Cheltenham by Coach

The discovery of salt springs in 1716 transformed the fortunes of Cheltenham from an ordinary Cotswold town to a fashionable spa town which attracted royal, and rich and famous.

Three hundred years later you can still sample the natural alkaline water from the original pump and indulge in a treatment at the beautiful Pittville Pump Room.

 Stroll through the town and the magnificent Regency houses grab your attention. The grandest can be found on the Promenade, a sweeping thoroughfare lined with cafés and loads of stylish shops to suit all tastes. It’s worth stopping for a drink just to admire the beautiful architecture.

 Cheltenham’s Montpellier Gardens is always a place of peace and tranquillity, and perfect for getting away from the daily grind. Walk through the pretty garden and enjoy the colours of blooming flowers and marvel at the fountain surmounted by Gustav Holst, one of Cheltenham’s sons. To learn more about Holst visit his Birthplace Museum which houses the piano on which he composed The Planets.

 Cheltenham’s majestic appearance makes it a popular coach destination but it’s the town’s lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere which stands out.

 Today Cheltenham is a renowned centre for the arts scene. You can immerse yourself in culture at one of the town’s internationally renowned festivals dedicated to jazz, literature, music and science. Alternatively discover rare works of art at The Wilson Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum.

 The town’s racecourse is the home of National Hunt racing and features prestigious fixtures from October to April. Experience the buzz of the Gold Cup festival in March, one of the biggest sporting events in the country which attracts over 200,000 punters to witness the best thoroughbreds in action.