SoGlos’s Gloucestershire venue hire guide provides a handpicked selection of some of the best venues in the county, perfect for hosting private parties, awards ceremonies, conferences, business meetings, exhibitions and launch events – as well as exclusive use venues.
From world class sporting venues to luxurious Cotswold manor houses and unique locations, SoGlos’s Gloucestershire venue hire guide provides plenty of inspiration for your next event.
Cheltenham venues for hire
Venue hire at Cheltenham Racecourse
About the venue
Just off the M5, on the northern outskirts of the town, Cheltenham Racecourse is easily accessible, not to mention versatile enough to host events as diverse as the Darts Masters; live music acts like Jools Holland and UB40; and its world-famous race days.
Function rooms
Promising to wow guests with its facilities both inside and out, Cheltenham Racecourse has an enviable reputation as one of the UK’s premier event venues, with various spaces and suites for hire, as well as 360 acres of outdoor space, making it an ideal choice year-round.
With 10 indoor options ranging from private boxes with balconies to the impressive Centaur concert venue, the racecourse can accommodate parties big and small, catering for anywhere from two to 3,000 delegates.
Catering
The experienced team at Cheltenham Racecourse includes award-winning chefs with the ability to produce everything from canapes to multi-course meals for thousands of visitors — using local and seasonal produce wherever possible.
Parking
Not only does the racecourse have ample free parking, the closest train station is also located within 10 minutes of the venue. The racecourse even boasts its own helipad — how many conference venues do you know that can say that?
SoGlos loves
To help decide whether Cheltenham Racecourse is right for your event, the venue offers interactive 3D tours, so delegates can really get a feel for the space they have to work with, no matter where they’re based.
To book
Call Cheltenham Racecourse on (01242) 539538 or visit thejockeyclub.co.uk/venues.
Venue hire at the Malmaison
About the venue
Operating for over 100 years, the Malmaison is a unique and very chic hotel located in the heart of Cheltenham, providing visitors with a combination of beautiful and unconventional celebration spaces for weddings, events and meetings; 61 stylish bedrooms and suites; and an excellent bar, restaurant and spa.
The Malmaison's expert team promises to ensure that your meeting or event is as slick as it is stylish, with creative catering, the latest technology and excellent service.
Function rooms
Designed to be as adaptable as they are beautiful, with a range of recommended layout options to satisfy all suits, the Malmaison's four Work + Play meeting and event spaces have the capacity to inspire — as well as the flexibility to cater for a wide variety of conferences.
Suitable for up to 18 delegates, Mal One is a chic and contemporary lower ground floor room with a private entrance, its own wall of wine and inter-connecting break-out space. It's hooked up with technology, including complimentary Wi-Fi and easy connections to flat screens.
Slightly wider and shorter than Mal One, the second
meeting room, Mal Two, is a perfectly secluded space away from
prying eyes, with its own flat screen. This room is suitable for up to 6 delegates in a boardroom set up, or for dining.
The Drawing Room is on the ground level and has all the
splendour of the villa with floor to ceiling windows
that flood the space with light. This area can cater for up to 30 delegates.
And finally there's The Library, which serves up to 80 people at one time. These spaces offer the quickest and most intuitive way to collaborate and share ideas, switching effortlessly between laptops and inputs, ensuring the conversation flows quickly and nothing stands in the way of progress.
Catering
No matter the occasion, the Malmaison promises to keep visitors batteries charged morning, noon and night with a range of delicious dishes from its Work + Play nibbles to warming plates.
If you want to keep it simple, the Malmaison recommends going for its Posh
Sarnies & Sides buffet, from its ever-popular bar menu; or if you prefer something a bit more comforting, the Hot Stuff
buffet includes a selection of bowl food from its a la carte.
Parking
Parking is available at £10 per night either in the on-site car park or via digital permit parking on Parabola Road. Please inform the team at check-in to register your vehicle in either parking facility.
Please note, car parking is subject to availability and cannot be reserved in advance.
Accommodation
As part of its 24-hour meeting package, the Malmaison offers an overnight stay in your own boutique bedroom, inclusive of a continental breakfast in the morning.
SoGlos loves
The Malmaison allows visitors to mix and merge its flexible rooms to give you as much capacity as you need for your occasion.
To book
Visit malmaison.com/Cheltenham or call (01242) 370655.
Venue hire at Hotel du Vin
About the venue
Located in chic Montpellier, Hotel du Vin Cheltenham offers 49 bedrooms and suites, all decorated in its inimitable laid-back French style; three contemporary meeting rooms; and flexible packages; along with an elegant bar, all providing the perfect location to unwind and socialise in stylish surroundings.
