If you’re looking for a relaxing break in the heart of the beautiful Cotswolds, look no further than Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. From gorgeous boutique hotels in the centre of Cheltenham to trendy lodgings on the outskirts, there’s a great variety of hotels on offer. Spend your time in Cheltenham shopping in the boutique area of Montpellier, explore the surrounding Cotswold countryside, or wine and dine to your heart’s delight. Whether you’re after a guesthouse or luxury 5-star lodgings, as a Cheltenham native I can help you decide. Without further ado, here’s my guide to the best hotels in Cheltenham.
No. 131, Promenade
Undoubtedly one of Cheltenham’s most stylish lodgings, No. 131 knows how to do glitz and glamour. Founded by Superdry founder, Julian Dunkerton, it’s set within a stunning listed Georgian building. No. 131 boasts plush rooms within its boutique hotel. One of the best hotels in Cheltenham, it’s located on the leafy Promenade – a prime spot for shopping in the town. Explore nearby Montpellier, the floral Imperial Gardens opposite, or simply indulge in some drinks from the hotel’s Gin & Juice bar. With just 11 boutique bedrooms, each comes with its own contemporary style and luxury fittings. You’ll have a stay to remember.
Some of the links I’ve used in this post are affiliate – while it will make no difference to the price you pay, I may earn a small commission from the provider if you book something I’ve recommended. I’d never recommend anywhere I truly don’t love.
Ellenborough Park, Southam Lane
Ellenborough Park is a personal favourite, and certainly one of the best hotels in Cheltenham. With close links to the iconic Cheltenham Races, It’s is a stylishly decorated hotel that boasts beautiful countryside views. You can even see the finish line of Cheltenham Racecourse from some rooms. At Ellenborough Park, you’ll also discover the hotel’s very own indulgent spa. There are multiple treatment rooms, a sauna, and a heated outdoor pool for a relaxing swim. Other features of the hotel include its gun room and boot room – imagine Hunter wellies in all colours of the rainbow. Don’t miss dinner in the oak panelled restaurant with its impressive Tudor fireplaces.
No 38 The Park, Evesham Road
The beautifully boutique No 38 The Park is without doubt one of the best hotels in Cheltenham. A gorgeous Georgian townhouse nestled in a leafy corner of Cheltenham’s iconic Pittville Park, No 38 The Park is the perfect stop for visiting Cheltenham, exploring the Cotswolds, or simply for relaxing after a long day at Cheltenham Races. In each of the individually designed bedrooms, you’ll find elegant interiors with bold prints, mismatched textures, and mahogany leather. No 38 The Park also has its own onsite restaurant. Enjoy breakfast in bed, Sunday lunch, or simply a delicious seasonal British dinner during your stay.
Queens Hotel, Promenade
Arguably one of the most iconic buildings in Cheltenham, the Queens Hotel also maintains its role as one of the best hotels in Cheltenham. With a grand exterior, you can expect the same luxurious furnishings inside. The Queens Hotel has an interesting history as one of the first purpose-built hotels in Europe, originally acting as a chic dwelling for the nobility who visited Cheltenham for a spa retreat. It’s in prime position in the town, with the hotspots of Imperial Gardens, Montpellier, and the Promenade just a short walk away. A Grade II English Heritage building, the Queens Hotel is also super impressive – it’s an example of neoclassical architecture, with over fifty columns and Georgian windows. Don’t miss the wallpaper in the lobby – over 175 years old, it was designed originally for the Palace of Westminster.
Cotswold Grange Hotel, Pittville Circus Road
The Cotswold Grange Hotel is one of the best hotels in Cheltenham, situated in the leafy area of Pittville. Not far from sprawling Pittville Park and Cheltenham Racecourse, the hotel itself is in a beautiful Regency townhouse with its own private gardens. Here, you can enjoy a tasty al fresco lunch or a tipple in the summer months. Inside Cotswold Grange Hotel, you’ll find gorgeous Regency high ceilings and a staircase that highlights the hotel’s elegance throughout. Each of the luxury bedrooms are comfortable and feature everything you could possibly need for your stay. It’s a wonderful retreat for a relaxing stay in Cheltenham.
Cowley Manor, Cowley
Set across fifty five acres of beautiful Cotswold countryside, Cowley Manor is like no other. One of the best hotels in Cheltenham, it’s a beautiful Italianate stone house on the outskirts of the tone. Inside, it’s beautiful decorated with bold colours that makes it a welcome alternative to other country estate lodgings. Inside, you’ll find its well acclaimed C-Side spa with sauna, treatment rooms, and even a billiards room. Each room is indulgently furnished, some with four-poster beds and their own private terraces. There are two pools (one indoor, one outdoor), and a CD and DVD library for your entertainment. Come rain or shine, Wellington boots are provided, and I recommend taking your running kit for jogging across the hotel’s beautiful grounds.
That’s my guide to the best hotels in Cheltenham! Are there any others you’d recommend? Let me know in the comments below.
