Suggested itinerary - Christmas weekend in Cheltenham
How to travel to Cheltenham
Cheltenham is one of the most accessible destinations in the UK. Cheltenham Spa train station is serviced by a number of popular direct GWR train routes from stations such as London Paddington, Bristol Temple Meads and Swindon. London Paddington to Cheltenham Spa is only a 1 hour and 50 minute journey.
The station is situated to the south west of town, which can be reached in about 15 minutes on foot along the traffic-free Honeybourne Line path or along Lansdown Road. Alternatively, add PlusBus to your GWR train ticket for unlimited bus travel around Cheltenham and an easy ride into the centre of town from the train station.
Take advantage of this accessible location by checking into one of the town’s stylish hotels or guest houses. Unpack and then head out early for a stroll around the stalls at one of the Cheltenham Christmas Markets, a well-earned Friday night festive dinner and celebratory drinks.
Cheltenham hotel options
Cheltenham town centre luxury hotels and apartments include – Queens Hotel, No 131, No. 38 The Park, Neptune Apartments, 5 & 6 North Place and Luxury Apartments. For more ideas check out – Cheltenham town centre hotels.
Countryside retreats near Cheltenham – Ellenborough Park and Greenway Hotel & Spa, Cowley Manor Experimental. For more details check out – Country Hotels in Cheltenham.
Boutique accommodation - Hotel Du Vin, Malmaison, Spa Court by Staylets and Cotswold Grange Hotel. For more ideas check out – Cheltenham Boutique Hotels
Budget-friendly town centre hotels - Holiday Inn Express
For more inspiration check out - Christmas hotel staycation in Cheltenham
Festive dining in Cheltenham
For a guaranteed festive mood boost, treat yourself to delicious goodies at one of the Cheltenham Christmas Markets. Indulge in a giant bratwurst from the iconic German Schwenkegrill, followed by pastries and a Glühwein. Many hotels, restaurants and cafes offer festive dining packages over the Christmas season, we've rounded up a few of our recommendations - Christmas dining in Cheltenham.
Cheltenham restaurants
Cheltenham is home to many award-winning and guide book recommended restaurants. You’ll be truly spoilt for choice during your getaway for Christmas…
Treat yourself – Victoria’s, The Nook on Five, Brasserie Blanc, Sef Steakhouse, The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie
Cool but casual – KIBOU, Tailors, Mr Cambray's Curiosity, The Alchemist, Flight Club, The Tavern, Pho, Chaplais Kitchen, Nagomi, Yo!
After dinner drink options - Best bars in Cheltenham
Wherever you stay in Cheltenham for your Christmas weekend break you’ll find plenty of bars nearby. Here are a few of our recommendations...
Cocktail bars - The Botanist, Gin & Juice, The Alchemist, Mr Cambray's Curiosity
Hidden gems - The Clarence Social, Imperial Haus
Cosy pubs – The Railway, Sandford Park Alehouse, Suffolk Arms. Tailors
For more wining and dining inspiration check out our helpful guides…
Award winning restaurants Cheltenham
Independent restaurants in Cheltenham
Weekend entertainment – Christmas events in Cheltenham
Get ready for an action packed weekend full of festive fun! Below are some of the unmissable Christmas events in Cheltenham. To avoid disappointment we recommend you plan your Christmas weekend in Cheltenham in advance and pre-book your tickets, to ensure you can experience a few of these magical activities…
Cheltenham Ice Rink
This magical all-weather rink is returning to Imperial Gardens, Friday 21 November 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026. A guaranteed memorable festive activity for skaters of all ages and abilities. With capacity for over 100 skaters at a time, the wheelchair-accessible ice rink offers a fun activity for everyone. Book your tickets here - Cheltenham Ice Rink.
Panto at the Everyman Theatre
An annual unmissable performance that attracts visitors from miles around and is guaranteed to have you roaring with laughter, no matter what you age! The all-singing, all dancing, Everyman Theatre Pantomime this year is Robin Hood and His Merry Men, featuring Gloucestershire’s favourite clown, Tweedy.
Panto at the Cheltenham Playhouse
Experience the tale of Dick Whittington where Dick dreams of the bright lights of London Town, and he cannot wait to leave his old life at 'The Whittington', in Gloucestershire, behind him as he seeks fame and fortune.
Spectacle of Light
Set in the grounds of Sudeley Castle, Spectacle of Light has a great reputation, by both locals and visitors, who now consider this their annual Christmas tradition.
Our top tip for light trails is to wrap up warm, wear your wellies and treat yourself to a hot chocolate or mulled wine, to truly add to your experience!
Christmas on the Farm
Step into a magical festive world at Cotswold Farm Park, where twinkling lights, joyful characters, and heart-warming experiences bring the spirit of Christmas to life. Families are invited to make memories together through meaningful moments, from an unforgettable meeting with Father Christmas to hands-on creative workshops and cosy winter gatherings.
Meet Santa in Cheltenham
Santa loves Cheltenham and will be popping up at various venues throughout this festive season! Whether you decide to see him at his traditional grotto, during a live stage performance, at the races during The Christmas Meeting or whilst riding on a steam train with GWSR – the experience is sure to be memorable. Read our guide here - Best Places to See Santa in Cheltenham.
Cheltenham horse racing events at Christmas
There are three exciting racing meets taking place at Cheltenham Racecourse, the home of Jump Racing, over the festive season - The November Meeting, The Christmas Meeting and of course, New Year’s Day Racing which is a memorable way to kick start the New Year in style!
Cheltenham Christmas Markets
Strolling around a Christmas market is guaranteed to give you a warm fuzzy feeling. Whether it's from talking to the local stall holders or from sipping on the mulled wine as you browse the festive stalls, there are several markets to choose from - Christmas Markets in Cheltenham.
Live Christmas performances in Cheltenham
Cheltenham is lucky to have three theatres and several other live performance venues, including the Cheltenham Town Hall. All are hosting some festive classics this year including Swing into Christmas and That I'll Be The Day.
Historical tour of Cheltenham
Want to combine your Christmas getaway with the opportunity to learn about the history of Regency Cheltenham? There are several tour guides who offer fascinating insights into our spa town, including blue badge tour guide, Anne Bartlett, who offers both walking and coach tours for groups and individuals and Cheltenham Guided Walks.
Above we have featured just a highlight of the festive events taking place. For lots more inspiration check out our helpful guide - Cheltenham Christmas Events.
Festive afternoon tea Cheltenham
Dining is a huge part of the build up to Christmas and there is simply no better way to indulge than with delicious sandwiches, freshly made scones and delicate cakes! Afternoon tea in Cheltenham is an indulgent affair and especially so at Christmas time.
Town centre afternoon tea in Cheltenham options – Dukes Tea Room at the Queens Hotel, The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie, No 131
Country venues offering festive afternoon tea in Cheltenham – Ellenborough Park, The Greenway Hotel.
For more inspiration check out our helpful guide – Afternoon tea in Cheltenham.
Christmas shopping in Cheltenham
In between indulging in delicious food and enjoying Cheltenham’s many Christmas events, make time for some Christmas shopping.
Cheltenham offers traditional shopping streets, many housed in gorgeous Regency buildings, combining the High Street brands you know and love including John Lewis and Marks & Spencer’s, with fantastic independent retailers who offer unique products, you truly won't find anywhere else.
We thoroughly recommend every Christmas shopping trip to Cheltenham should include a visit to these shopping districts - The Promenade, Montpellier, The Suffolks, Tivoli and Bath Road.
For more inspiration check out our helpful guides –