‘Oh no, that is awful news!’
William Telford Senior Reporter and Business Specialist
13:38, 03 Jan 2026
The Tavern pub and restaurant in Cheltenham(Image: Phillip Norris)
The team behind Cheltenham’s well-known pub The Tavern today said they were “devastated” after having to close the venue due to “circumstances out of our control”.
New management took over the venue in December 2024 and had announced just two days ago that it would be closing for a refurbishment.
But today, managers took to social media to say that the pub had shut. In a post they said: “It is with heavy hearts that we have to close the doors on this great pub.
“Since opening a year ago, we have worked hard to get the magic back. With your help, revenue has increased by nearly 50 per cent during the course of the year, and The Tavern came alive once again.
“Sadly, due to circumstances out of our control, we are unable to carry on.”
They said there was a possibility that The Tavern could reopen, but said for now it is shut and thanked punters.
The post said: “We continue to work on how we might come back, but for now, the journey is at an end.
“We want to give a huge thank you to all of our customers, many of whom have become friends. You are all what makes The Tavern such a special place.
“It’s been a blast, and we are devastated.”
A sign appears in the window of The Tavern pub and restaurant, in Cheltenham, announcing its closure(Image: Phillip Norris)
The pub and restaurant, in Royal Well Place, is something of an institution having been reviewed in the past by The Guardian and GloucesterLive.
On Tripadvisor, where it received a 3.9 “good” rating, it said the eaterie used “the best local produce to create delicious, seasonal taverna-style food inspired by flavours from Europe and beyond”.
It said its bar team were “to be reckoned with” and it had a lively atmosphere.
It said: “For years, The Tavern has been a local favourite as the place to eat, drink, and celebrate.
“All of our food is homemade from scratch with a seasonally changing menu. Fresh, not frozen is the order of the day, and we put quality into everything that we do.”
The Tavern’s website said: “The Tavern is everything a classic pub should be, warm, welcoming, a bit cheeky, and always up for a good time.
“Whether it’s a laid-back pint, some seriously good food, or a catch-up with your mates, we’ve got you sorted.”
Visit Cheltenham called The Tavern “a smart community pub with a great range of beers and fresh British seasonal food”.
It said it was “where drinkers and eaters alike are looked after with the same friendly and professional service.
“Whether it’s live music, steak nights or simply a place to catch up when you clock off, they have a cosy corner ready for you.
“The Tavern is the perfect place to meet, eat, drink, and make great memories.”
Customers reacted to the news with sadness. On social media Tan Bax wrote: “This is so sad to read and if I knew it was the end I would have been there last night. You guys have brought the magic back, don’t give up.”
Jen Kirkwood posted: “I’m so very sorry to hear this. You are definitely one of the best pubs in Cheltenham and the food was amazing. Crossing our fingers we will see you again.”
Adrienne Davis said: “Oh no! That is awful news, so sad for you.”
And Matthew Jago simply said: “Oh, that is gutting.”