Whether you're visiting for a midweek or weekend break, a business meeting or a special occasion, Hotel du Vin is committed to providing an unforgettable experience that elevates your stay in Cheltenham.
Function rooms
Merging contemporary design with historic character, Hotel du Vin Cheltenham lends itself as an ideal backdrop for your business needs — from its bespoke seasonal menus and personalised service, to the convenience of complimentary wifi throughout the hotel.
The largest of the hotel's rooms, the Sinners Enclosure, is filled with natural daylight and traditional features such as a high ceiling and traditional fireplace. This charismatic room works brilliantly for meetings, private events and dinners. In a theatre layout, the room can seat up to 40 delegates; 22 as a boardroom; and up to 30 for dinner.
Alternatively, the Almaviva offers an airy space suitable for up to 16 people. This room floods with natural daylight and features exposed brickwork, glazed doors and a grand view of the hotel's bespoke wine glass chandelier and busy bistro that is sure to leave a memorable impression on your clients and guests.
The Chef's Table seats up to a maximum of 20 people, providing a striking and inspiring backdrop for your meeting or event with its great mural
depicting Hotel du Vin's busy trademark bistro — and an optional feature window which
looks directly into the busy kitchen. This unique room is ideal
for brainstorming sessions, dinners or as an escape from the norm.
Full of character and with decor that is full of rich, warm, non-distracting colours and textures, all three exclusive spaces are supported with brilliant audio-visual equipment.
Catering
From baguettes, salads and pommes frites to carefully curated canapés and the finest French classics, Hotel du Vin promises a delicious array of buffet menus, inspired by fresh and seasonal ingredients, to enhance your meetings and events.
Special dietary requirements will be taken care of wherever possible, with vegetarian, gluten free and vegan alternatives available.
Parking
On-site parking is available on a first come, first served basis for £10 per night.
Accommodation
As part of its 24-hour meeting package, Hotel du Vin offers an overnight stay in your own French-inspired bedroom, inclusive of a Great Company lunch, three-course dinner and a full breakfast.
SoGlos loves
The hotel offers experienced event organisers to help you prepare and ensure everything runs smoothly on the day. That way you, your colleagues and your guests will get the very most from your time — whether it's a board meeting, product launch, team-building, networking event, training or interviews.
To book
Visit hotelduvin.com/Cheltenham or call (01242) 370584.
Cotswolds venues for hire
Venue hire at The Lygon Arms
About the venue
A stunningly characterful 14th-century coaching inn, The Lygon Arms sits stoically in the heart of the Cotswolds — with the signature honey-hued stones proudly showcased.
Guests aren't just met with a warm welcome, a roaring fireplace and a freshly poured drink from the bar — though of course, that's included — but three elegant and historical function rooms, presenting a plethora of opportunities for events and meetings.
Also on offer are 86 unique guestrooms and suites; a gorgeous spa; a fully air-conditioned gym complete with 14-metre swimming pool, hot tub, steam room and sauna; a dedicated Champagne bar; a three-acre garden space; and James Martin's Grill restaurant — featuring menus designed and perfected by the TV chef himself.
Function rooms
Filled with history, the Cromwell Room is named after Oliver Cromwell to commemorate the night he stayed at the Lygon in 1651, the night before the Battle of Worcester.
The Cromwell Room offers seating style options from boardroom, theatre, long dining and rounds, as well as standing room for 15 people.
Similar to the Cromwell Room, the Drawing Room can offer a variety of seating styles as well as cabaret style and standing room for up to 25 people — plus, its ample natural daylight provides a gorgeous outlook to the Lygon's courtyard.
The third and final function room on offer, the Edinburgh Room features large windows for natural light as well as access to its own balcony for added theatrics. It promises to be ideal for any purpose, from large theatre-style presentations to private dining and banqueting, with standing room for up to 50 people.
Catering
Delegate rates for day meetings, away days and residential meetings booked at The Lygon Arms include food and beverages — quotes are available upon enquiry.
Parking
Accessible from major cities like London, Birmingham and Bristol, The Lygon Arms offers ample free parking, electric charging points and even its own helipad.
SoGlos loves
Exclusive use of The Lygon Arms in its entirety is available on enquiry to ensure a showstopping event to impress guests.
From its cosy lounges and nooks to its magnificent restaurant and gardens, take over the hotel's expansive space fit for any event ranging from corporate events, conferences and product launches — always with impeccable attention to detail.
