Beyond Cheltenham

Cheltenham’s central location makes it the perfect base to explore neighbouring Tewkesbury and Gloucester, nearby Forest of Dean, Wye Valley and Cotswold towns, villages and attractions. Within just a short drive or less than an hour, you’ll find historic market towns, picture-perfect villages, and scenic countryside, all steeped in character.

The Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, stretches from Chipping Campden in the north to Bath in the south. Renowned for its rolling hills, honey-coloured stone cottages, and charming market squares, this region offers quintessential English scenery and attractions.

 

Winchcombe day trip from Cheltenham (7 miles)

Just 7 miles from Cheltenham, Winchcombe is a charming Cotswold town often referred to as the “walking capital of the Cotswolds.” Its historic streets, independent shops, and scenic location make it a perfect day out.

Things to do in Winchcombe:

  • Visit Sudeley Castle & Gardens, steeped in royal history and home to beautiful seasonal gardens

  • Explore the independent shops, tearooms, and traditional pubs along the High Street

  • Enjoy one of the many scenic walking trails, including routes along the Cotswold Way and Winchcombe Way

​For more details visit - winchcombewelcomeswalkers.com

 

​Stow-on-the-Wold day trip from Cheltenham (18 miles)

Perched on a hill, Stow-on-the-Wold is a classic market town known for antique shops, art galleries, and cosy pubs.

Things to do in and around Stow-on-the-Wold:

  • See the famous yew tree door at St Edward’s Church

  • Browse antique shops and local galleries

  • Visit Cotswold Farm Park nearby (home of Adam Henson)

  • Explore Batsford Arboretum and Broadway Tower

  • Enjoy traditional pubs such as The Porch House​

 

Moreton-in-Marsh day trip from Cheltenham (22 miles)

This thriving market town hosts one of the largest weekly street markets in the Cotswolds every Tuesday.

Things to do in Moreton-in-Marsh:

  • Explore the Tuesday market (known as the largest in the Cotswolds)

  • Visit the Wellington Aviation Museum or Batsford Arboretum

  • Take a trip to Chastleton House (National Trust)

  • Browse independent shops and tearooms along the High Street

  • Enjoy countryside walks in nearby villages

 

Bibury day trip from Cheltenham (18 miles)

Described by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England”, Bibury is home to the famous Arlington Row.

Things to do in Bibury:

  • Photograph Arlington Row cottages

  • Visit Bibury Trout Farm (with fishing opportunities)

  • Explore St Mary’s Church

  • Enjoy riverside walks along the River Coln

  • Dine at The Swan Hotel or other village pubs

 

Cirencester day trip from Cheltenham (15 miles)

Known as the Capital of the Cotswolds, Cirencester boasts Roman history, a lively market square, and plenty of shops.

Things to do in Cirencester:

  • Explore the Corinium Museum (Roman history)

  • Shop at the Charter Market (Mondays and Fridays)

  • Stroll through Cirencester Park and The Bathurst Estate

  • Visit the Parish Church of St John the Baptist

  • Enjoy boutique shops, cafés, and bistros

 

Bourton-on-the-Water day trip from Cheltenham (16 miles)

Often called the Venice of the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water is famous for its low bridges over the River Windrush and pretty stone cottages.

Things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water:

  • Visit the Cotswold Motoring Museum
  • Explore the Model Village (1/9th scale replica of the village)
  • Meet exotic birds at Birdland Park & Gardens
  • Browse independent gift shops and tearooms along the river
  • Enjoy riverside walks and picnics

 

Broadway day trip from Cheltenham (16 miles)

Just 16 miles from Cheltenham, Broadway is often called “the jewel of the Cotswolds” thanks to its honey-coloured stone buildings, wide historic High Street, and charming shops.

Things to do in Broadway:

  • Stroll along the High Street lined with boutiques, galleries, and tearooms
  • Visit the iconic Broadway Tower for sweeping Cotswold views
  • Explore Gordon Russell Design Museum
  • Enjoy fine dining or afternoon tea at one of the village’s luxury hotels

For more details on all of the above Cotswolds towns and villages visit: www.cotswolds.com

 

Tewkesbury day trip from Cheltenham (10 miles)

This medieval riverside town is famous for its stunning abbey and half-timbered buildings.

Things to do in Tewkesbury:

  • Visit the magnificent Tewkesbury Abbey
  • Explore medieval alleyways and riverside walks
  • Learn local history at Tewkesbury Museum
  • Attend the Tewkesbury Medieval Festival (July)
  • Browse antique and independent shops

For more details visit: www.visittewkesbury.info

 

Stroud day trip from Cheltenham (14 miles)

Nestled in the Five Valleys, Stroud is known for its creativity, markets, and beautiful countryside.

Things to do in Stroud:

  • Visit the Stroud Farmers’ Market (Saturdays)
  • Explore Woodchester Mansion and Rodborough Common
  • Walk along the Cotswold Canal towpaths
  • Browse artisan shops and galleries in town
  • Enjoy local food at independent cafés and pubs

For more details visit: www.visitstroud.uk

 

Forest of Dean & Wye Valley day trip from Cheltenham (30–35 miles)

Less than an hour from Cheltenham, the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley offer breathtaking scenery, ancient woodland, and plenty of outdoor adventures.

Things to do in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley:

  • Explore the dramatic limestone gorge at Symonds Yat Rock (famous viewpoint)

  • Visit Puzzlewood – an ancient woodland that inspired Tolkien

  • Take a tour of Clearwell Caves

  • Enjoy walking or cycling the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail

  • Canoe or kayak along the River Wye

  • Discover wildlife at Dean Heritage Centre

For more details visit: www.visitdeanwye.co.uk

 

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