheroes, displayed in public windows, and learning their names, origin stories and powers.
Children will delight in spotting the cute, colourful characters and learning all about them in the Monster Hero Safari trail. They will be even happier when they spot all 10 and win a free e-book with the characters’ first team-up adventure.
The trail will lead groups to 10 locations (small independent traders and charity retailers) within the BID zone where Near Field Communication (NFC) – a contact-less communication technology – and QR codes will be used to identify the individual monsters.
The trail will also raise funds for NHS Charities Together, which supports NHS staff and volunteers caring for Covid-19 patients, through a minimum £2 donation from participants.
The second is an enhanced Augmented Reality (AR) version of the Hidden Cheltenham Trail. By scanning the QR codes with a phone camera and activating the AR at the 12 permanent trail points, participants will bring up historic information, fun facts, sounds and interactive challenges, creating a real-world experience in the palm of their hands.
This will then connect to around 48 of our businesses who will have coded QR stickers promoting the trail in their windows. The code will link users to summer offers and discounts at the businesses.
The Monster trail will run from Monday July 13 until September 4 and the Hidden Cheltenham trail will start on Monday July 20 and be permanent with enhancements and changes to follow in future school holidays etc.
For both trails, Cheltenham BID are confident that they can be played in a very safe and responsible manner. Players will likely be in family/small groups and will not need to enter any buildings to play. All displayed materials will discourage players from physically touching the windows/posters and the BID will install markings around the window decals to give families space to interact with them one group at a time.
Please click ‘interested’ in both Facebook events for updated information and prizes.
Monster Hero Safari https://www.facebook.com/events/716473662442445/
Enhanced Hidden Cheltenham trail https://www.facebook.com/events/949225822199155/
Exciting plans to bring an ice rink and expanded Christmas Market to Cheltenham this winter were given the go-ahead today (May 28).
Cheltenham Borough Council’s planning committee unanimously approved Cheltenham BID’s plans this morning.
The ice rink will be sited on Imperial Gardens, in front of the Queen’s Hotel, and the Christmas Market will be expanded on to the pavements at the Long Gardens and on either side of The Promenade close to the ice rink.
The festive experience will be further enhanced with Cheltenham Trust giving a Christmas theme to the outdoor Imperial Garden Bar at Cheltenham Town Hall.
BID Director Kevan Blackadder said: “We are delighted that we have been given the go-ahead to improve Cheltenham as a Christmas destination, which will be so important on the back of the coronavirus pandemic.
“We are aware that we will have to take further advice as to whether it will be safe to go-ahead with the ice rink with social distancing measures still likely to be in place. If that means it will be unsafe to proceed, we now know that we will be able to bring this eagerly-awaited attraction to the town next year.”
The ice rink operators will be 11th Hour, who have run successful rinks across the country, including Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland last winter.
Like the Cardiff rink, the Cheltenham rink will be covered and so will be the only one in Gloucestershire to offer skating whatever the weather. The rink will have glass sides and a transparent roof.
Cheltenham BID will take over responsibility for running the Christmas Market from the borough council for the first time this year. The BID was keen to increase the size of the market to attract a wider range and higher quality of traders
After circulating an expression of interest, it has appointed a different operator, Market Place, to run the market in the new areas approved by councillors today. Market Place set up and developed famous Christmas Markets in other towns and cities across the UK including Glasgow, Newcastle, Belfast, Bath and Exeter.
The market on the pedestrianised Promenade will be run by Cotswold Markets, the popular local operator, which already runs the twice-monthly Farmers Market and monthly Craft Market on the same site.
Planning committee member Councillor Rowena Hay said at the meeting: “This is incredibly important as part of our recovery strategy. The new market will link not only different parts of The Promenade but also link Montpellier to the town centre.
“The ice rink will have minimal impact on Imperial Gardens, as it only uses a small part of the gardens.”
Committee chairman Councillor Paul Baker said: “If you go to Bath, their Christmas Market is so impressive. I congratulate Cheltenham BID on upping our game as we need to compete not only with Gloucester but also with Bristol and Bath.”
Cheltenham Borough Council’s planning committee approved the BID’s plans for an ice rink in Imperial Gardens at a meeting last November.
However, due to on-going work at The Quadrangle, which is undergoing a multi-million-pound refurbishment, the original site planned for the rink within the gardens was not available, which led to the plans being reconsidered today.