Better still, The Lygon Arms can offer bespoke creative experiences and activities to add to your booking.
A selection of country pursuits such as treasure hunting, walking tours, cycling, tree planting, shooting and horse riding, can all be organised by its experienced team.
Or really up the ante and book a prestigious experience such as taking a tour of the Morgan Motorcar Factory, followed by hiring one of its sports cars for the day; sipping the day away at a local wine, whisky, gin or beer tasting tour; or sitting back and enjoying a guest experience from affiliated chef, James Martin.
To book
Call (01386) 852255 or enquire at lygonarmshotel.co.uk/meetings-parties-events.
Venue hire at Wild Thyme and Honey
About the venue
Wild Thyme and Honey is tucked away in the quintessential Cotswolds village of Ampney Crucis, just outside of Cirencester, where a 16th-century pub has been transformed with 24 luxury bedrooms as well as exclusive events spaces.
Pretty Ampney Crucis is the largest of the three Ampneys — local villages all named after the babbling trout-filled brook which the inn overlooks.
Wild Thyme and Honey sits snugly with its popular pub, The Crown at Ampney Brook. Both of which have been lovingly restored to create a beautiful and long-lasting space for the local community.
The team ethos is all about sharing the best of Cotswolds living with guests.
Spaces have been thoughtfully designed to let the idyllic countryside in, so there is a fantastic feeling of being immersed in nature.
Exposed Cotswold stone and natural timber cladding sits alongside a calming palette of soft greys, rich creams and inviting textiles.
This philosophy shines through with menus, too, which roll with the seasons and the surrounding centuries-old Cotswolds farms.
Function rooms
Wild Thyme and Honey is all about enjoying a taste of the good life and celebrating moments, whether big or small.
In addition to the relaxed pub and dining space, there's also a selection of stylish and welcoming private dining spaces, which are perfect if you're planning something a little more special, from shoot lunches and milestone celebrations to corporate events and family gatherings.
Choose from one of its two stunning private dining rooms, which are located upstairs, the secret garden room or one of three alfresco domes situated along the Ampney Brook.
There's also the Wild Thyme and Honey Suite which is ideal for larger conferences and wedding parties.
Catering
Food and drink is Wild Thyme and Honey's pride and joy. Seasonal, farm-to-table menus are inspired by the idyllic Cotswolds surroundings, focusing on top quality meats, fish and vegetables, sourced as locally as possible.
At the centre of the action is the open copper kitchen, where chefs cook up hearty dishes such as ribeye's on a Robata Grill, as well as jazzed-up classics like prawn cocktail and crème brulée.
Soak up the atmosphere in the bar and watch cocktail shakers mix classic and bespoke recipes, or take advantage of the enomatic machine dispenser and sample a selection of fine wines by the glass.
There's something for everyone, whether it's a casual weekday lunch in the pub, dinner at the chef’s table or a party in one of the private dining rooms or alfresco domes.
Parking
Wild Thyme and Honey has plenty of free parking. The closest train station in Kemble is located within just 15 minutes of the venue.
SoGlos loves
This is a spot for the seriously stylish. Every attention to detail has been carefully considered and it exudes beauty and warmth with a wonderful welcome for all guests. This is a venue where the team knows what it's doing and does it exceptionally well. You're in safe hands with an event here.
To book
Call (01285) 851 806 or visit crownampneybrook.co.uk/private-dining-and-events/
Venue hire at The Kings Head Hotel
About the venue
Set in the heart of Cirencester, the picturesque capital of the Cotswolds, the historic Kings Head Hotel offers a stunning choice of spaces in which to stay, relax, dine and entertain guests.
Listed as a building of special architectural and historical interest, the now five-star hotel dates back to the 14th century when it served the town as a countryside coaching inn. With new management taking over in 2023, the venue has been lovingly refurbished with new interiors adding touches of glamour while staying true to its Cotswold roots.
Surrounded by Cirencester's iconic honey hued streets and historic attractions, The Kings Head Hotel boasts a prime location that makes it a fantastic choice for hosting private events of all sizes.
Function rooms
Boasting 65 individually styled bedrooms, 12 apartments, a vaulted spa and various dining options, The Kings Head Hotel has an array of private spaces for hosting weddings, meetings, conferences and events — whether it's a small gathering or grand affair, for two guests or 150.
