Cheltenham is a beautiful spa town located in the county of Gloucestershire, England. It is known for its stunning Regency architecture, leafy parks, and cultural events. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Cheltenham has something to offer for everyone. In this article, we will take you through the 14 best things to do in Cheltenham.
Interesting facts about Cheltenham:
- Cheltenham is known as the “Spa Town” because of its history as a health resort. The town has several natural mineral springs, which were believed to have healing properties.
- The Cheltenham Festival is one of the most prestigious horse racing events in the world. It attracts thousands of visitors each year and is a major highlight of the racing calendar.
- Cheltenham is home to several famous people, including composer Gustav Holst, actor Simon Pegg, and singer Lily Allen.
- The Regency architecture of Cheltenham is some of the finest in the country. The town has several beautiful Regency buildings, including the Pittville Pump Room, which was designed by the famous architect John Nash.
- Cheltenham has a thriving cultural scene, with several festivals and events throughout the year. These include the Cheltenham Literature Festival, the Cheltenham Jazz Festival, and the Cheltenham Music Festival.
- Cheltenham is located in the Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The surrounding countryside is known for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and scenic walking trails.
- The Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham is one of the oldest and most famous theaters in the country. It has hosted several famous actors and playwrights throughout its history.
- Cheltenham has several parks and green spaces, including Pittville Park and Sandford Park. These parks are popular with locals and visitors alike and offer a range of activities, including boating, tennis, and picnics.
- The Cheltenham Art Gallery and Museum has a vast collection of art and artifacts, including a range of paintings by local artists and works by famous artists such as J.M.W. Turner.
- Cheltenham is home to several prestigious schools, including Cheltenham Ladies’ College and Cheltenham College. These schools have a long history and are known for their academic excellence.
Visit Pittville Park
Pittville Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of Cheltenham. It covers an area of 33 hectares and is home to a wide range of attractions. The park has a stunning boating lake, where visitors can hire rowing boats or pedalos. The lake is also home to a variety of waterfowl, including swans, ducks, and geese. There is a playground for children, a skate park for teenagers, and tennis courts for sports enthusiasts. The park also has an aviary, where visitors can see a range of exotic birds, including parrots and cockatiels. Pittville Park is the perfect place for a leisurely walk, picnic, or a game of frisbee.
Take a stroll around the Regency Promenade
The Regency Promenade is a beautiful tree-lined avenue located in the center of Cheltenham. It was designed by the famous architect John Nash in the 19th century and is a great place to take a leisurely stroll. The promenade is lined with stunning Regency buildings, including the Montpellier Rotunda and the Queen’s Hotel. There are also several sculptures and fountains along the way, including the Neptune Fountain and the Hare and Minotaur sculpture. The promenade is the perfect place to admire the stunning Regency architecture of Cheltenham and take in the town’s rich history.
Explore the Cheltenham Art Gallery and Museum
The Cheltenham Art Gallery and Museum is a must-visit for art and history lovers. It is located in a stunning Regency building in the center of Cheltenham and has a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. The museum’s exhibits cover a range of topics, including local history, art, and culture. The museum also offers guided tours and workshops for children. Visitors can also see a collection of art by local artists, including paintings by the famous artist Edward Wilson.
Relax at the Cheltenham Lido
The Cheltenham Lido is a beautiful outdoor swimming pool that is open all year round. It is located in Sandford Park, just a short walk from the town center. The pool is heated to a comfortable temperature and is perfect for a refreshing swim, a relaxing soak in the hot tub, or a steam in the sauna. The Lido also has a café that serves a range of drinks and snacks.
Visit the Everyman Theatre
The Everyman Theatre is a beautiful venue that hosts a variety of events, including plays, comedy shows, and live music performances. It is located in the heart of Cheltenham and is a must-visit for culture lovers. The theater has a range of shows throughout the year, including performances by local artists and famous touring companies.
Discover the Montpellier District
The Montpellier District is a beautiful area of Cheltenham that is home to a variety of independent shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is located just a short walk from the town center and is the perfect place to spend an afternoon browsing and exploring. The district is home to a range of unique shops, including vintage clothing stores, artisanal bakeries, and independent bookstores.
Enjoy the Cheltenham Jazz Festival
The Cheltenham Jazz Festival is one of the most popular music events in the town. It is held every year in May and attracts a range of jazz and blues musicians from around the world. The festival has a range of performances, including free concerts in the town center and ticketed events at venues such as the Everyman Theatre and Cheltenham Town Hall.
Go horse racing at Cheltenham Racecourse
Racecourse is one of the most famous horse racing venues in the world. It is located just a short drive from Cheltenham town center and hosts a range of events throughout the year. The most famous of these events is the Cheltenham Festival, which takes place every March and attracts thousands of visitors from around the globe. The festival has a range of races, including the prestigious Cheltenham Gold Cup.
Experience the famous Cheltenham Literature Festival
The Cheltenham Literature Festival is one of the most renowned literary events in the world. It is held every year in October and attracts a range of famous authors, poets, and speakers. The festival has a range of events, including talks, book signings, and workshops. Visitors can hear from some of the world’s most famous authors and participate in discussions on a range of literary topics.
Learn about the history of the Holst Birthplace Museum
The Holst Birthplace Museum is a beautiful museum located in the town center of Cheltenham. Apart from showcasing the life and work of Gustav Holst, a famous composer, it also exhibits the history of Cheltenham and the life of the people who lived there during the Regency period. Visitors can see original manuscripts and scores, as well as personal items belonging to Holst and his family.
Take a trip to Sudeley Castle and Gardens
Sudeley Castle and Gardens is a historic castle located just a few miles from Cheltenham. It is the burial place of Katherine Parr, the sixth wife of Henry VIII. The castle has stunning gardens that are open to the public and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the castle and learn about its rich history.
Visit the Cotswold Way
The Cotswold Way is a beautiful walking trail that runs through the Cotswold Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The trail offers stunning views of the countryside and is perfect for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the trail and stop off at picturesque villages and towns along the way.
Enjoy the nightlife in Cheltenham
Cheltenham has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and pubs. Visitors can enjoy a night out on the town, whether they are looking for a cozy pub with live music or a trendy nightclub. There are also several wine bars and cocktail bars that offer a range of drinks and snacks.
Try the local food at the Cheltenham Farmers Market
The Cheltenham Farmers Market is a great place to try local food and produce. The market is held every other Friday and offers a range of fresh vegetables, meat, cheese, and baked goods. Visitors can sample a range of locally produced foods and buy ingredients to take home with them.
Conclusion
Cheltenham is a beautiful town with a rich history and culture. From stunning parks to historic castles, there is no shortage of things to do in Cheltenham. Whether you are a local or a tourist, Cheltenham has something to offer for everyone.
FAQs
- What is Cheltenham famous for?
Cheltenham is famous for its stunning Regency architecture, leafy parks, and cultural events such as the Cheltenham Literature Festival and the Cheltenham Jazz Festival.
- What is the best time to visit Cheltenham?
The best time to visit Cheltenham is during the summer months when the weather is mild and sunny.
- What is the Cheltenham Festival?
The Cheltenham Festival is a famous horse racing event that takes place every March at Cheltenham Racecourse.
- What is the Cotswold Way?
The Cotswold Way is a walking trail that runs through the Cotswold Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
- Is Cheltenham a good place to live?
Yes, Cheltenham is a great place to live with a vibrant cultural scene, good schools, and easy access to the countryside.
