Gloucestershire plays host to a sparkling array of Christmas party venues, so whether you are looking for the perfect setting for your office party, friends’ festive celebrations or somewhere for the whole family to get together, you’re sure to find it in the SoGlos 2012 Christmas party guide.
From Champagne toasts and cracker pulling to mince pies and dancefloor moves, plan your perfect Christmas party, with the following hand-picked Gloucestershire venues all coming highly recommended for hosting the finest festive merriment in the county.
This year’s Gloucestershire Christmas party guide is proudly sponsored by The Daffodil in Cheltenham, where fun dining meets festive dining. Find out more below or visit thedaffodil.com directly.
Venue: The Daffodil
On the menu: Head chef Tom Rains has specially created a sumptuous sounding four-course Christmas party menu for diners visiting the award-winning art deco restaurant this season, which includes starter options of roast parsnip and rosemary soup and fresh Cornish crab; venison cooked over the fire and traditional free range roast turkey with all the trimmings for main; and sweets including Christmas pud with rum and raisin ice cream, and dark chocolate tart. Plus, The Daffodil will also be offering a festive high tea of turkey and stuffing sandwiches, cranberry scones and festive fancies, topped off with a glass of Prosecco and choice of loose leaf teas for those looking for a lighter way to celebrate Christmas. Its popular jazz suppers and lunches, as well as the budget-friendly Dailies menu will also continue to be available throughout December.
SoGlos loves: A bespoke Christmas party service will be available throughout the festive period, with groups of up to 50 guests having the chance to enjoy cocktails and canapés in the stunning Mezzanine Circle bar, and the entire venue available for exclusive hire to groups of up to 140 people.
Dates: The Christmas party menu is available throughout December, excluding Sundays and Boxing Day, while the festive high tea will be available between 3pm and 5pm Monday to Saturday throughout December, excluding Boxing Day. Exclusive hire of the Mezzanine Circle Bar or entire venue for parties can be arranged, subject to availability.
How much: The Christmas party menu costs £34.50 for four courses, while the cost of the festive high tea is to be confirmed.
On Christmas day: The Daffodil will be open once again this Christmas Day from 12pm to 3pm, with the menu and prices to be confirmed.
For more info: See Christmas at The Daffodil.
To book: Call The Daffodil on (01242) 700055, email eat@thedaffodil.com or visit thedaffodil.com for full information and menus.
Venue: Hotel du Vin Cheltenham Bistro
On the menu: There is an early bird and Christmas anticipation menu to choose from at Hotel du Vin Cheltenham, and each include a carefully-selected choice of festive courses. Some of the SoGlos favourites from the early bird menu include Jerusalem artichoke and chestnut soup to start; for main, the char-grilled flat iron steak ‘bordelaise’; and for dessert there’s the classic Christmas pudding with brandy sauce. On the Christmas anticipation menu our selections are the roast salmon and baby leek terrine and herb crème fraîche to start; roast free range turkey with traditional trimmings for a classic main course; followed by warm pear, ginger and almond tart with clotted cream.
SoGlos loves: If you’re looking for a bottle of something sensational to accompany your Christmas feast, the Bistro’s brimming wine cellar is hard to beat, with expert advice on hand from the resident sommelier.
Dates: The early bird menu is available at set times from Monday 19 November to Monday 3 December 2012, and the Christmas anticipation menu, meanwhile, is available from Tuesday 4 to Monday 24 December 2012.
How much: The early bird menu costs £24.50 for lunch and £28.50 for dinner, while the Christmas anticipation menu costs £32.50 for lunch and £37.50 for dinner per person.
On Christmas day: Hotel du Vin Cheltenham will once again be tempting diners with its Christmas Day menu, featuring mouthwatering classic dishes, costing £89 per person.
For more info: See Christmas at Hotel du Vin Cheltenham Bistro.
To book: Call Hotel du Vin Cheltenham Bistro on (01242) 588450, email info.cheltenham@hotelduvin.com or visit hotelduvin.co.uk/hotels/cheltenham for full information and menus.
Venue: The Montpellier Chapter Restaurant
On the menu: The Christmas menu is full of seasonal favourites with an interesting twist at The Montpellier Chapter. Starter choices include smoked haddock, leek and spring onion paté, with crisp toast and herb dressing; for main course there’s roast turkey with roast potatoes, root vegetables, bread sauce, cranberry and thyme stuffing; while desserts include baked lemon and blueberry cheesecake. There’s also the popular Sunday lunches to look out for, promising all your traditional Sunday cuts along with some festive favourites.
SoGlos loves: There are three stylish private dining rooms to choose from at The Montpellier Chapter, suitable for 8 to 16 guests. Hire of the private dining rooms is complimentary when guests dine from one of two dedicated festive menus – starting from £24.50 per person – perfect for adding an air of intimacy to your festive get togethers.