The Wine Cellar, with its beautiful arched ceiling, exposed brick work and glass walled wine display, is a perfect space for private dining; The Panel Room, boasting a Cotswold feel through its sophisticated decor, can be set up in banquet, theatre or boardroom styles; while The Watermoor is an ideal space for board meetings, presentations or training sessions.
For larger events, The Assembly Room boasts impressive original architectural features like high ceilings and a wooden floor along with eye-catching chandeliers, with the ability to host between 40 and 150 people across a range of setups; and The Vaulted Cellar, with its rustic arched walls and exposed brick work, has a private bar and can host up to 150 people cocktail style.
Other areas include the hotel's Cotswold stone event terrace and reception area, which also has a private bar; the wood-panelled Library Room, which is ideal for boardroom or intimate business meetings; and the Corn Hall — the largest space available with capacity to host up to 600 people.
Catering
With menus inspired by local culinary heritage and much of its produce coming from within a 30-mile radius of Cirencester, The Kings Head offers a selection of food and beverage packages to suit every occasion, from indulgent three-course dining to buffets and more casual options.
Guests can enjoy a range of reception nibbles such as canapés including mushroom arancini with truffle mayo and parmesan or teriyaki chicken with wasabi mayo and pickled cucumber, with charcuterie cups and oysters also available.
The hotel's three-course dining menus offer a choice of dishes for each course, with the classic menu featuring mains like French trim chicken with shallot pomme purée, Swiss chard and jus; the feature menu steps it up with like slow roasted pork belly with potato anna, baby carrot, apple purée and jus; while the indulgent menu goes further with pan seared cod with smoked pea purée, chargrilled Romanesco cauliflower and pea and mint croquette.
Organisers can also opt for the casual menu, featuring sharing boards and desserts along with a choice of roast beef joints and pork rack or mushroom beetroot wellington for the main course, all served with garlic and herb roasted potatoes, seasonal vegetables and homemade gravy.
Other options include packages like the fork buffet, featuring dishes like mushroom alfredo gnocchi or braised blade of beef bourguignon with a garnish; a finger buffet with options including loaded nachos or mini fish and chips; or 'evening' food like pizza, Mediterranean mezze and street food.
Drinks packages include access to a range of drinks at the bar for one hour; mini gin or rum bars; and beer and prosecco bundles — or go all out with an impressive Champagne tower.
Parking
Though there is limited parking available at the hotel itself, The Kings Head's central location means it's close to several Cirencester town centre car parks, including Waterloo and The Forum.
SoGlos loves
With so many options to choose from for meetings and events big or small, organisers can rely on the help of The Kings Head's experienced events team, which works closely with planners to ensure every detail is perfect, helping to give every event a personalised feel.
To book
Visit kingshead-hotel.co.uk/gather-meet.
Venue hire at Rendcomb College
About the venue
An historic manor house with state-of-the-art facilities and a 230-acre Cotswold parkland estate, Rendcomb College — one of Gloucestershire's leading independent schools — offers a range of options for venue hire on and off campus.
With its impressive 350-seat auditorium and spacious meeting and reception areas, Rendcomb is equipped to host all manner of events from live performances and exhibitions to business meetings and conferences, with quaint Cotswold holiday cottages available for accommodation, too.
Function rooms
The college's purpose-built Griffin Theatre has a choice of spaces for hire, each equipped with industry-standard facilities. Its 350-seat auditorium is suitable for hosting live performances, exhibitions, conferences and seminars, offering professional lighting and sound equipment as well as an optional orchestra pit and moveable seating.
It also has a dance studio with a sprung floor, ballet barres and mirrors; a hospitality area with views of the stunning countryside; a box office and reception; backstage dressing rooms and a green room area; multiple meeting spaces and break-out rooms; and a reception area with bar and refreshment facilities, with WIFI and air conditioning throughout.
Catering
Rendcomb College’s team of highly trained chefs can offer an array of catering options, whatever your needs may be.
Working with locally sourced ingredients, its chefs can create a menu suited for your event, from three-course plated meals to light fork buffets.
There is also a bar in the Griffin Theatre set
up for serving a wide selection of drinks and snacks. Bar staff can be provided
for your event, too, with an alcohol license running between 11am and 11pm.
SoGlos Loves
Bringing convenience to the area for locals and visitors alike, the college also recently opened up its own village shop and post office, Rendcomb Stores.
Located in the village itself, the shop sells delicious, freshly baked cakes, pastries and bread alongside locally sourced groceries, fine wines, local beers and more, as well as serving up Cirencester-roasted Rave coffee to take away.
The college is also in the process of building an all-new cafe behind the stores and post office, too.
