The Old Courthouse in Cheltenham

I had previously rated Courthouse as five-stars. It was a place I used to visit very frequently for lunch in 2019 - the steak ciabatta being a personal favourite - and always spoke highly of The Old Courthouse to others. Having booked the location for our Work Christmas do (and having pre-ordered) I had high hopes, but unfortunately due to a comedy of errors the evening was somewhat spoilt. Our starters were brought out half an hour after we had arrived. Perfectly adequate timing and some solid reviews from around the table. However, matters went south after here. We proceeded to wait for an hour for our main courses, before one of the serving team approached our table and asked "who was having the cheeseboard?". At this point a colleague remarked, "we're still waiting for our mains". The server scurried off but we were none the wiser to the state of play, so I grabbed her attention. I pointed out that they had forgotten our mains. She at first denied this was the case before I retorted "you wouldn't ask us who was having which pudding, if you weren't ready to give us our desserts, ergo you've forgotten our mains". Additionally, I said that I appreciate mistakes happen and it wasn't the servers fault per se, but that some communication (when things go wrong) is essential and asked if we could please get an update. The server was apologetic and flustered and she, and subsequently the team, dealt with it as well as possible by offering the table a free round of drinks. Fine, say no more, we move on. Having said that, however, two of the free-round of drinks weren't brought and we had to request them separately. Unfortunately, when the main courses arrived, they were served at a tepid temperature (if being generous), as if they'd been sat on the side of the kitchen for an abnormally long period of time. Nonetheless we carry on. The desserts came swiftly and were passable, however, we did have to request cutlery to consume them. Ready to pay, we were brought the card machine and when tapping "no tip", which given the circumstances I feel was a reasonable stance to take given the events, an audible frustrated-sigh was heard from the staff member. I appreciate with Christmas Parties, this potentially makes the establishment busier than normal, however that is surely what the pre-ordering system is meant to aide with - in order to expedite orders swiftly by limiting (and knowing in advance) the choices. The location is as gorgeous as ever, it was just a very disappointing experience for my team's first Christmas party.

Busy place. Had a Sunday roast. Food beautifully cooked & presented.

If you are thinking of hiring the Old Courthouse as an event venue (upstairs room) then do not do it! There are so much more better options in Cheltenham. This is the second party I’ve been a guest at the old courthouse and the setting is lovely if you are just doing a business lunch do but if your having a party it’s not set up for that. There are no plugs for the band or DJ, the lights do not turn off (so even when the staff slightly dim the lights to their lowest setting the room is still brightly lit all night) and the worst part is the manager told the DJ to turn the music off at 23:45 and turned the lights on full. Even through the room has been paid for until midnight. The manager said that he wanted everyone out the room at the end but this end is midnight - not 13 minutes before midnight. If you’re having a party then use The Storyteller/ The Lansdown or Copa.

I had the steak frites and the steak was perfect. My steak was well charred which gave it a lovely flavour. Service was great, our waitress helped me decide where to go afterwards and gave some recommendations. I take people here when they visit me in Cheltenham and they always enjoy it :)

Best fish, chips and mushy peas I've had in the area. Staff were very attentive and pleasant. We were lucky to get the last table on a Saturday evening. Recommended booking in advance.

Great place for food and drink.

Classy building, with good food. The staff seemed stressed!

Nice location. Food, beer, and service was good. My only complaint is they offered table service but I ended getting the drinks several times at the bar because I don't like having an empty glass and not being offered a refill in a timely manner.

