Gin Tasting Near Cheltenham: An Evening at Oakwood Hotel

Gin has become one of the most loved spirits in the country, and with so many small-batch distilleries producing distinctive, well-crafted gins, a proper tasting experience is one of the best ways to explore what’s out there. Just outside Cheltenham, Oakwood Hotel hosts gin tasting evenings that bring together a thoughtfully chosen selection of gins, knowledgeable guidance, and a relaxed setting that makes the whole experience feel like an occasion rather than a quick drink at the bar.

Why Choose Oakwood for Gin Tasting

Oakwood Hotel sits on the outskirts of Gloucester, a short drive from Cheltenham, offering a quieter and more intimate setting than a busy town-centre bar. Our gin tastings typically take place in The Pub, a relaxed, sociable space that suits the format well — enough room to gather comfortably, without losing the personal, conversational feel that makes a tasting evening enjoyable.

We take the same approach to gin tasting that we bring to food across the hotel: authentic, considered, and built around genuine quality rather than novelty. That means a curated selection of gins — often including regional and small-batch options alongside more familiar names — paired thoughtfully with tonics, garnishes, and light bites designed to complement rather than overpower each pour.

What to Expect on the Night

A typical gin tasting evening at Oakwood is structured but relaxed. Guests are guided through a selection of gins, usually four to six, with each one introduced alongside its story — where it’s distilled, the botanicals used, and what flavour profile to expect. Rather than simply pouring and moving on, we encourage guests to compare, discuss, and find out what they actually enjoy, which makes the evening as much about discovery as it is about drinking.

Tonic pairings play a bigger role than people often expect. The right tonic can completely change how a gin tastes, and part of the experience is learning how different mixers and garnishes — citrus, botanicals, herbs — bring out different characteristics in each spirit. Light snacks are usually served alongside the tasting to keep the evening balanced and sociable.

A Great Option for Groups and Celebrations

Gin tasting lends itself naturally to group bookings, and it’s become a popular choice for hen parties, birthday celebrations, work socials, and casual get-togethers with friends. The format works well whether you’re a group of committed gin enthusiasts or simply curious and looking for something a little different to do near Cheltenham.

For larger groups or a more tailored evening, our occasions and events team can help put together a private tasting session, adjusting the format, gin selection, and food pairings to suit your group’s preferences and numbers.

Make a Night of It

Because Oakwood is a hotel as well as a venue, guests attending an evening tasting have the option to stay over rather than worrying about the journey home afterwards. Our comfortable rooms make it easy to turn a gin tasting evening into a proper night away — particularly popular with groups travelling in from Cheltenham or further afield for a celebration.

Why Gin Lovers Choose Oakwood Near Cheltenham

• A curated, thoughtfully chosen selection of gins rather than a generic lineup
• Knowledgeable, guided tastings rather than a simple pour-and-go
• A relaxed, welcoming setting in The Pub, ideal for groups
• Light food pairings designed to complement the tasting
• The option to stay overnight and avoid travelling home late
• Easy access from Cheltenham, without the hassle of a town-centre venue

Getting Here from Cheltenham

Oakwood Hotel is located at:

Tewkesbury Rd, Twigworth, Gloucester GL2 9PG

This places us roughly 20–25 minutes from Cheltenham by car, making it a convenient option for an evening out without straying too far from home.

Frequently Asked QuestionsHow often does Oakwood Hotel host gin tasting evenings?

Gin tasting evenings run periodically throughout the year, with additional private sessions available on request. We’d recommend checking with us directly or following our events updates for upcoming dates.

How many gins are included in a typical tasting?

A standard tasting usually includes between four and six different gins, each introduced with background on its origin, botanicals, and flavour profile.

Do I need any prior knowledge of gin to attend?

Not at all. Our tastings are designed to suit both newcomers and enthusiasts, with guidance provided throughout so everyone can get the most out of the evening regardless of experience.

Can I book a private gin tasting for a group?

Yes, we regularly host private tastings for groups such as birthdays, hen parties, and work socials. Get in touch with our events team to arrange a session tailored to your group.

Is food included as part of the gin tasting?

Light snacks and food pairings are typically included alongside the tasting to complement the different gins and keep the evening balanced.

How far is Oakwood Hotel from Cheltenham?

Oakwood Hotel is approximately 20–25 minutes from Cheltenham by car, making it an easy and convenient option for an evening event.

Can I stay overnight after the gin tasting?

Yes, Oakwood Hotel offers on-site rooms, so guests attending an evening tasting can comfortably stay over rather than travelling home afterwards.

Do I need to book in advance for a gin tasting evening?

Yes, we’d recommend booking ahead, particularly for group bookings or popular dates, to guarantee your place and help us prepare the right quantities for the evening.