The perfect base for exploring Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds
Cheltenham is perfectly placed for discovering the very best of Gloucestershire, the Cotswolds and beyond. Set on the edge of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the town offers a unique blend of elegant Regency charm, a thriving cultural scene and stylish shopping—all within easy reach of some of the UK’s most iconic destinations.
Getting to Cheltenham
Cheltenham is easy to reach by car, train or coach. Located just off the M5 motorway (junctions 10*, 11 and 11a) and along the A40 between Oxford and Wales, it’s well-connected for road travel. Direct rail services link Cheltenham Spa Station with London, Birmingham, Bristol and Cardiff. For air travellers, Gloucestershire Airport is just four miles from the town, offering flights to UK destinations and private charter options.
Explore nearby destinations
Use Cheltenham as your base to discover the wider region. In under 20 minutes, explore the medieval city of Gloucester, home to a stunning cathedral and historic docks. In just 30 minutes, visit Tewkesbury, known for its beautiful riverside setting and timber-framed buildings.
Head deeper into the Cotswolds and you'll find postcard-perfect villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold and Bibury, all within a 45-minute drive. For outdoor adventures, the Forest of Dean is just over an hour away, offering ancient woodland, walking trails and wildlife.
You're also just 45 minutes from two cultural heavyweights: Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of Shakespeare, and the historic university city of Oxford.
Why stay in Cheltenham?
Cheltenham is more than just a place to sleep—it’s a destination in its own right. Enjoy a packed calendar of festivals, a buzzing food and drink scene, and one of the country’s most stylish independent shopping experiences. Then head out each day to explore historic towns, countryside walks and hidden gems.
With its prime location, excellent transport links and vibrant local character, Cheltenham is your gateway to the best of the South West and the Cotswolds.