Really sad evening!!! we were asked to leave by the landlord for no valid reason!! Sat 16th Nov Races evening and we were sat outside as there were no spaces inside, We considered sitting inside using the chairs from outside, as it was warmer so we started to move an A board ( in hindsight maybe not the best idea) At this point the lady who claims to be the landlord came out of the disabled toilets and shouted aggressively at us “what on earth do we think we are doing” We responded our intention, which was to sit in the warm, However at this point I said that this lady did not need to shout at us, instead she just needed to speak to us, she apologised but was with every reason why her reaction was acceptable to be aggressive ( there was no justifiable reason to be aggressive we wernt drunk or anything we didn’t continue to move we the sign we stopped immediately) At this point the situation was done and we returned to our seats “It was done in our eyes “and at that point she replied you’re not going to listen anyway! (Again rude and uncalled for) We then continued to sit outside and enjoyed several more drinks and enjoyed our evening just chatting amongst ourselves, Fast forward a little time a couple came out and lit up a cigarette each, The smoke was blowing towards us, ( we are not smokers) My father at this point who is a 65 year old man with respiratory issues covered his mouth with his scarf, No words were exchanged with this couple what so ever, they did however move away to outside area, (maybe cos they saw my dad cover his mouth) We continued to have another round of drinks and enjoy our evening, The smokers left the restaurant and about an hour later the landlord came out and asked us to leave and she wasn’t going to serve us again, No reason until we asked, And her reply was simply she had a complaint that we had made some smokers feel uncomfortable and made comments. Now if she had checked her cctv which was pointing on us she will see there was no exchange of communication between us and the couple, other than my father putting his scarf across his mouth, The only thing we can think is that the landlord didn’t take lightly to being called out for being aggressive and rude when she challenged us over touching her sign. As locals who have visited the bar on many occasions we are saddened by this situation and feel that we were targeted for standing up for ourselves against a bully landlord. Shame really as we can’t complain about previous visits.

A very uniquely decorated establishment in a former court house. We called in for pre show drinks and a meal and were greeted by the barman, Kieran, who looked after us throughout, he was welcoming and very helpful throughout our stay. There was a wide variety of beverages available including cask beers. The food was very well cooked and service was prompt.

Brilliant all round. Great service, food and beers.

The food was amazing and the service couldn’t have been better. Special thanks to Kieran and Isobel for the amazing time.

A super meal pre-theatre. Food was lovely, excellent service, tables nicely spaced, good atmosphere. Highly recommended.

Didn’t even get to the table. Stood at the bar for 5 minutes without even an acknowledgement. They weren’t even busy. Eventually a disinterested waiter asked if we had a reservation. He then muttered to himself and went off to clean a table at which time we left. Have never written a poor review previously but this was so awful felt I had to.

We live in GL7 and come to Cheltenham rarely, but two weeks back we came to Reccy where we might be able to eat as we had an evening Everyman theatre trip planned for the evening of 9th November 2024 with friends so a party of 4. We called in and was made most welcome by one of the female staff who also gave us a menu to takeaway, we felt the venue and atmosphere was going to be really suitable so we booked to come back on the 9th November On arrival we were made most welcome and drinks and food orders explained and executed perfectly. The food was excellent well prepared and great value we all 4 really enjoyed the fare. Sadly thats where the compliments have to stop. There were three adults at a table near us who had a large dog with them, we are not anti dogs. But this particular dog was a nuisance, barked and literally screeched through out our sitting which rendered the whole evening totally ruined, to the point that we would never return to this venue. I would ask the management to reconsider thier pets policy, pets and food dining don’t mix its not even hygienic and spoils the whole evening

Great food, very friendly staff and a warm atmosphere. We will definitely be coming back!

Visited The Old Courthouse in Cheltenham with family, and it was an exceptional experience. The historic venue adds so much character, combing elegant charm with a welcoming ambiance that makes it perfect for a family outing. The staff were attentive and friendly, enhancing the relaxed atmosphere. The food was excellent - each dish was well-prepared and flavourful, with options that catered to everyone’s tastes. From starters to dessert, the quality and presentation impressed us. I’d highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a unique dining spot with great food and atmosphere in Cheltenham. Will definitely be back!!!

Excellent venue, maintained the decor and history of the county courthouse, good food, wide range of drinks, well worth a visit

Another fabulous Sunday lunch in a very unique venue. Highly recommended. Staff very pleasant and great service.

Nice pub. We didn't have food when we went but there were tables available on a Saturday night and the staff were quick to serve us at the bar.

Regular haunt of mine when in Cheltenham, good food, great service stylish surrounds

We just called for a drink but this is a very interesting building. The toilets are underground and you have to walk past the old cells. Upstairs the bar is the old courtroom and still has a lot of the original features. Definitely worth a visit.

We've always enjoyed eating here. It's a good, varied menu The Sunday lunch is excellent- slightly more expensive than some others in Cheltenham, but worth it. The service is prompt and friendly.

Fantastic Sunday roast! Memories of some of the best roasts I've ever had came rushing back while having the roast beef and pork here. Will definitely be coming back when we want to treat ourselves.

Unique venue and great food. The house beer added that little extra bit of special.

