Victoria's — Restaurant in Cheltenham

Had afternoon tea here on numerous occasions. Also my venue of choice to celebrate several events.

Today I asked if we could have some food outside to be told that it wasn't really set up properly. Not to worry I said, happy to pull up a chair as other guests had done (a couple were sat outside drinking). Ok, the gentleman waiter with the gold stud earring said, and handed me some menus (which did not reflect the entire offerings inc. the set menu, kids menu or afternoon tea).

Quite a while later, and almost ready to give up, our waiter returned to inform us that their supervisor had advised that he could not serve us outside due to a licensing issue (?) And that the couple at the next table had ordered their drinks at the bar and taken them outside. Ok we ll eat inside and then take our drinks outside? I offered.

Followed him inside to find him talking about us to the other members of staff on duty; ushering them in close and whispering in their ears. Unaware that we were stood behind him. He seemed frustrated; gesturing with his hands. Sat us down and then ignored us whilst another waiter took over. Refused to make eye contact whilst he moved around the room being extremely polite to other diners.

I asked my daughter if she thought he was being rude towards us and she agreed. Enjoyed my food whilst watching the garden area fill up with guests being served, and paying for, their drinks...

Perhaps the gentleman could have simply explained the real reason for being unable to eat outside (whatever the reason is) and then I wouldn't have been perplexed and he wouldn't have behaved as if I was being difficult when I was as polite and friendly...

We're just home from a fantastic short break in Cheltenham. We went to the Queen's Hotel for a coffee one day and loved it so much we returned for lunch the next day. We ordered a selection of their nibbles and small plates to share. The food was absolutely delicious and the service was excellent - friendly and professional with great recommendations on drinks. We tried a new gin and loved it! The setting is magnificent in a splendid classical building that has been decorated to compliment the beautiful architecture and create atmosphere. You can sit in the burgundy room with huge windows out onto the garden or you can sit in the garden on quality garden furniture under large parasols and enjoy the bird song. It's a quiet little paradise in the centre of the bustling spa town. We...

Our family of four had the festive afternoon tea.

It isn't the cheapest, but I would eat there again - good food and great service.

I wondered what the children's menu would be like, as some can be average compared to the adults. However, they were amazing! I was actually quite jealous of their iced shortbread cookie.

Editing my review to add that we went this year, and the children's menu wasn't as good; no gingerbread snowman, no candy cane, no macarons, and regular cut sandwiches, not reindeer shaped . Some of the children's items were from the adult menu, and not child friendly. The last photo is today's offering.

Will look to go...