Two friends from Gloucestershire are shaking up the local hospitality scene with a fresh approach that aims to lure people away from the comfort of their homes and onto the vibrant nightlife circuit. Nick Martindale, 32, from Cheltenham, and Oli Monks, 25, from Tewkesbury, have combined their passion and expertise to create Oliver’s Bar Group, a collection of venues redefining social experiences across the region.
Oli Monks launched Oliver’s Bar Group in late 2023 with the opening of Oliver’s Bar at Gloucester Quays, which took over the space formerly occupied by Tank. A few years later, in May 2025, Nick Martindale joined as shareholder and Operations Director, bringing with him a wealth of industry knowledge and a clear vision for growth.
Together, they focus on delivering outstanding entertainment, affordable yet quality food and drinks, and attentive service in welcoming, stylish venues. Their flagship locations, Oliver’s Bar in Gloucester and Cheltenham, are rapidly becoming go-to spots for those seeking memorable nights out.
READ MORE: The Mysterious Cheltenham Elm: Legends of Death, Smug Lords, and Witchcraft
READ MORE: Rejection of Tesco, Pharmacy, and 172 Social Homes Development Sparks Strong Disappointment in Gloucester
Most recently, Nick and Oli made a bold move to revive Cheltenham’s beloved 21 Club, now rebranded as Always 21, located on Regent Street. Their investment breathes new life into this iconic venue, blending tradition with innovation to attract a diverse crowd.
With a combined experience spanning over 20 years in hospitality, Nick and Oli have a proven track record of transforming businesses from modest beginnings into thriving enterprises, often scaling from six to seven figures within just 18 months. Their achievements include Gloucester Brewery winning both Pub/Bar of the Year and Best Entertainment Venue in 2024, highlighting their commitment to excellence.
Nick Martindale shares his outlook: “I’ve been passionate about hospitality since I was 18. Despite industry challenges and the lure of staying in with Netflix, I believe people crave fun and connection now more than ever. They just need a friendly nudge to get out and enjoy themselves.”
Currently, Oliver’s Bar Group manages six venues across Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, and Worcestershire, and the duo is actively seeking opportunities to grow further through acquiring existing businesses or offering consultancy services to those in need.
Nick’s background is diverse—he co-owns Not Your Average Entertainment, supplying popular events like Belters Bingo, Oktoberfests, and Duelling Pianos to clients nationwide. He also leads the ‘Future of the Industry Panel’ for the late-night sector, addressing key issues shaping hospitality’s future. Additionally, Nick’s DJ career has seen him perform for massive crowds at major festivals, Silverstone F1, and on radio stations.
Oli’s journey began in 2016 organizing school discos before moving on to high-profile celebrity parties across the Cotswolds and beyond. His vision culminated in the creation of Oliver’s Bar Group in 2023, reflecting his deep commitment to raising the bar for local hospitality.
Together, Nick and Oli are proving that with passion, innovation, and dedication, hospitality can thrive—even in a world filled with digital distractions. Their story is a testament to how revitalizing community nightlife can become a rewarding adventure for both entrepreneurs and patrons alike.