Ready to eat your way through Gloucester? This city has such a mix of old-school English pubs, creative indie restaurants, and relaxed canal-side cafes. Walking around here, you honestly just start to crave a slow lunch or a foodie stroll by the water.
It’s not London — you get a cool local feel, super fresh produce, and a load of places run by passionate people who actually love what they’re making. From proper Sunday roasts to Mediterranean dishes by the docks, Gloucester’s got something unique going on.
Here’s what (and where) you’ve gotta try.
What to Eat in Gloucester
Double Gloucester Cheese
This iconic local cheese is known for its creamy, buttery taste. You’ll see it everywhere — from farmers markets to pub cheeseboards. Fun fact: the city is famous for cheese-rolling, so if you get the chance, try some straight from a local producer.
Gloucester Old Spot Pork
Look out for this on pub menus. It’s a heritage breed pork that’s super juicy and flavorful. Roasted or in sausages, it’s classic, hearty comfort food — perfect after all that sightseeing.
Cider & Perry
West Country life = proper cider. The region is packed with local producers pouring traditional apple and pear ciders. Ask for a tasting flight at a local bar or market!
River Severn Salmon
If you love seafood, try the wild salmon that’s caught in the River Severn (in season). It pops up on menus around town — usually simply grilled, so you get that fresh river flavor.
The Full English
You can’t miss a Full English breakfast here. Local cafes do it best — just think bacon, eggs, sausage, beans, mushrooms, toast. They go big on portions, so come hungry.
Foodie Neighbourhoods in Gloucester
Gloucester Docks
This historic dockside area is where everyone comes for waterside restaurants, indie bars, and cool cafes. Loads of local seafood, Greek and Mediterranean spots, plus great people-watching during market days. Plus, Gloucester Quays shopping center is right next door.
Barnwood
Barnwood is a bit leafier and quieter, but has a few cult favorite pubs and restaurants mixed in with classic British houses. Feels residential, chill, and especially easy for a cozy dinner or Sunday roast.
City Centre & Eastgate
The area around Eastgate and Northgate is packed with coffee shops, pubs, and surprise finds (think rooftop bars, bakeries, and tea rooms). Great for wandering if you want a no-fuss lunch or quick snack before heading back to tourist mode.
Longford
This little village just north of the centre has a couple of highly-rated, classic English pubs known for generous portions and local ales. If you’re driving or up for a (very) short taxi, it’s worth checking out.
Gloucester Quays
Technically part of Gloucester Docks, but deserves its own shoutout. Heaps of chains, but also some local gems and one of the best places to graze on weekends — especially when the street food vans are set up near the water.
Budget Restaurants in Gloucester
The Fairview Gardener & The Tea Room
Super friendly, classic English tearoom inside a family-run garden center. Huge cakes, light bites, really good value. Ideal for a quiet breakfast or afternoon treat before exploring the city.
Toby Carvery Highnam
Go here for the no-nonsense British roast — all you can eat, loads of fresh veg and Yorkshire puds. Always buzzing with families and regulars for a reason. Very affordable for what you get.
Coal Kitchen Gloucester Quays
Modern spot in the Quays with a chilled vibe. They do healthy bowls, burgers and good veggie options. Portions are solid. Great for a casual (and cheap) meal after shopping or a walk down by the water.
Mid-Range Restaurants in Gloucester
Greek on the Docks
Laid-back and lively Greek restaurant right by the water. The sharing platters and seafood dishes are top-tier, and there’s always a nice buzz here. If the sun’s out, hit the terrace!
Sebz Tapas Restaurant
Tapas and Portuguese classics in a bright, cheerful setting. Super welcoming staff, lots of veggie options and great sangria. Get a big group and just order lots — it’s proper fun.
Tiger’s Eye
This unique spot is inside a Jacobean building and does Asian-inspired small plates and steak cooked at your table on hot rocks. The setting is historic; the cocktail list is strong.
Queens Head Longford
Classic English country pub just outside the centre with a big reputation for friendly staff, local ales, and big portions. Go for Sunday lunch if you can!
Luxury Restaurants in Gloucester
Ronnies of Thornbury
Fine-dining just outside Gloucester. People make the short trip for brilliant tasting menus focused on local produce. Stylish but not at all stuffy — great for a treat night or special dinner.
