The Hollow Bottom

Often frequented by Cheltenham race-goers, this 18th-century Cotswold free house is decorated with all manner of horse-racing memorabilia - from badges and silks to framed newspaper cuttings. Its nooks and crannies are warmed by a blazing log fire and lend themselves to planning a punt with an intimate drink or meal; there's also a separate dining room, plus outside tables for fine weather. In addition to real ales and ciders, the bar proffers a grand selection of malt whiskies, wines and champagne. If you're after a snack, baked potatoes and freshly made baguettes have a choice of fillings. Other dishes of typical pub fare extend from home-made pie or roast of the day to wholetail scampi.