Regency and history in CheltenhamCheltenham is a spa town in Gloucestershire, on the edge of the Cotswolds. It lies above the vale of the River Severn and at the base of Cleeve Hill, the Cotswolds’ highest point. As you explore the town centre’s elegant architecture, theatres, independent shops and sophisticated restaurants, it’s easy to see why it was named one of the best places to live in the UK by The Times.
A number of world-class cultural events take place in Cheltenham, covering music, literature, science and food and drink. Cheltenham is famous for its Regency architecture and is home to numerous listed buildings, including the magnificent town hall, which was built in 1902 to commemorate the coronation of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra.
One of the biggest events in Cheltenham’s packed calendar is Cheltenham Festival, a National Hunt racing meet with prize money only second to the Grand National. Cheltenham Racecourse is beautifully located beneath Cleeve Hill, outside the town centre.
A spa town renowned for its architecture
Also well worth checking out are the prestigious Cheltenham Festivals, which bring together some of the biggest names in literature, music and science.
There are some great places to eat in Cheltenham, whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat at the best takeaway in town or a romantic evening meal at a fine dining restaurant. One of Cheltenham’s most popular eateries is Purslane, an independent restaurant specialising in sustainably caught seafood within the British waters. Although it boasts of its seafood-led menu, there is no lack of meaty and vegetarian dishes on offer. Sourced from the Cotswold Hills, seasonal vegetables, local cheeses and rare breed meats are used in creation of their simple yet high standard dishes.
“The elegant spa town of Cheltenham is famous for its Regency architecture, racecourse and cultural festivals..”
Another Cheltenham favourite is Lumiere, where you can enjoy innovative dishes by acclaimed chef John Howe, such as Cornish sea bass, truffled linguine, crushed peas, lobster and brown shrimp dressing. For breakfast, a light lunch or pre-theatre dinner, try The Red Pepper, a three-storey café, bistro and deli, where you can expect good coffee and a variety of dishes including burgers, quiches and pies. For some of the best seafood in the area, head to Simpson’s Fish and Chips, where you can take away or dine in the modern restaurant.
Cheltenham is an excellent base for exploring the Cotswolds, a beautiful area of unspoilt countryside, scattered with attractive market towns and peaceful villages.