Café René: Gloucester’s Historic Hub for Food, Music, and Nightlife
A lively Gloucester pub and restaurant blending historic charm, award-winning food, and vibrant live music in the city centre.
Located at 31 Southgate Street in Gloucester, Café René is a vibrant city-centre pub and restaurant known for its award-winning food, lively live music events, and welcoming atmosphere. Open daily with extended weekend hours, it offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern entertainment, making it a local favourite for dining, drinks, and late-night parties.
A brief summary to Café René
- 31 Southgate St, Gloucester, GL1 1TP, GB
- +441452309340
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-12 am
- Tuesday 11 am-12 am
- Wednesday 11 am-12 am
- Thursday 11 am-12 am
- Friday 11 am-2:30 am
- Saturday 11 am-3 am
- Sunday 11 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a relaxed dining experience; weekends offer lively late-night music and dancing.
- Try to arrive before 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays to avoid the £3 entrance fee.
- Check the schedule for live music events and the annual summer blues festival for a unique cultural experience.
- The menu caters well to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets—ask staff for daily specials.
- Enjoy the cozy candlelit dining room for a romantic evening or the vibrant bar area for socializing.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Café René location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Café René
A Storied Venue at Gloucester’s Heart
Café René has been a cornerstone of Gloucester’s social scene since its opening in 2003. Situated in a historic building on Southgate Street, the pub blends rustic charm with a character-rich interior, featuring distinctive touches like a stone well at its centre and a ceiling lined with wine bottles. Its warm, candlelit dining room offers a cozy setting that contrasts with the lively bar and music spaces, making it a versatile venue for all occasions.A Culinary Experience Beyond Fast Food
The café prides itself on serving freshly prepared, quality food rather than fast food. The kitchen operates daily, serving meals from midday until late evening, with menus that cater to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. The emphasis on good food served promptly is supported by a team with over 30 years of experience, ensuring excellent service alongside delicious dishes.Live Music and Festival Atmosphere
Café René is renowned for its vibrant live music scene, hosting regular DJ nights, bands, and artists across diverse genres. Its annual summer blues festival attracts performers and audiences from around the globe, creating a festive atmosphere that energizes the city centre. The venue also showcases artwork from emerging artists, including street art and sculptures, enriching the cultural experience.Extended Hours and Nightlife Culture
As the first pub in Gloucester to secure a 24-hour licence, Café René remains a hub for late-night entertainment. It opens at 11 am daily, closing at midnight on weekdays and extending to 2 am or 3 am on weekends. A modest entrance fee applies after 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, with no admittance after 1 am. This schedule supports a dynamic nightlife scene where patrons can enjoy drinks, dancing, and socializing well into the early hours.Atmosphere and Community Spirit
The venue’s atmosphere is a blend of relaxed and lively, where every corner tells a story. Its welcoming vibe encourages a diverse clientele to gather, whether for a quiet afternoon drink, a romantic dinner, or a hedonistic party. The management’s vision was to create a space where great food, drinks, music, and good company come together seamlessly, a goal that has been realized over two decades.Accessibility and Amenities
Café René offers wheelchair accessibility and amenities such as free Wi-Fi, highchairs, and a full bar. It is family-friendly during dining hours and transitions into a vibrant live music bar later in the evening. The location benefits from strong mobile reception and is well integrated into Gloucester’s urban fabric, making it easy to reach and enjoy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eastgate viewing chamber
0.2 km
Discover Gloucester’s ancient Roman and medieval city defenses through a unique underground viewing chamber beneath Eastgate Street.
Visit Cotswolds Online
6.9 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds, where rolling hills, historic villages, and breathtaking landscapes await every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust
6.9 km
Explore the rich ecclesiastical heritage of Gloucestershire through its historic churches, showcasing stunning architecture and engaging community initiatives.
The Bee Shelter, Hartpury
7.2 km
Discover Hartpury’s unique 19th-century Bee Shelter, a stunning stone monument celebrating Gloucestershire’s rich beekeeping heritage and Victorian craftsmanship.
Haresfield Topograph
10.0 km
A three-dimensional map landmark on the Cotswold escarpment with panoramic views toward Wales.
Sim's Clock
13.5 km
Historic Sim's Clock stands as a timeless symbol in Stroud’s vibrant George Street, blending heritage with community spirit.
May Hill
13.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of May Hill, a mountain peak in Longhope offering stunning views, hiking trails, and a serene escape into nature.
Visit The Cotswolds
14.3 km
Discover the charm of the Cotswolds, a stunning region filled with picturesque villages, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history.
Walk The Cotswolds
14.4 km
Explore the Cotswolds' breathtaking landscapes and charming villages with Walk The Cotswolds, your gateway to England's picturesque countryside adventures.
The Garden at Miserden
14.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of The Garden at Miserden, a stunning oasis in the Cotswolds perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.
