Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay to visit Cheltenham as full England route revealed

On Tuesday, 5 July, Cheltenham will officially welcome the Queen’s Baton as part of the 16th official Queen’s Baton Relay – an exciting journey which brings together and celebrates communities across the Commonwealth during the build up to 11 days of show-stopping sport at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

During its time in Cheltenham, the Queen’s Baton Relay will visit The Prince of Wales Stadium (for an invitation only event) before travelling through Pittville Park at approximately 6.30pm culminating with a reception and community celebration on the steps of Pittville Pump Room. The celebration will begin from 4pm by the pump room – making it a perfect time for families to come out and enjoy a late afternoon picnic in the park.

Download the Cheltenham route map here - Queen's Baton Relay Route Map.

Cllr Rowena Hay leader of Cheltenham Borough Council said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to welcome the Queen’s Baton Relay to Cheltenham in July. We’re renowned as The Festival Town thanks to the many world class sporting and cultural events we host each year. So it’s entirely fitting that the South West leg of the relay should finish in Cheltenham - and for what should be a special event as the Baton arrives at the iconic Pittville Pump Room. We’re delighted to be working in partnership with The Cheltenham Trust to help make this a truly memorable evening.’’

Laurie Bell, Chief Executive of The Cheltenham Trust, said: “The Cheltenham Trust is pleased to support this high profile prestigious event bringing the Commonwealth Games baton relay to Cheltenham. We are delighted to welcome the baton at the Prince of Wales stadium, and to host the official reception at Pittville Pump Room at the end of its south west region tour. This is a unique opportunity for the local community to enjoy the spectacle of the baton and to support the relay carriers as it makes its way from the stadium, through Pittville Park to the pump room providing the perfect back drop for the final leg. The trust will host free, live music to ensure a special event for Cheltenham.”

A busy schedule of activities and events are planned for the Queen’s Baton Relay, with opportunities to highlight untold stories from Batonbearers who are striving for change in their community.

Phil Batty, Director of Ceremonies, Culture & Queen's Baton Relay, said: “Whilst the Baton has been travelling across the Commonwealth, we have worked closely with Local Authorities in England to devise a route that engages with hundreds of communities, passing sport venues, historic sites, local schools and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Yet the Queen’s Baton Relay is far more than just a journey. It symbolises connecting people from every corner of the Commonwealth, celebrates Batonbearers who take on challenges, and marks the countdown the biggest sporting event in West Midlands history. And by the time the Baton returns to England for the final leg, 71 nations and territories will have already experienced the magic that comes with it."

“We hope that communities across the country join the excitement, attend events near them, line the streets to cheer on our incredible Batonbearers and celebrate the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.”

Images feature the Queen's Baton and Pittville Pump Room, the venue for the community celebration in Cheltenham.

Commonwealth Games Federation President Dame Louise Martin DBE said: “The Queen’s Baton Relay symbolises hope, solidarity and collaboration across the Commonwealth at a time when it is needed most. It continues to inspire people wherever it goes and creates huge excitement for Birmingham 2022 as it journeys towards the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony on July 28.”  

For more information about Birmingham 2022 visit the website  www.birmingham2022.com/qbr.

Download the Cheltenham route map here - Queen's Baton Relay Route Map.

Entertainment programme

The build-up will begin with music with DJ Rob McElvanney at 4pm, and children’s fun activities, followed by live music from popular singer and pianist Jon Clare from 4.30pm. The Heritage Deco café will be open and there will be pop-up food and drink stands including barbecue until 8pm. 

Call out for volunteers

To assist with crowd control in Pittville Park we are on the lookout for a few volunteers. If you would like to help ensure smooth operation of this significant event, and are free Tuesday 5 July 5pm - 7pm, we would love to hear from you! Please contact our Events Manager - [email protected] Many thanks in advance.