Popular pandemic café to be dismantled and closed

The café became a popular place to eat in the years following the pandemic

A popular café that initially opened as a "temporary" offering during the pandemic is closing its doors.

An orangery and decking were erected for The Heritage Café to open at Pittville Pump Room as planning restrictions were eased temporarily to support the hospitality outlets while social restrictions were ongoing.

The temporary planning permission expires on 4 November.

The Cheltenham Trust has decided to close the café to "fully focus on delivering a range of seasonal events" and reopen a "new look café" on 29 October.

The dismantling of the orangery and decking to the western side of the Grade I Listed building started on Monday.

The trust said café staff will be redeployed or offered alternative employment "as appropriate" and where possible.

The new café will open on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday each week, as well as on Saturday 23 November for the Christmas lights switch on.

'A cherished destination'

The Cheltenham Trust said in a statement that The Heritage Café provided "a safe and welcoming space for social interaction" during the pandemic, and became "a cherished destination".

"We understand that the café has become a popular spot for many, and we appreciate your support over the years," the trust said.

"We invite you to continue making memories by joining our festive events... all of which will be hosted in the historic setting of the pump room.