Cheltenham

A regency spa town on the edge of the Cotswolds

Explore Cheltenham
The Minotaur and The Hare, The Promenade, Cheltenham<br>Photo: Visit Gloucestershire
The Minotaur and The Hare, The Promenade, Cheltenham
Photo: Visit Gloucestershire

Cheltenham

Cheltenham has been a health and holiday spa town resort since the discovery of mineral springs in the early 1700s.

Cheltenham hosts several festivals of culture including the Cheltenham Literature Festival, the Cheltenham Science Festival, the Cheltenham Music Festival, the Cheltenham Jazz Festival, the Cheltenham Cricket Festival, and the Cheltenham Food & Drink Festival.

Horse racing fans will know Cheltenham as home to the Gold Cup, the main event of the Cheltenham Festival, held every March.

Cheltenham is also known for its stylish shopping districts. The Promenade offers an elegant mix of high-end retailers and independent boutiques. Keep an eye out for Sophie Ryder's "The Minotaur and The Hare" sculpture (pictured).

The nearby Montpellier area charms visitors with its Regency architecture and unique selection of shops, cafés, and galleries. Just a short walk away, The Suffolks boasts a village-like atmosphere with a vibrant collection of artisan stores, antiques, and independent businesses.

The New York Times once referred to Cheltenham as feeling like a 'sophisticated mini metropolis'.

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Everyman Theatre Cheltenham
Everyman Theatre Cheltenham
The Vine
The Vine
Holst Victorian House
Holst Victorian House
Ian Coley Sporting
Ian Coley Sporting
Visit Cheltenham
Visit Cheltenham
Cheltenham Town FC
Cheltenham Town FC
The Wilson, Cheltenham
The Wilson, Cheltenham
Cheltenham Racecourse
Cheltenham Racecourse

Holiday cottages in the Cheltenham area

Cheltenham and its surrounding countryside offer a captivating blend of elegant town living and idyllic rural charm. Whether you crave the vibrant energy of a bustling spa town or the tranquility of rolling hills and picturesque villages, you'll find your perfect escape here.

Immerse yourself in the sophistication of Cheltenham, with its world-renowned festivals, elegant architecture, and thriving cultural scene. Or venture into the heart of the Cotswolds, where charming stone cottages, quaint market towns, and breathtaking natural beauty await.

Our collection of holiday cottages caters to every taste and budget. From cosy retreats for romantic getaways to spacious family homes, you'll find the ideal accommodation to make your stay unforgettable. Explore our website to discover your dream Cotswold cottage and start planning your perfect escape.

12 Montpellier Arcade, Cheltenham Dog friendly

12 Montpellier Arcade, Cheltenham

Sleeps 4, 2 bedrooms
The Coach House, Cheltenham

The Coach House, Cheltenham

Sleeps 2, 1 bedroom
Flat 2 Battledown Grange, Cheltenham

Flat 2 Battledown Grange, Cheltenham

Sleeps 4, 2 bedrooms
The Old Cider House, Prestbury

The Old Cider House, Prestbury

Sleeps 2, 1 bedroom
Wellinghill Cottage, Cheltenham

Wellinghill Cottage, Cheltenham

Sleeps 4, 2 bedrooms
Wellinghill Lodge, Cheltenham Dog friendly

Wellinghill Lodge, Cheltenham

Sleeps 2, 1 bedroom
Suncroft, Prestbury Dog friendly

Suncroft, Prestbury

Sleeps 7, 4 bedrooms
Badgeworth Dog friendly

Badgeworth

Sleeps 2, 1 bedroom
Badgeworth Dog friendly

Badgeworth

Sleeps 2, 1 bedroom
Hillside, Bishop's Cleeve

Hillside, Bishop's Cleeve

Sleeps 4, 2 bedrooms
Woodmancote Dog friendly

Woodmancote

Sleeps 2, 2 bedrooms
Upper Coberley

Upper Coberley

Sleeps 2, 1 bedroom

Cheltenham Blogs

Everyman Theatre's full 2024 Season Announced
Everyman Theatre's full 2024 Season Announced
A Guide to Gloucestershire during Cheltenham Gold Cup 2023
A Guide to Gloucestershire during Cheltenham Gold Cup 2023
Cheltenham - A quick tour
Cheltenham - A quick tour

Cheltenham Location Map

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is there a train station in Cheltenham?

