Gloucestershire is home to a sparkling array of party venues, promising yuletide cheer and festive merriment this Christmas 2022.
Whether you’re planning a big office Christmas party, a festive night out with friends or a cosy family get-together with turkey and all the trimmings, SoGlos's Christmas party guide is packed with ideas to make your 2022 celebrations the best yet.
Christmas parties at Cowley Manor
The venue
Celebrate Christmas in the Cotswolds at Cowley Manor, a contemporary boutique hotel housed within a grand Italianate house, with 55 acres of Grade II listed gardens. As well as luxurious bedrooms and an award-winning spa, there are also three luxurious private dining options at Cowley Manor in the study, garden room or restaurant — suitable for parties of between eight and 100 guests.
On the menu
This year's sensational festive menu includes starters such as veal sweetbread or Cerney Ash goat cheese; with traditional turkey, served with chestnuts and cranberries, beef wellington or Cornish brill for the main course — and a celeriac option for vegetarians.
Meanwhile, the dessert menu sounds like pure festive indulgence, giving diners the choice of pineapple baked Alaska with gingerbread, a mulled wine poached pear with cinnamon doughnuts and a Christmas pudding ganache, crème brulee and 70 per cent chocolate mousse with Cotswolds crumble.
SoGlos loves
For a really lavish celebration, big groups of at least 50 to 60 guests have the option to exclusively book the hotel in all its festive finery, with Cowley Manor unveiling its exclusive use Christmas House Party package for 2022. Venue hire includes use of the main house and 15 bedrooms and the Christmas House Party packages are priced at an additional £70 per person and include mulled wine, a three-course festive dinner with half a bottle of wine, as well as coffee and mince pies.
There's also the option for families and friends to enjoy a own Christmas getaway at Cowley, arriving on Christmas Eve and checking out on Tuesday 27 December 2022 — with a Buck's Fizz breakfast and sumptuous five course lunch on Christmas Day, plus plenty of food, drink and festive fun included.
How much?
It costs £37 for two courses and £45 for three courses for festive gatherings at Cowley Manor. Full venue hire starts at £4,250, with the Christmas House Party packages costing an additional £70 per person.
Christmas package stays start at £1,970, based on two adults sharing one bedroom for three nights.
When?
Christmas get-togethers at Cowley Manor are available throughout December 2022.
How to book
Email events@cowleymanor.com or call (01242) 870902. For more information about Cowley Manor's Christmas offering, visit cowleymanor.com/christmas.
Christmas party venues in Cheltenham
Christmas parties at DoubleTree by Hilton Cheltenham
The venue
Located on Cirencester Road in Charlton Kings, DoubleTree by Hilton Cheltenham is preparing to host an impressive array of festive celebrations this autumn-winter.
On the menu
DoubleTree by Hilton’s festive three-course lunch menu features roast turkey and Christmas pudding, as well as vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
Alternatively, try the venue's festive afternoon tea for a seasonal twist on the usual finger sandwiches and sweet treats.
For
those who really want to let their hair down this Christmas and New Year, the venue's Winter Wonderland and Black & White themed party nights include dinner, an
arrival drink, plus DJ and disco.
There’s also an extravagant New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball with five-course dinner, among the highlights of which are confit pork and caramelised apple terrine, fillet of tenderloin beef and raspberry cranachan.
SoGlos loves
You can save precious pounds this festive season by holding your festive celebration at DoubleTree by Hilton Cheltenham slightly before – or just after – peak party season; in November, on a Sunday night, or in January.
And for those who want to make a night of it, DoubleTree by Hilton Cheltenham has plenty of rooms to go round. Guests can make use of the hotel spa, fitness suite and explore the wintery grounds, too.
How much?
Festive lunch is served from Monday 21 November and starts at £26 per person.
Festive afternoon tea is available throughout December, priced from £22 per person.
Party nights start from £35.95 in November and December, or £32.95 in January, while the New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball costs £90 per person, or £340 with an optional Race Day Package.
When?
Between November 2022 and January 2023.
How to book
Call (01242) 229291 or email events@doubletreecheltenham.com.
Christmas parties at Leonardo Hotels
The venue
This festive period, Leonardo Hotels Cheltenham is offering partygoers the opportunity to celebrate the Christmas season in style with an evening of live entertainment and novelties alongside a three-course meal, available across a range of its meeting and event rooms.
On the menu
Suitable for both large- or small-scale events, party the night away at a Jurys Inn disco evening, running throughout the Christmas period, where guests can tuck in to a three-course meal and enjoy entertainment from the Leonardo Hotels resident DJ - sure to keep you on the dance floor until the early hours.
The selection of festive dishes on the Christmas party night menu include parsnip and honey soup; roast turkey breast with sage and onion stuffing and pigs in blankets; and a trio of decadent desserts including a Christmas pudding with brandy sauce, vanilla cheesecake and chocolate orange tart.
Plus, Leonardo Hotels also offers live band festive party packages, providing guests with themed décor, a three-course festive dinner, tea and coffee station, live music from the house band and a DJ and disco, too.
