If you’re searching for the perfect spot to soak up some sun with a well-crafted drink, look no further than Sandford Park Alehouse. Nestled quietly on Cheltenham’s high street since 2013, this unassuming pub has quietly built a reputation as one of the town’s finest, boasting a rich selection of beers including 16 cask ales and 10 keg lines.
The pub’s accolades speak volumes—it has been honoured as Cheltenham Pub of the Year and even National Pub of the Year by CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale). On top of that, Cheltenham resident and comedian Dom Joly has named Sandford Park Alehouse as one of his favourite local drinking haunts.
Stepping inside, the venue effortlessly complements Cheltenham’s elegant Regency architecture, blending in with the traditional façades so seamlessly you might almost miss it on your first pass. The inviting vines that frame the doorway and the understated signage hint at the treasures inside.
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Outside, blackboards proudly display their CAMRA honours alongside tempting weekday specials like ‘Cheltenham’s Best Fried Chicken’ served on Mondays and Tuesdays. The menu features hearty pub fare—burgers starting at £12, chicken wings for £10, and sides such as Padron peppers and crispy fried pickles for £5.
Inside, there’s a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels both contemporary and timeless. Located within a Grade II-listed building, the pub combines modern touches—like fairy lights adorning the ceiling—with a cozy billiards room offering board games, perfect for leisurely afternoons with friends and family.
The beer garden at the rear is a true highlight, spread over two tiers with plenty of seating and the upper level basking in the spring sunshine. An additional outdoor bar within a marquee has recently become a hub for sports fans thanks to a large projector screen showing events like the Six Nations rugby and the Cheltenham races.
Sandford Park Alehouse also hosts vibrant community events, including the recent Dark Side of the Ale festival, which featured 50 dark beers, specialty cocktails, and live music, DJ sets, and comedy every evening.
General manager Martyn, who joined last year, shared his vision: “We want to do as much as we can for the community and be the best business possible. We missed out on CAMRA’s Pub of the Year this time but are determined to come back stronger.”
In 2024, the pub was also crowned Best Pub at the Gloucestershire Foodie Awards, a well-deserved accolade. While visiting, I sampled the Padron peppers, a generous £5 portion of delightful fried green peppers perfectly salted, washed down with a sweet, dark Broadoak Purple Haze cider.
Martyn highlighted the pub’s impressive beer range: “We specialise in Belgian and German beers, and offer a brilliant selection of non-alcoholic options too. We focus on great quality and variety to cater to all tastes—from new-school to old-school drinkers.”
The clientele reflects this diversity, with locals and visitors alike drawn to the pub’s friendly atmosphere and welcoming vibe. “Our only challenge,” Martyn noted, “is that unless you know it’s here, you might easily overlook it—it does look like a row of houses from a distance. So, it truly is one of Cheltenham’s best-kept secrets.”
As for famous visitors, Dom Joly himself was spotted at the pub just once—coincidentally, the day before Martyn officially took on his role. “That felt like a good omen,” Martyn laughs.
Sandford Park Alehouse is located at 20 High Street, Cheltenham, open from 11am Monday through Saturday, and from noon on Sundays. Whether you’re after superb beer, great food, or a friendly neighbourhood vibe, this hidden gem delivers it all.