Prithvi, Cheltenham
Gorgeous Indian restaurant about half an hour away, but totally worth it for their innovative menu and luxe decor. Book ahead — it’s popular. Michelin recommended.
Lumière
Modern British cuisine with huge attention to detail, run by an award-winning husband and wife team. Everything from the bread to the desserts is done at the highest level.
Best Coffee Shops in Gloucester
Hubble Bubble
Quirky, independent spot right by the Cathedral. Legendary brunch, creative coffee drinks, and a proper homey feel. Try their decadent pancakes or a special hot chocolate if you want something different.
Beanz Coffee Shop
This place is all about the beans — super smooth flat whites, cool minimalist vibe, and some great gluten-free bakes. Everyone here is a regular, or feels like one!
Cafe Rene
Historic and slightly eccentric pub-cafe serving hit-the-spot coffees, big cakes, and the city’s best hot sandwiches. Live music at night and a hidden courtyard out back.
Caffè Corretto
Italian-style espresso bar by the water. Great sunny seating outside, really good homemade pastries, and a fast pace. Perfect pitstop on a waterside walk.
Portivo Lounge
Colorful, family-friendly chain cafe with tons of food options (including vegan). Relaxed, not precious, good for breakfast or a coffee catch-up with mates.
Markets in Gloucester
Gloucester Farmers Market
Central spot for fresh produce, artisan bread, local honey, and the creamiest Double Gloucester cheese. Open every Friday — grab a snack and sit by the Cross to people-watch.
Eastgate Indoor Market
Indoor market in the main shopping area, filled with produce, deli stalls, and some surprisingly good street food stands. A great rainy-day stop.
Stroud Farmers Market
This one’s technically a short train trip, but it’s a big deal if you love markets. Award-winning, loads of indie stalls — makes for a full foodie morning out.
Budget Accommodation in Gloucester
Ibis Gloucester
Reliable chain hotel, ten minutes in a taxi from the city centre. Clean, friendly, and easy on the wallet. Book direct for the cheapest rates.
Central Hotel Gloucester
Right in the city centre, steps from the shops and bars. Modern, basic, but solid when you want a crash pad with everything walkable.
Travelodge Gloucester
Another affordable chain. Spacious rooms, big beds, and often great deals if you book early. Super easy access to the Quays and docks area.
New County Hotel
Victorian building, central location, very budget-friendly. Comfortable and super close to all the city centre eating spots. Can’t beat it on price.
Premier Inn Gloucester Quays
Good-sized rooms, friendly staff, strong wifi and a fab location for the water and all the food spots in the Quays. Ideal for families and value seekers.
Mid-Range Accommodation in Gloucester
Hatton Court Hotel
Country house hotel just on the edge of town, with lovely views, comfy rooms, and a proper British breakfast. Feels miles away from the city, but it’s only a short cab.
Holiday Inn Gloucester
Classic Holiday Inn right by the main road, but the rooms are modern and you get an indoor pool and gym. Free parking too.
Jurys Inn Cheltenham
Just outside town, with loads of quiet, roomy spaces, and a nice bar/lounge for winding down. Easy access if you’re driving up from the south or heading out for day-trips.
Hallmark Hotel Gloucester
Mid-range prices, on-site spa, and walking distance to parts of the Cotswold countryside. Nice for couples’ getaways or a weekend chill.
DoubleTree by Hilton Cheltenham
Modern, great breakfast, and lots of space to relax. Having the Hilton brand means the beds are always comfy. Good if you want a quieter vibe near Gloucester.
Luxury Accommodation in Gloucester
Bowden Hall Hotel
4-star, Georgian mansion surrounded by greenery. Real “country escape” feeling, but close to the city. Big breakfast spreads and stunning rooms.
The Greenway Hotel & Spa
A few minutes’ drive away — true luxury spa retreat in a 16th-century manor house. Award-winning dining, lovely gardens, fab service.
Hatherley Manor Hotel & Spa
Country-style luxury just outside the main city. Think big rooms, indulgent spa, and top-tier breakfasts. Especially lovely in the spring and summer.
Tewkesbury Park
Gorgeous views across the countryside, golf course, pool, and an elegant vibe all around. Worth the drive for a treat weekend — the afternoon teas and Sunday lunches are lush.
Burleigh Court Hotel
Not quite in the city but close enough. Beautiful period building, big gardens, proper service, and a locally-sourced restaurant menu that’s a standout. You’ll want to linger at breakfast.