SoGlos loves
Leonardo Hotels Cheltenham's dedicated team will be able to assist party planners to organise every element of your Christmas event, down to the décor and live performances - as well as the opportunity to stay overnight with special accommodation rates.
How much?
Prices start from £28.95 per person.
When?
Party packages at Leonardo Hotels are available on selected dates from Sunday 27 November to Sunday 18 December 2022.
How to book
Visit jurysinn.com/cheltenham or call (01242) 232691.
Christmas parties at Malmaison
The venue
Whether you're celebrating the party season with your nearest and dearest, or throwing a social bonanza for the whole company, Cheltenham's Malmaison is offering a variety of party opportunities for merrymakers to enjoy this festive period.
On the menu
Cheltenham's Malmaison is inviting revelers to throw on their best party outfit and raise a toast with friends, family or colleagues as they indulge in the season's treats with an abundance of delicious dishes such as citrus cured salmon, slow braised daube of beef and Chez Mal sticky toffee Christmas pudding.
Throw the social event of the year with The Bar Drinks Party package and dance the night away - keeping fuelled with festive finger food such as truffle and Parmesan roasties, sprout pakoras and pigs in blankets, along with prosecco, wine, beer and more.
Alternatively, sit back and relax with an afternoon tea spruced up with a festive sparkle, including savouries such as Cumberland pork, sage and cranberry sausage rolls and turkey katsu and mango chutney wraps, plus Viennese mincemeat tarts and Black Forest trifle among the sweet treats - as well as a glass of prosecco!
SoGlos loves
Those who are unable to celebrate in December need worry no more, as Malmaison will be carrying on the party well into the new year. Enjoy dinner with all the trimmings, or festive buffet menus all the way until the end of January 2023.
How much?
Celebrations start from £30 per person.
When?
Christmas parties are available for booking on various dates from Thursday 17 November until Tuesday 31 January 2023.
How to book
Visit malmaison.com/christmas or call (01242) 370655.
Christmas parties at Hotel du Vin
The venue
Have a real jolly at Hotel du Vin this Christmas, where guests can indulge with a whole range of celebration packages this party season - covering everything from delicious food and fine wine to fabulously festive afternoon teas, available throughout November and December.
On the menu
Hotel du Vin is inviting those across Gloucestershire to eat, drink and be merry this Christmas season with its glitzy and glamorous party packages, including celebration buffets and bar drinks, seasonal afternoon teas and festive sit-down meals.
Tuck in to traditional fare and decadent desserts, spanning roast free-range turkey ballotine, pan-fried sea bass and even warm figgy pudding.
Or to celebrate the ultimate social affair with friends or colleagues, treat yourself to Hotel du Vin's Christmas bar drinks package, featuring finger food such as breaded Camembert with cranberry chutney, pigs in blankets with honey mustard glaze and cheesy truffle roast potatoes, teamed with Champagne, wine, beer and more.
SoGlos loves
For a quieter option this festive season, Hotel du Vin also offers afternoon tea with a Christmastime twist. Expect mince pies, cakes, scones and seasonal sandwiches, served with a choice of tea, or a glass of Champagne - 'tis the season after all!
How much?
Prices start from £34.95 per person.
When?
Party packages are available for booking from Thursday 17 November to Saturday 24 December 2022.
How to book
Visit hotelduvin.com/christmas or call (01242) 370584.
Christmas parties at Hebe Restaurant
The venue
Put your best party frock on for Christmas celebrations at Hebe Restaurant and Café, one of Cheltenham's newest foodie destinations.
The independent restaurant offers bespoke dining experiences from its stylish venue on Bayshill Road, near the iconic Cheltenham Ladies' College.
On the menu
Tuck in to sumptuous starters such as Jerusalem artichoke soup, gin cured salmon and chicken liver and foie gras parfait; mains including butternut squash risotto and free-range roast turkey breast with chestnut stuffing and all the trimmings; and of course, decadent desserts such as Christmas pudding and Amalfi lemon tart.
Coffee, tea and mince pies will also be served; alternatively, guests can choose to add an optional cheese course with accompaniments in replacement of dessert, or as an extra course.
Hebe also has an impressive list of world-renowned wines to choose from.
SoGlos loves
In Greek mythology, Hebe was the goddess of youth, serving the mighty gods nectar and ambrosia to keep them eternally young — with the Cheltenham restaurant aiming to keep its guests equally well-nourished this Christmas, using locally-foraged produce and the very best seasonal ingredients in its dishes.
How much?
The festive party menu costs £49.50 per person for three courses; there is a surplus charge of £4 to replace the dessert with cheese and accompaniments; and it costs £11 to add cheese an extra course.
When?
Festive parties can be booked on various days throughout November and December 2022.
How to book
Visit heberestaurant.co.uk.
Christmas parties at Ian Coley Sporting
The venue
Located just outside Cheltenham, Ian Coley is a leading shooting ground that’s popular with seasoned shooters as well as newbies looking to try their hand at the sport. With a range of shooting stands and diverse targets, its corporate Christmas parties promise lots of fun with a competitive edge – perfect for a unique teambuilding experience.