Accommodation
Away from the college campus, Rendcomb owns and operates two Cotswold holiday cottages in the village through AirBnB. Garden House, which sleeps seven, and School View, which sleeps four, both offer peaceful stays in beautiful countryside surroundings, with self-catering facilities and dining spaces as well as their own private gardens.
Parking
There is free car parking on-site at the college for the Griffin Theatre, with private and on-street parking available for guests staying at the holiday cottages, complete with electric vehicle charging points.
To book
For details on how to book the Griffin Theatre, visit rendcombcollege.org.uk/griffin-theatre.
For more on its two cottages, visit airbnb.co.uk/gardenhouse and airbnb.co.uk/schoolview.
Stroud venues for hire
Venue hire at The Sub Rooms
About the venue
With big names like The Waterboys, Squeeze, KT Tunstall and Macy Gray having taken centre stage at The Sub Rooms, it really is both culturally — and located physically — at the heart of Stroud. Originally built in 1833 by public subscription, The Sub Rooms is now run as an independent, charitable organisation with the local community still central to its ethos.
As well as outstanding performers, The Sub Rooms also hosts a variety of exhibitions and events, including private functions in its beautiful Grade-II listed building.
Function rooms
The Sub Rooms has a great selection of spaces to hire for private events, from parties, concerts and meetings to weddings. As well as being able to offer bespoke catering for functions, The Sub Rooms has an extensive range of technical facilities to support individual events. Accommodating from two up to 500 people, the spaces also work well as meeting and training rooms, or alternatively, for fairs, rehearsals, or auctions.
Spaces available include the Studio Room which is great for smaller meetings or classes suited to a maximum of 12 people; the stunning Art Deco bar which works well for private parties, catering for up to 100 people; the George Room, well-suited to art exhibitions, larger meetings, workshops and smaller performances for 60 people; the Regency-style Ballroom, perfect for film screenings, conferences, receptions, markets and more, as well as the Central Bar and Kitchen, a cosy space for parties or small music events. Additionally, the pillared Forecourt outside the front of the building is available to hire for stalls, promotional events or rallies.
Catering
The Sub Rooms can offer guests a variety of catering options, tailored to their specific needs and events. From simple tea, coffee and cake through to cold buffets — or even three-course dinners and lunches.
All food is prepared fresh on-site by The Sub Rooms' in-house chef, who can create bespoke menus as well as advise on and supply wines from local suppliers. Central Bar and Kitchen, the Sub’s internal cafe, is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 4pm, offering a range of cakes, hot drinks, local beers and food options, including sandwiches on homemade bread and Meze sharing platters — and weekly Tuesday Paella nights!
Parking
There is plenty of parking within a short walking distance to The Sub Rooms, as well as Stroud train station being less than half a mile away from the venue.
SoGlos loves
The Sub Rooms offers excellent technical facilities, which includes front of house PA systems, microphones, monitors and lighting.
To book
Call The Sub Rooms on (01453) 796880 or visit thesubrooms.co.uk more information.
Venue hire at The Stroud hotel
About the venue
This newly revived historic Grade II listed hotel, bar and restaurant has been designed with a contemporary and rustic charm. With 24 bedrooms, there's plenty of rooms for guests to stay.
For food options you can choose between the Bucknall Bar and restaurant or for a more intimate setting there's a snug and lounge available.
Function rooms
The Stroud hotel's versatile event space is the perfect canvas for your vision.
Elevate your event experience with the exclusive use of the hotel bar, where guests can toast to the occasion in style.
Need to make a presentation or showcase memories? The hotel has got you covered with a convenient projector screen available for your use.
Catering
Choose from a selection of options, featuring set menus for seated dining, delectable canapés or an indulgent buffet spread, or the option for just drinks.
The hotel's chef’s table is ideal for special occasions with its own menu created for you and your guests to share a feast.
For dining, the hotel can seat up to 60 guests and for canapés, drinks and dancing you can invite 110 guests.
The set menu costs £29.95 for two courses and £35.95 for three courses.
If you'd prefer a buffet menu, for a minimum of 12 people, it costs £17 per person.
Parking
The hotel has parking for a couple of cars but is right next to a large car park as well as opposite Stroud train station, making it incredibly easy to access.
SoGlos loves
Whether you're gathering for a cosy dinner for up to 60 guests or planning a lively affair with canapés, drinks and dancing for up to 110 guests, The Stroud offers the perfect backdrop for every occasion.
To book
Visit thestroudhotel.com/book.
