Attractions Near Cheltenham: Top Places to Visit in the Cotswolds and Beyond

Set in the heart of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham is not only famous for its festivals and Regency charm—it’s also perfectly positioned to explore the Cotswolds, historic castles, gardens, and family attractions. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, there’s no shortage of things to see and do within easy reach.

From stately homes and country parks to thrilling activities and picturesque villages, here’s your ultimate guide to the top attractions near Cheltenham.

Sudeley Castle & Gardens – Winchcombe (8 miles)

One of the most impressive historic sites near Cheltenham, Sudeley Castle dates back to the 15th century and was once home to Queen Katherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII.

Explore lavish gardens, medieval ruins, and elegant interiors
Learn about Tudor history through interactive exhibits
Seasonal events and kids’ trails make it family-friendly

Best For: History lovers, families, garden enthusiasts

Cotswold Farm Park – Guiting Power (15 miles)

Run by TV presenter Adam Henson, this is one of the best family attractions near Cheltenham.

Hands-on animal encounters with rare breeds
Indoor play barns, tractor rides, and seasonal activities
Great for kids of all ages and ideal for a day in the countryside

Best For: Families, animal lovers, rainy day fun

Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway – Toddington to Cheltenham Racecourse

Travel back in time aboard a vintage steam train through the Cotswolds countryside.

Stations include Winchcombe, Broadway, and Cheltenham Racecourse
Special event days: 1940s weekends, dining trains, Santa Specials
Spectacular views across the Malvern Hills and Vale of Evesham

Best For: Rail enthusiasts, couples, nostalgia seekers

Crickley Hill Country Park – Birdlip (8 miles)

A short drive from Cheltenham, this hilltop nature reserve offers:

Panoramic views over the Severn Vale
Walking trails, wildlife spotting, and picnic areas
Café and visitor centre onsite

Best For: Walkers, photographers, dog-friendly days out

The Wilson – Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum (Town Centre)

Located right in the town centre, The Wilson showcases:

Local art and crafts, including Arts and Crafts Movement pieces
Exhibitions on Cheltenham’s history
Family activity areas and creative workshops

Best For: Culture lovers, rainy day activity, central sightseeing

Batsford Arboretum – Moreton-in-Marsh (22 miles)

A botanical gem in the northern Cotswolds, Batsford offers:

56 acres of trees and rare plants
Spectacular Japanese maples and spring blossoms
Garden centre and café onsite

Best For: Gardeners, peaceful nature walks, seasonal visits

Cotswold Water Park – Cirencester Area (25 miles)

For adventure seekers, head southeast of Cheltenham to enjoy:

Paddleboarding, kayaking, and wild swimming
Lakeside walks, cycling routes, and birdwatching
Aqua parks and beach-style lagoons

Best For: Outdoor adventurers, watersports, group trips

Broadway Village – (15 miles)

Often called the “Jewel of the Cotswolds,” this beautiful village is packed with charm:

Independent boutiques, tearooms, and pubs
Historic architecture and honey-coloured stone buildings
Nearby Broadway Tower, with panoramic views and red deer

Best For: Romantic getaways, slow travel, food and drink

Cheltenham Racecourse

While technically in Cheltenham, it’s worth highlighting as a key attraction:

Home of the world-famous Cheltenham Festival
Hosts racing events throughout the year
On non-race days, enjoy guided tours and exhibitions

Best For: Horse racing fans, social events, big weekends out

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Attractions near Cheltenham	Title, meta, H1, intro, subheadings
Things to do near Cheltenham	Intro, FAQ, activity list
Cotswolds attractions	Body content, scenic areas, village listings
Family attractions Gloucestershire	Farm park, water park, castle section
Day trips from Cheltenham	Overall body, summary, internal linking suggestion

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Conclusion

While Cheltenham itself is a fantastic destination, its surrounding region offers even more to explore. From historic castles and family farms to romantic villages and adrenaline-fuelled activities, the attractions near Cheltenham promise unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveller.

Whether you’re into nature, history, or a bit of everything—Cheltenham is your gateway to the best of Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds.

FAQs

1. Are there good family attractions near Cheltenham?

Yes! Top choices include Cotswold Farm Park, Batsford Arboretum, and the Steam Railway, all great for kids.

2. How far is the Cotswolds from Cheltenham?

Cheltenham sits within the northern edge of the Cotswolds, with villages like Broadway, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Bourton-on-the-Water less than 30 minutes away.