Tewkesbury Abbey
15.2 km
Explore Tewkesbury Abbey, a stunning medieval masterpiece rich in history and breathtaking architecture, nestled in the heart of Tewkesbury.
World Walks (inc. Cotswold Journeys, British & Irish Walks)
16.7 km
Explore the captivating beauty of the Cotswolds with World Walks, your gateway to unforgettable guided walking tours across Britain and Ireland.
Cotswold Journeys
16.7 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds on expertly crafted walking tours with seamless logistics and charming local stays.
Woodchester Mansion Trust
17.2 km
Explore the intriguing Woodchester Mansion, a historical gem showcasing Victorian architecture and enchanting landscapes in the heart of Gloucestershire.
Nympsfield Long Barrow
17.5 km
Explore Nympsfield Long Barrow: A serene Neolithic burial site in the Cotswolds, rich in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Greyfriars
0.1 km
Explore Greyfriars in Gloucester, a historical landmark that showcases stunning architecture and rich heritage, perfect for all history lovers.
Eastgate Shopping Centre
0.1 km
A vibrant indoor shopping and community hub in Gloucester’s city centre, blending unique shops, local market charm, and welcoming amenities.
Blackfriars Priory
0.1 km
Explore one of England’s finest medieval Dominican priories, blending rich history, stunning timber architecture, and vibrant modern events in Gloucester.
Museum Of Gloucester
0.2 km
Explore Gloucester’s rich Roman heritage, Victorian charm, and vibrant community spirit at the Museum of Gloucester.
Gloucester Antiques Centre
0.2 km
Explore three floors of antiques and collectibles in Gloucester’s historic Old Judges House, featuring over 40 specialist dealers and a vast range of treasures.
Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
0.2 km
Explore over 300 years of Gloucestershire military heritage through immersive exhibits and personal stories at Gloucester’s historic Docks museum.
Cathedral Quarter Gloucester
0.2 km
Explore Gloucester’s historic Cathedral Quarter, where ancient streets meet vibrant culture and timeless heritage.
Gloucestershire Arts & Crafts Centre
0.2 km
Discover handmade treasures and creative workshops in the heart of Gloucester, where local artists showcase their craft in a welcoming city-centre space.
The House Of The Tailor Of Gloucester
0.3 km
Step into Beatrix Potter’s enchanting world at the House of The Tailor of Gloucester, where story and history come alive in a charming museum and shop.
Gloucester Docks
0.3 km
Explore Gloucester Docks, a vibrant Victorian waterfront blending rich maritime history, museums, shopping, dining, and scenic canal views.
Gloucester Cathedral
0.3 km
Explore Gloucester Cathedral’s 1,300 years of history, stunning architecture, royal tombs, and iconic cloisters in the heart of Gloucester.
Folk of Gloucester
0.4 km
Step into Gloucester’s living history at The Folk, a vibrant Tudor museum and community hub celebrating local heritage and culture.
National Waterways Museum Gloucester
0.5 km
Explore 200 years of Britain's waterways heritage with historic vessels, hands-on exhibits, and canal cruises at Gloucester Docks.
St Oswald's Priory
0.6 km
Explore Gloucester’s oldest surviving Saxon monument, where royal history and medieval ruins tell tales of faith and power.
Gloucestershire Revealed
0.7 km
Discover Gloucestershire’s rich heritage through archives, exhibitions, and family history at the Gloucestershire Heritage Hub in Gloucester.
Essential places to dine
Topoly's
0.1 km
Authentic family-run Italian dining in the heart of Gloucester, serving fresh homemade dishes since 1990 in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Tiger's Eye Restaurant
0.1 km
Historic Gloucester’s Tiger's Eye offers interactive Pan-Asian fusion dining with hot rock grilling and a vibrant cocktail bar atmosphere.
Aroma
0.2 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with impeccable hospitality in the heart of Gloucester’s historic Southgate Street.
The March Hare
0.2 km
A cozy tearoom in Gloucester’s historic Oxbode offering fresh local fare and friendly service from morning to afternoon.
Comfy Pew Cafe Bistro
0.3 km
Cozy, friendly café in Gloucester offering delicious breakfast and lunch with gluten-free and vegan options near the cathedral.
Bangkok Canteen Gloucester
0.3 km
Gloucester’s premier gluten-free Thai restaurant blending authentic flavors with sustainable, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy city-center setting.
Settebello Trattoria
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with panoramic dockside views at Gloucester’s beloved Settebello Trattoria.
Greek on the Docks
0.4 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and vibrant Mediterranean flavors with stunning waterfront views in the heart of Gloucester Docks.
The Tall Ship
0.4 km
Historic Grade II listed pub in Gloucester Docks offering excellent British food, great beer, live music, and a lively social atmosphere.
The Barge
0.4 km
A cozy family-run spot in Gloucester Docks serving hearty English classics with a welcoming bring-your-own-drinks policy.
Sebz
0.4 km
Authentic Mediterranean tapas and vibrant wine bar in Gloucester’s historic Northgate Street, blending fresh flavors with a lively atmosphere.
