Hotels in Cheltenham

Discover the Enchantment of Cheltenham's Serene Gardens and Charming Streets

Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Cheltenham is a charming spa town renowned for its elegant Regency architecture, lush gardens, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can immerse themselves in the historic Cheltenham Festival, celebrating literature and music, or explore the majestic Cheltenham Town Hall. Stroll through the picturesque Pittville Park or enjoy a day at the renowned Cheltenham Racecourse, where excitement meets tradition. With its delightful mix of history, stunning landscapes, and a welcoming atmosphere, Cheltenham offers an enchanting retreat for culture lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. For our best hotel rates in Cheltenham and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Cheltenham

Some of the best places to stay in Cheltenham are Gloucester, Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold. Gloucester, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold each offer unique charms for travellers. Gloucester boasts rich history and vibrant culture, while Bourton-on-the-Water is known for its picturesque scenery and quaint village feel. Stow-on-the-Wold offers a taste of traditional Cotswold charm. Accommodation in these areas ranges from friendly inns to luxurious hotels, catering to all preferences. For first-time visitors, Bourton-on-the-Water provides an enchanting introduction to the Cotswolds with its stunning landscapes and welcoming atmosphere. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Cheltenham:

1. GloucesterOpens in a new window: Known for its rich history and stunning architecture, Gloucester is a delightful destination for culture lovers. The iconic Gloucester Cathedral and the modern Cheltenham Town Hall offer a blend of historical and contemporary charm. If you're looking for accommodation, consider Hatton CourtOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel perfect for business travellers and pet owners, offering amenities like a Business Center and pet-friendly policies. Another option is Holiday Inn Gloucester-Cheltenham by IHGOpens in a new window, also a 4-star hotel, featuring extensive business facilities and a welcoming atmosphere for pets. For a cozy experience, Notley House & The Coach HouseOpens in a new window is a guesthouse that includes entertainment options like a Flatscreen TV.
2. Bourton-on-the-WaterOpens in a new window: Renowned for its picturesque scenery and outdoor activities, Bourton-on-the-Water is a haven for nature enthusiasts and families alike. The Cotswold Countryside Collection and The Model Village are popular attractions. For luxurious stays, Burford HouseOpens in a new window is a 5-star guesthouse ideal for those seeking a premium vacation experience. The Feathered Nest Country InnOpens in a new window, another 5-star inn, offers adventure sports and wellness activities, while The Wheatsheaf InnOpens in a new window provides a boutique experience, welcoming pets with unique decor and amenities.
3. Stow-on-the-WoldOpens in a new window: This charming market town is perfect for outdoor exploration and cultural experiences, featuring sites like Sudeley Castle and Batsford Arboretum. For luxury accommodation, The Howard ArmsOpens in a new window is a 5-star inn offering business amenities, making it suitable for both leisure and work. The Old Post Office AdlestropOpens in a new window, a 5-star Bed & Breakfast, provides a luxurious and homely atmosphere. Lastly, The Porch HouseOpens in a new window is an elegant inn that welcomes pets, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.

Things to do in Cheltenham for first times

Three days in Cheltenham offers a delightful escape into a charming small-town atmosphere surrounded by lush gardens and rolling hills. Visitors can enjoy scenic hikes, picturesque parks, and vibrant outdoor events, including exciting horse racing and captivating musicals, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and exploration. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Cheltenham:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Cheltenham with a visit to Sudeley Castle, a stunning historic site surrounded by beautiful gardens. Explore the impressive architecture and learn about its rich history. Afterward, make your way to Hailes Abbey, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquil ruins of this 13th-century Cistercian monastery. Finally, head to the Winchcombe Folk and Police Museum to delve into local history, showcasing fascinating artifacts and stories from the area’s past.
• Day 2: Begin in the picturesque Cotswold Countryside Collection, where you can admire a selection of charming rural artefacts and engage with the heritage of the Cotswolds. Next, visit Cerney House Gardens, a beautifully maintained garden that offers a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll among stunning flora. Conclude your day at Chedworth Roman Villa, an impressive archaeological site where you can explore well-preserved mosaics and learn about Roman life in Britain.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at The Promenade, Cheltenham's elegant main thoroughfare lined with shops and cafes, perfect for a leisurely breakfast. Continue to The Model Village, a delightful miniature village that captures the essence of the Cotswolds in intricate detail. Wrap up your visit at the magnificent Gloucester Cathedral, renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history, making it a must-see landmark that beautifully showcases the heritage of the surrounding area.

4 tips to find a great Cheltenham hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Cheltenham is during January, October, and November, when hotel rates are significantly lower. If you're travelling domestically, it's advisable to book your flight at least one month in advance for better prices, while international travellers should aim to secure their flights at least three months ahead to enjoy more budget-friendly options. To fully appreciate the main attractions, a stay of at least 1-2 days is recommended. Cheltenham features delightful gardens and charming small-town vibes, making it a great value for money destination for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Cheltenham, you might be pleasantly surprised by the options available. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find reduced rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, so you’re more likely to snag the best hotel deals in Cheltenham.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel costs in Cheltenham.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or city centres can offer added convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, finding a balance between cost and the accessibility of the places you wish to visit.

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 tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Cheltenham are February to April, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by no to light rainfall. In contrast, May, October, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.