Cheltenham City guide, including hotels

By:Maria Williams Williams

Located in the heart of the scenic Cotswolds, Cheltenham is a city
famous for many things – its horseracing and award-winning gardens
being just two of them. Then, of course, you have the Regency
architecture of the city centre and the lively shopping district,
elements that come together to bring vivacity and life to this
Gloucestershire city. Further, the city also proves to be a fine base
from which to explore the surrounding Cotswolds, home of gently rolling
hills and quaint, charming villages.

Places of interest

When you come to Cheltenham, you will soon discover that the draw of
the city lies in its appearance, for it has long been considered to be
one of Britain’s prettiest towns. Accordingly, many of Cheltenham’s
places to visit are ones that focus on scenic displays and historic
buildings. Some of the most popular tourist destinations are:
  • The Holst Birthplace Museum. Originally the home of the famous
    composer Gustav Holst (of ‘The Planets’ fame), this Regency home shows
    life as it was in the Victorian period – and incorporates a working
    Victorian kitchen.

  • Pittville Park & Pump Room. The beautiful Park contains two
    lakes, a golf course and spacious, well-tended lawns, whilst the
    historic Pump Room contains the drinkable spa waters that originally
    made Cheltenham famous.

  • The Imperial Gardens. For almost two hundred years, the gardens
    have been enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year – not least due
    to the 25,000 bedding plants used annually to create the extensive
    floral displays.

  • Sudeley Castle & Gardens. Located just eight miles outside of
    Cheltenham, the castle is open during the summer and visitors have the
    chance to see some of the beautiful paintings and artefacts inside.

  • The Promenade. Cheltenham’s most famous street boasts pavement
    cafes, smart shops and an attractive history. Lined with trees and
    boasting Regency architecture throughout, it is considered to be the
    most picturesque part of the city.


    • Things to do

    During your stay in Cheltenham, you’ll discover a pleasing variety of
    attractions to visit and things to do, whether you’re a family or
    couple, or just visiting alone. Throughout the year, the city is
    buzzing with activity, playing host to many festivals and events, such
    as the Literature Festival. Just a few things to see and do include:

  • Cheltenham Town Hall. The elegant hall plays host to festivals in
    the city throughout the year, and at the same time stays a concert
    programme in which the music ranges from the classical to the
    contemporary.

  • The Everyman Theatre. This hotspot features a massive variety of
    live entertainment, where you can watch musicals, comedy, drama and
    even West End productions on tour.

  • Cheltenham Racecourse. This world-famous venue is home to plenty of
    racing during the October to April season. Why not time your visit to
    coincide with the popular National Hunt Festival in March, or visit the
    Hall of Fame that relays the history of steeple chasing?

  • Cotswolds Coach Tours. Take the opportunity and join a scenic coach
    tour in which you’ll join a guide and take in some of the most
    beautiful views of the English Cotswolds.

  • Cotswold Farm Park. See history brought to life with numerous
    animal demonstrations and displays, an ideal place to visit for all the
    family. There are many rare breeds of farmyard animal from sheep to
    cattle, waterfowl to horses.


    • Food & Drink

    Cheltenham is home to many different types of restaurant, with the
    focus on quality. Of course, if you’re after something fast and easy,
    you’ll find plenty of different cafés and takeaways serving up
    what you’re looking for, but Cheltenham particularly prides itself on
    being the home of many stylish eateries. Here are some of the best you
    can sample:

  • The Scena Bistro. Enjoy one of the finest dining experiences in
    Cheltenham at this French restaurant, which has a relaxed and welcoming
    style.

  • Off the Square Restaurant. Located in Cheltenham’s fashionable
    Montpellier district, this friendly eatery serves a variety of dishes
    on the menu, including plenty of old favourites. Eat in style.

  • Monty’s Seafood Restaurant. Visit and enjoy a flexible menu that
    offers a range of different seafood. Alternatively, keep it simple and
    enjoy the stylish accompaniment of oysters with champagne.