Student guide to galleries & museums in Cheltenham

By Bethan Croft, University of Gloucestershire Student

Whilst in a town that holds as much beauty as Cheltenham, it's the perfect opportunity to learn about some of its history. Luckily with a collection of galleries and museums, there are plenty of opportunities for you to do so.

5 galleries and museums you didn’t know existed in Cheltenham...

1. Take a look into the home of famous composer, Gustav Holst. Holst Victorian House is Cheltenham’s only Victorian home still open to the public. Inside, you can explore the unique interiors and view many of Holst’s possessions, including the piano that he used to compose his most famous piece, ‘The Planets.’

2. In the centre of town, by the library, is The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum. Here you can find a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, as well as the community gallery. Discover more in this #UniOfGlos TikTok video. The Radev exhibition will be ongoing until September (2024), which illustrates an extraordinary story of twentieth-century art. 

3. In Montpellier, you can visit The Gardens Gallery, with more than four different exhibitions every month until August, you are sure to experience the hidden talent of this decade. This gallery is also arguably the prettiest with its overlooking view of the Imperial Gardens. Visit their website to find out what’s going on now!

4. At the University of Gloucestershire’s Hardwick Gallery visitors can enjoy a display of talks, events and exhibitions, presented by the public, undergraduate and postgraduate students. Check out the current exhibitions.

5. The Jet Age Museum is located on the outskirts of Cheltenham and is one for aviation enthusiasts. With vintage planes and cockpit tours you can learn everything you need to know about this county that is famous for its rich aviation heritage from the early days of flight, through the birth of the Jet Age to the present day.

Discover more museums & art galleries in Cheltenham.