Welcome to Cheltenham

A wonderful mix of the traditional and the new,  Cheltenham nestles against the Cotswolds as the perfect place to unwind and refresh your mind, body and soul.  With unique festival vibes, an abundance of independent and much loved High Street shops, and incredible dining experiences from street food to Michelin starred fine dining. Cheltenham truly is a must-visit town.

Voted the 2nd best place to live in the UK by The Times with its award-winning parks, listed buildings and outstanding education highlighted amongst its best attributes.  As the most complete Regency town in Britain with a population of just 118,800, Cheltenham is intimate and friendly, a civilised place of culture, learning and discovery.

Here are a few of the reasons why you should visit Cheltenham, The Festival Town…

Cheltenham festivals

Cheltenham plays host to 35+ significant festivals a year, several of which are world-leading.   There’s the world’s longest-running literary festival, Cheltenham Literature Festival. The Cheltenham Music Festival  which is 80 years old in 2025 plus the Jazz and Science Festivals. And of course, not forgetting Cheltenham Festival, the most prestigious jump racing event of the year, with the grand finale, the legendary Gold Cup.

Regency architecture

As you would expect from the most complete Regency town in Britain, Cheltenham is brimming with history. As you stroll along the promenade, it’s easy to see why it became the hip 18^th century hang out for holidaying Brits, after the enterprising Henry Skillicorne unearthed its health-giving spa waters – even gaining the Royal Seal Of Approval after the visit of the then-reigning monarch, George III.

Award-winning Cheltenham restaurants

Cheltenham is an exciting foodie destination, with many unique restaurants to explore and discover. There really is something to suit every palate from Michelin-starred Le Champignon Sauvage and Lumiere, to food from around the world and independent places to eat, many of which are guide book recommended.

Buzzy & safe nightlife

Whether you’re enjoying a night out in The Brewery Quarter, taking in the arts at one of our four theatres, or simply relaxing in one of Cheltenham’s many unique bars and clubs, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.

Cheltenham has successfully retained its Purple Flag status since 2016. The nationally recognised award is given to towns and cities that have an appealing, safe and welcoming evening and night-time economy.

Don’t just take our word for it…

Still need a little convincing to book your stay in Cheltenham?  We are proud to have received rave reviews from international press including the New York Times who described our town as enjoying a cultural renaissance with many 'happening spots'.  The Sunday Times referred to Cheltenham as 'a family-friendly spa town that puts the gloss into Gloucestershire' and the Independent called Cheltenham a 'Design Destination' with stylish places to eat, drink and stay.

We look forward to welcoming you to Cheltenham, The Festival Town – your oasis of calm, creativity and culture.