Dates: The Christmas menu is available throughout December.
How much: The Christmas menu costs £13.50 for two courses or £16.50 for three courses, served for lunch from Monday to Saturday and for dinner Sunday to Friday. Festive Sunday lunches cost £15 for two courses or £17.95 for three courses, served between 12pm and 2.30pm.
On Christmas day: A lavish four-course lunch and open fires will all be on offer on Tuesday 25 December 2012. The special celebration menu costs £79 per person or £40 for children under 12, while children under three can dine free of charge.
For more info: See Christmas at The Montpellier Chapter.
To book: Call The Montpellier Chapter on (01242) 266708, email montpellier@chapterhotels.com or visit themontpellierchapterhotel.com for full information and a Christmas brochure.
Venue: Mercure Cheltenham Queen's Hotel
On the menu: The Queen’s signature events are the glitzy Black, White & Diamonds Parties this Christmas, where the three-course menu includes options such as grilled goat’s cheese on a garlic and rosemary infused brioche, rocket salad and balsamic dressing for starter; good old fashioned roasted turkey with sage and onion stuffing, pigs in blankets and pan gravy for the main course; followed by festive desserts including Christmas pudding with brandy and custard. In addition, The Queen’s will also be hosting office party lunches, four-course candlelit suppers, festive afternoon teas and carvery Sunday lunches.
SoGlos loves: When it’s time to kick off those heels or loosen the black tie, extend the Christmas spirit by staying the night in the luxurious surrounds of the hotel, costing from just £59 per room. Plus, if you book a party for 25 or more people you can stay for free.
Dates: The Black, White and Diamonds Parties are being held on selected dates between Friday 30 November and Saturday 22 December 2012.
How much: The Black, White and Diamonds Parties cost between £29.95 and £33.95 per person.
On Christmas day: A scrumptious five-course lunch will be served at The Queen’s costing £54.95 per adult, £26.95 per child aged 7 to 14, £12.95 per child aged 2 to 6, while children under 2 are free of charge.
For more info: See Christmas at Mercure Cheltenham Queen's Hotel.
To book: Call Mercure Cheltenham Queen’s Hotel on (01242) 514754, email H6632-sb@accor.com or visit mercure.com/festive directly.
Venue: Pittville Pump Room
On the menu: Six nights of extravagant Christmas parties are planned by events company Hype Agency at Pittville Pump Room, where guests can celebrate the festive season with a sparkling wine reception, followed by a delicious festive menu, and dancing in the magical surrounds of a decadent winter palace.
SoGlos loves: The Grade I listed splendour of Pittville Pump Room takes some beating, but for added wow factor, party planners can also add a casino, cocktail bar, fun photobooth or even a close hand magician to their Christmas event. Plus, exclusive hire is also available for a private bash of the most spectacular proportions.
Dates: Exclusive nights are available between Tuesday 11, Wednesday 12 and Friday 14 December 2012, with shared nights available on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 December 2012.
How much: Prices cost from £45 per person + VAT.
For more info: See Christmas at Pittville Pump Room.
To book: Call Hype Agency on (0117) 971 0320, email info@hypeagency.co.uk or visit hypeagency.co.uk directly.
Venue: The Restaurant at Cowley Manor
On the menu: Promising a grand affair in the stunning oak-panelled restaurant surrounded by picturesque lakes and gardens, the Christmas party menu offers diners no less than four choices per course. Starters include guinea fowl and hand-dived scallops; there’s free range Caldecott turkey with all the trimmings and confit organic salmon for main; tempting desserts such as Cowley Manor Christmas pudding and glazed passion fruit cream; and finishing with coffee and mince pie crumbles.
SoGlos loves: The Restaurant at Cowley Manor prides itself on using local, organic, seasonal produce wherever possible in simple, elegant and beautifully-cooked dishes, so diners can look forward to a festive feast for the eyes and bellies this Christmas.
Dates: To be confirmed
How much: The party menu costs £25 for lunch and £30 for dinner, both available to pre-order for groups of six or more.
On Christmas day: An extravagant five-course menu will be available on Christmas day – featuring mouth-watering options such as poached lobster and scallops, roast goose and caramelised apple tart – costing £75 per person.
For more info: See Christmas at Cowley Manor.
To book: Call The Restaurant at Cowley Manor on (01242) 870900, email stay@cowleymanor.com or visit cowleymanor.com for full information and menus.
