Trains to Cheltenham

Best known for its world-famous horse races, there’s much more to the bustling market town of Cheltenham than the annual festival. This historic town has something to offer everyone, from captivating museums and amazing shopping opportunities to gorgeous tearooms and parks where the kids can run to their hearts’ content.

How far is the city centre from Cheltenham Spa station?

Cheltenham Spa station is just a 20-minute walk from many of the main attractions. Alternatively, a regular bus service cuts that time in half.

Shopping in Cheltenham

There’s nothing quite like shopping in Cheltenham! With an eclectic mix of big names, independent shops, luxury boutiques, and well-stocked secondhand shops, you can find the perfect item. The town’s compact nature means that you can easily explore the whole offering by foot, making it the perfect option for a day of retail therapy.

Regent’s Arcade is home to the world’s largest mechanical clock, a tourist attraction in and of itself, but also a fantastic mix of shops, with over sixty choices under one roof.

Food & Drink in Cheltenham

Whether you’re looking for a unique dining experience or the comfort of your high street favourite – Cheltenham has it all. For those with decadent tastes, Le Champignon Sauvage is the perfect choice, with two Michelin stars. Foodies will also enjoy Lumiere with its upscale British menu and Prithvi which has a sumptuous Indian offering. There’s also a great selection of street food and chain options; local favourites include Falafel King and Paparritos. If you’re around at the weekend, why not drop by DEYA Brewing Company? There’s a range of locally brewed craft beers on offer. Alternatively, there are lots of pubs and bars scattered across town. If you’re travelling to Cheltenham by train, check out our article for the best places to eat near Cheltenham Train Station.

Culture in Cheltenham

Whoever you decide to visit Cheltenham with, you’re sure to find plenty to do to keep you occupied. Enjoy exploring the most complete Regency town in the UK, visit the piano on which Gustav Holst composed The Planets, or discover some new favourite works of art at The Wilson. Of course, as you would expect in a vibrant town like Cheltenham, there’s lots of other culture you can enjoy – from beautiful parks and theatres to indoor golf and an array of nightlife to explore as the sun sets. And don’t miss out on Cheltenham Festivals where each year the world’s finest musicians, writers, scientists, performers and thinkers are invited to entertain and inspire at the town’s internationally acclaimed Jazz, Science, Music and Literature Festivals.

Catching a train to Cheltenham

Cheltenham Spa station is accessible throughout with step-free access to the whole station. There are also accessible ticket machines as well as accessible taxis available at the station.The station is serviced by regular bus routes connecting it to the city centre, making it extra easy to get to the heart of the city.

If you have any further questions about Cheltenham Spa Station, check out our station guide.

We want to help you travel cheaply, so as long as you buy your ticket 15 minutes before departure via our website or app, you can still enjoy great prices! To get the very best out of your train travel, read our top tips to find cheap train tickets and learn about our exclusive benefits offered to registered customers.

If you want to explore Cheltenham and all it has to offer, you’ll want to stay longer than a day! So, make sure you book a great value hotel in Cheltenham before you arrive.