Cheltenham is, quite simply, one town in Gloucestershire that needs no introduction. It has attracted visitors for 300 years, ever since the first natural spring was discovered in the town, and was famed as a Spa town for 100 years. What was once a pleasure and health resort for the moneyed folk is now an interesting mix of architecture, open space, and a haven for the arts.
Buildings throughout the town play homage to the Regency period, with elegant villas and classical terraces sweeping the landscape. One of the finest example of this style of building is the Pittville Pump Rooms, which still pumps spa waters, although its principle function is as a wedding venue. Neo-Gothic architecture is also evident here, particularly in the college buildings and the striking bronze dome of Cheltenham Ladies College.
Move away from the buildings, and visit the open spaces and parkland in Cheltenham, and visitors will find a town frequently in bloom. Lodge Park is well worth a visit, with its water meadows and parkland attracting wildlife including deer, while nearby Painswick houses the only complete Rococo Garden left in England. The Rococo design style of formal and informal includes woodland, and kitchen gardens, and is one of the many places that has helped Cheltenham be named one of the top 20 most attractive places to visit in the UK, by European Travellers in a Trip Advisor Poll.
To add to the entertainment, Cheltenham has a thriving arts scene with many venues holding events throughout the town. Cheltenham Town Hall hosts a variety of festivals and entertainment events through the year including the renowned Cheltenham Jazz Festival. The team behind the festival also run The Cheltenham Music Festival, Cheltenham Science Festival, and Cheltenham Literature Festival, using venues like the Parabola Arts Centre, The Playhouse Theatre, and The Daffodil.
Cheltenham has another jewel in its crown of course, that of the Cheltenham Racecourse, home to the famous Gold Cup meeting, and a full schedule of racing, concerts, and other events. Sport isn’t just about racing in Cheltenham though; there is a Rugby Festival, Cricket, and Football for spectators, and for the more active, the Leisure@ venue offers a wide range of sports, and the famous Cotswolds Way walking route is also within reach.
For those who prefer to walk around the shops, then Cheltenham has ample choice, and several main shopping districts. The Promenade is sure to grab your attention, while Regent Street, and its famous Regent Arcade is just as appealing! There’s also a full complement of shops running down Cheltenham High Street, The Beechwood Shopping Centre, and The Brewery, while specialists shops can also be found in the Montpellier area.
To complement all the attractions, sights, and sounds that Cheltenham has to offer, there is also a full range of dining experiences including welcoming pubs, stylish cafes and brassieres, and restaurants serving up different cuisine from around the world. When it comes to places to stay, this is a town that caters for all needs and budgets too. There are modern hotel chains throughout the city, traditional manor houses and halls, golf and country clubs, bed and breakfast, and self catering farmhouses and cottages.
All in all, Cheltenham puts up a pretty convincing argument for a holiday destination and it’s easy to reach too. There are good road and rail links from the north and south from airports in London and Birmingham, ample car parking, and two park and ride facilities as well. Sounds good doesn’t it?
