As well as having plenty to see and do itself, Regency Cheltenham's rail and bus connections make it the perfect base for exploring the Cotswolds without a car. Whether you prefer not to drive or are looking for a low-impact, sustainable way to explore the region, you can reach historic cities, pretty Cotswold villages and scenic countryside all within a day. Cheltenham is also on a direct train line from London, with a journey from Paddington to Cheltenham Spa taking just 1 hour 50 minutes.
We’ve rounded up 11 of the best day trips from Cheltenham that can be done entirely by train or bus. Whether you’re looking for culture, nature or a change of pace from town life, these trips show just how much is within easy reach of Cheltenham.
Day trips from Cheltenham to Cotswolds without a car
Cleeve Hill
Set at the highest point in the Cotswolds, Cleeve Hill has panoramic views stretching for miles and a network of walking routes for all abilities to explore – including a section of the Cotswold Way National Trail. It's easy to reach from Cheltenham by bus, with a stop next to the Rising Sun hotel where you can head out to explore the hill's footpaths before a pub lunch. There's also a golf course on top of the hill which provides a challenge for locals and visitors alike.
How to get there: The Stagecoach W bus (excluding Sundays) takes 15 minutes
Winchcombe and Sudeley Castle
Just 20 minutes by bus from Cheltenham you'll find one of the Cotswolds' most impressive landmarks, Sudeley Castle and Gardens. This Tudor gem is a the only private castle in England with a queen buried in its grounds – Katherine Parr, last of Henry VIII’s six wives. Discover fascinating treasures from ancient Roman times to the present day in the castle rooms and exhibitions, or explore the gardens and kids' adventure playground, complete with a fort and zip wire.
The castle is on the edge of the historic market town of Winchcombe, which has a local history museum where you can see part of the Winchcombe Meteorite found locally. Plus there are plenty of independent shops, cosy pubs and cafés.
How to get there: The Stagecoach W bus (excluding Sundays) takes 20 minutes. Alternatively, jump on the GWSR steam train from Cheltenham Racecourse station and disembark at Winchcombe station which is actually located in Greet, approximately a 20 minute pleasant walk into Winchcombe town centre.
Images feature - View from Cleeve Hill, Sudeley Castle and Gloucester Docks
Bourton-on-the-Water
Known as the 'Venice of the Cotswolds', Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the region's most popular spots with its pretty stone bridges across the River Windrush, riverside pubs and cafés. There's plenty to see on a day trip from Cheltenham, including fun family-friendly options like the Cotswold Motor Museum, Birdland Park and Gardens, and the Model Village – a one-ninth scale replica of the village. You can also take a walk from Bourton to the picturesque nearby villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter, or continue on foot to Stow-on-the-Wold.
How to get there: The Pulhams 801 bus takes 45 minutes.
Stow-on-the-Wold
Hilltop Stow-on-the-Wold is the highest of the Cotswold towns, with its market square surrounded by houses, shops, hotels and inns all built in the local golden stone. Stow is heaven for art and antique lovers, with a host of boutique shops and galleries to browse. And don't miss the iconic yew tree doorway at St Edward’s Church, which is thought to have been JRR Tolkien's inspiration for the 'Doors of Durin' in The Lord of the Rings.
How to get there: The Pulhams 801 bus takes 1 hour.
Burford
With its medieval bridge, stone cottages and Tudor and Georgian buildings, Burford is one of the Cotswolds’ most attractive towns. It was once an important wool town, which funded the building of the grand Church of St John the Baptist, with beautiful stained glass and medieval wall paintings. Burford's High Street stretches down the hill, lined with cafés, pubs and shops selling antiques, homewares, food and drink, and even England's oldest chemist.
How to get there: The Stagecoach S2 bus takes 50 minutes.
Painswick
The historic wool town of Painswick may be less well-known than some of its Cotswold neighbours, but it has plenty of charm. It is best known for its beautiful Rococo Garden, which is the only complete surviving rococo garden in England. There's also St Mary’s Church with its churchyard of 99 clipped yew trees, local crafts at The Painswick Centre, welcoming local eateries and walks up to the hilltop Painswick Beacon for views for miles.
How to get there: The Stagecoach 66 bus takes 40 minutes.
Images feature - Stow-on-the-Wold, Painswick Rococo Garden and Cirencester
Stroud
Easily accessed from Cheltenham by train or bus, Stroud hosts one of the best Farmers' Markets in the country every Saturday, with over 90 stalls selling fruit and veg, meat, pies, cakes and drinks. It's also a creative hub, with live music and theatre at the Subscription Rooms, local history at the Museum in the Park and an annual Arts Festival. Or discover the town's industrial heritage on a walk along the canal past historic mill buildings.
How to get there: Great Western Railway trains take 30 minutes from Cheltenham Spa station, or the Stagecoach 66 bus takes an hour.
Cirencester
Often called the 'Capital of the Cotswolds', Cirencester is only 40 minutes from Cheltenham by bus so makes an easy day trip. The town is rich in Roman heritage, with the remains of its Roman amphitheatre and fascinating artefacts at the Corinium Museum. It also holds regular markets in front of the historic Church of St John the Baptist. There's great shopping and dining, and acres of green space, from the Abbey Grounds to the 3000-acre Cirencester Park.
How to get there: The Stagecoach 51 bus takes 40 minutes.
Broadway
Known as the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds’, Broadway is a picturesque village located 16 miles north of Cheltenham in Worcestershire. Known for its tree-lined High Street, honey-coloured stone cottages, elegant architecture, art galleries, boutique shops, fine eateries, cosy coffee shops and proximity to stunning countryside like Broadway Tower and the Cotswold Way. The village attracts visitors from around the world.
How to get there: A slower journey by bus than other day trips recommended above taking 1 hour 40 minutes on the Pulhams 606 bus (every two hours Monday to Saturday). A more convenient and fun option is to ride by GWSR steam train from Cheltenham Racecourse to Broadway. Journey approximately 70 minutes, followed by a one mile/15-minute walk to the village centre.
Helpful guides to plan your day trips: Explore beyond Cheltenham and suggested Cheltenham itineraries
Day trips from Cheltenham to Gloucester & Tewkesbury without a car
Gloucester
Just eight miles from Cheltenham, Gloucester blends a rich past with a lively modern atmosphere. Discover its Roman roots, historic streets and vibrant cultural venues. The city is home to 11th-century Gloucester Cathedral, one of England’s most impressive medieval buildings which is also a popular film location. As are the revitalised Gloucester Docks, whose Victorian warehouses are now filled with museums, shops and waterside cafés and restaurants.
How to get there: The Stagecoach 94X bus takes 30 minutes or direct train from Cheltenham Spa station to Gloucester takes 8-10 minutes.
Things to do: 15 reasons to visit Gloucester during your stay in Cheltenham
Plan your visit: Day trip to Gloucester from Cheltenham
Tewkesbury
Situated where the Rivers Severn and Avon meet, Tewkesbury is an ancient town packed with character. Visit magnificent Tewkesbury Abbey with its Norman architecture and medieval stained glass. Learn more about the town's history at the Heritage Centre – including the Battle of Tewkesbury which is commemorated at the town's Medieval Festival every summer. Or wander down narrow alleyways past half-timbered buildings, enjoy traditional pubs and riverside walks.
How to get there: The Stagecoach 41 or 42 buses take 30–35 minutes.
Bus and train timetables from Cheltenham to Cotswolds and Gloucester
For bus timetables visit - Stagecoach and Pullhams
For main land train timetables visit - Trainline
For steam train timetables visit - GWSR