With the dawn of spring, preparations are underway to bring vibrant floral displays to all areas of the BID zone.
BID in Bloom 2020 will see baskets and troughs full of plants adoring balconies, walls and railings from June through to October.
Businesses from Portland Street to Montpellier will be enjoying a summer of colour when we install more than 100 displays to the town.
This will be the third year we’ve run BID in Bloom and the feedback from businesses has been very positive. Allun Griffiths, Manager of The Spectre, said: “The hanging baskets outside The Spectre really soften and brighten up the Strand area of Cheltenham.”
To make sure the town looks attractive and complements the blooms, we will be arranging several Tidy Up Cheltenham campaigns.
Starting in March in Grosvenor Terrace, the BID team and local businesses will be out and about litter picking, weeding, cleaning graffiti and stickers from bins and lamp posts. As part of the Town Centre Team we will also be joined by partners from Cheltenham Borough Council’s Environmental Health department in other areas of the town centre.
The eagerly awaited ice rink coming to Cheltenham would be part of a new-look Christmas in the town centre.
The Christmas Market would be expanded in a project-led by the BID and the outdoor Imperial Garden Bar would be given a Christmas-theme and opened for the festive celebrations.
Cheltenham Borough Council’s planning committee approved the BID’s plans for an ice rink in Imperial Gardens last year.
Due to on-going work at The Quadrangle, which is undergoing a multi-million-pound refurbishment, the original site planned for the rink within the gardens will not be available.
The BID is now submitting a new application to use the neighbouring quarter of the gardens in front of The Queens Hotel Cheltenham – Mgallery.
It also wants to expand the Christmas Market with stalls on pavements at the Long Gardens and on either side of The Promenade close to the ice rink. This will be in addition to the traditional Christmas market area on the pedestrianised Promenade in front of Cavendish House.
The ice rink operators would be 11th Hour, who have run successful rinks across the country, including Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland this winter.
Like the Cardiff rink, the Cheltenham rink would be covered and so would be the only one in Gloucestershire to offer skating whatever the weather. The rink would have glass sides and a transparent roof.
The proposal has been welcomed by neighbouring businesses.
Erol Uray, General Manager of the Queen’s Hotel, said: “We’re delighted at the plans for a new ice rink on our doorstep as part of the Christmas offer in Cheltenham this year.
“Town centres need to change to attract a wide range of customers and, with the rink, an expanded Christmas market and another spectacular lights display, Cheltenham would be able to compete with the best.”
Cheltenham BID Director Kevan Blackadder said: “We believe the ice rink and expanded Christmas markets would bring something different to Cheltenham this year.
“We’re delighted to be working with The Cheltenham Trust on their proposals for the Imperial Garden Bar, which would also help create a great visitor experience.”
Two major buildings are being lit in a special colour scheme in support of the Motor Neurone Disease Association charity during our Light Up Cheltenham event.
Queens Hotel Cheltenham – MGallery and 95 The Promenade (to the rear of Neptune’s Fountain) will be lit in orange and blue, the colours of the charity, on the weekend of 8 and 9 February.
The lights will be changing colours in support of two local people who suffer from Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Mark Morris, aged 49, is the well-known businessman who ran The Flower Man for many years, and Alex Edwards, 50, is a legal secretary at Wiggins Osborne Fullerlove Solicitors, who are based at 95 The Promenade.
Motor Neurone Disease is a rare condition, with around two in every 100,000 people diagnosed in Britain each year. The disease affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, causing the function of motor neurons to break down, making everyday activities increasingly difficult or completely impossible. Over time, the condition becomes progressively worse as the muscle weakens.
Mark only realised something was wrong in September 2018 when he tried Pilates to help with flexibility for upcoming races. He found he could not lie on his back without running out of breath.
It was not until February last year that he was referred to a neurologist who told him within days that he had Motor Neurone Disease.
Mark said: “Mine has a life span of 18 months, but who knows? I have cut a lot of stress out of my life and sold the business so you never know.”
Alex and her husband Paul, of Whitehorn Drive, Cheltenham, have three children and she says her life changed in October last year when she was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.
The Queens Hotel
She had been leading a healthy and active lifestyle but hadn’t been feeling well since January 2018. Her father also had MND and died when she was 13.
