Hotels in Cheltenham

Whispers of Elegance: Discover Cheltenham's Garden Oasis

Nestled in the Cotswolds, Cheltenham is a charming town renowned for its Regency architecture and lush gardens. Famous as a spa town, visitors can unwind in the serene green spaces or indulge in a pampering retreat. The iconic Cheltenham Racecourse hosts thrilling horse racing events, while the town centre boasts a rich tapestry of boutiques, cafes, and cultural venues, including the historic Cheltenham Town Hall. With its blend of elegance and vibrancy, Cheltenham offers a delightful escape for culture enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, making it an irresistible getaway in the heart of England.

Discover great hotels in Cheltenham

Cheltenham offers a diverse range of accommodation options, from family-friendly hotels and luxurious spa retreats to charming guesthouses. Visitors can enjoy comfortable rooms with modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay in this picturesque town, ideal for exploring its rich history and culture. Here are some of the best hotels in Cheltenham that our travelers love:

1. Premier Inn Gloucester - Little WitcombeOpens in a new window: Premier Inn Gloucester - Little Witcombe is a charming 2.0-star hotel that warmly welcomes LGBTQIA travellers seeking a comfortable and inclusive stay. The property boasts a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a friendly, community-oriented environment. Guests appreciate the inviting ambiance and the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, creating memorable experiences during their visit.
2. Hatherley Manor Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window: Hatherley Manor Hotel & Spa is an exquisite 4.0-star Country House hotel, perfect for leisure travellers looking for a pet-friendly retreat with a spa theme. This property features a full-service spa, allowing guests to indulge in relaxation and wellness treatments. With a steam room and massage treatment rooms, it offers a sanctuary for rejuvenation. The beautiful grounds and thoughtful amenities enhance the overall experience, making it a beloved choice among those seeking a luxurious getaway.
3. The Royal George Birdlip by Greene King InnsOpens in a new window: The Royal George Birdlip by Greene King Inns is a delightful 3.0-star hotel that caters to leisure travellers desiring a blend of comfort and activity. The property features an onsite restaurant and bar, providing a perfect spot for relaxation after a day of exploring. With recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, and horse riding nearby, guests can immerse themselves in the stunning local landscape. The inviting atmosphere and variety of dining options create a welcoming environment for an enjoyable stay.

Top locations to stay in Cheltenham

Some of the best areas to stay near Cheltenham are Gloucester, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold. Gloucester offers friendly locals and rich history, Bourton-on-the-Water enchants with its picturesque scenery, and Stow-on-the-Wold boasts charming shops and cafes. For first-time visitors, Bourton-on-the-Water is particularly appealing, providing a quintessential Cotswold experience.

1. GloucesterOpens in a new window: Gloucester is a vibrant city with a rich history and a variety of attractions. It’s home to the stunning Gloucester Cathedral, famous for its impressive Gothic architecture and as a filming location for the Harry Potter series. The historic docks area offers a mix of shops, cafes, and cultural experiences, including the Gloucester Life Museum. The city is also known for its friendly atmosphere and hosts several events throughout the year, making it a lively place for visitors to explore.
2. Bourton-on-the-WaterOpens in a new window: Known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water is a picturesque village with charming stone bridges and scenic waterways. It’s an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and enjoying the quaint shops and tea rooms. Visitors can explore the model village, a miniature replica of Bourton, or the Cotswold Motoring Museum for a unique look at vintage vehicles. The village is perfect for those looking to unwind in a serene setting while still having access to delightful local experiences.
3. Stow-on-the-WoldOpens in a new window: Stow-on-the-Wold is a delightful market town that captures the essence of the Cotswolds. With its historic market square and antique shops, it’s a fantastic place for a leisurely shopping spree. The town is also known for its beautiful churches and local art galleries, offering a glimpse into the region's creative scene. Surrounded by stunning countryside, Stow-on-the-Wold provides excellent walking trails, making it a great base for those wanting to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Things to do in Cheltenham

Nestled in the scenic countryside, Cheltenham offers charming parks and elegant gardens, perfect for leisurely strolls. Visitors can enjoy exhilarating horse racing events, explore local trails on foot, or catch a delightful musical performance. The vibrant town also invites you to discover its friendly atmosphere and rich community spirit.

• Painswick Rococo GardenOpens in a new window – Discover the beauty of Painswick Rococo Garden, a stunning private garden that showcases the unique architectural style of the 18th century. Wander through the beautifully designed landscapes, featuring whimsical garden structures and a diverse array of plants, perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll.
• Cotswold Falconry CentreOpens in a new window – Experience the fascinating world of birds of prey at the Cotswold Falconry Centre. Here, you can watch spectacular flying displays and even have the chance to get up close with these magnificent creatures. It's an educational adventure that highlights the importance of wildlife conservation.
• Batsford ArboretumOpens in a new window – Take a leisurely walk through Batsford Arboretum, where you can explore an impressive collection of trees and shrubs from around the globe. With its scenic pathways and tranquil atmosphere, it's a perfect spot for nature lovers to relax and soak in the lush surroundings.
• The PromenadeOpens in a new window – Stroll along The Promenade, a charming street lined with boutique shops, cafes, and stunning Regency architecture. It's an ideal place to enjoy a coffee while people-watching or to pick up unique souvenirs from local artisans.
• Sudeley CastleOpens in a new window – Step back in time at Sudeley Castle, a historic site with beautiful gardens and fascinating exhibitions. Explore the castle grounds and learn about its royal connections, all while enjoying the picturesque scenery that surrounds this enchanting location.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Cheltenham

1. Book for the cheapest times: January, February, and December are the most affordable months to visit Cheltenham, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a budget-friendly getaway, staying for at least 2 to 3 days allows you to fully appreciate the town's historical landmarks and cultural attractions. During your visit, you can enjoy friendly tours, explore the picturesque gardens, experience the thrill of horseracing, or take in a musical performance. With plenty of sightseeing opportunities and options for hiking or kayaking, Cheltenham offers great value for money for those looking to immerse themselves in its charm.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Cheltenham, explore the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates for hotels as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. Additionally, the Smart Shopping feature in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you’re always aware of the best options available. With these tools, you're more likely to find great hotel deals for your Cheltenham getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay in a Cheltenham hotel. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could potentially be more affordable, helping you to secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Cheltenham's excellent public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that’s still well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often great value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Cheltenham

Cheltenham experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 39.4°F (4.1°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 61.9°F (16.6°C). November is usually the wettest month. February to April are the peak travel months in Cheltenham, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by no to light rainfall. On the other hand, May, October, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.