Where is Cheltenham?
Situated in the northern region of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham neighbours the Cotswolds National Landscape to the southeast and Gloucester to the west. Although it’s near the city, the town sits in the middle of a widely rural area, providing amenities to villages across the southwest countryside. It’s surrounded by the Cotswolds and the Malvern Hills, just northeast of the River Severn.
Transport in Cheltenham
Cheltenham has its own access roundabout onto the M5. Using the motorway, you can drive to Worcester or Bristol within 50 minutes, and Birmingham in 1 hour and 10 minutes. The neighbouring city of Gloucester is a 20-minute drive down the A40, a major route that links it to Cheltenham’s town centre.
As for train travel, Cheltenham Spa operates regular services to Bristol, Worcester, Cardiff, and other destinations across the UK. Cheltenham also benefits from its central location between two international airports, with both Bristol and Birmingham being just over 1 hour’s drive away.
Shopping in Cheltenham
Cheltenham has its own shopping centre at the Regent Arcade, an indoor mall with shops such as Pandora, The Body Shop, TK Maxx, and Timpson. You can drive into Gloucester for bigger shopping trips at Eastgate and the Gloucester Quays, where you’ll find shops such as Clarks, Joules, White Stuff, Lindt, M&S, JD Sports, and more.
Cheltenham also hosts a twice-monthly farmers market on The Promenade, as well as a craft market once a month.
Things to do in Cheltenham
Cheltenham is home to the iconic Cheltenham Racecourse, where you can attend famous horse racing events, take a tour and watch other sporting tournaments.
Close by, Pittville Park is a popular spot for relaxing, with a golf course, a skate park, tennis courts, a lake for fishing, woodlands, and cafés, providing activities for all the family to enjoy.
Cheltenham also has many museums, such as the Museum of Gloucester and Holst Victorian House, and the Jet Age Museum which you can find nearby in Gloucester. As for outings with friends, there is Hollywood Bowl, a cinema at The Brewery Quarter and even escape rooms at Escape Hunt Cheltenham.
The best places to buy new homes near Cheltenham
Cheltenham is a wonderful place to live if you work in Gloucester, especially if you’re looking for roomy neighbourhoods in more rural settings. With a local National Landscape, it’s the perfect countryside sanctuary that’s still within easy reach of the busy city. Here are some of the best places to look for new builds near Cheltenham.
Tewkesbury
The historic town of Tewkesbury is a 20-minute drive north of Cheltenham. Situated alongside the M5, and benefitting from its own access roundabout, the town is perfect if you want to live on the scenic outskirts of Gloucester.
Tewkesbury is famous for the popular Tewkesbury Abbey and the waterside Abbey Mill, while the Tewkesbury Museum and John Moore Museum also pull in regular visitors. The town also offers fantastic views across the Severn, with our new builds bringing modern living to the local area.
Churchdown
Tucked between Gloucester and Cheltenham — just a 15-minute drive away from each — Churchdown is one of the largest villages in the UK. It’s an idyllic spot to settle away from bustling city life, with its rural location putting nature walks and sweeping countryside views on your doorstep.
Churchdown offers a wealth of local amenities, as well as easy access to neighbouring towns. The M5 is the closest motorway, while Cheltenham Spa train station is located within a 15-minute drive.
Winchcombe
A Gloucestershire market town that’s just a 20-minute drive from Cheltenham, Winchcombe is rich in history, character and community spirit. Surrounded by Cotswold countryside, this rural town is known for its charming cottages, historic pubs and walking routes. It even has ‘Walkers are Welcome’ status, making it a great place for those who love the outdoors.
Winchcombe is home to a wide range of shops, tearooms and galleries, as well as heritage landmarks, including Sudeley Castle & Gardens and Hales Abbey.
Looking for new homes for sale in or around Cheltenham?
Cheltenham and its surrounding area are known for their breathtaking countryside views, with the Gloucestershire hills providing the perfect backdrop for our stunning homes.
Book an appointment to view new builds that are within easy reach of Cheltenham.