Alex said: “It is such a hard disease to diagnose so I had eight months of not knowing, but I knew it wasn’t going to be good. When I was told, it was devastating but also a relief in a weird way to find out what was wrong with me.
“It is a cruel disease as there is no cure (yet) and it’s so unpredictable. My father had the disease for 18 months. I have been told I have the slow version but who knows what slow is?
“I have the most supportive husband and kids and wonderful friends who keep me going, and going is what I am going to do. Live every moment I can to the full and make as many memories as I can. Life is totally for living. Who knows what the future will hold.”
The Motor Neurone Disease Association charity will be carrying out a street collection over the two days and handing out awareness leaflets.
Chris James, Director of External Affairs at the charity, said: “It is essential that we raise awareness of MND so people understand what a devastating disease it is. Having prominent buildings in Cheltenham lit up in Association colours is fantastic for awareness and we are grateful for the support of everyone affected by MND in Cheltenham who made this possible. Together we can make a real difference for people affected by MND.”
See full gallery of Spark!, illumated buildings and wheel here.
Light Up Cheltenham got off to a spectacular start on Saturday 1 February with thousands of spectators attending the opening night. The evening saw Spark! a street theatre drumming group put on a dazzling performance finishing at Imperial Gardens. Spectators were then able to take the opportunity to ride on the giant observation wheel or join a guided tour.
The launch marks the beginning of three weeks of Light Up Cheltenham which sees over 30 buildings dramatically lit up across the Regency town.
The three weeks, which include February half term, will see thousands of visitors flock to Cheltenham to take in the town’s beautiful illuminations which have made Cheltenham an annual destination for locals and visitors alike.
Visitors will also be able to spot some different illuminations whilst the event is running including Valentine’s Day which will see the observation wheel and most of the buildings go red, creating a romantic and memorable backdrop for those visiting the town.
For information on Light Up Cheltenham, including wheel opening times and prices please go to www.visitcheltenham.com/light-up-cheltenham
With tours running every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Light Up Cheltenham’s launch on 1 February until Sunday 23 February, there will be plenty of opportunity to soak up the history of Cheltenham whilst enjoying the spectacle of the town’s dramatic lights.
The tour, which will take an hour and a half, will begin at the Queens Hotel and will take visitors through Cheltenham stopping at well-known spots including Neptune’s Fountain on the Promenade and The Brewery Quarter. The tour will also tell the interesting history of some surprising locations including the buildings currently occupied by White Stuff and Pizza Express.
The tours, which will be operated by local Blue Badge tourist guides in association with Marketing Cheltenham, will be £12 per person with under 5’s going for free. Tickets can be purchased from the Tourist Information Centre or online at www.visitcheltenham.com/light-up-cheltenham.
Last year many businesses took advantage of the increased number of people coming to town in the evening. They put on special events, stayed open late and had special offers. If you are planning an event or creating a special ‘Light Up’ offer, please let us know so we can promote it for you. Email Maria Allebone at maria@cheltenhambid.co.uk with details and images.
Shoppers will be able to benefit from discounts of up to 70 per cent from some of the Cotswolds’ favourite retailers at Cheltenham’s Boutique Sale.
The popular event will be held for the fourth consecutive year on Sunday January 26 in the beautiful surroundings of The Princess Hall at Cheltenham Ladies College.
Cheltenham BID has brought together ten businesses for Cheltenham’s Boutique Sale 2020. With free admission to the event, they are looking forward to welcoming hundreds of shoppers between 11am and 3pm.
The first three events have seen more than 600 people coming through the doors on the day, taking advantage of the array of women’s and men’s fashion, shoes, jewellery, beauty products and wedding attire on offer.
The BID is pleased to welcome back Beards, Bodega, Cocoa Couture, Harris Rea, James of Montpellier, Keith Scarrott Shoes, Law & Co and Molton Brown. Joining them for the first time will be Arkell & Wills and Jackeroo Boutique.
Richard Dare, Owner of James of Montpellier said: “This is our fourth year at the Boutique sale and we just keep on coming back because it works so well for us. By combining our efforts with other local businesses, the event brilliantly showcases some of the exceptional retail brands we have in Cheltenham. Not only that, it also really does provide customers with the perfect opportunity to pick up some true bargains.”