Cheltenham Spa railway station is well-connected to other parts of the UK. It is located just under a mile from the town centre and offers direct train services to cities like Gloucester, Bristol, London, and Cardiff, making it a convenient gateway to and from Cheltenham. The station is managed by Great Western Railway (GWR), and trains from Cheltenham Spa run regularly to many popular destinations, especially in the South-West and Midlands.

Permalink: Is there a train station in Cheltenham?

The Minotaur and The Hare, Cheltenham<br>Photo: Visit Gloucestershire

The Minotaur and the Hare (also known as The Minotaur and The Ladyhare on a Bench), located on The Promenade in Cheltenham, was created by artist Sophie Ryder.

Originally created in 1995, this sculpture was first displayed as part of a temporary exhibition showcasing the work of Gloucestershire-based artist Sophie Ryder at the Cheltenham Museum and Art Gallery.

Due to the overwhelmingly positive public response, a campaign was launched to retain one of Ryder's pieces permanently. Thanks to public contributions, the Hare and Minotaur was acquired in 1998.

The Minotaur and The Hare was made in plaster, moulded and then cast in bronze. The piece measures 289.5cm x 202.7cm x 144.8cm.

Permalink: Who created The Minotaur and The Hare in Cheltenham?

Galopin Des Champs, ridden to victory by jockey Paul Townend, won the 2024 Gold Cup at Cheltenham Racecourse.

Permalink: Who won the 2024 Cheltenham Gold Cup?

Inothewayurthinkin claimed victory in the 2025 Cheltenham Gold Cup on 14 March, outclassing the field with a commanding six-length win. Trained by Gavin Cromwell and ridden by Mark Walsh, the seven-year-old gelding dashed the hopes of Galopin Des Champs, who was bidding for a third consecutive triumph.

Permalink: Who won the 2025 Cheltenham Gold Cup?

Cheltenham is well-connected by road and rail.

Chelteham has a railway station with direct services to major cities like London, Birmingham, and Bristol. If travelling by car, Cheltenham is accessible via the M5 motorway. Local bus services also connect Cheltenham to surrounding areas.

Permalink: How do I get to Cheltenham?

Cheltenham is approximately 10 miles (16 kilometeres) from Gloucester.

Travel between Gloucester and Cheltenham is quick and convenient. By car, the journey typically takes around 20 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic.

Permalink: How far is Cheltenham from Gloucester?

Yes, Cheltenham offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including visits to the Cheltenham Science Festival, the local parks and playgrounds, and the Everyman Theatre, which often hosts family shows.

The nearby Cotswolds also provide opportunities for outdoor activities and exploring nature.

Permalink: Family-friendly activities in Cheltenham

Yes, Cheltenham boasts several beautiful parks and gardens. Montpellier Gardens is a popular spot featuring lovely flowerbeds, a café, and a bandstand. Imperial Gardens, located near the town centre, is known for its stunning floral displays and is a great place to relax. Additionally, Pittville Park offers expansive green spaces, a boating lake, and playgrounds, making it ideal for families.

Permalink: Are there any parks or gardens in Cheltenham?

Cheltenham is is Gloucestershire!

Cheltenham is known for its Regency architecture, cultural festivals, and historic spa heritage. It became especially popular in the 18th century when mineral springs were discovered there, attracting visitors seeking the reputed health benefits. Today, it's also famous for events like the Cheltenham Festival, a major horse racing meet, and the Cheltenham Literature Festival, one of the oldest literary festivals in the world.

Permalink: What county is Cheltenham in?

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