Thanks to the races, Cheltenham has enjoyed a long love affair with Ireland – and its new family-owned Irish bar Katie O'Brien's is bringing the craic to the town centre all year round.
SoGlos revealed when the new bar opened and took a first look inside the new Irish tavern in Cheltenham's Brewery Quarter to discover its character and charm.
When did Katie O'Brien's Cheltenham open?
Cheltenham's new Katie O'Brien's officially opened to members of the public on Saturday 3 October 2026.
It's now open seven days a week showcasing live music every single day.
First look inside Katie O'Brien's Cheltenham
Designed to bring the warmth and character of a traditional Irish tavern into the heart of Cheltenham, Katie O'Brien's opened its doors with a simple promise: 'good people, great drinks, live music and a proper Irish welcome'.
Its interiors have been designed to avoid feeling like a gaudy themed pub, with reclaimed wood, hand-painted signage and vintage Irish touches giving the venue an authentic, lived-in feel.
With cosy spaces designed to encourage conversation among friends, the focus is firmly on atmosphere, community, live music every day – and good craic!
With a stage at its heart, the new bar will showcase a daily mix of Irish talent and musicians from the local Cheltenham scene, plus big-screen sporting action.
Owner Gordon Codona said: 'We didn’t want to recreate a theme pub. We wanted to build something that feels like home – somewhere you can come for a pint and a bit of craic, or settle in for a lively afternoon or evening of live music.
'Whether visiting for a relaxed good-quality afternoon pint, a catch-up with friends or a lively evening with live music, the team wants the bar to feel like somewhere people can genuinely settle in and make their own, as if it has always belonged in the local community.'
What to expect behind the bar at Cheltenham's Katie O'Brien's
Bartenders at Katie O'Brien's serve a fine selection of Irish drinks, including perfectly poured pints of Guinness and Murphy's, a carefully chosen range of Irish whiskeys, and a rotating curation of Irish craft beer.
There’s no need to book – guests can simply turn up and enjoy.
What's the story behind Katie O'Brien's?
Brothers Gordon and Jonathan Codona of The Innvest Group named the tavern after their grandmother.
The new Cheltenham opening is their first in the south west.
Where is Katie O'Brien's Cheltenham located?
Taking over the unit that was previously home to Son of Steak, following the end of a 10-year tenancy for Mitchells & Butlers, Cheltenham's Brewery Quarter says it will 'inject fresh energy' into the dining and leisure destination.
Nikki Kontarines from Martin Commercial Properties, which manages The Brewery Quarter, said: 'Katie O'Brien's is exactly the kind of operator we wanted to attract. The brand is known for creating welcoming, high-energy venues that draw customers throughout the day and well into the evening.'
Owner Jonathan Codona said: 'We're thrilled to be bringing Katie O'Brien's to Cheltenham and joining The Brewery Quarter.
'We see significant potential in the location and are excited to invest in the venue, become part of the local community and bring our unique Irish tavern experience to both residents and visitors alike.'
To find out more, visit katieobriensirishtaverns.com.