Bargain hunters will have the chance to enter a Facebook competition in the lead-up to the event. They could win a £50 voucher to spend with their favourite retailer on the day. While they make up their mind, they can relax in the café and enjoy refreshments which will be provided by the Cheltenham Ladies College café.
This popular shopping experience is a great way to support local businesses and get the look you want this winter for a real bargain.
See the list of shops that stayed open and all late night shopping events that were on offer. See the full gallery from the evening.
Cheltenham’s streets were filled with entertainment during its late-night shopping event on the 5 December from 5pm-8pm. The event saw many town centre shops open, including the area of Montpellier open until 8pm offering free parking at Cheltenham Borough Council car parks from 1pm.
Visitors were able to *travel for free on Stagecoach services within the borough, including services D and E from Bishops Cleeve and free travel from Cheltenham’s two Park & Ride’s from 1pm. Citipark car park at John Lewis also offered free car parking from 1pm.
Tim Atkins, acting chief executive for Cheltenham Borough Council, says: “We’re delighted to be working with Stagecoach and the BID to offer our residents free bus travel, including park and ride, and free parking in our car parks all from 1pm for this year’s late night shopping event on Thursday 5 December.
“This is an ideal opportunity for people to try out Cheltenham’s great bus services and we hope this will encourage more people to think about their options for travelling into town.”
Cheltenham’s late-night shopping will see a variety of entertainers including carol singers, a brass trio and a Christmas magician, all to keep busy shoppers entertained whilst they enjoy some festive retail. See What’s on
More than 40 BID Businesses offered festive surprises for shoppers.
For all future events please check VisitCheltenham.com.
Cheltenham’s Christmas lights were switched on in style on Saturday 23 November to the delight of spectators. See photos from the event.
The three parades, starting separately from Cambray Place, The Brewery Quarter and Montpellier Street, told the famous tale of selfish Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future who show him the error of his ways and what the true spirit of Christmas is all about.
With a different personality for each ghost, spectators were encouraged to choose which ghost they wanted to follow.
Once at The Queens Hotel, spectators were on hand with help and encouragement (alongside lots of boos and cheers), and Scrooge finally learnt the meaning of Christmas, helping to bring Christmas lights to Cheltenham alongside the most famous festive figure of all, Father Christmas.
Cheltenham saw thousands of spectators join in, following the parades and taking part in the event. With the Christmas market also in full swing, visitors were able to get hot food, refreshments and early Christmas gifts as the parade moved through the town.
The BID not only organised the event but also increased the number of Christmas lights from the previous year, adding lights to Winchcombe Street for the first time.
Kevan Blackadder, Director of Cheltenham BID, said of the event: “It was great to see so many people following the parades. The atmosphere really built up as the crowds gathered round the stage and it was wonderful to hear all the excited children’s voices when the lights were turned on.”
Either side of the parade, the town also saw The Regent Arcade and The Brewery Quarter light switch-ons, with a host of entertainment on offer.
For more information and the latest updates on Christmas activities around Cheltenham see www.visitcheltenham.com
Launched in January 2017, Cheltenham’s Boutique Sale will return for the fourth year on 26 January 2020.
This BID initiative has helped some of Cheltenham’s best known independent and favourite brands to come together and create a unique shopping experience for their customers.
Shoppers benefit from having access to some exclusive discounts from the likes of Keith Scarrott Shoes, Beards and Molton Brown to name a few.
The 2020 event will once again be held in the stunning Princess Hall at Cheltenham Ladies College. Space is very limited so if you would like your business to be a part of this, please get in touch with Belinda Hunt at belinda@cheltenhambid.co.uk.
Cheltenham BID have worked with Dimensions Training Solutions (UKs largest provider of skills, training and employment services) and The Cheltenham Library on a brand-new Job Fair.
The Job Fair is planned for September 4 and will be held at The Cheltenham Library from 11am-2pm.
Some of the businesses that will be there include popular shopping destinations House of Fraser, John Lewis & Partners, The Regent Arcade, and Primark, as well as Cheltenham’s Lucky Onion Group, which runs No 131 and The Tavern. These businesses and others are offering full & part-time roles, temp roles, apprenticeships and support to work help.
Our friends from GlosJobs will also be present during the event offering an employability workshop for all. The workshop is to include ‘how to write a good CV’ and ‘Interview tips’.
