Imperial Gardens

About

The Imperial Gardens are located just off the Promenade, at the rear of Cheltenham Town Hall. The formal style you now see was laid out just after the Second World War, and each year, approximately 25,000 bedding plants are used to produce the magnificent floral displays enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year. A perfect spot for a relaxing break the gardens are used by locals and visitors to soak up sunshine, enjoy a good book or have a picnic. In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy The Garden Bar which serves pizzas, fries, breakfast baps, draught beer, light lunches, morning coffee, cakes and pastries, ice cream, wines, ciders, bottled beers and cocktails.

This beautiful garden was originally landscaped and planted as a pleasure garden for the wealthy users of the Sherborne Spa (later Imperial Spa) which was built and opened in 1818 on the site which is now the Queen's Hotel. The gardens still retain some of the original Regency features including the central fountain.

The gardens are flanked by extensive Regency facades, with the Regency terrace townhouses encompassing three sides. Many have now become offices, although some remain intact as houses and apartments. Spot their Regency ironwork and imposing front steps. Of course The Queen's Hotel is not from the Regency Period, rebuilt in 1837 at a then, whopping cost of £47,000, but is very fitting of the era and location. During the summer months, Imperial Gardens becomes host to many outdoor events and festivals including the Science Festival.