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

For a cultural retreat in Cheltenham, stay at The Montpellier Hotel, a historic boutique property nestled near Cheltenham Park and the Royal Theatre. This elegant 19th-century hotel blends period charm with modern comforts, offering curated art exhibitions and access to the city’s famed Cheltenham Literature Festival. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring Georgian architecture and local heritage.

The Town Centre of Cheltenham is perfect for first-time visitors, offering easy access to The Promenade, The Royal Theatre, and Cheltenham Racecourse. With shops, cafes, and museums within walking distance, this vibrant district combines Victorian elegance with modern amenities. It’s also well-connected by train to London and other major UK cities.

Each summer, Cheltenham hosts the International Festival of Arts, a world-renowned event featuring international music ensembles, theater performances, and visual art exhibitions. The festival takes place across iconic venues like The Pittville Pump Room and The Concert Hall, drawing artists and audiences from around the globe to experience British cultural excellence.

Visit The Cheltenham Thermal Spa, a hidden gem beneath the city center, offering natural mineral baths, steam rooms, and holistic treatments inspired by Roman traditions. Located in a restored 19th-century bathhouse, the spa features original mosaic tiles and vaulted ceilings, delivering an immersive wellness journey rooted in history and tranquility.

Yes, Cheltenham is a gateway to the Cotswolds, one of England’s most scenic regions. Trails like the Cotswold Hills Trail and Cheltenham Greenway wind through rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and charming villages. Start your hike at Hatherley Hill for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside, ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Try roast beef with Yorkshire pudding at The Crown & Sceptre, or enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea at The Bath House Café, complete with homemade scones and jam. Don’t miss Pudding Gin, a locally crafted spirit infused with classic English desserts, available at The Old Town Hall Shop—a perfect souvenir for food lovers.

Cheltenham boasts a refined nightlife scene. Visit The Phoenix Bar for craft cocktails and live jazz in a cozy, vintage setting. For entertainment, head to The Glee Club, a popular venue hosting stand-up comedy, live bands, and intimate concerts—ideal for experiencing the city’s creative pulse in a relaxed atmosphere.

Capture the essence of Cheltenham at The Promenade’s ornate fountains and flowerbeds, the striking spire of St Mary’s Church, and the serene Ashley Park lake framed by blooming roses. Early morning light on the Georgian façades creates stunning visuals, especially along Montpellier Crescent and Pittville Square.

Cheltenham is easily accessible by train from London Paddington (approx. 1.5 hours) and via bus to Bristol and Bath. The town has a free shuttle service connecting major attractions. Pedestrian-friendly streets and bike rental stations make it simple to explore the city and nearby Cotswolds without a car.

Cheltenham appeals to history lovers with its well-preserved Georgian architecture, Pittville Pump Room (a neoclassical spa complex), and Cheltenham Museum, which houses artifacts from Roman times to the present. The city’s role as a spa town since the 18th century adds depth to its historical significance, making it a living museum of British heritage.