Whether you’re visiting for the first time or keen to explore more of what's on your doorstep, SoGlos has selected the 10 best things to do in Cheltenham — from soaking up the Regency sights to cheering on the horses at the world-famous racecourse.
Enjoy world premiere entertainment at the Everyman Theatre
A much-loved theatre that’s been entertaining audiences since 1891, Cheltenham's Everyman is an architectural gem both inside and out. With the auditorium designed by prolific theatre architect Frank Matcham, the space has inspired performers for generations, making it a must-see for locals and visitors.
One of the liveliest arts venues in the county, the Everyman plays host to all kinds of productions throughout the year, including high-profile shows and world premieres which people get to see here first — including the massively successful Great British Bake Off — The Musical and acclaimed choreographer Matthew Bourne's The Midnight Bell.
Experience 'the roar' at Cheltenham Racecourse
One of the most talked-about experiences at the Cheltenham Festival, the 'Cheltenham roar' is a thunderous cry made by around 70,000 racing and betting fans in the grandstands when the starter raises the tape for the first race of the event.
Renowned for its incredible atmosphere, the four-day festival takes place annually in March at Cheltenham Racecourse. Usually coinciding with Saint Patrick's Day, it's particularly popular with Irish visitors — and it's one not to miss!
Soak up the Regency sights
Head to Cheltenham’s Promenade and admire some of the sights of the Regency town, including the Municipal Buildings and Neptune Fountain. And just a short walk up the road in Montpellier, see the famous Caryatids.
Pittville Park is also home to one of the most impressive examples of Regency architecture in town. The Grade I listed Pittville Pump Room is surrounded on three sides by a majestic colonnade which, along with its ornate domed ceiling and dramatic entrance, makes it a truly impressive sight.
Try your hand at clay pigeon shooting
Whether you've shot before or are a complete beginner, try out clay shooting at one of the UK's top 10 largest shooting schools, Ian Coley Sporting, near Cheltenham.
Providing everything you could need — shotguns, cartridges, clays, all safety equipment and lots of fun! — you'll meet your instructor at the clubhouse who will equip you with an appropriate gun, before going head-to-head with friends and taking your aim at different clay pigeon targets.
Take part in a masterclass at Dunkertons
Discover the skills, secrets and history of cider making at a Dunkertons masterclass at its cidery in Charlton Kings.
Starting off with a welcome cider on arrival, masterclasses at Dunkertons Cider last around two hours and include a guided tour of the cidery, a lesson in cider blending with the master cider maker and a souvenir Dunkertons Cider glass goblet to take home.
Make a splash at Cheltenham Lido
Promising a great day out for swimmers old and young, make a splash in Cheltenham's outdoor swimming spot, Cheltenham Lido, with a heated 50-metre pool, sunbathing spots and a cafe.
The UK's biggest outdoor pool, the lido has held its position as Cheltenham's summer hot spot since it first opened in 1935, when entry cost just a sixpence!
Explore fascinating artefacts and fine art at The Wilson
Free to visit, The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum holds a fascinating collection of historical artefacts and fine art from across the globe, high profile touring exhibitions and special events across its four floors.
Its arts cafe on the ground floor welcomes visitors with freshly brewed coffee and a selection of delicious cakes and pastries, offering a small but perfectly formed menu covering tasty breakfasts to light lunches, with vegan and gluten-free options, as well as a kids' menu.
Dine at one of Cheltenham's impressive independent restaurants
Cheltenham’s vibrant independent dining scene offers the chance to eat your way around the world without leaving town.
Try Domaine 16 for a selection of cheesy — and classically French — dishes, such as a croque monsieur, gooey baked Saint Marcellin or a cheese and charcuterie plate; tuck in to Sri Lankan food at The Coconut Tree with the menu covering everything from coconut sambal to traditional egg hoppers; and freshly-rolled sushi, gyoza dumplings and hearty ramen bowls at Japanese kitchen, KIBOU.
Take in spectacular views from Cleeve Hill
Looking to tick a mountain off your bucket list? You don't need to travel far, with Gloucestershire’s highest point, Cleeve Hill, being named the ‘fastest mountain to climb’ in the UK in a 2021 study.
As the highest point of the Cotswold hills, the Gloucestershire peak offers remarkable views over Cheltenham — including its famous racecourse — and out towards Wales from the top; while keen explorers can also find the neolithic monument, Belas Knap, close to the summit.
Relax in a luxury spa at Gloucestershire's only five-star hotel
For a leisurely break, escape to Gloucestershire’s only five-star hotel, Ellenborough Park, which boasts an outdoor pool and offers a range of deluxe spa breaks for guests to completely switch off.
Choose from a number of spa packages, many of which include afternoon tea, dinner in Ellenborough Park’s fine dining restaurant and a wonderful night’s sleep in one of many comfortable, classically styled rooms.
