Cheltenham Spa, England's most complete Regency town, is conveniently less than a hundred miles from London and an ideal base for touring the Cotswolds, Stratford upon Avon, and Bath. Use our handy guide to find a few of the best things to do in Cheltenham.
Regency townhouses, characterised by intricate ironwork balconies and painted stucco facades, line the historic Promenade, squares, and terraces. With award-winning gardens, impressive range of stylish shops and restaurants, and festivals of horse racing, music and literature, Cheltenham has much to offer visitors of all tastes.
HOLST BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM
The birthplace of Gustav Holst, composer of The Planets Suite, is one of the most interesting things to see in Cheltenham. The old family home has been converted into a museum that offers a glimpse into Victorian domestic life. Marvel at the Holst family furniture that decorates the rooms, antique utensils and a beautiful old range in the kitchen, and the very same piano on which Holst composed his magnum opus.
CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL
Cheltenham Town Hall was built in 1902-03 in order to provide a venue for the many balls and concerts which made up the town's social calendar at the turn of the twentieth century. The Town Hall, situated on Imperial Gardens in the centre of Cheltenham comprises of a Grand Main Hall, distinguished by its Corinthian-style columns and coved ceiling. You’ll agree the Town Hall is one of the most beautiful Cheltenham attractions.
THE IMPERIAL GARDENS
Located right next to the Town Hall on Imperial Square, the Imperial Gardens host some of the best things to do in Cheltenham during the summer. Even if you miss one of the outdoor events of the Jazz, Literature, Music, and Science festivals in the gardens, they’re still well worth visiting thanks to the thousands of colourful flowers against a backdrop of Regency buildings.
CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE
The racing at the Cheltenham Racecourse is always competitive and top quality, whether it's the festival in March or any of the other meetings. The racecourse will hit the spot if you’re a fan of horseracing who’s wondering what to do in Cheltenham.
PITVILLE PARK
A lovely green space in the centre of Cheltenham, Pitville Park opened in 1825 and has charmed visitors ever since. The park is divided into east and west sections by Evesham Road. Exploring it is one of the best things to do in Cheltenham. The eastern section is the better-known of the two, thanks to the historic Grade 1-listed Pitville Pump Room. The Pump Room was constructed to give locals and visitors the opportunity to take the waters of one of the city’s many mineral wells in a cool and calm atmosphere. The western section of the park has a more natural layout, a large lake, and woodland areas. While there, visit the Pump Room and go rowing on the lake.
MONTPELLIER DISTRICT
Fantastic architecture, lovely coffee houses, relaxed wining and dining await you in the Montpellier District. You’ll find the district an easy walk from the centre. If you love the good life, you’ll also rate a visit to the Montpellier District as one of the top things to do in Cheltenham. It’s not all about good food and beverages, of course. You’ll also find lovely shops and a gorgeous park opposite the district.
THE EVERYMAN THEATRE
Designed by Frank Matcham and opened in 1891, the Everyman Theatre is an artistic institution that should be on the itinerary of every culture vulture who is looking for the best things to do in Cheltenham. See the ornate gilded stucco, bespoke wallpaper and carpets, cherub paintings, marble, scagliola, and paintings of Comedy and Tragedy on the proscenium arch on a tour of the theatre, or better yet, take in one of the ballet, dance, opera, or theatrical performances. With so many exciting things to see in Cheltenham, you can be assured of a memorable stay in the city.
