It's been an exciting few months in Cheltenham with plenty of new openings to enjoy.
In partnership with Cheltenham BID, SoGlos rounds up some of the fresh faced stores, restaurants and coffee shops well worth a visit in 2023.
Beefy Boys
Popular Hereford burger brand, Beefy Boys, has taken over the former Bill's restaurant on Regent Street and is due to open in February 2023, bringing with it everything from cult classics to outstanding specialty burgers.
There are chicken-based and vegetarian options set to be on the menu, too, as well as plans to introduce a Cheltenham exclusive burger inspired by local ingredients. We can't wait!
Roxy Lanes
Gloucestershire's first Roxy Lanes venue is set to open in Cheltenham High Street in 2023, with the date yet to be revealed.
Located in the building which houses New Look, it's expected to follow the format of the Bristol venue with ten pin and duck pin bowling; batting cages; karaoke rooms; ice-free curling; American pool; shuffleboard; basketball; and beer pong.
Mint Velvet
With relaxed glamour at its core, The Promenade in Cheltenham is the perfect spot for this upmarket clothing brand.
Specialising in womenswear with easy shapes, beautiful prints and flattering fits, its elegant offering is a welcome addition to the town.
Jigsaw
The return of Jigsaw to Cheltenham after a brief closure and premises move has been met with great delight.
A mecca for high quality, stylish womenswear, the new store on The Promenade not only offers the latest fashions but also runs a rental service for as little as a fiver a day. A bonus for your bank balance as well as the planet!
Hatchards
Book lovers rejoiced at the arrival of Hatchards in October 2022 to coincide with the town's world class literature featival.
The first store outside of London is a peaceful treasure trove of delight, packed with beautifully presented hardbacks and paperbacks alongside wrapping paper and notebooks. This prestige opening for Cheltenham also includes an events space.
The Nook on Five
Long-awaited, The Nook on Five, has given Cheltenham its first rooftop restaurant and it's independently owned too.
Run by a passionate family in their first foray into running a restaurant, it's a stylish spot with outstanding views over Imperial Gardens.
With weddings, business and racing breakfasts on the cards for 2023, this is a must visit for the new year.
Restaurant Journey
Offering a unique tasting experience within a former nightclub, Restaurant Journey on Bath Road has continued to wow diners since its opening in October 2022.
The brainchild of extensively travelled, Jeff Lewis, it brings an adventurous variety of flavours to Cheltenham with a good dose of fun and the theatrical. The 12-course tasting experience menu will set you back £89.
The Artisan Baker
This bakery and coffee shop in The Quadrangle is the epitome of pared back chic. Offering freshly baked bread and pastries, it also serves wine, charcuterie and cheese plates as well as vegan pastries.
Bread can be baked to order and The Artisan Baker coffee shop offers a relaxed spot to watch the world go by.
FoodLoose
Aiming to become part of Cheltenham's solution to the climate crisis, FoodLoose opened in Grosvenor Terrace in December 2022 and has been growing in popularity ever since.
FoodLoose, is packed with ethical, eco-friendly products that are kind to the planet. Shoppers can fill up their own containers with everything from laundry liquids and conditioner to bodywash and shampoo. If you haven't popped in yet, it's worth a good look.
Black Gold Coffee
Taking over a prime spot in Cheltenham High Street opposite The Brewery Quarter, this independent coffee shop, which opened in October 2022, prides itself on its delicious cakes and vegan friendly and gluten free options served up with its coffee.
Its fans describe it as an indulgent hideaway, perfect for a pick-me-up while shopping.
Kokoro
With an emphasis on fresh and healthy Korean-Japanese food, Kokoro added Cheltenham High Street to its extensive expansion across the UK in November 2022.
Shoppers love the grab and go sushi, salads and sashimi as well as the hot dishes designed to 'warm the heart'. With good food, that doesn't break the bank, it's proving a real winner.
Little Dobbies
Coming soon, Little Dobbies is taking over the former GAP store on The Promenade and will bring with it greenery, gifts, accessories and great coffee.
Doors are expected to open by April 2022, with plant lovers poised for plenty of leafy new purchases.