The beloved Pittville Pump Room Pop-up Café is reopening for the Christmas period, bringing festive cheer to one of Cheltenham’s most iconic landmarks. Following the success of its initial run, the café will welcome visitors from Monday, December 22 through Wednesday, December 31.
Curated by The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum, the pop-up café pays homage to the Georgian heritage of the Pump Room. Visitors can also explore a special six-chapter display showcasing the rich history of this Grade I listed building.
The Cheltenham Trust is actively encouraging visitors to share their favourite memories and ideas for the Pump Room’s future, helping shape the ongoing preservation and use of this treasured venue.
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Adding to the festive atmosphere, a popular free live music programme has been extended throughout the holiday period. Highlights include performances by Incantata Strings on December 22, acoustic bassist Mark Gunner on December 23, composer and guitarist Dan Lewis on December 27, and a Cheltenham Open Mic session on December 28. The series culminates with singer-songwriter Saint Senara entertaining guests on New Year’s Eve, December 31, marking the end of the pop-up and commemorating 200 years since the laying of the Pump Room’s foundation stone.
Jessica Brewster, CEO of The Cheltenham Trust, expressed gratitude for the community’s enthusiasm: “We have been overwhelmed by the response and support for the pop-up at Pittville Pump Room. It’s been wonderful to reconnect with the public ahead of scheduled maintenance works.”
She added, “Working alongside Cheltenham Borough Council, we are strengthening the subfloor to protect this incredible heritage building for future generations. The feedback we’ve received—from cherished memories to exciting ideas for the future—has been invaluable.”
Looking forward, Brewster revealed plans to transform the Pump Room into a permanent public space celebrating its heritage. “We look forward to sharing more updates soon,” she said.
The pop-up café will operate with varied opening hours between December 22 and 31. For complete details and schedules, visit pittvillepumproom.org.uk/pop-up.