Cheltenham is the ideal base for exploring the Cotswolds, offering excellent transport links, a wide range of accommodation, and plenty to do when you’re not out exploring. Unlike smaller villages, it has hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering options to suit all budgets, along with top restaurants, pubs, and cafes.

The town is just a short drive from major Cotswold highlights like Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Stow-on-the-Wold. It also has direct rail connections to London, Birmingham, and Bristol, making travel easy. If you prefer not to drive, guided tours run regularly from Cheltenham to key Cotswold locations.

Cheltenham itself offers more than just a convenient location. It’s home to major events like the Cheltenham Literature Festival and the Cheltenham Races, as well as excellent shopping, parks, and cultural attractions. After a day exploring the countryside, you can return to a town with plenty of dining, entertainment, and relaxation options.

The Cotswolds is home to some of England’s most celebrated historic sites, offering a rich mix of medieval, Roman, and Tudor history – here are a few of our favourite sites:

• Sudeley Castle (Winchcombe) – Once home to Katherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII, with stunning gardens and Tudor artifacts

• Chedworth Roman Villa – A National Trust site featuring Roman mosaics, hypocaust heating, and ancient baths

• Cirencester & Corinium Museum – Formerly Corinium, the second-largest city in Roman Britain, with artifacts from the era

• Berkeley Castle – A well-preserved medieval fortress, known for the murder of King Edward II in 1327

Within the Cotswolds, there’s no better destination for a good bite than Cheltenham, where you’ll discover a fantastic selection of fine dining options, perfect for those seeking exceptional cuisine. Here are some of the top spots:

• Lumière – A Michelin-starred gem, offering elegant, ingredient-led menus with a focus on British produce

• Le Champignon Sauvage – Another acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative modern cuisine by Chef David Everitt-Matthias

• Purslane – Award-winning seafood restaurant specializing in sustainably caught seafood from British waters, paired with the finest Cotswold produce

• Prithvi – A modern twist on Indian cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients to create innovative and comforting dishes

• Restaurant Journey – A unique 12-course tasting menu inspired by global culinary traditions, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience

• The Daffodil – A stylish Art Deco restaurant serving modern British cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients

• The Black Bear – A refined pub experience offering contemporary British dishes in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a fine dining experience with a twist