Discover Cheltenham with megabus

Mini-break destinations don’t get much classier than Cheltenham. A high-class spa resort back in the 18th century, this Cotswolds town still has a distinctly regal air. From the big-hitting events – namely the Cheltenham Festival – to the well-heeled residents, Cheltenham has elegance down to a fine art. Visit Cheltenham to shop for antiques, explore opulent Regency buildings, and relax over afternoon tea. But don’t let those daytime pursuits distract you from Cheltenham’s after-dark scene. Cocktail bars, gastropubs and gourmet restaurants all vie for attention when you’re looking for somewhere to spend your winnings.

Cheltenham: top 3 things to do

1. Visit Cheltenham Racecourse

If you’re here for the epic Cheltenham Festival, you’re in for a treat. This four-day jump racing event attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors in March every year. But the racecourse where it all happens is worth a visit all year round. Go behind the scenes on a non-raceday tour, and you’ll get to see restricted areas like the stables and final fence for around £20 per ticket.

2. Swim at Sandford Parks Lido

Sandford Parks Lido opens every year around Easter and closes for winter, however they're open some days for cold water swimming. Just a ten-minute walk from the Promenade, it’s one of the country’s biggest outdoor pools and it’s set in beautiful gardens.

3. Get pampered at a Cheltenham spa

Cheltenham was built on its healing waters, which were discovered in the town some 300 years ago. And although a visit to the Pittville Pump Room is the closest you can now get to taking the waters, there are some excellent spas and spa hotels where you can get seriously pampered. Try Ellenborough Park, for one.

Cheltenham: getting around

When you travel to Cheltenham with megabus you can usually expect things like free WiFi* onboard, plus a 20kg luggage allowance. You can find out more about what’s included with your coach ticket on our on board facilities page.

In Cheltenham itself, walking is the best way to soak up the town’s beauty. Download a map and start exploring – lots of the streets in the centre are pedestrianised, so you won’t be battling with traffic.

Cheltenham’s Royal Well Bus Station is really central – it’s just off the Promenade. There are services to London from here.

And Cheltenham Spa train station is about a 25-minute walk west out from the town centre. From here you can discover local areas like the county's capital of Gloucester, the Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean.

Cheltenham: best for nightlife

Lucked out at the races? There’s no shortage of places to spend your winnings – or commiserate over your losses – in Cheltenham. The Brewery Quarter has entertainment on tap, with bars, restaurants, and a super-luxe cinema called The Screening Rooms. The Montpellier district is a must-visit for pavement cafés that stay open late, and chic wine bars that are worth getting dressed up for.

There are some brilliant pubs along trendy Bath Road, too. And if you’re looking for something to do as a group, try a gin tasting experience at Brennen and Brown. The place gets rave reviews on TripAdvisor.

Cheltenham: best for shopping

Cheltenham is a shopper’s paradise. Start on the High Street, which is mostly pedestrianised, and you’ve got hundreds of stores to choose from. The Regent Arcade shopping centre has familiar high street names like H&M, Topshop and Schuh under one roof.

Running off the High Street is the Promenade, which is lined with stylish boutiques and high-end labels like Joules and Monsoon. And if you keep walking you’ll soon reach Montpellier and The Suffolks. An elegant mix of antiques dealers, pretty gift shops and bustling pavement cafés, this neck of the woods has a distinctly continental feel.

Cheltenham for free: our top 3

1. Take a stroll along The Prom to the Montpellier district

On a dry day, nothing beats a leisurely stroll along The Prom. Follow this tree-lined avenue out of the town centre and past the ornamental flower displays of Long Gardens. You’ll soon reach the Montpellier district, which is all Regency buildings, leafy parks and busy pavement cafés. It’s impossible not to fall in love with the place.

2. Spend a day at Pittville Park

Cheltenham’s largest ornamental garden is as elegant as you’d expect. Opened in 1825, it’s crowning glory is the Grade I listed Pump Room, which is about a 25-minute walk out of town. Pay it a visit, then enjoy the pretty parkland that surrounds it – it’s dotted with lakes, woodlands and children’s play areas.

3. Get cultured at The Wilson – Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum

It won’t cost you a penny to visit Cheltenham’s flagship gallery and museum in the city centre. It’s easy to spot – its modern façade is a total contrast to the ancient buildings next door. And it features an ever-changing programme of exhibitions and events, not to mention a shop selling arts and crafts.

Book your travel to Cheltenham today using the megabus journey planner at the top of the page.

We serve Cheltenham from a number of routes including:

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