3 Best Restaurants in Cheltenham, Bath and the Cotswolds

Lee Gallimore was head chef at some of the Cotswolds' most prestigious restaurants before opening his own property in Cheltenham. Here, the chef specializes in seafood sourced directly from fishermen in Devon and South Wales, and the shellfish platter for two to share is a feast, but there's plenty more on the menu. On Sundays, the traditional roast lunch offerings are appealing, with the topside of Hereford beef and the free-range pork loin always looking particularly mouthwatering.

Set in an opulent Regency building with a statement bar, the Ivy serves first-class food with British and European specialties. In its heyday, the Rotunda building was a bathing pool with spa water on tap, and its domed roof and seating area have been exquisitely restored to house the smart restaurant. Racehorse murals line the walls in a nod to Cheltenham's equestrian heritage. Choose from dishes such as apple and Stilton salad, aromatic duck curry, or crab linguine. The Ivy also serves a classic afternoon tea. Reservations are advised, especially when there are race meetings and festivals.

Since 1838, local dignitaries and visiting celebrities have come for leisurely lunches, afternoon tea, and delicious dinners at Victoria’s at The Queens Hotel. The menus showcase local produce and contemporary British cooking with a stylist twist, and the two-course lunch menu is particularly good value. Burgundy walls, padded chairs, and tall windows enhance the space.