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The Suffolks
Welcome to The Suffolks, Cheltenham...
The Suffolks is an area of quiet, period streets set around the grand architecture of Suffolk Square, a short walk from the top of Cheltenham's Montpellier District in one direction and the same distance to Bath Road, Leckhampton in the other.
It's a quirky place where the terraces of Georgian and Victorian townhouses recall the affluent heydays of Cheltenham as a spa town. The Earl of Suffolk acquired the area briefly in the early 19th century, and has left his name not only on the streets and square, but also (as is the way of the English aristocracy) on one of the local pubs.
It's a place to wander, whatever the weather and a place for browsing among curios and quality things. It’s also worth taking a peek inside the Daffodil Restaurant which is housed in an original 1920 Art Deco Cinema, retaining many of the original features and once appearing in an episode of Benedict Cumberbatch's Sherlock.
A large car park off the Bath Road make access very easy. The best way to see the Suffolks is at your leisure. Walk around the gentle streets or drop into a cafe for a cup of something hot. Browse in shops, talk to the independent shop owners; there's no hurry. Here, time moves at the pace you choose.
Shopping in The Suffolks
The big commercial retailers have not penetrated here; the shops are independent, artisan and knowledgeably run all nestled in within gorgeous residential townhouses. Here you’ll find some of the very best boutiques that are unique to Cheltenham.
We particularly love Bodega and Atelier 19 for womenswear, and Revamp for your one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, complemented by a range of specialist interiors shops including lighting, decorating, art, framing, flooring, fireplaces, and the like. There’s also a number of barbers and hairdressers in the region to complete your look.
Dining in The Suffolks
We can’t mention The Suffolks without reference to Cheltenham’s Michelin Star Restaurant – Le Champignon Sauvage, which offers a veritable feast of dishes that it’s hard to pick between. We also adore Baker & Graze – don’t miss one of their doughnuts – and Café Boho for their amazing Danish Pancakes. Locals love The Beehive for a traditional pub vibe, and The Retreat for a wine bar come music venue too.
The Suffolks Street Markets
This vibrant area closes to traffic several times a year as they host a Christmas Market, May Bank Holiday Market and several popular Sunday Markets with over 80 independent stalls, featuring arts & crafts, designers & makers, vintage pieces, food & drink vendors and street food.
We thoroughly recommend you pop along, join in the fun and experience the “Notting Hill” flavour as people (and dogs) browse and chat, meeting friends old and new.
Find out more here - The Suffolks Sunday Markets