On the menu
Celebrating the festive season with a bang, Ian Coley offers three corporate clay shooting packages to put guests’ marksmanship skills to the test this Christmas, with three different itineraries offering from 25 shots per person, up to 75. From learning to hit different targets and practicing at the stands to competing against teammates and even trying a fun simulated game drive, the activities are suitable for beginners and experienced shooters alike.
The full itinerary of 75 shots per person includes tea, coffee and mince pies upon arrival; shooting over a variety of stands; refreshment breaks; an exciting shooting competition; team flush; and finishes with further refreshments, prizes and a tipple of sloe gin. Plus, packages can be customised with optional extras, allowing hungry shooters to fuel up on festive breakfast rolls, a variety of fizzy drinks and fruit juices too!
SoGlos loves
With everything you need for an unforgettable Christmas party, Ian Coley’s packages include top-class tuition from its friendly instructors, gun hire, safety equipment, clays and cartridges, plus a prize for the best Christmas jumper. Not to mention a dedicated events manager to keep things running smoothly.
How much?
Packages start from £65 per person.
When?
Festive corporate parties at Ian Coley are available throughout November and December 2022, through to January 2023.
How to book
Visit iancoley.co.uk/christmas-parties.
Christmas parties at The Brewery Quarter
The venue
With a whole host of fantastic venues offering everything from craft beer and cocktails to festive food and entertainment, The Brewery Quarter in Cheltenham is the ideal place to celebrate with friends, family or colleagues this Christmas 2022.
On the menu
The Alchemist invites revellers to 'enter the extra' with a three-course festive menu featuring dishes like prawn Bloody Mary brioche, turkey in a basket and next level chocolate brownies accompanied by its signature theatrical cocktails. The Botanist is offering Christmas canapés or a set menu of two or three courses with dishes including chicken liver and brandy pâté, hanging turkey kebabs and Christmisu.
BrewDog is offering Christmas burger or pizza buffets, as well as a festive Hoppy Meal with a buttermilk fried turkey and roast gammon burger, garnished with a pig in a blanket, served with fries and a festive beer, with wine, beer and spirits packages available, too. Brewhouse & Kitchen offers two buffet options as well as a two- or three-course Christmas menu with drinks packages, including the chance to have your very own nine-pint beer dispenser at your table; while Hub Box is offering a set two- or three-course menu with dishes like deep fried brie, Christmas nuggs, flirty turkey burgers and cocktails including a chocolate orange espresso martini.
With festive feasting, sharing feasts, finger food buffets and bottomless festive brunches on offer, there's plenty to choose from at Cosy Club; Prezzo has a two- or three-course festive set menu of Italian-inspired pizza, burgers and pasta with blackberry bergamot fizz and tiramisu martini cocktails; while Mowgli's Christmas menu features a selection of street food, tiffin boxes and desserts from its main menu.
SoGlos loves
For partygoers that want more than dinner and drinks, social darts venue Flight Club offers festive food and drink packages for groups of 10 or more, alongside social darts for up to 37 guests in a semi-private oche. Hollywood Bowl offers Jingle Bowls packages include two games, snacks, a main meal and a drink; while Escape Hunt gives groups of up to 24 the chance to take over four escape rooms at the same time, with a special Christmas VR game available, too.
How much?
Prices vary per venue, with The Alchemist offering three courses for £32; The Botanist offering two courses and a cocktail from £27.95 until 4pm, or a three-course meal with a cocktail from £34.95 available all day every day; Hub Box offering two courses for £24.95 or three for £29.95; Cosy Club offering festive feasts from £39.95 each, sharing feasts from £24.95 each, finger food from £14.95 each and festive brunches for £35 per person; and Prezzo offering two courses for £22 and three for £25.50, with the option to add a Christmas cocktail for £7.50. Mowgli's Christmas menu costs £30 per person.
Flight Club offers The Elf package for £45 or The Santa package for £65 each not including social darts; party packages at Hollywood Bowl cost from £16.50 per child and £21.50 per adult; while Escape Hunt experiences start from £20 each.
When?
Festive menus are available at Prezzo from Tuesday 15 November 2022; The Alchemist from Monday 21 November 2022 until Christmas Eve; Cosy Club from Wednesday 23 November 2022 until Christmas Eve and Hub Box from Wednesday 23 November to Friday 30 December 2022.
Christmas packages at Flight Club are available throughout December.
How to book
Visit thebreweryquarter.com.
Christmas parties at Cheltenham Racecourse
The venue
Framed by the Cotswold hills, Cheltenham Racecourse is the 'home of jump racing', attracting the best horses, jockeys and trainers for its world-class equestrian events. It's also the only place that racegoers can hear the iconic ‘Cheltenham roar’ for themselves.
On the menu
While its Vegas Christmas Party Nights sold out almost as soon as summer turned to autumn, Cheltenham Racecourse has two days of racing action in the diary for The International in December 2022, along with a choice of hospitality packages on offer for festive celebrations.
Take your pick from The Gold Cup restaurant, the National Hunt Room and the Panoramic restaurant, where guests can enjoy everything from afternoon tea and easy access to the main viewing grandstand, to a champagne reception and seating overlooking the course – together with award-winning cuisine.
SoGlos loves
Whether your party is large or small, wanting to push the boat out or looking for an affordable way to get a group of family, friends or colleagues together for some festive fun this year, Cheltenham Racecourse has all you need in one convenient location.
How much?
Tickets for The International start from £9 per person (Best Mate Enclosure) or £22 per person (Club/Tatts Enclosure) for groups of 10 or more, with hospitality tickets available from £185 per person.
When?
The International takes place on Friday 9 and Saturday 10 December 2022. Gates open at 10am with the first race at 12.05pm and the last race at 3.35pm.
How to book
Tickets for The International can be booked online at thejockeyclub.co.uk, as can some hospitality packages. Alternatively, you can call Cheltenham Racecourse on (01242) 537653.
Christmas parties at Home & Botanic bar and nightclub
The venue
Savour unique cocktails against a backdrop of banging beats at Home & Botanic bar and nightclub in the heart of Cheltenham.
With five amazing rooms to enjoy, dance the night away in the club or disco room or gather your crew in a cosy booth to croon Christmas favourites in the piano bar, with a live singalong until the early hours. There's also an elegant botanic cocktail bar festooned with flowers and the relaxed bier haus, so you can choose whichever festive vibe you fancy.
On the menu
Guest Christmas cocktails will get you into the festive spirit, with a free Santa hat served with every drink.
Choose from a colourful candy cane martini with pomegranate vodka, lime juice, sugar syrup and grenadine served with a candy cane garnish and a crushed candy cane rim; or give an aromatic cinnamon appletini a whirl, with apple schnapps, lime juice and sugar syrup, shaken over ice and garnished with a cinnamon stick.
There's also a range of wine and fizz as well as plenty of brilliant beers to choose from.
SoGlos loves
The piano bar! Come armed with your Christmas favourites and gather around the piano for a good old singalong for a jolly start to the festive season.
How much?
You can pre-book fizz for your table from £34 a bottle or wine from £17.
When?
Doors open at 9pm every night over the festive period but depending on your party plans, Home & Botanic can host private functions at days and times to suit you.
Parties can book for any of night of the week, whether you're after a table for two, a booth for 10 or a whole floor for 300.
How to book?
Email info@homecheltenham.com or call Home & Botanic on 07736 456669 to secure your party place.
Christmas parties at Revolution Cheltenham
The venue
Well-known for its vibrant party nights and generous happy hours, Revolution Cheltenham promises to get revellers in the festive spirit with a range of Christmas dining options, drinks packages and entertainment add-ons.
Large groups can take full advantage of the impressive 700-capacity venue, which is housed in a stunning former church; while smaller parties can choose from a number of exclusive-use areas or simply book a table for drinks and dinner.
On the menu
Parties can opt for two- or three-course meals, with menu highlights including duck parfait and panko crumbed goat's cheese to start; roast turkey breast or veggie-friendly mushroom and spinach tart for main; and indulgent desserts like Christmas pudding waffles and white chocolate and raspberry roulade.
There’s also the option of a Christmas buffet, featuring everything from pigs-in-blankets to cheeseburger sliders; or a festive brunch, which includes two hours of bottomless drinks alongside classic grills, pancake stacks and even brunch burgers and pizzas.
And, to well and truly get the party started, merrymakers can choose to add a drinks reception to their chosen event. Cheers to that!
SoGlos loves
Shake (or stir!) your Christmas party up with a festive cocktail masterclass, where guests can become master mixologists in 90 minutes, learning the tricks of the trade from an expert bartender. The experience can be added on to any festive dining option and is available for parties of more than eight people.
When?
Christmas parties at Revolution Cheltenham are available throughout November and December 2022.
How much?
Per person, two-course festive dining costs £22.95; three-course festive dining costs £27.95; and the festive buffet costs £19.95.
Parties can combine the festive cocktail masterclass with two-course and three-course dining options at various prices; while bottomless brunch costs from £30 per person.
To book
Visit revolution-bars.co.uk/cheltenham to book online, or book directly by emailing bookings-cheltenham@revolution-bars.co.uk or calling Revolution Cheltenham on (01242) 234045.
Christmas parties at Ellenborough Park
The venue
Located near Cheltenham Racecourse, the 15th century country estate of Ellenborough Park combines a luxury hotel, spa, restaurant, brasserie and cocktail bar.
Historical features like oak beams and stone fireplaces are beautifully complemented by modern luxuries worthy of the finest hotels.
On the menu
Sure to get you in the spirit, Ellenborough’s festive three-course lunches and dinners incorporate ingredients like seasonal spiced parsnips, chestnuts and gingerbread, alongside options such as hot smoked salmon and sea bass (for those determined to save the turkey till the 25th)!
Guests attending Ellenborough Park’s festive party nights can take their pick from the same menu, while also enjoying a welcome drink and a DJ that promises to have everyone dancing until carriages at midnight.
As for Ellenborough’s festive afternoon tea, you’ll find a ginger and mandarin pavé, a poached pear panna cotta and a dark chocolate and rum tartlet among the specially created top tier treats this time of year.
SoGlos loves
If you’re looking for something a bit special, Ellenborough Park is it… from the party night prosecco on arrival, served with a ‘festive twist’; to the turkey and cranberry sandwiches as part of its afternoon tea – not to mention the stunning seasonal décor – the venue certainly delivers on luxury.
With the venue open for Boxing Day lunch, a relaxing trip to
Ellenborough Park is the perfect reward for those who took care of cooking the most
important meal of the year just 24 hours earlier.
How much?
Festive lunches are priced at £50 per person, while dinner is £65 per person. Festive afternoon tea costs £35 and party nights are £70 per person.
When?
Festive afternoon tea is available from Thursday 1 December to Friday 23 December 2022. Its last few festive party nights can still be booked for Friday 2 December 2022, Thursday 5 or Thursday 12 January 2023.
How to book
Party nights can be booked online for £10 deposit per person at ellenboroughpark.com - for everything else, call (01242) 545454 or email info@ellenboroughpark.com. Festive lunches and dinners are bookable as a group of eight, or via Ellenborough’s Events Team for larger parties.
Christmas parties at East India Café
The venue
Located on the Promenade in Cheltenham, East India Café specialises in Anglo-Indian fine dining and has been listed in the Michelin guide for years, highlighting its ‘magical basement setting’, prime local meats, home-grown herbs and home-ground spices.
On the menu
From scallop samosas to lemon duck tikka, East India Café serves Indian food - but not as you know it!
Take your pick from five starters, four mains and two desserts on the lunch menu, delivered alongside a complimentary amuse bouche and the chef’s seasonal appetiser of the day.
Meanwhile, the restaurant’s tasting menus promise to take diners on a gastronomic tour of the finest British Raj cuisine, inspired by a journey from the foothills of the Himalayas to the banks of The Ganges. Expect dishes from the streets of Kolkata, Hyderabad and Rajasthan, as well as a ‘surprise from the kitchen and bar’ on reaching the interval.
SoGlos loves
If you’re searching for an alternative to the traditional turkey menu with mince pies this festive season, Cheltenham’s East India Café is an ideal choice.
How much?
The Raj-inspired set lunch menu is priced at £21.95 for two courses, or £27.95 for three, while for dinner you can either opt to go à la carte or celebrate in style with a seven-course tasting menu for £65.99 (or £59.99 for the vegetarian version).
When?
East India Café is open Tuesday to Sunday, serving lunch from 12pm and dinner from 5.30pm.
How to book
Visit eastindiacafe.com.
Christmas parties at Sam's Montpellier
The venue
Tucked away in The Courtyard on Montpellier Street in Cheltenham, Sam’s Montpellier is the brainchild of chef Sam Price, who specialises in small plates inspired by earth, land and sea – not forgetting heaven (for dessert). The bar and restaurant also has a resident mixologist, who draws his inspiration from the natural beauty of the Cotswolds.
On the menu
With the vast majority of dishes marked DF, GF or VE, Sam’s offers plenty of choice for the dairy-free, gluten-free, veggies and vegans, making the venue a real crowd-pleaser!
Stand-outs on the latest seasonal menu include gin-cured salmon with beetroot; turkey, dill and pistachio scotch egg; roasted chilli and almond sprouts; chocolate orange mousse and warm mince pies with brandy clotted cream.
If you can still find room after that, the After Eight and Ferrero Rocher after-dinner cocktails are the ultimate Christmas treat!
SoGlos loves
Parties of under 15 people don’t need to pre-order, allowing everyone more freedom on the day.
For a more relaxed affair, Sam is also offering guests the option of arranging drinks and canapés in the bar area.
How much?
There isn’t such a thing as a set menu at Sam’s – all of the dishes are individually priced, ranging from £2.50 for a scoop of ice cream or sorbet to £15 for the ribeye steak. The after-dinner cocktails are priced at £10 each.
When?
Christmas parties are available for booking now, with the restaurant open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday.
How to book
Visit samsmontpellier.co.uk/book, call (01242) 252752 or email hello@samsmontpellier.co.uk.
Christmas parties at Balti Walla
The venue
Indian restaurant Balti Walla on Bath Road in Cheltenham’s vibrant Leckhampton district prides itself on using fresh, local produce to create dishes that are nutritious – as well as delicious!
With a private dining room that sits up to 60 people, corporate Christmas parties can be accommodated with ease and the BYOB licence means you can bring your own alcohol, too.
On the menu
Among the specialities at Balti Walla is the chef’s mach (fish) curry, the traditional south Indian Chattnad curry and the ‘slightly hot’ north Indian garlic chilli.
Paneer shashlik, made with tandoor-roasted marinated Indian cheese and served with salad and mint chutney, also comes highly recommended.
From old favourites such as korma, madras, vindaloo and dhansak, to authentic Indian bhuna, rogan-josh, jalfrezi and pasanda, there really is something for everyone – including scampi and chips!
SoGlos loves
Between the mushroom bhaji, the cauliflower bhaji and the aubergine bhaji, not to mention the array of vegetable and paneer-based dishes, the wealth of vegetarian options here could convert even the most seasoned meat eater!
