Our guide to Cheltenham: the best shops, festivals and spas

There's an undeniable charm about Cheltenham. Nestled in an idyllic English countryside setting, the town boasts beautiful architecture, elegant promenades, and, of course, its special spring waters, drawing people to the town since the early 1700s.

Cheltenham's location is hard to beat – it strikes an excellent balance, being large enough to offer all essential services and amenities while providing easy access to the Cotswolds. Strategically positioned along the A40, it also serves as a convenient gateway to Oxford and London. The rail network ensures quick connections, with Bristol around 30 minutes away and London reachable in approximately two hours, with trains departing every half an hour.

For families considering a move, the area is awash with excellent schools, with Pate's Grammar, Cheltenham College, Balcarras, and Leckhampton High School standing among the top-rated options.

Though Cheltenham may be compact, prospective residents should be aware of several distinctive neighbourhoods, each offering an array of homes in various styles. From elegant Georgian townhouses to modern detached family homes, expansive Victorian semis and charming mews houses, there is something for every taste.

Montpellier, Lansdown, Battledown, Pittville, Charlton Kings, and Leckhampton are among the favoured areas to call home. Harry Bethell, Head of Sales in our Cheltenham office, also recommends exploring The Suffolks, particularly the Georgian terraces along Great Norwood Street, and Prestbury Village, described as "a special area in a lovely suburb of Cheltenham near the Racecourse well worth exploring."

Beyond its exceptional architecture, perhaps the most invigorating thing about spending time in Cheltenham is the sheer amount of entertainment on offer. Our guide leads you through some of the town's highlights, including its much-lauded racecourse, a year-round calendar of festivals, revered cultural establishments, and, of course, its world-famous spas.

Bath Road

Bath Road provides a delightful alternative for those seeking a special retail experience. While the central, tree-lined Promenade and its surrounding streets are bustling with established brands and eateries, venturing further south to Bath Road offers independent shopping and local charm. Head to The Aroid Attic, a charming nursery specialising in exotic plants run by a highly knowledgeable yet approachable owner.

Further along, Emporium and Jackeroo stand out as excellent boutiques offering a curated selection of original gift options. Elsewhere, make your way to the Curious Café and Bistro, where you can indulge in a hearty brunch and get your caffeine fix in a cosy setting. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something stronger, the staff at Bath Road Beers will guide you through their impressive selection of 450 different brews from around the world and pour you a pint at their in-house bar.

Imperial Gardens

Cheltenham’s Regency heart lies in Imperial Square and its gardens, a floral delight surrounded by handsome terraces linking the town's two major shopping areas. On sunny days, bring a picnic and relax by the fountains, graced by a statue of the renowned composer and Cheltenham native, Gustav Holst. Alternatively, head to the Garden Bar Orangery and Skillcorne Garden for freshly baked pizzas and live music. In summer, Cheltenham becomes a festival town, and neighbouring Montpellier Gardens serves as the backdrop for several main events, including Jazz (May 1 – 6), Science (June 4 – 9), Music (July 6 – 13) and Literature (October 4 – 13) festivals. View the full programme here.

Sandford Parks Lido

At 50 metres long, Sandford Parks Lido stands as one of the country's largest outdoor swimming pools. Dating back to 1935, this historical gem has preserved many of its original features, such as ornate turnstiles, brick walling and the plant room, earning it Grade II listed status in 2019. Far beyond catering to serious swimmers, the lido offers fun for the entire family. Events include water polo for beginners, an annual junior aquathon, and there’s even a healthy dose of poolside drama with its live theatre shows. View their full events lineup here.

Cleeve Hill and Leckhampton Hill

Cheltenham has an abundance of green spaces, but for a more invigorating stroll, venture to Cleeve Hill. Standing at 1,080 feet, it’s the highest point in both Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds. On a clear day, the panoramic views extend across Cheltenham, its iconic racecourse and the River Severn. For an equally rewarding experience, head south to Leckhampton Hill, which offers breathtaking vistas of the Malvern Hills and a glimpse of local landmark the Devil's Chimney - a limestone column believed to mark the devil's subterranean abode.

Cheltenham Racecourse

This beloved landmark has been captivating both locals and racing enthusiasts from around the globe for over two centuries. While events take place throughout the year, the highlight is the Cheltenham Festival, held in mid-March. Drawing in around 60,000 visitors, the event promises thrilling races and an electric atmosphere as attendees hope for a winning wager. Set within 350 acres of picturesque landscape in Prestbury Park at the base of the Cotswolds, the surroundings are as breathtaking as the action on the track.

The Everyman

Designed by Frank Matcham and opened in 1891, the Everyman Theatre stands as the oldest operational Matcham-designed theatre. Stepping into its hallowed halls, theatre enthusiasts are greeted by the grandeur of its ornate Rococo style, featuring plush red velvet seats, gilded decorations and intricate baroque curlicues. Everything from ballet and opera productions to comedy shows and pantomimes are held here, and for aspiring playwrights, the theatre hosts a monthly writer's workshop.

Foodie favourites

Cheltenham's culinary landscape has blossomed in recent years, attracting both seasoned chefs and rising stars to its picturesque setting. In the town centre, you’ll find established names such as Raymond Blanc’s Brasserie Blanc and an Ivy outpost, but it's the charming neighbourhood eateries that truly steal the spotlight. L'Artisan - Café du Midi stands out as an authentic, family-run French bistro, while Purslane serves up exceptional seafood in a stylish, intimate setting. Sam’s Montpellier offers casual dining and excellent cocktails, and The Coconut Tree, with its laid-back ambience and flavourful Sri Lankan cuisine, has been a local favourite for years. For a more formal affair, Muse Brasserie serves up French-Indian fusion food in a stunning setting.

C-Side Spa

While the historic Pittville Pump Rooms offer a taste of the town's famous spa waters, Cheltenham's many luxury hotels provide an elevated relaxation experience. Set within the exquisite Cowley Manor Experimental hotel, C-Side Spa offers a range of holistic therapies, including massages, facials and exfoliating wraps - all using their own line of products. Surrounded by lush gardens and housed within a historic manor, it’s the perfect setting for a rejuvenating getaway.

Cheese Rolling, Cooper’s Hill

Cheese Rolling, a tradition steeped in history dating back over 600 years, is an annual spectacle not to be missed. Taking place every Spring Bank Holiday on Cooper's Hill, nestled between Cheltenham and Gloucester, this event draws brave and foolhardy competitors from far and wide. With adrenaline pumping, participants chase after a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down the treacherous slope, navigating the steep descent and aiming to avoid injury in their pursuit of glory. Ridiculous? Absolutely, but spectators are treated to big laughs and heaps of genuine community spirit.

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