The Daffodil, an iconic Cheltenham building renowned for its Art Deco design, is back on the market after a turbulent history following its closure in 2022. Originally a cinema dating back to 1922, the building later became an award-winning restaurant before struggling through the post-pandemic period and ultimately closing its doors. Although it reopened briefly for events, it ceased operations once more in 2023.
Now, the future of this distinctive structure is uncertain as it has been re-listed for sale in 2024. ASH Chartered Surveyors, handling the sale, describe the property as occupying a “prominent position on Suffolk Parade, at the heart of one of the town’s most sought-after and characterful districts.”
The asking price is set at £1.6 million. The listing highlights the building’s impressive interior, featuring a barrel-vaulted foyer with an arched ceiling and original Art Deco elements such as pendant light fittings, porthole mirrors, and stained glass panels. A twin curved staircase ascends from the foyer to a mezzanine gallery level, underscoring the building’s grandeur.
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Currently, the principal space is noted as suitable for uses including restaurant, bar, or events across the ground and gallery levels. The property includes extensive back-of-house areas comprising preparation zones and ancillary spaces on the ground and basement floors.
A commercially equipped kitchen is installed, featuring stainless steel preparation and cooking equipment alongside overhead extraction canopies. Fixtures include stainless steel worktops, preparation tables, cooking ranges, and a separate wash-up area with counters, sinks, and shelving. Additional basement accommodation comprises storage rooms and cold stores, complemented by administrative offices and staff and customer restroom facilities.
Importantly, planning permission has already been granted to convert the approximately 650.30 m² space into a residential dwelling. An alternative concept has been drafted proposing two townhouses, three mews houses with communal space, and two coach houses at the rear; however, no application has been submitted for this scheme.
Alongside The Daffodil, ASH is offering the neighbouring two-storey building for £200,000. Formerly part of The Daffodil complex and previously functioning as a deli, this self-contained property benefits from residential consent with potential for various uses, subject to planning approval.
The sale presents a unique opportunity to own and adapt a striking piece of Cheltenham’s architectural heritage, though the ultimate future use remains to be decided.