The Mayor of Cheltenham, Councillor Roger Wyborn, will be formally be opening the event from 11am. alongside giving a short talk on how the BID helps/has helped with the growth of businesses within the town centre.
Visit the Facebook Event for updates or to let us know you’re coming! – https://bit.ly/CheltJobFair
Cheltenham Business Improvement District (BID) has worked with The Cheltenham Trust and Cheltenham Borough Council’s, No Child Left Behind campaign on a free Hidden Cheltenham Summer trail for through-out the Summer holiday.
A year of action started in January 2019 designed with partners to address the main areas of children in poverty. Educational, fun and supportive events, activities and campaigns will engage and involve young people and offer them the confidence to get support if they need it. Follow them on Facebook and Twitter @NCLBchelt.
The Hidden Cheltenham Summer Trail is following in the footsteps of our successful Easter trail that took place this April and saw more than 300 families successfully complete the trail.
Antonia Burgess posted on the Facebook group ‘Entertaining the kids on a budget – Gloucestershire ‘: “The Easter egg hunt that starts at The Wilson is fab! Me and little boy had such a lovely time walking around today and when you stop at Hollywood Bowling you get given a voucher that entitles a child to a free bowl. Everyone was so lovely at each stop and then when you completed the trail and have the word you go back to The Wilson and the children get an egg…all for free!! Brace yourself for a good walk as it’s a bit of trek but that only added to the trail and my little boy was so tired after it that bedtime was an absolute breeze!”
The Summer trail will start on Wednesday July 17 and will run from 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday until Monday September 2. The event will be part of the No Child Left Behind free activities calendar that will be sent to every child enrolled at a Primary School in Cheltenham. See event information
Sign-up via to receive a digital map and exclusive clues the day before or just turn up and pick up a map and instructions from The Wilson Art Gallery to start your tasks.
The trail encourages families to use observation skills, beginner’s numeracy skills, physical exercise and team work to complete the trail. A goodie bag will be given to each child that completes the trail.
Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity is staging a mobile velodrome challenge on the Promenade, outside The Municipal Offices tomorrow to raise money for the CT Scanner Appeal. This amazing pursuit racing challenge is open to teams of four who compete to get the best time travelling around the track throughout the day. ( Entry is now closed )
Cheltenham General Hospital have teamed up with wealth management company Brewin Dolphin and Street Velodrome to put on the event with Cheltenham BID also backing the initiative. The money will go towards the £1.2m appeal to buy new CT scanners and mobile digital X-ray machines for Cheltenham General and Gloucestershire Royal hospitals.
Head of Fundraising Richard Hastilow-Smith said: “We are so excited to be staging this brilliant challenge which will not only raise money for the charity but also provide a great day of sporting entertainment for competitors and spectators alike.
“We wanted to thank Brewin Dolphin for sponsoring and all the companies supporting this fantastic event, which is in aid of our appeal to buy state-of-the-art imaging technology to help save and transform lives in Gloucestershire.”
The event is backed by Gloucestershire Paralympian wheelchair racer Mel Nicholls who will be taking part in the velodrome challenge. “This appeal resonates with so many of us. I’ve experienced first-hand what early detection of such things as strokes, can mean. Imagine that applied to cancer diagnosis, premature babies and other conditions and the lives that can be saved as a result of increased CT scanning availability in our hospitals,” she said.
Event Information-
10am – Begin morning practice and into heats through out the morning.
12.30pm – A complimentary BBQ for participants served by Rapid Response
1.30pm – As teams are knocked out, selection will the last eight riders for the day.
4pm – Finals
Cheltenham’s Street Chilli Fiesta returned to the heart of the town for a third year.
The event on Saturday June 1 attracted hundreds to Cambray Place.
Visitors had the opportunity to try a selection of the country’s best chilli-based produce and buy a wide range of products from chilli cheese to live chilli plants.
This year’s fiesta also saw the return of the ‘Clash of the Titans’, an extreme eating competition which isn’t for the faint-hearted and for adults only. Starting from mild and flavourful the contestants worked their way up the chilli heat list.
Eight brave souls took part in the chilli eating competition. Our 2018 champion Shahina Waseem triumphed again after a mighty battle with local man Barney.
The event was organised jointly by Chilli Fest UK and Cheltenham Business Improvement District (BID). Please see here for full gallery.
