Cheltenham(United Kingdom) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For a culturally immersive stay, The Royal Hotel Cheltenham stands out as a top choice. Located steps from the Cheltenham Literature Festival and The Town Hall, this historic boutique hotel blends Victorian elegance with modern comfort. Its guest rooms feature original artwork and literary references, while the hotel hosts regular events such as author talks, poetry readings, and themed tea parties. Guests can also enjoy curated walking tours focused on Cheltenham’s literary heritage, including visits to the homes of famous writers like Jane Austen, who once visited the town. The hotel’s intimate atmosphere and connection to the arts make it ideal for culture lovers seeking authenticity and charm.

The town center is the most convenient and vibrant area for first-time visitors. It offers easy access to major attractions like the Pump Room, Cheltenham Racecourse, and The Promenade. Hotels here, such as The Lansdowne Hotel, provide excellent proximity to restaurants, shops, and public transport. The area is well-lit, safe, and pedestrian-friendly, perfect for exploring on foot. Additionally, many central hotels offer guided tours or local maps to help guests navigate the town’s hidden gems, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience from arrival to departure.

Cheltenham’s crown jewel is the Cheltenham Literature Festival, one of the UK’s most prestigious literary events held annually in October. Attendees can engage with world-renowned authors, poets, and thinkers in intimate sessions across venues like The Town Hall and The Courtyard Theatre. Beyond literature, the town hosts classical concerts at the Cheltenham Music Hall and art exhibitions at The Art Gallery. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Cheltenham Museum, which traces the town’s evolution from a Georgian spa destination to a cultural hub. Strolling along the River Chelt or attending a candlelit evening event at the Pump Room adds to the town’s distinctive charm.

The Montpellier Hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the iconic Pump Room, making it an ideal base for visitors interested in Cheltenham’s historic spa culture. Housed in a former Georgian mansion, the hotel preserves original features like marble fireplaces and ornate ceilings. Guests enjoy complimentary access to the Pump Room’s thermal waters and can participate in traditional wellness rituals. The hotel’s own spa offers treatments using mineral-rich waters, continuing the town’s legacy. With its elegant ambiance and direct link to Cheltenham’s past, this hotel delivers both comfort and historical immersion.

The Lansdowne Hotel is a premier family-friendly option in Cheltenham, located near Lansdowne Park with a dedicated children’s playroom and outdoor playground. The hotel provides baby cots, high chairs, and child-sized bathrobes. Families can enjoy special activities like treasure hunts, craft workshops, and storytelling sessions. Nearby attractions include Cheltenham Zoo and the Natural History Museum, easily accessible by short walk or bus. Staff are trained in child care and offer personalized travel tips to ensure smooth planning. With spacious family suites and a warm, welcoming environment, this hotel ensures a stress-free and joyful stay for all ages.

Evening in Cheltenham is rich with atmosphere and entertainment. Head to the Cheltenham Music Hall for a classical concert or jazz performance in a beautifully preserved 19th-century venue. For something more relaxed, stroll along The Promenade and enjoy a pint at a cozy pub like The Crown & Sceptre, where live folk music often plays. Some hotels, such as The Cheltenham Spa Hotel, host themed night events like candlelit afternoon teas or silent discos. During winter, don’t miss the Christmas Lights Festival, when the town glows with festive decorations—perfect for romantic walks or family outings under the stars.

Cheltenham’s spa heritage dates back to the 18th century, when its natural mineral springs were believed to cure ailments like rheumatism and digestive issues. The Pump Room, built in 1760, was originally a place where visitors would drink the therapeutic waters and socialize. Though no longer used medically, the Pump Room remains a cultural landmark, offering daily tours and the tradition of 'water drinking' ceremonies. Hotels like The Montpellier Hotel continue this legacy by offering spa treatments infused with local spring water. Today, Cheltenham proudly celebrates its status as a historic English spa town, blending wellness traditions with modern luxury.

The Royal Hotel Cheltenham is perfect for couples seeking romance. Its private balconies overlook the serene Cheltenham Gardens, and select suites feature deep soaking tubs and panoramic views. The hotel offers bespoke amenities such as rose petal pathways, chilled champagne, and gourmet dinner arrangements. Couples can enjoy a candlelit dinner at the on-site restaurant or attend a private poetry reading. The hotel’s proximity to St. Mary’s Church makes for a dreamy evening walk. With personalized service and a focus on intimacy, this hotel transforms every stay into a memorable love story.

Must-try dishes in Cheltenham include a classic Afternoon Tea at The Pump Room Tea Room, featuring cucumber sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and homemade jam. For a savory bite, visit Brewery Street Bistro for their signature Cheltenham Smoked Lamb Roll, made with locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss the Gloucestershire Cheese Board, featuring award-winning regional cheeses like Double Gloucester. On Saturdays, head to the Cheltenham Market to sample fresh apple pie, malted bread, and artisanal honey. These flavors reflect the town’s deep-rooted connection to local agriculture and culinary tradition.

Yes, Cheltenham is highly walkable and tourist-friendly. The town center is compact and well-connected via buses and trains—Cheltenham Spa Station links directly to London Paddington in about 1 hour. Most attractions, including the Pump Room, Racecourse, and The Promenade, are within a 10-minute walk. Public transport runs frequently, and bike rentals are available for exploring nearby countryside like the Cotswolds. Many hotels offer free parking or shuttle services. With low traffic, clean streets, and clear signage, Cheltenham is ideal for slow travel, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its charm and character without hassle.