SoGlos is excited to announce the winners of the eighth annual Gloucestershire Lifestyle Awards, held at the historic Pittville Pump Room on Thursday, May 8, 2025. This celebrated event honors the best of Gloucestershire’s lifestyle sector.
Over 220 businesses were in the running, with more than 28,000 votes from SoGlos readers. Finalists were carefully selected by a panel of judges from category partners.
The atmosphere was festive, with finalists and guests enjoying drinks and delicious food amidst the lively celebration. A big thank you goes out to The Cheltenham Trust and the SoGlos team for their hard work!
Winners Overview
Here’s a look at the standout winners by category:
Cultural Venue of the Year:
Winner: Westonbirt, The National Arboretum
Known for its stunning collection of 15,000 trees, Westonbirt attracts around 500,000 visitors each year. It offers exciting family events and programs that connect children with nature while supporting local communities.
Family Day Out of the Year:
Winner: Cotswold Farm Park
This family-friendly venue allows children to interact with farm animals and even feed them. Recently, it added a sensory play area to enhance the experience for children with additional needs.
Independent School of the Year:
Winner: The King’s School, Gloucester
This school combines rich traditions with innovative teaching methods, offering a well-rounded education in a nurturing environment.
Entertainment Venue of the Year:
Winner: Dunkertons Cider
More than just a cidery, Dunkertons hosts a vibrant range of events, from comedy shows to community fairs, making it a cultural hub in Cheltenham.
Sporting Venue of the Year:
Winner: Cheltenham Lido
Revamped as a top-notch outdoor swimming spot, Cheltenham Lido serves about 250,000 visitors annually, promoting fitness and community engagement.
Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year:
Winner: The Beefy Boys
Renowned for its gourmet burgers and unique offerings, The Beefy Boys continues to thrive, recently expanding its locations and even publishing a bestselling cookbook.
Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year:
Winner: Prithvi
With a modern twist on Indian cuisine, Prithvi’s tasting menu, created by Michelin-trained chef Thomas Law, has earned wide acclaim.
Food & Drink Producer of the Year:
Winner: DEYA Brewing Company
This exceptional brewery focuses on hoppy beers and has gained praise for its top-selling beers across the UK.
Pub/Bar of the Year:
Winner: Flight Club Darts
This innovative social darts bar combines traditional pub vibes with high-tech fun, providing a unique night out.
Chef of the Year:
Winner: Warwick Nicholson, Henry’s Seafood Bar & Grill
Warwick blends his finance background with culinary creativity, significantly elevating the dining experience at Henry’s.
Cafe/Coffee Shop of the Year:
Winner: KNEAD Bakery Elkstone
Not only does KNEAD serve delightful baked goods, but it has also fostered a welcoming community atmosphere.
Hotel of the Year:
Winner: The Greenway Hotel & Spa
Housed in a stunning 16th-century manor, The Greenway is celebrated for its luxurious accommodations and top-tier service.
Wedding Business of the Year:
Winner: The Barn at Berkeley
This wedding venue is celebrated for its picturesque setting and exceptional food sourced from local farms.
Independent Retailer of the Year:
Winner: The Cotswold Veg Box Co
After rising to prominence during the pandemic, this company continues to deliver fresh produce and support local farmers across the UK.
Property & Interiors Business of the Year:
Winner: Rachael Harding Interiors
Focusing on sustainability and individual style, Rachael’s business has flourished, serving a loyal clientele.
Health & Wellbeing Business of the Year:
Winner: Cheltenham Lido
Beyond swimming, it offers wellness classes and community events aimed at enhancing wellbeing.
Children’s Business of the Year:
Winner: The Wild Things Events
Promoting creativity and exploration, this initiative provides affordable, fun activities for children across Gloucestershire.
Event of the Year:
Winner: Avalon, Giffords Circus
Combining circus artistry with a charming atmosphere, Giffords Circus attracts fans far and wide with its captivating shows.
Charity of the Year:
Winner: Hollie Gazzard Trust
Founded to educate and prevent domestic abuse, this charity plays a crucial role in community outreach.
Lifestyle Business of the Year:
Winner: Westonbirt, The National Arboretum
Crowned "winner of winners," Westonbirt continues to leave a lasting impact as a beloved lifestyle destination.
This year’s awards not only recognize the incredible talent in Gloucestershire but also highlight the strong community spirit that connects us all. For more information on each winner and their contributions, visit SoGlos.