If you fancy a flutter and follow the national hunt season, then a visit to Cheltenham racecourse is a must. If you are not lucky enough to be attending one of the race meetings across the year, you can still go on a guided racecourse tour with a behind the scenes look at the weights room, the Gold Cup and the Finishing Post. Minimum numbers for the guided tour are 10, so it’s ideal for a group activity.
The home of horse racing, the stunning Cotswolds nearby, and an area full of cultural and historical things to see and do. An escape to Regency Cheltenham should be full of adventure or an opportunity to sit back and relax. Here we unwrap the top things we recommend you see and do during your stay at The Queens Hotel.
Pittville Park
With its sprawling lawns, tranquil boating lake, and Victorian bandstand it is easy to see why this park is one of Cheltenham’s most popular tourist attractions. Take a stroll around the grounds or rent a rowboat on the lake before enjoying cake and a coffee at the quaint Boathouse Café. There is a play park and a skate park so fun for the whole family.
Holst Victorian House – Birthplace Museum
Cheltenham’s only Victorian home is open to visitors and the birthplace of composer Gustav Holst in 1874. It is a unique Victorian house that offers an insight into the fascinating history of Cheltenham. During your visit you can hear stories from eclectic residents, you will see a working Victorian kitchen and scullery. Not to mention you will discover the life and times of infamous composer Holst.
Montpellier District
The Queens Hotel can be found in the Montpellier District of Cheltenham, a stylish and popular part of town. Browse independent boutiques to find yourself a vintage outfit and spoil yourself with a stroll around artisan bakers and local pâtissiers. Or, find yourself a comfy spot in one of the street cafés, sip on a freshly brewed speciality coffee, catch-up on a book or just enjoy watching the world go by.
Cotswolds and the Cotswold Way
The Cotswold Way is a picturesque 102 mile trail that starts in Chipping Campden and skirts around the Cheltenham town boundary before continuing onwards to Bath. It would not be possible to walk in one day, but you can pick up parts of the trail in nearby Charlton Kings. Climb Charlton Kings common to enjoy magnificent views over the town. Alternatively, pick up the trail further out and admire quaint villages, thatched cottages and picture perfect England in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Woodchester Valley Vineyard
One of the area’s best kept secrets is Woodchester Valley’s vineyard, home to one of the world’s best Sauvignon Blancs. Their fascinating guided vineyard tours and tasting sessions are highly recommended. Back at The Queens Hotel, you will find a number of their vintages on our wine list, which pair extremely well with many of the seasonal dishes on the Victoria’s restaurant menu. The perfect day for foodies. A trip out to Woodchester Valley is about 40 minutes from the hotel. If you would like to combine a visit with your stay and not worry about who is the designated driver, talk to us about arranging transport for you.
Our team of local experts are always on hand to make recommendations to enhance your stay, and we have partnerships with many of the top attractions in Cheltenham. Speak to us about how we can create a special experience when you next stay at The Queens Hotel in Cheltenham.