Cheltenham: What To See and Do in Cheltenham

Cheltenham is located just off the M5 motorway, between Bristol and Birmingham and is within easy reach of the towns of Cirencester, Tewkesbury, Malvern and Bourton on the Water. It is also within easy driving distance of the picture-postcard villages that can be found all over the Cotswolds.

However, in Regency Cheltenham there are plenty of attractions to look at during your visit to this magnificent spa town.

1. Cheltenham Racecourse's Hall of Fame – This traces the history of steeple chasing right the way back to 1819. Not only can you learn about those who have won and lost the Gold Cup, one of National Hunt racing's premier races, but also about how the Irish became main players here as well. The exhibition also looks at the numerous racehorse trainers and jockeys who have helped to make this course special in the world of racing.

2. Gloucestershire Warwickshire Heritage Railway – Steam trains run almost every weekend during the summer between Toddington, Winchcombe and Cheltenham. At other times of the year, the railway runs seasonal events that can be enjoyed by young and old alike.

3. The Holst Birthplace Museum – This is a terraced Victorian house which has had its kitchen restored and inside you will find many items that relate to the famous composer of "The Planets". You can spend time exploring the composer's youthful days and also his later years and view the piano where he composed his music along with some of his music scores.

4. Pittville Pump Room – This grand building is often used as the symbol of the town and is a celebrated example of Regency architecture. It overlooks the lawns and ornamental lakes of Pittville Park and is host to many displays and exhibitions throughout the year. If you're brave enough then you have the opportunity to taste the unpleasant waters which at one time attracted people from across the country for their supposed health benefits.

5. Sandford Parks Lido – Here you will find one of the largest outdoor pools in the UK and is set in beautifully landscaped gardens. Not only is there the main pool which measures 50 meters but there is a children's pool as well plus a paddling pool All the pools are heated during the summer season. However, this park doesn’t offer just the facility for swimming you can also play volleyball, table tennis and basketball here as well.

6. St Mary's Church – This is the oldest building in the town and was built in the middle of the 11th Century. It displays the Royal Coat of Arms and to mark the visit in 1788 of King George III. Many people marvel at the rose window, dating back to the 14th century, the canopied piscine and the baptistery which has lierne vaulting. The church also is home to many memorials of Cheltenham's most famous citizens.

When you stay in Cheltenham, check out this list of Cheltenham accommodation.