Cheltenham: What To See and Do When You Visit Cheltenham

Cheltenham can be found in the heart of Gloucestershire and is within easy driving distance of the cities of Cirencester and Oxford. It is also within easy driving distance of the picture-postcard villages that can be found all over the Cotswolds.

Then again, in the town of Cheltenham there are plenty of attractions to look at whilst visiting this historic spa town.

1. Cheltenham Racecourse and its Hall of Fame – This traces the history of steeple chasing right the way back to 1819. You can trace through the history of the Gold Cup, one of National Hunt racing’s premier races, but also about how the Irish became main players here as well. The exhibition also looks at the numerous racehorse trainers and jockeys who have helped to make this course special in the world of racing.

2. Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway – Almost every summer weekend sees steam trains running on this line between Cheltenham, Winchcombe and Toddington. Plus at other times they also run seasonal events that can be enjoyed by young and old alike.

3. The Holst Birthplace Museum – This is a terraced Victorian house which has had the kitchen lovingly renovated and in it you will be able to look at many items that are to do with the composer of the music suite “The Planets”. You can spend time exploring the composer’s youthful days and as he grew older and look at the very piano on which he composed his music alongside a collection of some of his sheet music.

4. The Pittville Pump Room – This grand building is often used as the symbol of the town and is a celebrated example of Regency architecture. It has a commanding view of the lawns and lakes of Pittville Park and provides you with the chance to step back in time and imagine what life was like when it was a thriving spa town. If you feel ready to take the plunge you can sample the foul tasting spa waters which originally brought fame to the town for their supposed ability to cure all sorts of diseases.

5. Sandford Parks Lido – This is one of the UK’s biggest outdoor pools and is surrounded by landscaped gardens. The main pool is an impressive 50 metres but there is also a children’s pool along with a paddling pool as well All the pools are heated to a very pleasant 70 degrees or so. If you want to stay dry or relax after your swim, you can also play table tennis, basketball and volleyball on site.

6. St Mary’s Church – Cheltenham’s oldest building and was built during the middle part of the 11th Century. You will note that it bears the Royal Coat of Arms and this was to commemorate the visit made by George III in 1788. Many people marvel at the rose window, dating back to the 14th century, a canopied piscine and the baptistery which has lierne vaulting. The church also is home to many memorials of Cheltenham’s most famous citizens.

When you next visit Cheltenham, check out this list of Cheltenham accommodation.