Went with a friend and had a very pleasant meal. The service was friendly and not in your face, like some places can be. Menu selection was great and I could have chosen loads of the dishes. Settled on the chicken, ham and leek pie option and the pastry was fantastic.

Was disappointed that the Croque monsieur, states it's uses toasted bloomer. Ours came out as a cheese and ham sandwich with a cheese sauce ontop and grilled. The bread on the underside was soggy and looked like a thick slide normal bread not a bloomer.

Lovely food, and superb service. Just the right amount of interaction and very astute, noticed our early sitting and asked if we were going to the Everyman Theatre, when we replied yes, advised of cooking times for dishes to ensure we made good time for the performance. No automatic assumed service charge, but we did tip because of our delightful experience. We will definitely be returning.

Visited the other day, wasn’t sure what to order but the bar tender Rhys was really helpful and suggested wine to pair with our meals and it was spot on! Would definitely recommend to everyone!

I enjoy having a roast dinner for a treat here. Occasionally, the beef is overcooked; maybe personal preference. The food is fab; the staff are always polite & efficient. Would highly recommend this place. Nice to chill & read the Sunday Papers

Beautiful venue, lovely drinks, but please please improve the food and service! We had to go to the bar to get served, the food was clearly defrosted which I wouldn't expect for the prices and the service is horrifically slow.

Popped in on Sunday 25/8/24, just for a drink, decided to come back later In week for food. Thursday 1630 just to have a seat. 5 or 8 in before us. Front of house staff very helpful no rush, I had chicken and panchetta wife had fishcake. Both very good, and my potatoes with cheese very nice . One Hill climb beer for me, bottle white wine for wife, pulse two whistles and a port late, very happy 😀 . Thank you to the staff.

Absolutely wonderful really lovely food and a welcoming atmosphere x definitely recommend x

I enjoyed a lovely risotto for dinner. The wine was good and the service was attentive. The desert was sweet and tasty. I will definitely return and would certainly recommend this establishment to friends and family.

Beautiful building, good food, but like so many pubs suffers from that same thing where it's trying to be posh and "gastro" upstairs while the toilets are still like a high street boozer

What a brilliant experience! This lovely old building is packed full of character (worth going just for the visit to the Ladies in the dungeons alone !) The food was absolutely delicious, great quality and arrived piping hot and in generous portions. It was lovely to be able to try something different food wise here too. I loved my starter - which was a take on peking duck pancakes, but using chicken thigh meat instead. My main of spiced cauliflower pie was absolutely delicious. It came with a scrumptious curry sauce and lots of tasty roast veg. I would highly recommend it ! We were well looked after by Reece, who was both great fun and very helpful indeed. I booked here as it was so close to the theatre - but this venue is worth visiting for any reason at all !

this was a fabulous find, utterly amazing food, great prices and a really amazing friendly young lady served us, can highly recommend - the ham pie was to die for

Lovely central venue. Food very good and reasonably priced.

Paul and Kieren served me the most wonderful fish finger sandwich alongside some Parmesan fries for lunch. The service was excellent, the food was fantastic and very good value. Very clean, well kept restaurant with some great decor. One of the best lunches I’ve had in a while Thank you

Fantastic place. Beautifully styled, great atmosphere, friendly and attentive staff (Harry especially), lovely menu, great cocktails, fabulous food and all at a very reasonable price. Can highly recommend and will definitely be back when we’re next in Cheltenham. So glad we stopped to look at the menu when we were passing.

It is a very impressive, historic building.

Good beer selection Well run Nice rooms An Architectural Gem Go upstairs to look at the old court room

wonderful service excellent food fantastic atmosphere will definitely go back

The Old Courthouse is a lovely venue, we were in the Courtroom for a suprise 70th and we couldn't be happier with the way our night turned out. All the staff were super accommodating, in particular hats off to Paul who looked after us on the night and also Alice as well as anyone who I dealt with over email and the bar staff for the evening. They all ensured the suprise ran smoothly, made sure we were looked after throughout the evening and were friendly and stayed patient even though we possibly took a little too much time to say goodbye at the end of the night! Such an incredibly beautiful venue, so unique and such a perfect size for a group of 40-50. The food was delicious, the only thing I was sad about was that leftovers had to go in the bin and couldn't be taken home with guests but this wasn't their fault. Thank you so much for such a great evening!!

