Cheltenham and Gloucester – Discover the Heart of the Cotswolds and Historic Gloucestershire

Located just a few miles apart in the scenic county of Gloucestershire, the towns of Cheltenham and Gloucester offer visitors a rich combination of heritage, culture, festivals, and countryside charm. Whether you’re planning a weekend break, exploring the Cotswolds, or attending a world-famous horse racing event, this dynamic duo is a must-visit in southwest England.

In this guide, you’ll discover the best things to do in Cheltenham and Gloucester, how to get there, where to stay, and what makes each town unique.

Where Are Cheltenham and Gloucester?

Cheltenham: A Regency spa town known for its elegant architecture, cultural events, and festivals.
Gloucester: A historic cathedral city with Roman roots, a famous medieval cathedral, and a rejuvenated docks area.

Distance apart: Around 9 miles (15 km) – easily accessible by car, bus, or train.

Things to Do in Cheltenham

Explore Cheltenham’s Regency Architecture

Stroll through the Montpellier district and Pittville to admire terraced townhouses, wrought-iron balconies, and garden squares.

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Attend Cheltenham Festival (March)

One of the biggest horse racing events in the UK, the Cheltenham Festival attracts visitors from all over the world.

Highlights:

The Gold Cup
Live music and events
Food and drink stalls

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Visit The Wilson – Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum

Home to a diverse collection of fine and decorative arts, including the Arts and Crafts Movement.

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Dine and Shop in Montpellier & The Promenade

Enjoy independent shops, boutiques, and upscale restaurants in one of Cheltenham’s most stylish areas.

Experience Cheltenham’s Festivals

Known as The Festival Town, Cheltenham hosts:

Literature Festival (Oct)
Jazz Festival (May)
Science Festival (June)
Music Festival (July)

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Things to Do in Gloucester

Visit Gloucester Cathedral

A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and a filming location for Harry Potter, this cathedral is one of England’s most impressive.

Don’t Miss:

The cloisters (film fans will recognize them!)
Tower tours for panoramic views
King Edward II’s tomb

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Walk Around Gloucester Docks & Quays

A revitalized waterfront area featuring:

Gloucester Quays Outlet Shopping Centre
Restaurants, boat rides, and cafes
National Waterways Museum

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Enjoy Family Fun at Robinswood Hill Country Park

Perfect for nature walks, scenic views, and spotting local wildlife.

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Explore the Gloucester Folk Museum & City Museum

Learn about local life, history, and the town’s Roman and medieval roots.

How to Get to Cheltenham and Gloucester

By Car:

The M5 motorway links both towns with Bristol, Birmingham, and the Midlands.

By Train:

Direct trains to London Paddington, Birmingham New Street, and Cardiff.

Local Transport:

Regular buses connect Cheltenham and Gloucester (approx. every 10–15 minutes).

Where to Stay

In Cheltenham:

Queens Hotel – Iconic Regency hotel on the Promenade
Hotel du Vin – Boutique elegance near Montpellier
Premier Inn Cheltenham Town Centre – Budget-friendly and central

In Gloucester:

The New Inn – Historic coaching inn in the city centre
Holiday Inn Gloucester – Modern comforts with parking
Hatton Court Hotel – Country house charm on the outskirts

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Food & Drink Highlights

The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie (Cheltenham) – Upscale dining in a stunning setting
The Coconut Tree (Cheltenham) – Sri Lankan street food vibes
The Dockside Grill (Gloucester) – Fresh seafood on the waterfront
The Fountain Inn (Gloucester) – One of England’s oldest pubs

Best Time to Visit

Spring/Summer (April–August) – Best for festivals, warm weather, and outdoor events
Autumn (September–October) – Perfect for foliage and fewer crowds
Winter (November–December) – Christmas markets, cosy pubs, and festive charm

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Conclusion

Cheltenham and Gloucester offer a perfect blend of culture, history, and countryside charm. From Gothic cathedrals and historic docks to stylish shops, festivals, and Regency architecture, there’s something for every type of traveler.

Whether you’re exploring the Cotswolds, attending a world-class event, or just looking for a scenic English getaway, these twin towns should be high on your list.

FAQs

1. What is Cheltenham famous for?

Cheltenham is best known for its Regency architecture, international festivals, and the Cheltenham Racecourse, home of the Gold Cup.

2. What is Gloucester famous for?

Gloucester is famous for Gloucester Cathedral, Roman heritage, and its historic docks which now house shops, museums, and cafes.

3. Which is better to visit – Cheltenham or Gloucester?

Both towns offer unique experiences: Cheltenham is more elegant and festival-focused, while Gloucester is rich in history and culture. Visit both—they’re just 15 minutes apart!

4. Are Cheltenham and Gloucester in the Cotswolds?

Cheltenham borders the Cotswolds AONB and serves as a popular base for exploring the region. Gloucester lies just outside but is equally scenic and historic.