Bill's Gloucester Quays Restaurant
0.5 km
A relaxed, modern British restaurant at Gloucester Quays, perfect for a post-shopping meal or casual catch-up with friends and family.
Côte Gloucester
0.6 km
Modern French brasserie offering refined cuisine and warm service in Gloucester Quays, now closed but fondly remembered.
Nepalese Chef
0.7 km
Experience authentic Nepalese and Asian fusion cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu in the heart of Gloucester.
The Lock Keepers
2.0 km
A serene riverside restaurant and hotel near Gloucester, offering seasonal dishes, warm service, and cozy accommodation in a charming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
King's Walk
0.2 km
Gloucester’s central shopping destination featuring popular high street brands and convenient dining in a lively city centre setting.
Pilgrims Gloucester
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and a cosy, atmospheric shopping experience in the heart of historic Gloucester.
L&S Lifestyle
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds in a cozy boutique setting at L&S Lifestyle, Gloucester’s charming gift shop on College Street.
Upstairs Downstairs
0.4 km
Discover Gloucester’s charming antique shop with unique collectibles and a cozy tearoom serving homemade treats.
Chez Rose
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and shabby chic treasures in a warm, welcoming boutique nestled in Gloucester’s historic Westgate Street.
Gift Company
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homeware at The Gift Company, nestled in the vibrant Gloucester Quays outlet by the historic docks.
Gloucester Quays
0.7 km
Discover designer bargains and festive charm at Gloucester Quays, a lively waterfront outlet set within historic docks.
Westgate Retail Park
0.7 km
Convenient shopping with free parking and a variety of homeware stores in the heart of Gloucester’s Westgate Street.
Cotswold Creates
5.7 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and handcrafted treasures that capture the heart of the Cotswolds in Gloucester’s welcoming Cotswold Creates.
Willow Hilson Vintage
11.4 km
Authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to 1960s in a charming Cheltenham boutique with artistic flair and photography studio.
Great British Boutique
11.8 km
Discover unique gifts and quirky homeware in Cheltenham’s welcoming Great British Boutique, where friendly service meets charming finds.
Emporium
11.8 km
Discover unique gifts and a warm welcome at Emporium, Cheltenham’s charming family-run gift shop on Bath Road.
Vinegar Hill
12.2 km
Discover Cheltenham’s family-run boutique blending stylish homewares, fashion, and unique gifts in a warm, inviting setting since 1997.
Adana Collective Antiques
12.5 km
Discover timeless treasures and beautiful antiques at Adana Collective, a curated gem in Stroud’s vibrant Salmon Springs Trading Estate.
Moonflower Too
13.4 km
A vibrant gift shop in Stroud’s historic High Street, blending unique homewares with local charm and ethical brands.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Café René
0.0 km
A lively Gloucester pub and restaurant blending historic charm, award-winning food, and vibrant live music in the city centre.
The Drunken Duck
0.2 km
A vibrant Gloucester pub blending unique space, exceptional beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Our House Bar
0.2 km
A vibrant cocktail and wine bar in Gloucester Docks offering curated drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
The Sword Inn Gloucester
0.2 km
Historic Gloucester pub blending tradition, community spirit, and lively sports in a welcoming city centre setting.
The Fountain Inn
0.2 km
Charming Grade II listed pub in Gloucester’s city centre offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a cozy historic atmosphere with garden and function rooms.
Elbien Soe Bar
0.3 km
Discover Gloucester’s vibrant grill and bar scene at Elbien Soe Bar, where flavorful dishes meet a lively, welcoming atmosphere 24/7.
The Abbey
0.3 km
A vibrant Gloucester bar famed for its bottomless brunch, friendly service, and lively social atmosphere in the city centre.
The Turks Head Inn
0.3 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Gloucester’s heart, famed for its excellent cask ales and friendly local atmosphere.
TANK
0.5 km
Discover Gloucester’s premier craft beer bar with a lively atmosphere, local brews, stonebaked pizzas, and a welcoming beer garden in the historic docks.
The Pelican Inn (Wye Valley)
0.5 km
Historic Gloucester pub famed for award-winning real ales, lively events, and a warm, authentic British atmosphere.
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Gloucester Quays
0.6 km
A vibrant gastropub and microbrewery at Gloucester Quays offering craft beers, hearty meals, and waterfront views in a lively, modern setting.
Deans Walk Inn
0.7 km
Experience Gloucester’s warmest welcome with local ales, hearty meals, and a lively atmosphere at Deans Walk Inn.
Devoted Deluxe - Mobile Bar Hire
0.7 km
Elegant mobile bar hire in Gloucester delivering bespoke cocktails and personalized service for every special occasion.
The Heritage
0.8 km
A welcoming Gloucester bar blending rugby spirit with cozy charm and a diverse drink selection for locals and fans alike.
One Eyed Jacks
0.8 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Gloucester blending classic charm with lively entertainment and friendly atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly