Things to see and do in Cheltenham & The Cotswolds
The No. 131 guide to Cheltenham & The Cotswolds
As cultural capital of the Cotswolds, the vibrant town of Cheltenham has something for everyone. Famed for its festivals, you can discover rising stars at The Cheltenham Jazz Festival or listen to some of the world's greatest writers and thinkers at one of the oldest and best loved literature festivals.
Or, for a true taste of the Cotswolds, visit the fortnightly farmers' market, stroll around beautifully landscaped gardens at the nearby Sudeley Castle, or put on your finest race day attire for a flutter at one of the country's top race courses.
Sport & Fitness, Great Days Out
Ian Coley Shooting School
Spend a leisurely couple of hours at one of the best clay shooting grounds in the UK. Beginners can take advantage of expert tuition from professional coaches, while seasoned shooters can test their skills on 24 signature stands and targets.
Local Highlights, Great Days Out
Cirencester Park Polo Club
Founded in 1894, the historic Cirencester Park Polo Club is the perfect place for a day out. The club plays host to several games throughout the summer months and picnics, gazebos, dogs, and children are all welcome.
Local Highlights, Great Days Out
Sandford Parks Lido
Since opening in 1935, the Sandford Parks Lido has remained popular with visitors and local residents alike. The 50m heated outdoor pool is open throughout the summer months, and with surrounding lawns and a separate children’s pool, the Lido is the perfect place to while away a sunny afternoon.
Sport & Fitness
Brickhampton Court Golf Complex
Often regarded as one of the best local clubs, Brickhampton Court Golf Complex features two charming tree-lined golf courses, a 28-bay floodlit driving range, and a practice putting green. There are PGA professionals on hand to offer expert tuition and a clubhouse which offers great views over the rolling countryside.
Local Highlights, Great Days Out
Cheltenham Festivals
Cheltenham plays host to a variety of festivals throughout the year. Listen to inspirational talks at The Cheltenham Literature Festival, discover up and coming artists at the Jazz and Music Festivals, or marvel at some of the world’s greatest scientists, big thinkers, and comedy geniuses at the summer Science Festival.
Local Highlights
Cheltenham Farmers’ Market
No visit to Cheltenham would be complete without a trip to the fortnightly farmers’ market. Browse a string of stalls selling everything from meats and charcuterie to cheese, cakes, and bread, and sample some of the finest local produce for miles around.
Sports & Fitness, Great Days Out
Gloucester Rugby at Kingsholm Stadium
Once the home of England rugby, the historic Kingsholm Stadium plays host to a number of rugby union games throughout the season. Head on down and watch the home team play from the famous pitch-side stand – The Shed.
Local Highlights, Great Days Out
Snowshill Manor and Garden
This beautiful country house packed with extraordinary treasures is the perfect place to while away an afternoon. Visit in springtime to see the sea of daffodils come into bloom or spend summer days strolling amongst the colourful borders and water features.
Local Highlights, Great Days Out
Sudeley Castle and Gardens
Not only is Sudeley Castle steeped in history, it’s nestled within a stunning 1,200-acre estate and surrounded by ten award-winning gardens. The castle is also the final resting place of the last of Henry VIII’s wives – Katherine Parr. Take a tour of the castle rooms and exhibitions before exploring the breathtaking grounds and gardens.
Local Highlights, Great Days Out
Blenheim Palace
If you’re visiting the Cotswolds, this enchanting palace, and birthplace of Winston Churchill, is a must see. Embark on exclusive tours of the palace and discover priceless collections of portraits, tapestries and furniture, meander through the Pleasure Gardens, or try and navigate the beautiful Marlborough Maze.
Sports & Fitness
Fluid Pilates Bootcamp
Fluid Pilates combines Pilates principles with cardio and HIIT training techniques. In the studio you’ll find the latest in Reformer technology, and with expert trainers and small class sizes, you’re guaranteed to get the very best from your workout.
Local Highlights, Great Days Out
Cheltenham Racecourse
Known as the home of jump racing, Cheltenham Racecourse plays host to several meetings throughout the year including The Festival and The Gold Cup. Surrounded by the Cotswold Hills, the racecourse is undoubtably one of the most picturesque in the UK.
Evening Entertainment, Local Highlights
The Everyman Theatre
At The Everyman Theatre, you can watch everything from opera and musicals to comedy, dance, and drama. With a prime location in the heart of Cheltenham, you can stroll into the town and enjoy an evening of entertainment or head along to one of their matinee performances before a spot of dinner.
Evening Entertainment
Cineworld Cinema and The Screening Rooms
Nestled between an eclectic mix of bars and restaurants in Cheltenham’s Brewery Quarter, the 11-screen Cineworld Cinema and neighbouring Screening Rooms is the perfect place to watch all the latest releases.
