The gateway to the Cotswolds also has some of the best coffee shops around
Cheltenham is known for its famous horse racing, its annual festival and its location in the heart of the Cotswolds. But something Cheltenham is less famed for is its range of independent coffee shops. Considering it’s a relatively small place, the spa town has loads of options when it comes to grabbing your favourite hot beverage. Check out our pick of the 10 best coffee shops in Cheltenham.
If you’re travelling to Cheltenham by train, the station is situated on the outskirts of town. However, all these coffee shops are close to the hustle and bustle and can be found within a 30-minute walk from the platform.
1. WOODKRAFT
We’re starting with something a little bit fancy. WOODKRAFT is an artisan eatery by MasterChef Champion Simon Wood and the WOOD Restaurant Group. However, the atmosphere is informal and a great place to grab a coffee or some brunch. WOODKRAFT features only the best local produce with a seasonal menu. The drinks board also includes delicious smoothies, brewed teas, some alcoholic tipples and of course a large selection of coffee.
Distance from Cheltenham Spa station: 25-minute walk
Dairy-free milk alternative: ✅
Price of a Latte: £2.85
2. School House Café
Designed with everyone in mind, the School House Café is a community-focused initiative that invites anyone and everyone to enjoy a coffee in a welcoming environment. Their dream is to create a space that brings people together, from students to new parents and tourists to professionals. Located in an old school, the setting has been reformed and is now a charity that uses donations and profits to organise community-focused activities and offer employment for vulnerable adults. The menu is incredibly affordable and offers food as well as hot and cold drinks.
Distance from Cheltenham Spa: 25-minute walk
Dairy-free milk alternative: ✅
Price of a Latte: £2.30
3. Brew and Bake
Located to the south of Cheltenham, Brew & Bake serves delicious brunches, homemade cakes and pizzas as well as a drink selection you’d expect from a coffee shop. Their beans are developed by local company Ritual Coffee Roasters, whose owners dedicate their lives to the craft of roasting great coffee. So, you’re guaranteed a good brew here! The café is also dog-friendly so is a perfect option for those stopping by with a furry friend.
Distance from Cheltenham Spa: 25-minute walk
Dairy-free milk alternative: ✅
Price of a Latte: £2.30
4. Botanica
There are two branches in town, but Botanica Gloucester Road is a great choice if you need somewhere to chill before catching a train. The Instagrammable joint serves coffee from only the best roasteries in the country. All beans are ethically sourced and they stock a large variety to suit individual preferences. If you fancy a meal too, the Botanica will impress. From unique sandwiches and salads to a fresh bakery, the Botanica is bound to hit the spot.
For more food options, check out our pick of the best places to eat near Cheltenham Spa station.
Distance from Cheltenham Spa: 3-minute walk
Dairy-free milk alternative: ✅
Price of a Latte: £2.50
5. Dolce and Salato
A popular spot on Winchcombe Street, Dolce and Salato is run by a Sicilian owner, Salvatore. The Italian-themed café serves breakfast, lunch, cakes and snacks alongside hot and cold drinks. You can also try their delicious homemade pizza and pasta as well as traditional British dishes – who doesn’t love a cheese toastie? This local favourite is in the centre of town so is the perfect place to stop in for a bite to eat.
Distance from Cheltenham Spa: 28-minute walk or 13-minute bus ride
Dairy-free milk alternative: Unknown
Price of a Latte: £2.80
6. The Curious Café and Bistro
Another coffee shop in Cheltenham that’s big on aesthetics is The Curious Café and Bistro. It is a small, family-run business situated on Bath Road and has been up and running for 16 years. One selling point is the beautiful rear garden where customers can chat away. The garden also hosts live music nights and Phatboys street-food in the evenings. A great place to go day or night, The Curious Café and Bistro is a must-try, and it is also home to the cheapest latte on our list.
Distance from Cheltenham Spa: 22-minute walk
Dairy-free milk alternative: ✅
Price of a Latte: £2.00
7. The Scandinavian Coffee Pod
The Scandinavian Coffee Pod first started business 8 years ago when they would serve mouth-watering hot drinks from their tiny glasses and steel coffee pods. Not much has changed, apart from the fact they now own the adjoining building where coffee is made on-site – another great option for the eco-conscious. The pod is very much a permanent fixture and is ideally located for a grab-and-go coffee and cake.
Distance from Cheltenham Spa: 20-minute walk
Dairy-free milk alternative: ✅
Price of a Latte: £2.80
8. Boston Tea Party
A larger chain with an independent vibe, Boston Tea Party Cheltenham is slap bang in the middle of town. Offering all day breakfast and brunch as well as burgers and toasties, it is a fab option if you’re looking for a hearty meal as well as a coffee. With an extensive drinks menu, you can choose from an iced latte to a Bloody Mary or blueberry and ginger smoothie. The brand also banned single-use coffee cups in 2018 meaning you can enjoy a landfill-free beverage.
Distance from Cheltenham Spa: 22-minute walk
Dairy-free milk alternative: ✅
Price of a Latte: £2.75
9. The Sober Parrot
Another not-for-profit coffee shop in Cheltenham, this alcohol-free spot runs as a café by day and a dry events venue by night. The Sober Parrot is owned by The Nelson Trust, a charity that works with disadvantaged adults that may have been affected by addiction. Dog and child-friendly, head down to The Sober Parrot during the week* for a hot drink with loved ones and support a deserving charity.
*This coffee shop is not open at weekends.
Distance from Cheltenham Spa: 18-minute walk
Dairy-free milk alternative: ✅
Price of a Latte: £2.70
10. The Coffee Dispensary
Six years ago, the owners of The Coffee Dispensary transformed an old pharmacy into the stylish coffee bar it is today. The brand sources their coffee beans from roasters around the world that create interesting flavours and have innovative processing methods. With an ever-changing menu board, you can be sure that each visit to The Coffee Dispensary will uncover different coffees to try, as well as delicious treats sourced from local bakeries.
Distance from Cheltenham Spa: 25-minute walk
Dairy-free milk alternative: ✅
Price of a Latte: £3.00
If you’re thinking about booking a trip to Cheltenham, why not travel via train? CrossCountry has services to Cheltenham running from all over the country. You can buy tickets on our website or Train Tickets app, and remember to check out our cheap tickets page to see how you can save money on your travel with CrossCountry.