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Cheltenham attractions
Cheltenham is home to lots of fantastic cultural attractions for all ages to enjoy. From our fabulous venues who host events and activities, to historic sights that are a must-visit. There’s something for every interest, whatever it may be.
The award-winning Pittville Park was the brainchild of Joseph Pitt, who founded the area of Pittville to the North of the Town with stunning Regency townhouses, surrounding a huge green park. You can still see the original gates as you enter the park, and it also features a boating lake, skate park, tennis courts, golf putting green, a wildlife lake, a menagerie of animals, a huge children’s playground, and of course the famous Pittville Pump Room, home to our spa waters, at the top of a grand sloping lawn.
The nostalgic art deco Lido at Sandford Park is a must during summer months, offering two heated outdoor pools whilst Leisure At, located next to Pittville Park, offers two indoor swimming pools, diving pool and childrens splash area to enjoy year-round.
With a growing arts, theatre and music scene, entertainment venues include the Cheltenham Town Hall, Everyman Theatre, The Playhouse, Cheltenham Racecourse and The Bacon Theatre.
Live entertainment takes place in many of Cheltenham's pubs and music venues, whilst The Brewery Quarter in the centre of town is home to a Cineworld Imax multiplex cinema, Hollywood Bowl, Mr Mulligan’s indoor adventure golf, Escape Hunt and The Play Farm, an indoor soft play area suitable for children up to the age of 12.
If the weather isn't kind, head to one of Cheltenham’s Museums or Galleries. The Wilson - Cheltenham's Art Gallery & Museum is a cultural attraction enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike. With a gallery dedicated to their extensive fine art collection, it puts on many exhibitions and seasonal events throughout the year. The birthplace of Gustav Holst, composer of 'The Planets', can be found at the Holst Victorian House on Clarence Road, they too host events, particularly geared to children and families during the school holidays.
Art enthusiasts should head to the popular shopping and dining district of Montpellier, which is thriving in recent years as an art quarter. Here you'll find the Gardens Gallery, Paragon Gallery, Sixteen Gallery, Park Gallery and new for 2021 - Spring Cheltenham, new artist-run gallery and pop-up exhibition space.
Of course, Cheltenham is also the home of Cheltenham Town FC who play at Whaddon Road, Cheltenham Cricket Club, and Cheltenham College who hold the annual Cheltenham Cricket Festival, and where Gloucestershire County Cricket Club have played many first class and list A matches.
Moving beyond Cheltenham, and in the local area you will find a huge number of other popular attractions within easy driving distance, including Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park, Sudeley Castle, Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucester Docks & The Quays, Tewkesbury Abbey and villages such as Painswick, Stroud and Bourton-on-the-Water.
For more day trip and staycation inspiration check out our helpful guides which feature Cheltenham's unmissable sights and hidden gems to ensure you have an unforgettable stay in our Regency town...
48 hours in Cheltenham and the Cotswolds
16 Cheltenham staycation ideas
Christmas getaway in Cheltenham
Day trip to the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley from Cheltenham