Kevan Blackadder, BID Director, said: “This is one of our smaller but most popular events. It’s great to be able to buy something different in Cheltenham and then be able to visit the shops, restaurants and other businesses in the town.”
The BID has worked with The University of Gloucestershire on some amazing student offers for all Freshers of 2019.
With the help of some fantastic BID businesses, we’ve created a special offer flyer which includes deals from the Health and Beauty, Entertainment, Retail and Food and Drink sectors across the town.
The University are expecting 10,000 Freshers this year and the BID Fresher’s offer flyer will be available to pick up from the Freshers Fair at Park Campus on the 18 September and is valid until September 30.
For all offers and terms and conditions , please see here.
Cheltenham’s reputation as a festival town is growing. With an already impressive list of arts and culture festivals, this year will see another performing arts festival added to the list.
From May 27 to June 1 the first Cheltenham International Film Festival will see a celebration of cinematography across eleven venues in town.
From screenings of emerging Polish Director Adrian Panek to an entertaining journey through Shakespeare’s Heroes & Villains with Steven Berkoff, there’s a full programme to enjoy.
For those wanting to make a career in the world of film, whether it’s behind the camera or behind the scenes, there will be leaders in their field to help you get to grips with everything from costume design and make-up through to composing and casting.
With support from the BID, this new festival is set to be a firm fixture on the calendar, bringing people from far and near to Cheltenham.
The BID have secured 10 complimentary tickets each for all of our businesses. Please apply here
Cocktail Week has become an integral part of the Cheltenham calendar and this year there will even more bars, pubs, clubs, restaurants, and hotels taking part than in previous years.
Now in its third year, Cheltenham Cocktail Week offers cocktail fans the opportunity to visit some of their favorite venues – and try some new ones – to experience some exclusive cocktails. Many venues will have cocktails for just £6 whilst others are offering a food and drink pairing.
Running from Friday May 10 to Saturday May 18, the event, which is organised by Cheltenham Business Improvement District (BID), will see venues across the town offering a wide array of cocktails for just £6, holding cocktail making master classes, tasting events and food and drink pairing sessions.
BID Operations Manager Belinda Hunt said: “We’re pleased that so many different businesses are taking part in Cocktail Week this year. We have such a diverse range of bars, clubs and pubs in Cheltenham, all offering something different and we want people to enjoy the variety of venues around the town.”
Here’s what you can look forward to.
Drinks Village – Opening Weekend: Up to 40 samples of spirits ● Learn about how your favourite spirits are made and meet some of the best local drink companies ● Buy your favourite at exhibition prices to take home ● Live Music from a number of award winning local artists ● Street Food stalls in the Queens Hotel Garden ● Competitions & Games! https://bit.ly/DrinksVillage
Mixology Masterclass with Revolution Cheltenham: Enjoy a cocktail on arrival then join the expert bartenders behind the bar to create your favourite cocktail on the menu. https://bit.ly/RevMasterclass Not able to join a masterclass? Try a Blank Canvas for £6 – with 18 flavours to choose from you’re sure find your favourite.
Cocktails on trial at The Old Courthouse: During the whole of Cocktail Week, you will be able to try The Judge (Cotswold Dry Gin, Chase Elderflower Liqueur & Apple Juice) and make your Verdict (Tia Maria, Smirnoff and double espresso – a classic served in a Courtroom setting) for just £6 per cocktail.
Celebrate Summer at Cosy Club: For the whole of cocktail week Summer Time Sangria will on the cocktail menu for just £6 a glass. Just add sunshine and shades! You can also enjoy three tapas dished and a sangria for just £15. Book a table https://cosyclub.co.uk/location/cheltenham/
Cocktail Masterclass at Yates: Master the art of making some classic cocktails at Yates. During #CheltenhamCocktailWeek you’ll get the chance to Enjoy a Raspberry Woo Woo on arrival, then learn how to make Yates’ famous Pornstar Martini as well as a Sex On The Beach, followed by a cheeky Jagerbomb, all of this for £15! Add a sharing platter and pay just £20.