While on a short break in the Cotswolds we visited Cheltenham and the delightful Old Courthouse. We were looking for dog friendly places. We were greeted outside by a staff member by accident, who asked if we would like to come in and have a look. Following him in we were greeted with a wonderful looking dining room. Having placed our order I took a look around, the toilets are down a charming spiral stairs. There are a lot of books with some intriguing titles on the shelfs. We were asked if we wanted to have look around the upper floor, which still retains the old Court room. The staff, the restaurant, and the food were just great. I can't praise them highly enough, it really did add to our break.

FANTASTIC. I spent 4 days in Cheltenham on my first night. I chose the fillet steak sandwich with fries. It was magnificent!!! The salad and sandwich were seasoned, and it was delicious! I was so impressed by the service & food & price I didn't try anywhere else. The surroundings are lovely and would highly recommend the Old Courthouse.

Good food menu lovely atmosphere and very good service too.

Top draw pub with great food in the centre of Cheltenham.

We had the best hen do here , the food was amazing , we even had a function room to ourselves , pre ordered food , well looked after , I highly recommend this beautiful Resturant , staff are amazing too

Had a couple of cocktails. Good price and could taste the alcohol in them.

One of Cheltenhams finest establishments - great food, ales, ambience and staff. Handy 2 mins from the Everyman Theatre too!

Popped into the old courthouse for a drink whilst sightseeing in Cheltenham. Staff were pleasant and friendly. Sadly no time for food but will definitely try and return. The building is beautiful and there is an information sheet telling you about it's history which is a lovely touch.

Stayed in Cheltenham for 3 nights and found this restaurant the first evening. What a beautiful place. Its an old Courthouse which has been turned into a pub and restaurant that has kept so much of the original features, paintings pictures etc.. The food was excellent as were the staff, so much so we went back twice more! This will certainly be a 'go to place' the next time we are in Cheltenham.

This place is magnificent and the food is very good 👍 It is an old court and you can sit there right up to the judgment room. The toilets are in the basement instead of the cells. Feel free to move around the entire building. It’s possible and it’s magical 🤩 I recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Staff - polite, pleasant, professional Ambience - stunning Wine - great range Food - exquisite Value for money - well worth the price Our first visit but not our last.

Called in for a few drinks while visiting Cheltenham Wonderful greeting super friendly staff The pub is amazing such beautiful architecture and tastefully decorated Well worth a visit

Beautiful interesting building with little separate rooms

Really interesting building with lots of history. The staff were very welcoming and the roast especially was delicious! Very atmospheric place to go and have a meal in Cheltenham

Lovely, well-paced meal with warm service.

Wonderful fish and chips, best I have had in any pub/restaurant excellent service great experience, well done.

Was here with my partner for a meal out while we were in england, food was splendid, i had the steak burger and fries and it was absolutely lovely. Perfectly cooked like i asked and was very well enjoyed. Our server Will was also very helpful and joyful throughout our experience which made it all the more better! very helpful and happy staff. Will definitely be back

Extraordinary Pub, with a unique atmosphere, where the theme of lawyers predominates. Very good burgers and top service.

Very interesting building. Thank you to the staff who let us have a look around upstairs

The food was absolutely amazing from starter to dessert I couldn't fault the quality. The chefs deserve a star award it was that good and presented the waiting staff again fabulous and polite nothing to much trouble Thank you for an amazing lunch

First visit to this place. Amazing! Loved the decor, so beautifully done and kept the Court House essence. Staff were lovely and the pub is extremely dog friendly. Definitely going back next time we are in the area.

Came upon The Old Courthouse by chance. Lovely building, great atmosphere, great menu/food.

Went for a meal with family. Menu disappointing as no fish course apart from fish stew. Not one of the meals was good and the pork actually tasted off. Always been satisfied over the many years we have been going there but this is the 2nd time we have been very disappointed. Would be very hesitant to book there again.

We didn't eat but the service, beer and conversational atmosphere were ideal and we enjoyed sitting outside too. Most tables indoors seem to be reserved for diners every time we go but we have managed to find places at the tables near the bar so far.

Fantastic place for many occasions. Great date location, Friends and Family meet ups. Although we did not have the food it looked and smelt amazing. Great find.

Fast service on race day, beautiful building 🤩 Could have done with a few more stools in the bar area for perching on with tired feet!

A wonderful, relaxing environment full of character.well worth a visit.

