5 things to do in Cheltenham with Kids

We recently jumped in the car for a little road trip to the regency town of Cheltenham. I have done a few day trips here many years ago, all sans kids so I was keen to see what this beautiful town had on offer for families. En route we stopped off at Chepstow Castle before heading up the Wye Valley (a more scenic route) before arriving into Cheltenham and checking into the Cotswolds Grange Hotel which has family rooms and were extremely accommodating so do check out my review. While Cheltenham isn't the biggest town it's fairly easy to navigate and explore on foot for both adults and kids, there is also plenty to do in the surrounding areas but I wanted to focus on what there is to do within walking distance of the town centre for those who are visiting by train or are short on time. 

1. Find Neptune's Fountain

It is said that Neptune's fountain was modelled on the Trevi Fountain in Rome and while this isn't Rome this fountain is still very impressive and captivating and can be found on Royal Well Rd which is lined with pretty boutique stores and quaint coffee shops and also just a short walk to the Imperial Gardens which is cute little green space and perfect for kids to have a little run around. The fountain itself is a very impressive piece of art with the Greek God Neptune being drawn by four sea-horses on his shell chariot while clasping a Trident. 

2. Ride the Regency Cheltenham Cycle Trail

The boys and I love heading out on our bikes as it's a great way to explore somewhere new and also means you get to cover more ground while enjoying the outdoors. We headed over to The Bicycle Hub which is only a few minutes away from both the train station and traffic-free cycle paths. The owner Steve couldn't be more helpful and sized up the right bikes for every member of the family before showing us how to use the Compass Holidays App. The Regency Trail is a circular route and you can do as much or as little of it as you want. We rode to Pittville park and back which is around half of the trail as 95% traffic free and perfect for families. I highly recommend doing this if your in Cheltenham. 

3. Pittville Park

Pittville Park has to be one of the highlights when visiting Cheltenham as this large ornamental park really offers everything you want for a fun few hours outdoors with kids. Besides historical gardens beautiful lakes, including one you can hire rowing boats there is also a skatepark, a large and fairly new children play area where you will also find the aviaries and small cafe. There is also a pitch and putt course, tennis courts and another nature based park in the western side of Pittville. You could literally spend hours here just enjoying all that is on offer, taking it easy with a cup of coffee watching the swans on the lake or working up a sweat in the skate park. We were also really impressed with how clean and well maintain Pittville is and has excellent facilities.

4. The Wilson - Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum

This free museum is small but perfectly formed and a great spot if you are feeling the cold or it's raining (although worthwhile visiting anytime) and after a recent boost in funding they now have a new family friendly gallery space called The Wow Gallery that encourages visitors to touch, play, sing and dance. There is a small buggy park for those with very young children as well as The Wilson Cafe which serves up some delicious cakes and light meals using locally sourced ingredients.

5. Paint it yourself Pottery

If you and your kids are into crafting or getting creative then it's well worth a visit to the Paint It Yourself Pottery Co on Winchcombe Street. You can choose an item of pottery that catches your eye from over 200 choices and have fun decorating, painting and getting creative with that piece using non-toxic ceramic paints. They then glaze and fire your piece and even though it usually takes around three to five days for your work t be ready for pick up they do offer an overnight service which is great for those who are only in Cheltenham for a weekend or overnight break with kids.

No matter if you are looking for an action packed break or just simply want to stroll around the town taking the atmosphere in you won't be disappointed, especially if your a lover of buildings and interiors as Cheltenham is well know for being the most complete regency town in England and is famous for it's Regency architecture. We had a fantastic time and thumbs up all round.

* We were kindly invited to explore Cheltenham with Visit Cheltenham, words and views 100% our own