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Charming Cheltenham, the gateway to the Cotswolds, Chepstow & beyond!
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Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Cotswolds, Cheltenham is a charming town that boasts an irresistible blend of regency elegance, cultural richness, and vibrant modernity. Known as the ‘Cultural Centre of the Cotswolds,’ this beautiful spa town offers tourists a vast array of experiences, from mesmerising historical landmarks to contemporary attractions, making it a must-visit destination for any scenic thrill seeker exploring the UK! Sit back and enjoy a Great Scenic Journey on Cross Country Trains that run from Scotland, The North, Midlands and the South-West, or alternatively, catch the lovely 801 bus from Pulhams Coaches that goes through the heart of the Cotswolds, to Chipping Norton. The outstanding beauty of the countryside is certainly a sight for sore eyes and this amazing bus ride is one of the best around, so too a trip on Cross Country from Cheltenham across the Severn Estuary to Chepstow (pictured below) and onto Cardiff.
Plush prom and first-rate fountain!
Cheltenham’s roots as a spa town date back to the early 18th century when the discovery of mineral springs transformed it into a fashionable resort for the wealthy. The town’s regency architecture, characterised by its grandiose terraces, intricate ironwork balconies, and elegant stucco facades, harks back to this golden era. A walk down the Promenade, one of Cheltenham’s most beautiful thoroughfares, provides a perfect introduction to this architectural splendour. Don’t miss the Neptune Fountain, a stunning centrepiece inspired by Rome’s Trevi Fountain, reflecting the town’s historical grandeur (see main photo!).
Cultural hotspot
The town is a cultural hub, renowned for its fancy festivals that draw visitors from all over the world. The Cheltenham Literature Festival, the oldest in the world, has been celebrating the written word since 1949, featuring a stellar line-up of authors, journalists, and scholars. Similarly, the Cheltenham Music Festival, Jazz Festival, and Science Festival each offer a rich program of events that cater to diverse interests, ensuring that there’s always something exciting happening in town! The Wilson, Cheltenham’s art gallery and museum, is another cultural treasure. Housing a majestic collection of fine art, decorative arts, and artifacts that tell the story of the town’s history, The Wilson is a testament to Cheltenham’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its heritage. The stylish, plush and elegant Everyman Theatre (pictured below) is also well worth a visit and is just a few minutes walk from the bus station where the 801 starts and finishes its scenic sojourn to the Cotswolds.
Paradisical retreats aplenty!
Cheltenham’s green spaces are yet another highlight, offering tranquil spots to relax and unwind and the beauty of the place is there are lots of open spaces and trees – particularly delightful in Spring are the blossoms!
Pittville Park, the largest ornamental park in Cheltenham, is home to the iconic Pittville Pump Room, where visitors can still sample the spa waters. The park’s picturesque lakes, playgrounds, and boating facilities make it a favourite among families and nature enthusiasts alike. Montpellier Gardens, located in the heart of the town, is another beautiful spot, particularly known for its well-maintained flower beds, elegant statues, and the Montpellier Rotunda, which now houses a popular restaurant. The gardens provide a peaceful retreat just a stone’s throw from the bustling town centre.
Gourmet treats and shopping heaven!
The town’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious, offering a plethora of dining options to suit every unique palate. From Michelin-starred restaurants like Le Champignon Sauvage to cosy cafés and bustling farmers’ markets, the town caters to famished foodies with its great array of local and international cuisines. Nothing beats the feeling of a refreshing beverage after a countryside stroll, which can be enjoyed in the cosy traditional pubs the town has to offer, such as The Royal Oak, The Beehive, or The Plough. Shopping in Cheltenham is a treat, with an eclectic mix of high street names, boutique stores, and antique shops. The Regent Arcade Shopping Centre and the independent shops in Montpellier and The Suffolks offer everything from fashion and jewellery to unique gifts and homeware, ensuring that every shopping excursion is a memorable experience.
Sporting excellence – gold glory and cricketing ties!
Cheltenham is synonymous with horse racing, particularly the Cheltenham Festival, one of the most prestigious events in the National Hunt racing calendar. Held annually in March at the Cheltenham Racecourse, this four-day festival culminates in the renowned Cheltenham Gold Cup, attracting thousands of visitors and creating an electrifying atmosphere. Even outside of festival season, the racecourse is a hive of activity, hosting various events and offering tours that give a behind-the-scenes look at this iconic venue.
Gloucestershire also play at Cheltenham School and the Cheltenham Cricket Festival is a highlight of the UK’s cricket calendar – earlier this month, an amazing game between Gloucestershire and Glamorgan over four days ended in a record breaking last innings chase and a tie! It’s gone into the annals of one of the all-time great games in the history of this wonderful sport!
The 801 unlocks the enchanted Cotswolds beauty
Cheltenham’s location on the edge of the Cotswolds makes it an ideal base for exploring this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Just a short ride on the wonderful 801, visitors can discover charming Cotswold villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds,’ as well as Moreton-in-Marsh, Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Norton, whilst a longer exploration of the Region and some fab walks lead to Bibury, celebrated for its picturesque Arlington Row cottages. For those interested in hiking and outdoor activities, the Cotswold Way offers stunning trails with panoramic views of the rolling countryside, historical landmarks, and quaint villages. Cycling and horseback riding are also popular ways to explore the scenic beauty of the region.
The town offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious hotels like Ellenborough Park and boutique guesthouses to cosy bed and breakfasts and self-catering apartments, visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a place to stay!
Cheltenham is a town that effortlessly combines the elegance of its historical past with the vibrancy of contemporary life, no better showcased than the Montpellier district (pictured above), which is the epicentre of the architectural brilliance and cosmopolitan hustle and bustle. Whether you’re a history fanatic, a culture enthusiast, an epicure, or simply someone looking to relax in beautiful surroundings, Cheltenham has something for you. Its rich tapestry of attractions and its warm, welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect destination for tourists seeking to experience the best of what England has to offer. So, pack your bags and set out to explore this quintessential English gem—you won’t be disappointed!
To plan your adventure on one or both of the two incredible routes that are part of the Great Scenic Journeys collection serving Cheltenham, check out….
Cheltenham Spa to Cardiff – Great Scenic Journeys
801 Cheltenham – Chipping Norton – Great Scenic Journeys