Venue: The Parrot Bar and Grill
On the menu: Cheltenham’s dedicated steakhouse will be hoping to draw in parties of all sizes this Christmas, from couples looking for a romantic dinner for two right up to office parties of more than 30 diners. Not only is there a delicious Christmas dinner menu available, but also a bumper Christmas buffet for larger parties. The four-course Christmas dinner starter selections include tian of crab and avocado, and carpaccio of marinated fillet steak; mains such as roasted local turkey with all the trimmings and wild sea bass; and sweet options such as a trio of chocolate and Christmas pudding with brandy sauce. While the buffet offers an array of tempting favourites such as roasted Cotswold sirloin of beef with a wholegrain mustard crust; wild poached salmon with a selection of prawns, crayfish and mussels; and even coq au vin – all complimented by sides including buttered new potatoes, olive and mint, cucumber cous cous and marinated tomatoes. Plus, there’s also homemade winterberry cheesecake, cheese and biscuits and more to end.
SoGlos loves: While The Parrot Bar and Grill is best-known for its succulent and unusual steaks – including the Texas Longhorn, bison and kangaroo – don’t miss the chance to keep your Christmas party-goers in the festive spirit with a delicious drink from its dedicated cocktail bar.
Dates: Both the Christmas party menu and the buffet are available from mid-November 2012 through to January 2013.
How much: The four-course Christmas party menu costs £24.95 per head for parties of up to 30 people, while the Christmas buffet is available to parties of more than 30, costing £18.95 per head.
On Christmas day: The Parrot Bar and Grill will be open on Christmas Day, no doubt offering a delectable lunch to discerning diners across Cheltenham.
For more info: See Christmas at The Parrot Bar and Grill.
To book: Call The Parrot Bar and Grill on (01242) 526965, email bookings@theparrotbar.com or visit theparrotbar.com full information and menus.
Venue: The Greenway Spa Hotel Restaurant
On the menu: Expect traditional British fare with an imaginative twist at The Greenway this Christmas, with a specially-designed menu for lunch or dinner on offer. There’s starter options including ham hock and white bean terrine, quince chutney and toasted brioche; roast breast and leg of local turkey serviced with seasonal vegetables, pigs in blanket, bread sauce, chestnut and sage stuffing and a natural roast gravy for the main event; followed by desserts including traditional Christmas pudding with brandy anglaise and rum and cherry ice cream, and dark chocolate marquise with orange mascarpone and syrup. Plus, those who can squeeze it in at the end can enjoy coffee and mince pie to finish.
SoGlos loves: Throughout the festive season, there will be crackling log fires and festive decorations decking the halls of the 16th century Elizabethan manor, providing a warm welcome and stunning surroundings where you can relax with a glass of mulled wine and soak up the Christmassy atmosphere.
Dates: The festive lunch and dinner menu is available throughout December 2012.
How much: The festive lunch menu costs £20 for two courses and £26 for three, while the three-course dinner menu costs £29.50 per person. Family, friend and work parties are also welcome at The Greenway, with the menu costing £35 per head and including mulled wine, a mince pie and crackers.
On Christmas Day: The Greenway will be offering a tempting four-course lunch on Christmas Day, costing £85 per person.
For more info: See Christmas at The Greenway.
To book: Call The Greenway Spa Hotel Restaurant on (01242) 862352, email info@thegreenway.co.uk or visit thegreenwayhotelandspa.com directly.
Venue: The Wharf House
On the menu: As is The Wharf House’s tradition, turkey has been banned from the menu for another year running, and instead guests can expect a special lunch or dinner menu brimming with alternative festive delights. Starter highlights include the parsnip soup with a hint of warming ginger; main course choices include chilli salmon rolled in sesame seeds with a pineapple dressing and Mediterranean vegetables; while desserts include lemon posset with raspberry coulis and a wisp of meringue.
SoGlos loves: For big Christmas parties, The Wharf House is an excellent choice of venue. The restaurant can be hired for exclusive use for private functions, groups of up to 50 can enjoy the three-course menu, and for parties with up to 85 guests, there’s a tasty buffet menu too.
Dates: Christmas menus are available from Thursday 1 November 2012 to Thursday 31 January 2013.
How much: The lunch menu costs £25 per person, and the dinner menu costs £28.99 per person – both available for pre-order for groups of eight people or more.
On Christmas day: The Wharf House is closed on Christmas Day.
For more info: See Christmas at The Wharf House.
To book: Call The Wharf House on (01452) 332900, email thewharfhouse@yahoo.co.uk or visit thewharfhouse.co.uk for full information and menu choices.
Venue: Café Rene
On the menu: Offering a well-priced feast for families, friends and work parties alike, Café Rene has a five-course Christmas menu lined up, with starter options including smoked salmon and cream cheese roulade and seared pigeon breast salad; mains of roast pheasant, turkey or loin of pork, and wild mushroom, leek and brie risotto; and desserts such as winterberry cheesecake and forest fruit coulis, as well as the traditional Christmas pud. Plus, each diner will get a Christmas cracker to pull, and those booking by Friday 12 October 2012 can also enjoy a free glass of mulled wine upon arrival.
