Don’t Be Late for a Champagne Picnic

Back for it’s second year, the Speech House Hotel is hosting another extraordinary Taittinger Champagne experience.

A wonderfully curious afternoon in Wonderland, one of the most magical summer events in Gloucestershire returning August 2026.

Saturday 1 August 2026 · 2pm – 6pm · Garden Party dress code

Where champagne flows in place of tea, and every detail is touched with a little magic.

The Experience

Looking for something truly special to do in the Forest of Dean this summer? Step through the looking glass and into the most enchanting afternoon in Gloucestershire.

Our Champagne Picnic at The Speech House returns for 2026. A Wonderland-inspired outdoor event set deep in the heart of the Royal Forest of Dean. Think Taittinger flowing on sun-drenched lawns, smoky aromas from the BBQ, live music weaving through ancient woodland, and garden games that make the afternoon disappear entirely.

Meet the House of Taittinger representatives, enter our competition to win a Magnum of Champagne, and pick up a Wonderland postcard to send to a friend who really should have comeWhether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or simply treating yourself to a standout day out in Gloucestershire, this is your very important date.

🌿 VIP Experience 

Book a VIP pass for the ultimate experience. Perfect for groups or make new friends with shared bookings.

Includes everything from General Entry plus:

🛋️ Private VIP area 

🍸 London Essence Spritz on arrival

🥂 Champagne Cocktail

🎒 VIP goodie bag

🧊 Selection of London Essence Tonics

🎓 Exclusive Botanical Experience

We have a limited amount available – so don’t miss out!

£125 per person

The Venue

The Speech House Hotel is one of the most storied venues in Gloucestershire — a 17th-century crown hunting lodge nestled within the ancient Royal Forest of Dean, just minutes from Coleford. If you’re looking for a unique day out from Cheltenham, Gloucester, the Cotswolds, or the Welsh borders, this is exactly the kind of event you’ll still be talking about in September.

Dress Code

Garden Party. Think florals, linen, tea party dresses  and your most Wonderland-worthy self. Points awarded for creativity.

Book Now

Tickets are limited. This event sells out. Don’t be late.

📞 01594 822 607

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this event suitable for all ages?

The Champagne Picnic is an adult-focused event, designed for guests aged 18 and over. It’s the perfect occasion for birthdays, anniversaries, hen parties, or a truly memorable summer afternoon with friends.

Where exactly is The Speech House Hotel?

The Speech House Hotel is located in the heart of the Royal Forest of Dean, at Speech House Road, Coleford, GL16 7EL. It’s easily reachable from Gloucester (around 20 minutes), Cheltenham (around 40 minutes), the Cotswolds, and the Welsh borders. Free parking is available on site.

What are the food options?

There are four food stations on the day, including a BBQ. We cater for a range of dietary requirements, please contact us in advance if you have specific dietary needs and we’ll make sure you’re looked after.

What’s included in my General Admission ticket?

Your £80 ticket includes four glasses of Taittinger Champagne, access to all four food stations including the BBQ, live music, garden games, the chance to meet House of Taittinger representatives, entry into our Magnum of Champagne competition, and a Wonderland postcard to send to a friend.

What’s the VIP Experience and how do I book one?

The VIP experience gives you access to your own private, beautifully appointed space for the afternoon. A sanctuary within the event, exclusively for your group. As a VIP guest you’ll receive a London Essence Spritz on arrival, a Champagne Cocktail, an exclusive Botanical Experience, a selection of London Essence premium tonics to enjoy throughout the afternoon, and a curated VIP goodie bag to take home. Your General Admission ticket is included, so you get everything from the main event too..

How many tickets are available for the VIP Experience?

Please call us on 01594 822 607 to discuss group sizes and availability. We’ll find the right option for your group, but we do have limited availability.

What should I wear?

The dress code is Garden Party. Think summer florals, linen suits, wide-brimmed hats, and a touch of Wonderland whimsy. The event takes place outdoors, so we’d recommend comfortable footwear, stilettos and lawns are rarely a match made in heaven. We also suggest brining a jacket for when the sun goes down.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The event takes place outdoors in the grounds of The Speech House Hotel. In the event of poor weather, we do have a back up plan, but please check our website or social media channels for updates. We’d recommend bringing a light layer just in case, although we’re firmly manifesting sunshine.

Is there parking at The Speech House?

Yes, there is parking available at The Speech House Hotel. The venue is set within the Forest of Dean so we’d encourage car sharing where possible, and please be mindful of the surrounding woodland when parking.

Can I buy tickets on the door?

This is a pre booked event only. We strongly advise booking in advance as this event sells out. We will not be selling tickets on the day. Book early to avoid disappointment…don’t be late!

I have another question, how do I get in touch?

Call us on 01594 822 607 or visit The Speech House Hotel website. We’re happy to help with group bookings, dietary requirements, VIP enquiries, or anything else.

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