About Prestbury.
Prestbury is a picturesque village on the outskirts of Cheltenham, renowned for its charm and character. It’s a vibrant community with everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a high-quality butcher, barbers, hairdressers, pharmacy, and village stores. The village is also home to three traditional pubs, all within easy walking distance, perfect for enjoying a meal or a drink in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
For those interested in the rich history of the area, the Prestbury History Society offers a deeper look into the village’s past. They host monthly meetings at the Prestbury Women’s Institute Hall, held at 7:30pm on the fourth Monday of every month—an excellent way to learn more about the heritage of this charming village.
Why Prestbury?
Pubs.
You’ll be spoiled for choice in Prestbury, which boasts three traditional pubs, each offering a unique experience. Conveniently located next to Cleeve Cottage is The Plough, a quaint little pub that is extremely popular with both locals and visitors who appreciate its rich historical charm.
Stepping inside The Plough feels like a journey back to the 17th century, with its unspoiled ambiance and a large open fireplace that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy a selection of real ales, served straight from the cask behind the bar.
Be sure to explore the other two delightful pubs nearby, The Royal Oak and The King’s Arms. Each has its own unique character and is just a five-minute walk away, making it easy to experience the best of Prestbury’s local pub scene.
Food.
The King’s Arms.
The King’s Arms, part of the renowned White Brasserie family, opened its doors in Prestbury in December 2019. Nestled on the High Street in a beautifully restored 14th-century building, this restaurant exudes character and warmth. The restoration work focused on preserving the charm of the original beams and wooden floors, breathing new life into this historic pub. With its blend of traditional ambiance and modern dining, The King’s Arms is truly a must-visit spot in the village.
The Royal Oak.
The Royal Oak has long been a favourite among locals and visitors alike, offering traditional charm and original features. Located just a stone’s throw from Cheltenham Racecourse, it’s the closest pub to the track. Inside, you’ll find log fires, a cosy dining room, and a dog-friendly snug bar, while outside, a spacious beer garden awaits. The menu features delicious, seasonal pub food, and behind the bar, you’ll find award-winning craft beers and real ales.
The Hewlett Arms.
We believe The Hewlett Arms is one of Cheltenham’s hidden gems. Since coming under new ownership in March 2014, this charming pub has become a must-visit. The dedicated landlords are passionate about serving fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients, with each dish cooked to order. Alongside their delicious food, they offer a great selection of real ales, including brews from local favourites like Prescott Brewery.
Ghosts.
Prestbury is reputed to be one of the most haunted villages in England, with its lanes said to echo the eerie presence of spirits from centuries past. Among its spectral residents is the Cavalier Ghost, a soldier shot during the Civil War, whose galloping horse can still be heard thundering through the village. In fact, there are reportedly more than a dozen ghosts that haunt the area.
The most famous of them all is the Black Abbot, a figure regularly seen around St Mary’s Church and its churchyard. He is most often spotted during Christmas and Easter, always following the same path. The Black Abbot appears just before crossing the churchyard and vanishes through the wall on High Street. In years past, he was even known to walk the aisle inside the church itself, but after an exorcism, he now only appears outside in the churchyard, adding a haunting mystery to this picturesque village.
A Must Visit.
In Prestbury, you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing and enjoyable stay, with all essential amenities just a short stroll away. The village is particularly known for its award-winning Waghornes Butchers, a high-quality, traditional butcher shop that’s a local favourite.
Waghornes specializes in free-range, farm-reared meat and game, ensuring the best quality from farm to table. They also offer a tempting selection of delicatessen products, locally baked pies, and freshly delivered Hobbs House Bread each day. Known for their dedication to quality and service, Waghornes has become a must-visit for anyone staying in Prestbury.
Recently, Waghornes expanded its reach by opening a second location at Stroud’s Stroud’s Five Valleys Shopping Centre, bringing the same exceptional products and service to a wider audience, while continuing to run their much-loved Prestbury shop.
With Nigel's extensive knowledge and excellent customer service, this traditional butcher shop is a true gem in the village and well worth a visit during your stay.