SoGlos loves: Café Rene, conveniently located in the heart of Gloucester city centre, offers romantic candle-lit dining in a unique historical setting – complete with a Roman well at its heart and wine bottles lining the ceilings and walls. It’s known to locals as ‘Gloucester’s best-known secret’.
Dates: The Café Rene Christmas menu is available from mid-November 2012 until January 2013.
How much: The five-course Christmas menu costs £25 per person, including a cracker to start the celebrations off with a bang.
On Christmas day: Café Rene will of course be opening on Christmas Day, hoping to tempt locals with a delicious five-course menu, costing £55 per person.
For more info: See Christmas at Café Rene.
To book: Call Café Rene on (01452) 309340, email jojo@caferene.co.uk or visit caferene.co.uk for full information and menus.
Venue: Tiger’s Eye
On the menu: In a refreshing change to the usual turkey with all the trimmings, the historical Tiger’s Eye restaurant in Gloucester, which specialises in Pan-Asian cuisine, is offering a Christmas lunch and dinner party menu with a twist. While turkey roulade is offered on both menus, the real stars of the show are set to be starters such as situmai pork and prawn dumplings, cola-braised Japanese pork belly and sake cured salmon; mains including speciality steaks cooked on the black rock grill, cod teriyaki and butternut squash and sage risotto; and sweets such as chocolate and Baileys mousse, lemon tart, and of course a Christmas pud for the traditionalists. Plus, both menus include a glass of mulled wine upon arrival to really get diners into the Christmas spirit.
SoGlos loves: The black rock grill offers a unique, healthy and interactive dining experience in which the meal is presented cooking on volcanic rocks at the table – giving diners the ability to cook their meat, fish or veg to personal taste, not to mention have fun playing chef for the day.
Dates: The Christmas party lunch and dinner menus are available from mid-November 2012 through to January 2013.
How much: The three-course lunch party menu costs £22.50, with the option of adding coffee and a mince pie for an additional £1.95, while the four-course dinner menu costs £26.50 per person.
On Christmas day: Tiger’s Eye will be closed on Christmas Day.
For more info: Christmas at Tiger's Eye.
To book: Call Tiger’s Eye on (01452) 332993, email reservations@theoldbell-tigerseye.co.uk or visit theoldbell-tigerseye.co.uk for full information and menus.
Venue: Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall
On the menu: Bowden Hall’s signature Christmas spectaculars return this year, with a number of Black, White and Diamonds parties expected to draw in glamorous Gloucestershire merrymakers with the promise of glitz, good food and dancing until late. Partygoers can tuck into a delicious three-course meal, featuring a choice of hog roast pate, caramelised apple and cider chutney to start; mains including the traditional roast turkey with pigs in blankets; and Christmas pud with brandy sauce to finish. Plus, there’s also several ‘party for less’ nights lined-up for those on a tighter budget, including a two-course dinner and disco, not to mention a festive lunch running throughout the Christmas period.
SoGlos loves: Office parties can take advantage of Bowden Hall’s work, play and stay offer this Christmas, costing from £120 per person, including meeting room hire; entry to a Black, White and Diamonds party; an overnight stay in one of the venue’s tasteful rooms; use of the Sebastian Coe Health Club and a hearty breakfast to pick them up in the morning.
Dates: The Black, White and Diamonds parties will be taking place on Fridays 30 November, 7, 14 and 21 December; Saturdays 1, 8, 15 and 22 December; and Thursday 20 December 2012; while the Black, White and Diamonds casino parties will be taking place on Fridays 30 November, 7, 14 and 21 December; Saturdays 1, 8, 15 December; and Thursday 20 December 2012. The ‘party for less nights’ meanwhile are on Sundays 2, 9, 16 and 23, and Thursdays 6 and 13 December 2012, with the festive lunch menu being available throughout December.
How much: Tickets for the glitzy Black, White and Diamonds parties cost £29.50 per person or £36.50 including half a bottle of wine; whilst tickets for the Black, White and Diamonds casino parties cost £34.50 per person or £41.50 including half a bottle of wine. The party for less nights are a snip at £19.95 per person; with the three-course festive lunches costing £17.50 or £24.50 including half a bottle of wine.
On Christmas day: A scrumptious festive feast awaits Bowden Hall diners on Christmas day, costing £68 per adult and £34 per child under 16.
For more info: See Christmas at Bowden Hall.
To book: Call Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall on 0844 815 9077, email sales.mercuregloucesterbowdenhall@jupiterhotels.co.uk or visit mercuregloucester.co.uk directly.
© SoGlos
Thursday 21 March 2013
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