The town of Cheltenham lies to the east of Bristol and aouth of Birmingham and is close to the cities of Swindon and Oxford. It is also within easy driving distance of the picture-postcard villages that can be found all over the Cotswolds.
However, in the town of Cheltenham there are lots of things to see and do during your visit to this magnificent spa town.
1. Cheltenham Racecourse’s Hall of Fame – Here you can learn about the history of steeple chasing dating back to 1819. You can trace through the history of the Gold Cup, one of the highlights of the racing year, but you can also find out how Cheltenham has become an Irish stronghold in the world of racing. The exhibition also looks at the numerous racehorse trainers and jockeys who have helped to make this course special in the world of racing.
2. Gloucestershire Warwickshire Heritage Railway – Throughout the summer season on most weekends steam trains run between Cheltenham, Winchcombe and Toddington. Plus at other times they also run seasonal events that can be enjoyed by young and old alike.
3. The Holst Birthplace Museum – This terraced Victorian property has had its kitchen restored and in the museum you’ll find lots of things that are to do with the composer of the music suite “The Planets”. You can spend time exploring the composer’s youthful days and also his later years and view the piano where he composed his music together with a collection of his musical scores.
4. Pittville Pump Room – This grand building is often used as the symbol of the town and is a celebrated example of Regency architecture. It has a commanding view of the lawns and lakes of Pittville Park and is host to many displays and exhibitions throughout the year. If you’re brave enough you can sample the foul tasting spa waters which at one time attracted people from across the country for their supposed health benefits.
5. Sandford Parks Lido – This is one of the UK’s biggest outdoor pools and is set in beautifully landscaped gardens. The main pool is 164 feet long but also there is a children’s pool and a paddling pool All the pools are heated to a very pleasant 70 degrees or so. For those who prefer dry land, the Lido also offers basketball, table tennis and volleyball facilities.
6. St Mary’s Church – Cheltenham’s oldest building and was built during the middle part of the 11th Century. It displays the Royal Coat of Arms and this was to commemorate the visit made by George III in 1788. Another feature which many enjoy is the 14th Century rose window, the canopied piscine and the baptistery which has lierne vaulting. Plus inside there are many memorials to some of its citizens including Henry Skillicorne who developed the town’s first spa.
Next time you stay in Cheltenham, use this comprehensive list of Cheltenham hotels.
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