- Date 1: Friday 17 May
- Time: 5pm – 7pm
- Date 2: Saturday 18 May
- Time 3pm – 5pm
- Tickets: £15 (or £20 with a sharing platter)
- Book by ‘phone on 01242 250710
Beat the blues at Coco: Coco’s experienced mixologists have created an exceptional cocktail just for Cheltenham Cocktail Week 2019. Doctor’s Orders has an unusual sessional flavour, using ingredients that can be found in most bars. Gin, passionfruit liqueur and blue curacao are combined with freshly squeezed lime juice and a simple syrup in a highball glass and topped off with lemonade. A sweet delight at just £6.
Party on at Montpellier Wine Bar: To celebrate the launch of their new downstairs cocktail bar, Montpellier Wine Bar will be holding the opening party for the third annual Cheltenham Cocktail Week.
As well as the full cocktail menu, there will be two new cocktails introduced for the event. The Botanical; a gin-based cocktail blended with violet liqueur, lime and sugar and an English Summer; A rum-based cocktail with melon liqueur, egg white, lemon, sugar and dash of bitters.
The new cocktails will be on sale throughout cocktail week for just £6, as will the traditional Bellini, made with peach puree and prosecco. Or party goers can opt for a twist on the peach favourite and try strawberry, raspberry or passionfruit flavour – all priced at £6.
Get fruity at Café Rouge: Putting a bit of fizz into Cheltenham Cocktail Week, Café Rouge are offering two of the most refreshing cocktails on their menu for just £6 each. Fizz La Poire is a delightful blend of pear vodka, pressed apple and elderflower topped off with lemonade and garnished with lime. Prosecco and Chambord are paired to make the Kir Rouge.
Memsahib Gin & Tea will have four £6 cocktails on offer during Cheltenham Cocktail Week. All made using their own crafted gin, these cocktails will invoke thoughts of the exotic flavours of India.
Pina Masala: Memsahib Gin, Vodka, Memsahib Masala Chai Syrup, Pineapple Juice
Princess Peach: Memsahib Peach and Papaya Infused Gin, Lime Juice, Sugar. Short and fruity, a sip of this transports you to a peachy beach far away.
Lady Sophia’s Martini: Memsahib Gin, Earl Grey, Lemon Juice, Egg White. A classic on our Punch menu, Earl Grey and Gin is a match made in heaven!
Indian Summer: Memsahib Lime & Lavender Gin, Rosemary & Grapefruit Tonic, Fresh Grapefruit and Rosemary. A posh G&T! Muddled grapefruit and rosemary shaken with our Lime & Lavender infused gin, poured over London Essence tonic to rejuvenate!
Be inspired at The Botanist: One of Cheltenham’s newest and most popular cocktail venues, The Botanist in The Brewery Quarter will be serving up some very special cocktails.
Usually priced at £8.50, their signature cocktail, The Botanist, will be on the special Cheltenham Cocktail Week menu for just £6. This is a true floral delight of Bacardi, Ketel One Vodka, elderflower liquor, jasmine syrup and red amaranth.
Who doesn’t enjoy a Mojito? The Botanist’s Strawberry and Elderflower version is a delicate blend of Bacardi, strawberry and elderflower liqueurs, muddled cucumber and mint with fresh lime juice.
Fiesta at Chiquito: Get 2 4 1 on some classic cocktails and mocktails at Chiquito during Cheltenham Cocktail Week.
If you’re looking for some old-time favourites choose from classic mojito or Alabama Slammer – or get both and pay for just one.
If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic and want to join in the party you can enjoy a 2 4 1 offer on an Appleberry or Virgin Colada.
Join in la fiesta nunca acaba (that’s Spanish for the party that never ends!) over the weekend of 17th and 18th May.
Royal cocktails on offer at The Queens Hotel: There’s a whole Royal family of cocktails at just £6 each on offer in The Gold Cup Bar at The Queens Hotel.
The Queen – a pomegranate martini with gin, pomegranate juice and grand Marnier brings a sweet approach to the family.
The King – pineapple fizz with white rum, pineapple and lemon juice and sparkle of soda introduces a touch of the exotic to the family.
The Prince – true blue with gin, blue curacao and lemonade bring this fairy tale to life. The Princess – pretty in pink, this combination of vodka, St Germain, lemon juice, pink grapefruit syrup and soda is sublime.
The Princess – pretty in pink, this combination of vodka, St Germain, lemon juice, pink grapefruit syrup and soda is sublime.
