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HOW IT STARTED
EST. 2021
FOUR CATS was founded by Matt - a Cheltenham native and career bartender who spent years working across some of London’s leading bars, restaurants and hotels.
When Covid brought him back home, it created space to reflect. Having experienced the energy and creativity of the city, it became clear that Cheltenham was missing something - a space that combined quality drinks with culture and a genuine sense of belonging. The ambition wasn’t simply to open another bar, but to build a community hub where young creatives could connect.
FOUR CATS started as nomads, refining the drinks and the concept through collaborations, pop-ups and takeovers in bars, cafés and shops across the Cotswolds. A year later, the dream site at The Studios in Cheltenham became available.
We dropped everything and got on the tools. Pints of blood, plenty of sweat and 100 favours later, the doors opened to the first permanent home: the FOUR CATS Bar & Bottle Shop.
FOUR CATS started as nomads, refining the drinks and the concept through collaborations, pop-ups and takeovers in bars, cafés and shops across the Cotswolds. A year later, the dream site at The Studios in Cheltenham became available.
We dropped everything and got on the tools. Pints of blood, plenty of sweat and 100 favours later, the doors opened to the first permanent home: the FOUR CATS Bar & Bottle Shop.
FOUR CATS was founded by Matt - a Cheltenham native and career bartender who spent years working across some of London’s leading bars, restaurants and hotels.
When Covid brought him back home, it created space to reflect. Having experienced the energy and creativity of the city, it became clear that Cheltenham was missing something - a space that combined quality drinks with culture and a genuine sense of belonging. The ambition wasn’t simply to open another bar, but to build a community hub where young creatives could connect.
HOW IT'S GOING
Having a permanent base gave FOUR CATS room to grow properly. Connections deepened, the team expanded, and a loyal community of friends and regulars formed around us - all while we developed some seriously good drinks and hosted standout events and collaborations.
As word spread about the atmosphere of the venue and the quality of our bevs, opportunities began to open up beyond our own four walls. We expanded through consultancy and creative partnerships - most notably joining our neighbours at DEYA Brewery to launch The Swamp, and collaborating with iconic local and national brands to bring Cheltenham’s newest vinyl lounge and bar, Parler, to life.
After three years, our chapter at The Studios came to a natural close. With strong foundations and a growing reputation, FOUR CATS returned to its nomadic roots - now focused solely on consultancy and events, taking our approach to drinks and hospitality wherever it’s invited.
Having a permanent base gave FOUR CATS room to grow properly. Connections deepened, the team expanded, and a loyal community of friends and regulars formed around us - all while we developed some seriously good drinks and hosted standout events and collaborations.
As word spread about the atmosphere of the venue and the quality of our bevs, opportunities began to open up beyond our own four walls. We expanded through consultancy and creative partnerships - most notably joining our neighbours at DEYA Brewery to launch The Swamp, and collaborating with iconic local and national brands to bring Cheltenham’s newest vinyl lounge and bar, Parler, to life.
After three years, our chapter at The Studios came to a natural end, and we took the difficult decision to close the Bar & Bottle Shop. An so, With strong foundations and a growing reputation, FOUR CATS returned to its nomadic roots - now focused solely on consultancy and events, taking our approach to drinks and hospitality wherever it’s invited.
OUR MISSION & VALUES
REALLY GOOD DRINKS
Our house style is clean, crisp and understated - no gimmicks, just craft, balance and flavour. We focus on the details that make a difference, from crystal-clear ice to frozen glassware on every serve.
Most of our preps are made in-house, often using culinary techniques to refine flavour and texture. Whether it's artisan spirts, craft beers or natural wines, we work with quality-led producers who share our standards.
Simple on the surface. Exceptional in the glass.
GENUINE HOSPITALITY
We believe being a good host is all about authentic human interaction - not stuffy, scripted procedures.
We meet people where they’re at, whether it’s a quick drink or a long evening with friends, paying attention, reading the room and anticipating what’s needed before it’s asked.
It’s about the small things: remembering names, making introductions, getting the timing right. Above all, it’s making people feel welcome, relaxed and part of something.
CREATIVE COMMUNITY
Creativity brings soul.
FOUR CATS exists to create a home for like-minded people - those with a story to tell and a creator’s eye. We believe creativity is broad and inclusive; it’s not confined to one craft. In many ways, we’re all creative. It’s in how we make, host, build and connect. We foster that energy by bringing people together - through events, collaborations and shared ideas - working alongside artists, DJs, designers, makers and independents.
When creative people gather, a space comes alive.
Meet the Team
Get in Touch
FOUR CATS
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
hello@fourcatsbars.co.uk
For bar consultancy or bespoke events, please use our dedicated enquiries pages for a faster response. We are artisanal, approachable, and ready to help.