Whether you’re craving a creative outlet, a confidence-boosting challenge or just want to try something new, 2026 is the perfect time to discover new passions in Cheltenham.
From sociable art classes and beginner-friendly yoga sessions to hands-on cocktail making or hunting for bargains, Cheltenham offers plenty of opportunities to try something new. This article highlights a selection of classes and activities to help you find inspiration for 2026.
Sip and paint
Always wanted to try painting but don’t know where to start? The Paint Club's painting parties are fun, relaxed 'sip and paint' evenings where you can enjoy a creative night out with friends or go solo.
Events take place at The Bottle of Sauce, Fioro Lounge and The Alchemist in Cheltenham. Everything you need is provided – canvas, paints, brushes and step-by-step instruction from a friendly local artist. You can also buy food and drink at the venue for a social art night where no painting experience is required.
Practical fine art for beginners
For a more in-depth introduction to art, Practical Fine Art for Beginners at The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum is a great way to unlock your creativity. Designed for complete beginners or anyone looking to build their confidence, the course runs several times a year and lasts for five weeks.
You’ll learn core drawing and painting skills, experiment with different media and techniques, and develop your own ideas into finished pieces – with expert guidance from local artist and tutor Kitty Skye McLeod and all materials included.
Charity shop trail
Find out where to bag the best bargains with the new Cheltenham charity shop trail. This downloadable leaflet by Linc shows the location of 13 charity shops around the town centre. Scan the QR code to be directed to a Google map which shares the locations of 21 charity shops in the town centre and 15 charity shops outside of the town centre. You just never know what bargains you might find!
From designer fashion to antique ornaments, children’s toys to vintage books, there are always new treasures to discover. And your shopping is helping good causes too, raising money for a range of different local charities to fund their vital work.
Yoga beginners course
Orange Yoga is a not-for-profit yoga studio in Cheltenham's Crescent Bakery that's run by volunteers. As well as regular classes, they offer a free 4-week yoga beginners course where you can learn the basics of yoga and help improve your flexibility, whatever your age or ability.
It's designed for those with little or no previous experience, offering gentle guidance through basic postures, breathing techniques and simple sequences in a friendly, supportive setting. You just need to bring comfortable clothing and a mat to get started.
Flying trapeze classes
Looking for something to get your heart racing? All Bars Flying Trapeze Club gives you the chance to fly through the air on the only full-size, bar-to-bar outdoor flying trapeze rig in Britain – just like you would see at the circus!
Located behind the Leisure At Cheltenham leisure centre, the club opens for the season in April and offers beginners’ classes for adults and children aged eight and over. Learn how to fly, drop and catch in an encouraging, fun environment. And if you get the flying bug, you can become a full club member.
Learn to Lindy Hop
Strictly fans can learn to Lindy Hop with beginners lessons at Cheltenham Swing Dance, who run weekly classes at Dowty Social Club near Staverton – even if you're a total novice with two left feet!
These smile-inducing social sessions are a great way to enjoy yourself while you get active. You don’t need a partner or any prior experience to join and will learn basic steps, rhythm and movement in a supportive group that’s as much about making friends and having a good time as it is about dance.
Cocktail-making masterclass
Discover the art of mixology with a cocktail-making masterclass at Cheltenham's only rooftop restaurant, The Nook on Five. These immersive workshops are led by one of The Nook's expert bartenders, who share their trade secrets.
Masterclasses are available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and run for 90 minutes. Choose your favourite cocktail from their menu of classics – from a French martini to a Sidecar – and you'll learn how to expertly blend premium ingredients, choose a glass and serve it up with style.
Gin-making at Piston Distillery
Learn how one of Britain's favourite drinks is made with a trip to Gin School at The Piston Distillery in Staverton. Gin lovers and curious beginners alike are welcomed into the heart of a working distillery to learn about the history and craft of gin.
After a welcome gin and tonic and an insight into the world of distilling, you get hands-on with your own mini copper still. Choose from dozens of premium botanicals to design, distil, bottle and label your own bespoke 700ml bottle of gin to take home, with expert guidance and plenty of tasting opportunities along the way.