Go classic at Babel: Enjoy a twist on the Negroni when Babel add their homemade Iron Bru or Dr pepper syrup to the classic. Or go for a really summery taste and try out the Strawberry Sour made with Absolute strawberry and lemon juice then decide if you want the traditional egg white fluff or foamy sugar before it’s garnished with fresh strawberries
Cocktails, Mocktails and Petticoats
Think ‘Gatsby’, ‘Chicago’ & Vintage Hollywood Musicals. Join Smokey Joes for an evening of Cocktails & Mocktails. As part of Cheltenham Cocktail Week they’ll have some of thier new Cocktail specials for only £6 each!
joined by the gorgeous Monrose Boutique UK and have music from the 30s 40s & 50s. from our Fabulous Swing Night DJ Rob McElvanney
Cocktail tasting in collaboration with Cotswolds Distillery at The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie.
Sit down and enjoy a three course dinner and cocktail tasting in The Ivy’s private dining room. A perfect mid-week event, there are a limited number of tickets available to purchase now. Priced at £62, each ticket includes a welcome drink on arrival, a three-course meal paired with three bespoke cocktails, and teas and coffees post dessert. On the night, guests will also be able to enjoy an exclusive talk from one of Cotswolds Distillery master distillers, who will touch upon each spirit and their individual characteristics. Book here.
Recent developments in high streets across the UK show that things are changing – fast. The successful retailers have been those who have managed a blend of digital and physical presence.
How do we achieve that in Gloucestershire’s High Streets? Join a panel that have been working at the forefront of the new technologies at the Gloucestershire Business Show.
Kevan Blackadder, BID Director, will chair a discussion with some of Gloucestershire’s leading influencers about how digital will affect retail moving forward and what we can expect on the high street in the coming years. Kevan will be joined at 1.30pm on Tuesday May 21 by: Martin Bundy of John Lewis and Partners; Emerson Osmond from *Maybe, Chris Nyland, MD of Nettl Cheltenham and Gloucester and Emily Knight, UK Digital and UK Digital Retail Innovation Centre
The Gloucestershire Business Show runs for two days at Cheltenham Town Hall on May 21 and 22.
Businesses of all sizes can benefit from sharing knowledge and experience, hearing from specialists in their field and looking to the future together.
The event, which is in it fifth year, will see a great line-up of speakers, specialist clinics, professional advisors and sector zones and is free to attend.
For full event details visit https://www.gloucestershire-business-show.co.uk/
For the third year running, the BID is bringing the Cheltenham Street Chilli Fiesta to Cambray Place.
13 stalls selling all manner of chilli products from paintings and plants, to sauces and sausages will pop up for the day on Saturday 1 June.
The infamous chilli eating contest, which brought people from London to contest their title last year, will be back again this year.
If you run a business in or near Cambray Place and would like us to highlight your products and services in the lead-up to the Chilli Fiesta, please email Maria at maria@cheltenhambid.co.uk with details.
1 April 2019
Discover little-known facts about some of Cheltenham’s best-known buildings and locations whilst solving riddles to get a special Easter treat.
Cheltenham Business Improvement District (BID) has worked with The Cheltenham Trust on the Hidden Cheltenham trail, which gives new insights for locals and visitors alike and there have been a few egg-citing additions to the trail just for Easter.
The Easter Hidden Trail will start on Monday April 8 and will run every day from 9am-5pm until Easter Monday.
Pick up a map and instructions from The Wilson Art Gallery, solve the 12 riddles and collect the secret letters to reveal a hidden Easter word to claim your prize.
Hidden Cheltenham will be supported by a dedicated website www.hiddencheltenham.com, which is packed with information on the background to the places on the trail. As well as modern and historic images, local experts give the lowdown on everything you could possibly want to know.
There are 22 venues involved in the Easter Hidden Trail, including: –
The Mayflower and Wagamama in Clarence Street; St Mary’s Minster, just off High Street and F Hinds, Marks & Spencer and Regent Arcade, all on High Street; The Brewery Quarter; the former Gaumont Cinema in Winchcombe Street; Pizza Express on Imperial Square; The Bandstand in Montpellier Gardens; Spa Pharmacy on Montpellier Street and Cheltenham Ladies College.
Collect F Hinds letter and take it to Smokey Joes on Bennington Street to receive a free bottled or hot drink with your meal. See menu here.
Please see the Facebook Event here – https://bit.ly/HiddenCheltenhamEasterTrailEvent