Cheltenham After Dark

From speakeasies to stargazing, India Nimmoneser uncovers the sophisticated side of Cheltenham once the sun goes down.

As Autumn approaches, the rural vocabulary becomes filled by mentions of 'crisp' and 'bright', words for wintery mornings and brisk wrapped-up walks. Rural life is often painted in these hues alone, perhaps followed by the odd evening in the pub.

But look closer, and you'll find a genuine culture of evening class and grace, built into the very infrastructure of the town. Hidden bars and rooftop terraces embody that spa-town charm which ripens as the sun sets, and the royal and star-studded crowd drawn in at race-time will find plenty here to keep them after dark. This is a town whose amusements live up to an undeniable standard of quality and style.

For those in the know, some of Cheltenham's best nights out end behind an unassuming door. Tucked away next to Mirari, is an intimate speakeasy-style cocktail bar, Siete, where expertly crafted drinks, live music at weekends and a lively atmosphere make it one of the town's best-kept secrets.

Before heading into the speakeasy, settle into Mirari for a relaxed Basque-inspired dining experience. The menu is built around vibrant sharing plates and pintxos, designed to be enjoyed together, while the restaurant's buzzing atmosphere and beautiful bar set the tone for the evening ahead.

Whether you're planning dinner and cocktails, celebrating a special occasion or looking for a unique venue for private hire, Mirari and Club Ocho bring together exceptional food, great drinks and memorable nights, all under one roof.

Just across the road, The Nook on Five offers panoramic views for miles around with their rooftop dining room and bar. Headed up by a multi-Michelin-starred chef, John Burton-Race, Nook's food dances between indulgent British, French and Italian cuisine. Their room-with-a-view experience extends to cooking itself: an open kitchen within the dining room showcases careful culinary practice. Alongside the standard food service, their calendar is worth checking out, peppered with evening cocktail-making classes and seasonal autumnal and winter menus.

Along the Bath Road, Prithvi offers a more refined eating experience, reimagining Indian cuisine through tasting menus that innovate, earning them their place as a treasured fine dining experience in the heart of town. Their delicate approach to fusion has secured a 3 AA Rosette award, recognition in the Michelin Guide, and a place in the British Curry Awards, among others, along with a reputation for going stratospherically beyond your classic tikka masala.

For something quirkier, the recently opened Plates and Shakers offer cocktails and tapas with a twist. Flanked by white colonnades, its inventive drinks menu brings to Montpellier Terrace a youthful take, riffing off classic drinks. Cocktails are served in Engine cans and Lightbulb glasses, giving the space the feel of an upmarket DIY workshop, helped along by its bohemian decor. Continuing the creative artistic vein, browse Wilson Museum's Wilson Nights: artist-led events on the first Wednesday of every month.

Just out of town at Dowdeswell Park, Dunkertons proves that after-dark doesn't have to mean indoors. Firepits mark out the courtyard, the taproom pours a broad range of their own award-winning ciders, and a rotating cast of street food traders keeps the evening well fed. The line-up has genuine range: a regular Tuesday quiz night, live music through the season, and seasonal fixtures from a Halloween party to a November fireworks night, alongside events tied into Cheltenham's festival calendar. It's an easy one to fold into a bigger night out, and just as good as a destination in its own right.

Tivoli Cheltenham, Everyman's luxury cinema, is a feast for the senses. This venue could be described as an extension of your living room, with comfy chaises and an art deco feel. Order from its kitchen, a sharing plate, pizza or burger alongside a glass of wine, delivered straight to your seat as you recline in vintage comfort. Cheltenham's Everyman honours proper cinema-going, the kind that deserves this level of indulgence rather than a scroll through your phone.

For a different kind of spectacle on a clear night, look to the skies. True stargazing awaits just out of Cheltenham. At 330m above sea level, Cleeve Hill, the highest point in the Cotswolds, promises unparalleled constellation spotting, an eight-minute drive from the town centre. A night-time foray there is truly memorable. Winter astronomical highlights to look out for include the Geminid meteor shower, peaking in mid-December. Grab a blanket, a few layers and enjoy the show.

Cheltenham's night-life rewards those who stay past sundown: from hidden speakeasies to firelit courtyards, its varied entertainment offers refined charms, once you know where to look.

clubochocheltenham.co.uk · thenookcheltenham.co.uk · prithvirestaurant.com · platesandshakers.co.uk · wilsonmuseum.org.uk · dunkertonscider.co.uk · everymancinema.com