How much?
Starters are priced from around £5 and mains from around £10, with classic sides like poppadoms, naan bread and rice all cheap and cheerful – as well as filling.
Meaty feast and vegetarian set menus are also available for two to share and still work out at less than £20 per head.
When?
Balti Walla is open evenings from Sunday to Saturday, 5.30pm to 9.30pm.
How to book
Tables can be reserved by visiting baltiwalla.com or calling (01242) 222 289.
Christmas parties at Bosco Pizzeria
The venue
‘Inspired by the best pizzerias in Naples and New York’, you’ll find Bosco Pizzeria at the foot of The Quadrangle in Cheltenham’s Imperial Gardens – its beautiful terrace and huge bi-fold windows overlooking the Promenade and park make it hard to miss.
On the menu
Among the sharing plates to start are Sicilian olives, focaccia, bruschetta, arancini and meatballs, alongside selected Italian cured meats and cheeses, including prosciutto, coppa and salami, gorgonzola and fresh pecorino.
To follow, groups can choose their own mains from eight varieties of pizza, including the salty sounding Venetian, topped with anchovies, capers and black olives; two pasta dishes – one spicy, one creamy; a classic Tuscan stew, the popular pork Milanese served with pasta pomodoro; or a mouth-watering salad made with fig and ricotta, pine nuts and balsamic dressing.
The selection of sides for the table to share includes polenta fries with parmesan and black pepper, wood roasted rosemary potatoes and rocket salad with lemon dressing and parmesan.
If you’ve still got room for dessert, there is
always the option to round things off with an affogato, tiramisu or gelato.
SoGlos loves
Bosco prides itself on using only the best Italian produce, sourced directly from the markets of Milan and Naples, so those who like their Italian food as authentic as can be are in luck… even the wine list is all-Italian!
How much?
Priced at £25 per person, Bosco’s dedicated group menu offers diners a choice of small plates to share and a variety of mains, including pizza, pasta, meat dishes and salad, plus sharing sides.
For an extra £5 per head, guests can end their meal on a sweet note by selecting one of three classic Italian desserts.
When?
Bosco’s group party menu is available year-round, but having opened in May 2022, this will be the first time it celebrates Christmas in Cheltenham.
How to book
The maximum party size for online bookings is 11 people, larger parties will need to call the restaurant. Visit boscopizzeria.co.uk or call (01242) 430022.
Christmas party venues in the Cotswolds
Christmas parties at De Vere Cotswold Water Park
The venue
Set in the heart of the Cotswolds and surrounded by lakes, rivers and open countryside, De Vere Cotswold Water Park provides an escape from the outside world. With elegant and contemporary interiors, its a wonderful setting for a whole host of Christmas celebrations.
On the menu
Festive menu highlights include traditional ballotine of turkey; baked salmon fillet; and a vegan-friendly roast squash and cranberry strudel. Satisfy your sweet tooth with Christmas pudding and brandy cream sauce for dessert, or opt for a tantalising chocolate and passionfruit tart.
The 'Christmas joiner party nights' package includes a welcome glass of prosecco and a three-course meal, followed by tea, coffee and mini mince pies, a live band, DJ and disco.
Parties of up to 79 guests can opt for a private Christmas get-together, which includes a welcome drink, three-course meal, after-dinner tea, coffee and mince pies, plus two drinks tokens per person; while private traditional Christmas parties are suitable for celebrations with over 80 guests and include the same food and beverage package, swapping the drinks tokens for evening entertainment in the form of music from De Vere's resident DJ.
SoGlos loves
For a taste of the Alps right here in Gloucestershire, book an après ski-themed Christmas joiner party at De Vere. Think fondue and log cabin food stalls, serving Austrian, German and Hungarian delicacies; all washed down with drinks and dancing.
Meanwhile, for families with children, De Vere is hosting Sunday lunches and afternoon teas where Father Christmas will be in attendance. On selected dates throughout December 2022, little ones can meet the man himself while tucking into a carvery or festive afternoon tea — visiting the grotto and receiving a special gift, too.
How much?
Christmas party package cost £49 per person, with the exception of après ski parties, which are priced at £45 per person. There's the option to add overnight accommodation to all Christmas party packages for £59 per person for bed and breakfast.
Santa Sunday lunches and Santa afternoon teas cost £26 for adults, £16 for children aged four to 12 and £10 for infants up to the age of three; meanwhile, the standard festive afternoon tea, which doesn't include a visit from Father Christmas, costs £22.95 for adults and £15 for children aged four to 14. Pre-booking and pre-payment is required for these experiences.
When?
Christmas joiner and après ski joiner party nights are taking place on Saturday 3, Friday 9, Saturday 10, Friday 16 and Saturday 17 December 2022.
Private Christmas parties are available to book from Friday 25 November 2022 onwards.
Santa Sunday lunches are taking place on Sunday 11 and Sunday 18 December; while Santa afternoon teas are on Saturday 10 and Saturday 17 December. The standard festive afternoon tea is being served daily from Thursday 1 December 2022, excluding Saturdays.
