Trains to Cheltenham

This historic town – famed for its Regency town houses, racecourse and natural spring – has been welcoming visitors for almost 300 years. It’s a great spot for a cultural break and an ideal base for exploring the Cotswolds. Pittville Park is a great place to start your visit. Opened in 1825 it's home to the historic pump room, and is the largest ornamental park in the town. From there head to The Wilson which is a fantastic gallery and museum space.

Cheltenham hosts over 25 festivals a year so you’re likely to find a festival going on. From the oldest Literature festival in the world to indulging in food at the Cheese and Chilli Festival, Cheltenham’s festival offering really is worth a trip. Alternatively take a memorable trip on Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, a volunteer-run heritage line.

The Cheltenham Festival is one of the biggest dates on the horse racing calendar and brings a real buzz to the town. For a football fix, head to Whaddon Road to see Cheltenham Town in action.

Cheltenham is known as the food capital of the Cotswolds, and for good reason. There are plenty of popular independent restaurants, alongside well-known chains. Have dinner or sip movie-inspired cocktails in the Daffodil, housed in a former 1920s cinema, try out Sri Lankan street food at The Coconut Tree or book into Cheltenham’s Michelin-starred Le Champignon Sauvage.

Cheltenham has a great selection of bars, clubs, pubs and gig venues, covering a variety of tastes. Check the listings and enjoy a show at Cheltenham Town Hall or the Everyman Theatre. Alternatively catch a live band at the Cheltenham Jazz Festival. Don’t forget that Cheltenham offers free stages around town for some of its festivals, something that’s certainly not to be missed.

The Regent Arcade has all the big names. Alternatively take a stroll along The Promenade or the High Street for the latest well-known stores including the local well-established department store, Cavendish House or John Lewis. The areas of Montpellier and The Suffolks are jam-packed with independent shops, offering something a little different for keen shoppers.