Finding a Quiet Pint During the Cheltenham Festival: A Guide for Racegoers

The Cheltenham Festival is one of the biggest events on the British sporting calendar, drawing thousands of racing enthusiasts to this charming Gloucestershire town every March.

With the excitement of the races, the thrill of placing bets, and the inevitable ups and downs that come with it, you’ll hopefully have a bit of cash left over for a pint or two at the end of the day.

But with so many people descending on Cheltenham, finding a quiet spot to enjoy a drink can be as challenging as picking a winning horse.

Fear not! With a little local knowledge and some strategic planning, you can still find a serene corner of Cheltenham to unwind.

Here’s how to enjoy the town’s best pubs without getting caught up in the festival frenzy.

The Rotunda Tavern: A Hidden Gem on Montpellier Street

Cheltenham’s town centre will be heaving during the festival, but just a short stroll away on Montpellier Street lies The Rotunda Tavern.

This small, independently run pub is a perfect spot if you’re looking for a quieter atmosphere. The relaxed vibe here is a world away from the bustling pubs closer to the racecourse.

And while The Rotunda isn’t directly in the heart of the action, they do have a few TVs showing the races, so you won’t miss out entirely.

Plus, you can get an expertly pulled pint—just what you need after a day at the races, win or lose.

The Lansdown: Escape the Crowds with Outdoor Seating

If you’re willing to venture a bit further out of the town centre, The Lansdown on Lansdown Road offers a welcome retreat.

With its expansive outdoor seating and a spacious gazebo, it’s an ideal spot to relax with friends and reflect on the day’s events.

The Lansdown isn’t just about escaping the crowds; it’s also a great place to catch the races or evening sports on TV without feeling like you’re in the middle of a rugby scrum.

The Railway Inn: Classic Pub Comfort in the Heart of Cheltenham

For those who prefer a more traditional pub experience, The Railway Inn on New Street delivers just that.

This classic British pub is known for its cozy atmosphere and hearty food, making it a great spot to wind down after the high energy of the racecourse.

The wooden furnishings and relaxed setting provide a stark contrast to the sticky floors and elbow-to-elbow crowds you might find elsewhere.

If you’re after a quieter drink during the festival, The Railway Inn could be just the ticket.

The Beehive: A Local Favourite seating outside

Nestled in the upscale Suffolks area, The Beehive is a beloved local pub that offers a calm retreat away from the hustle and bustle.

Located on a quiet street in Montpellier Villas, it’s a bit off the beaten path, but well worth the visit. The Beehive boasts an impressive selection of locally sourced real ales, and with two lovely pub gardens, it’s a great spot to enjoy a pint in peace.

This pub is particularly popular with locals, so you’ll be able to soak up the genuine Cheltenham atmosphere without the festival crowds.

Chain Pubs in Cheltenham: Popular but Busy

During the Cheltenham Festival, chain pubs in the town center become magnets for racegoers seeking affordable food and drinks.

While these establishments offer familiarity and convenience, they are also likely to be packed to the rafters, making them best avoided if you’re hoping for a more relaxed experience.

Wetherspoons Pubs

Cheltenham is home to two Wetherspoons pubs that are sure to be particularly crowded during the festival:

• Moon Under The Water at 16-28 Bath Road
• The Bank House at 15-21 Clarence Street

Wetherspoons is well-known for its budget-friendly menu and extensive drinks selection, which makes it a popular choice for racegoers.

However, this popularity comes at a cost: these venues will be some of the busiest pubs in town, especially during race week.

If you’re looking to avoid long queues and a tightly packed crowd, it’s best to steer clear of these spots.

The Miller, 12-14 Bath Road

Situated at the top of town next to the Wetherspoons, The Miller is another chain pub that will likely be overflowing with patrons during the festival.

Known for its lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings when it transitions into more of a bar and club, The Miller offers big-screen TVs for watching the races and football.

It also features food and drink specials for race week. However, the lively vibe means it’s bound to be very busy and crowded, making it less than ideal if you’re seeking a quieter drink.

All Bar One, The Brewery Quarter

Located in Cheltenham’s bustling Brewery Quarter, All Bar One is a popular chain cocktail bar and restaurant that will undoubtedly attract large crowds during the festival.

With its central location and reputation as a stylish spot for drinks, this venue is a go-to for many visitors. But, like other well-known chains, expect it to be heavily frequented, particularly by those looking for a lively atmosphere.

Tips for Racegoers: How to Navigate Cheltenham During the Festival

While Cheltenham offers plenty of great pubs, it’s important to keep a few things in mind during the Festival:

• Expect Busy Pubs: The town centre will be packed, especially in the evenings after the races finish. Chain pubs like Wetherspoons will be particularly crowded, so plan accordingly.
• At the Racecourse: You’re limited to buying a maximum of four alcoholic drinks at a time. Also, no alcohol can be taken off-site, and bringing your own alcohol is strictly prohibited. Drug detection dogs are employed at the entrances, and any drug law infringements will be taken seriously.
• Venturing Out: Consider exploring the quieter areas of Cheltenham for a more relaxed drinking experience. Pubs outside the main hub, like those mentioned above, offer a more low-key atmosphere where you can enjoy a drink without the crowds.

With these tips in mind, you can navigate Cheltenham’s bustling streets and still find a peaceful spot to raise a glass to the winners—and console yourself over the ones that got away.

Drink responsibly, and cheers to a fantastic festival experience!