How to book
To enquire, call De Vere Cotswold Water Park on (01285) 864000 or fill out its online enquiry form via devere.co.uk/cotswold-water-park-hotel/christmas.
Christmas party venues in Gloucester
Christmas parties at Coal Kitchen
The venue
This Christmas season, independent restaurant Coal Kitchen in the historic Pillar and Lucy House at Gloucester Docks, is offering guests the chance to celebrate with friends, family or colleagues after missing out on two years of festive celebrations, fun and laughter.
On the menu
Promising to serve up yuletide joy this Christmastime, the chefs at Coal Kitchen have put together a sumptuous festive menu, featuring dishes such as roast hake with crushed root vegetables, braised kale and chestnuts; vegan spiced Wellington, roast potatoes, swede, carrots, brussels sprouts and vegan gravy; and of course, a classic roast turkey dinner with stuffing, pigs in blankets, potatoes and more.
Whether it's an office Christmas party, a special catch up with friends or a spontaneous cocktail, Coal Kitchen can create a great festive experience sure to leave lasting memories and get you ready for the big day.
Plus, Coal Kitchen can cater for small groups all the way up to 150 people - so there's something to suit everyone, whether you're throwing a massive seasonal blowout or a quiet but cheery celebration.
SoGlos loves
As many of us are sticking to a tighter budget this year, Coal Kitchen has introduced the helpful option of adding a drinks package to your festive meal, so you can plan your spend per head and relax while enjoying the party.
How much?
Two-course meals cost £24.95, while three courses come in at £27.95. Drinks packages start from £5 and can include fizz, half a bottle of wine and a festive cocktail.
When?
Christmas parties are available at Coal Kitchen throughout November and December 2022.
How to book
Visit coalkitchen.co.uk/christmas.
Christmas parties at Nineteen at Brickhampton Golf Complex
The venue
Gather your nearest and dearest for a hearty two or three-course festive lunch or dinner at Brickhampton Golf Complex's newly refurbished Nineteen restaurant in Churchdown.
Settle into the warm and inviting restaurant and sip seasonal drinks in the stylish snug area for a relaxed and fun gathering with a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of sweet treats for everyone to enjoy.
On the menu
Nineteen's carefully curated Christmas menu includes spicy roasted parsnip soup, bang bang cauliflower, beetroot cured salmon and salt beef brisket for starters. Main courses feature traditional favourite roast turkey, chestnut and shallot tatin, a luxurious tian of smoked beef and creamy butter baked cod.
For pud, choose from boozy Christmas pudding, Biscoff cheesecake, warm chocolate brownie or a classic cheeseboard with mature cheddar, brie and Stilton.
Wash it down with handcrafted gins and vodka from Gloucester-based Fox Kiln Distillery, multi award-winning Neptune Rum or ales from Prescott Brewery, supporting local suppliers.
Children's menus to get little one's eyes lit up in delight are available, too.
SoGlos loves
There is no room charge for Christmas parties where lunch or dinner are provided. Lunch parties are for a minimum of 12 guests and dinner a minimum of 40 and a maximum of 80, so there's plenty of flexibility.
Vegan and gluten-free alternatives for each course mean everyone can enjoy the party with stress-free delicious dishes to devour without feeling deprived.
How much?
It's £25 for two Christmas courses or enjoy a three-course festive feast for £32.
When?
From Thursday 1 December 2022 to Tuesday 31 January 2023.
How to book
Contact the events team on events@brickhampton.co.uk for availability.
Christmas party venues in Stroud
Christmas parties at the Sub Rooms
The venue
Running throughout the winter period and into the New Year, partygoers can celebrate the festive season at the Sub Rooms in Stroud, with an abundance of party options to choose from.
On the menu
If you're looking for a magical end-of-year celebration with colleagues, where you can party the night away with indulgent festive menus and live entertainment, Stroud's Sub Rooms has a brilliant selection of Christmas party ideas to suit everyone's tastes.
Choose from the art deco bar, George room, ballroom and central bar and kitchen to host your party and get stuck into some seasonal delicacies as part of the various food and drink packages available - the on-site chef can even create bespoke menus.
Groups of 10 can enjoy great food and slapstick comedy at the The Nest Christmas comedy night, where guests receive a glass of Mexican punch on arrival, followed by a Mexican fiesta of a meal with tortilla chips and dips, nibbles board, Thai style fishcakes, burrito wraps and options for veggies and vegans, too.
Alternatively, for an energy packed evening, partygoers can take in a Forbidden Nights show. Combining superlative circus and acrobatic skills and showcasing stunt-orientated routines, the evening is sure to be an unforgettable night of glamour and talent.
SoGlos loves
Christmas parties don’t have to be confined to a traditional
sit-down meal, with the Sub Rooms allowing groups to take part in an interactive experience with friends, family and co-workers this festive period.
How much?
Prices vary across the Sub Rooms activities and party packages.
When?
Dates vary across the Sub Rooms activities and party packages.
How to book
Visit thesubrooms.co.uk or call (01453) 796880.
