Cheltenham is an elegant Regency spa town in Gloucestershire, renowned for its festivals, racecourse, and stunning architecture. With excellent transport links via the M5 and exceptional venues from historic pump rooms to modern facilities, it’s a premier destination for memorable events.
Caterers Available
Average Rating
Price Range
Guest range: 2 – 200
Hygiene score: /5
Guest range: 2 – 30
Hygiene score: /5
Guest range: –
Hygiene score: /5
Guest range: 10 – 500
Hygiene score: /5
Spring and summer months from April through September see peak demand, particularly during Cheltenham Festival season in March and the racing calendar. Wedding season brings high demand for historic venues like Pittville Pump Room, requiring bookings 6-12 months in advance.
Winter offers excellent value opportunities with many venues providing festive packages and themed events. The town’s festival calendar creates seasonal spikes in demand, particularly during Literature Festival (October), Jazz Festival (April/May), and Science Festival periods, when accommodation and catering services experience premium pricing.
Logistics & TransportationsCheltenham enjoys excellent connectivity via M5 junctions 10A and 11, with the A40 providing direct access to London and Oxford. The town offers two Park & Ride facilities at Arle Court and Cheltenham Racecourse, easing central congestion for event logistics.
Most venues provide adequate loading facilities, though central locations like Town Hall may have restricted access times. The Cotswolds location ensures excellent access to local suppliers and specialty ingredients, while proximity to Birmingham (50 minutes) and Bristol (35 minutes) provides backup options for equipment and supplies.
All catering businesses must register with Cheltenham Borough Council and comply with the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (0-5 scale). The council conducts regular unannounced inspections, with high-performing businesses promoted on official social media channels.
New businesses face inspection within 28 days of registration, prioritized by risk level. Premises require proper food safety management systems, with “Safer Food Better Business” packs recommended for smaller operations. Mobile caterers need additional permits and must maintain hygiene standards equivalent to permanent establishments.
All catering businesses must register with Cheltenham Borough Council and comply with the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (0-5 scale). The council conducts regular unannounced inspections, with high-performing businesses promoted on official social media channels.
New businesses face inspection within 28 days of registration, prioritized by risk level. Premises require proper food safety management systems, with “Safer Food Better Business” packs recommended for smaller operations. Mobile caterers need additional permits and must maintain hygiene standards equivalent to permanent establishments.