Very nice dinner spot, large food portions with good service. Drinks a touch expensive and fries were average but the rest of the food really lovely and decent portion.

Had a great roast dinner with friends at The Old Courthouse. Lovely building, really good food and prompt and friendly service. Not local but would go back if I was.

Incredible venue really making use of the original building - loved it but did not try food this time.

Lovely time,place,food, and staff were great as ever

Beautiful building! We enjoyed some wine and beer here at the bar with some very nice olives. Unfortunately the two staff making the Irish coffees were hopeless!! I watched them try to make it. No sugar in the bottom (cubes served on the side) no heating of the whiskey, tepid coffee and then cream poured into a cocktail mixer, shaken to thicken and then literally plopped with a spoon into the top. By the time it arrived it was practically cold, the sugar cubes therefore couldn't dissolve into the coffee and it was the worst Irish coffee I've ever had! I appreciate perhaps it's a rare request but nevertheless it was a poor show for £24ish. The food appearing looked very nice and the toilets downstairs are worth a visit just to see the brickwork and basement area of the building, but it was absolutely freezing down there. There is a disabled toilet just by the front door.

Good location for pre-theatre meal. Close to The Everyman Theatre. Eaten here before and the food has always been good. This time all 3 of us chose the chicken, ham and leek pie with greens and buttered mash with a white wine and tarragon sauce. They outdid themselves this time. Beautiful pie with good pastry and generous filling. Went brilliantly with the cabbage and mash and the sauce was delicious. Would definitely have it again.

Great location and service. Food ok but could be better for price.

Pleasant relaxing place. Steak sandwiches were nice but a bit dry, we put some mayo on. The cocktail was almost £10, nice but soon gone.

Great for a quiet drink after being dragged round the shops.

Nice bar centrally located in Cheltenham. An iconic building, the bar contains a lot of the original architecture and character. Cask beer was very good both the bitter and the Porter. We had a meal in there during our visit, the food was very good, tasty and good value for money.

Went for dinner with my family in the private room, food was great and Kieran was a great waiter and made us all laugh. will be coming back again👍

Excellent, right in the centre of town. Decorated to reflect the history of the building. Very friendly staff

Had a delicious meal and great atmosphere here

Beautiful place, great atmosphere and staff. Unfortunately, it used to be one of the best places for food but the last year or so has seen prices increase whilst quality has decreased.

Called in on the off chance before the theatre and ended up having 3 courses. Food was well presented and delicious, as is the setting. It's not cheap but worth the money for what you get. Would definitely return when in the area again.

Great for pre theatre drinks and light meal.

Did a disco here, was welcoming and helpful

Lovely meal, celebrating my mums birthday in the private room. Paul and Kieran did a great job of hosting us. Thanks again for creating such a wonderful evening.

Great Sunday lunch, had the veg wellington!

Wonderful location and atmosphere, perfect for pre theatre dinner

Great pub with nice decor and vibe. Recommend the chunky chips

Only popped in for a drink but received a warm welcoming, lovely place to stop by

Top quality food, lovely flavours and well balanced. Great service . Only 3 stars as portion sizes were extremely small, value for money in the centre of Cheltenham is moderate is would say- it’s more like 1980s cordenbleu servings, rather than hearty pub food - And it’s basically a pub!

Food quality and service was good. Food was well designed and flavours were well balanced. Quality was good. Portion sizes were ridiculously small, making value for money relatively poor compared to other eating locations in close proximity. It comes across as a pub with a gastronomic offing, but the food was not up to many local pub standards.

Over priced and underwhelming food and lazy service don’t need to say anymore

Lovely food, staff couldn't do enough for us, they were amazing, would definitely recommend.

Great pub. Spacious and traditional design and very cozy. Only had drinks but the service was great and the atmosphere too (this was 3pm on a Saturday). Recommend.

I had my work Christmas party here; the three course festive menu was delicious! Every dish (of the three courses) was perfectly presented and tasted great, I would certainly recommend a visit for the food. (The Pork Belly with Black Garlic melts in your mouth; this may not be on the usual menu.) The service was a little delayed but did not affect my overall experience. (They were understaffed that day.) We were situated in a private room which was lined with books of Law, reminiscent of the previous history of the building. Overall, a good experience.

Our visit this evening was thoroughly enjoyable with Family The service by Paul was fantastic