Christmas parties at Eastwood Park
The venue
Set in some 200 acres of beautiful Gloucestershire countryside, Eastwood Park is a stunning Victorian house with a range of versatile event spaces and 70 bedrooms – all within easy reach of Gloucester, Bristol, south Wales and the midlands.
On the menu
Whether you want to celebrate with friends, family or colleagues, Eastwood Park can cater for all this festive season, with winter lunches and joiner party nights available, alongside private dining – in the daytime or in the evening.
As part of its Winter Lunch
offering, guests are welcomed in from the cold with a glass of fizz while
they warm up, before sitting down to enjoy a delicious two- or three-course
meal, rounded off with mince pies.
Ramping up the festive fun, its joiner party nights also include fizz on arrival, followed by a festive three-course dinner with all the trimmings, plus coffee and mince pies, with the party package also including a DJ and a photobooth!
Promising something for everyone
– veggies and vegans included – party guests can expect sharing platters to
start, with a choice of traditional roast turkey, grilled salmon, or leek,
carrot and peanut loaf with goat's cheese for the main event.
SoGlos loves
Alongside its Winter Lunches and joiner party nights, Eastwood Park is also running a festive wreath making workshop with afternoon tea.
How much?
Winter Lunch costs £29.95 per person for two courses, or £32.50 for three courses, while Christmas party nights cost £38 per person, with overnight accommodation available for a very reasonable £55 per person. Wreath making costs £49 per person.
When?
Eastwood Park’s joiner party nights have already sold out for Friday 9 and Friday 16, but the venue still has availability for Saturday 17 December 2022, so get your skates on! Wreath making takes place on Sunday 4 December 2022 and is also selling fast.
How to book
Email events@eastwoodpark.co.uk, call (01454) 260207 or visit eastwoodpark.co.uk.
Christmas party venues in Tewkesbury
Christmas parties at Tewkesbury Park
The venue
Surrounded by gorgeous Gloucestershire countryside and its very own 18-hole golf course, Tewkesbury Park offers a luxurious setting for all kinds of festive celebrations - with a gorgeous restaurant, cocktail bar, private dining rooms, 93 bedrooms and a spa for guests to enjoy. It's also conveniently located just off the M5, ideal for anyone travelling to their Christmas celebrations.
On the menu
Tewkesbury Park has a variety of festive dining experiences this Christmas 2022. Its Winter Afternoon Tea includes plain and fruit scones slathered with Cotteswold Dairy cream and local strawberry jam; Severn and Wye smoked salmon, avocado and pickled cucumber on sourdough; honey roast turkey wholegrain sandwiches with spiced cranberry sauce; smoked brie, sun blushed tomatoes and pear and ginger chutney on turmeric tortillas; free-range egg mayonnaise with cress on white bread; blood orange macarons with mint ganache; blackberry and apple frangipane tart; milk chocolate parfait domes with cinnamon crème fraiche; and spiced polenta cake with masala chai crémeux - alongside unlimited loose leaf tea or coffee, or a glass of English sparkling wine.
The Festive Feasting menu offers guests a two- or three-course lunch, with starters of Bibury trout, ham hock and chicken terrine or Cheltenham beetroot; mains of roast Cotswold turkey with all the trimmings, braised blade of Herefordshire beef, lightly spiced hake fillet or wild mushroom, kale and tofu koftas; followed by Christmas pudding with brandy sauce and brandy butter ice cream, dark chocolate and hazelnut praline tart or lemon and lime posset for dessert, plus coffee and mini mince pies.
While the six-course Taste of Christmas dinner offers a truly indulgent experience for special festive celebrations. Beginning with appetisers of Rosary Ash goat's cheese cornetto and pulled pork choux buns with Tewkesbury mustard cream, diners can then choose from hand-dived Scottish scallops or curried parsnip and apple soup to start; Aberdeen Angus beef fillet or winter vegetable Wellington for the main course; before enjoying a refreshing palette cleanser of gin and tonic sorbet and desserts including raspberry and rose macarons or lemon and lime posset. Then to finish off, there's Tewkesbury Park's pick of local cheeses, coffee and homemade fudge.
SoGlos loves
For bigger groups like corporate Christmas parties, Tewkesbury Park offers exclusive use of its Cotswolds Suite and Berkeley Bar, with entertainment and activities tailored to your event, as well as bespoke lunch and dinner options prepared by its fantastic chefs - not to mention luxurious rooms to spend the night in.
How much?
Winter Afternoon Tea costs £25 per person with unlimited loose leaf tea or coffee, or £33 per person to include a glass of English sparkling wine; Festive Feasting costs £30 per person for two courses or £35 per person for three courses; and Taste of Christmas costs £78 per person or £120 per person with a matching wine flight.
Exclusive use of the Cotswold Suite and Berkeley Bar for Christmas parties costs £230 per person and includes a bespoke lunch and dinner, as well as an overnight stay, with a minimum of 50 day guests and 30 staying overnight.
When?
Festive Feasting, Winter Afternoon Tea and Taste of Christmas are available to book until Monday 2 January 2023.
How to book
Visit tewkesburypark.co.uk, email reservations@tewkesburypark.co.uk, or for Cotswolds Suite party enquiries, call (01684) 272300.
