English Courses in Cheltenham
Overview
Cheltenham is a borough located on the edge of the Cotswolds, in Gloucestershire. It has been a health and holiday spa town resort since the discovery of mineral springs in 1716. It offers a mix of traditional and modern culture and it is one of the safest places in the United Kingdom. As the cultural center for the Cotswolds, it is home to fantastic festivals and events and an ideal transport hub from which to explore the surrounding area.
Why study English in Cheltenham?
Cheltenham’s heritage and architecture is one of the many draws for national and international visitors. The iconic Cheltenham Town Hall sits in Imperial Square, close to the Promenade and Pittville. The town has also many beautiful parks and gardens, all with some historic interest. Visitors can take some time to meander through the winding lanes through the clusters of honey-colored villages with the beautiful backdrop of the rolling Cotswold hills, or visit one of the thriving market towns. There are quirky events such as the Cotswold Olimpicks and a wealth of attractions, with something to suit every interest. The Cotswold Way is part of an Area of outstanding Natural Beauty where visitors can relax while taking long walks. Cheltenham is well known for its range of gastronomic delights; as the food capital of the Cotswolds, it has everything from a pastry and a coffee to a Michelin-starred restaurant! Shopping in Cheltenham is also a key activity. High Street, the promenade, the Suffolks and Bath Road are the main shopping and nightlife areas.
Language Schools and Camps in this Destination
Cheltenham, England
Things to Do and See During a Vacation Study
Pitville Park
Opened in 1825, it is the largest ornamental park in Cheltenham and features the magnificent Pump Room and lakes, where it is possible to fish.
The Wilson Museum
The Wilson Museum depicts local life through the ages and has wonderful displays on William Morris and the Arts and Crafts movement, including a painted pine table designed by Morris. It also contains exhibits on British ceramics, fine art and jewelry, and the Roman era. A section on Captain Scott’s ill-fated expedition to Antarctica highlights the important role of local figure Edward Wilson.
Holst Birthplace Museum
Composer Gustav Holst was born in Cheltenham in 1874, and the rooms of his childhood home are laid out in typical period fashion. They feature many of his personal possessions, including the piano on which most of his orchestral suite The Planets was composed, as well as some photos.
Cheltenham Minster
Cheltenham’s only surviving medieval building was awarded minster status in 2013 and is particularly worth a look for its exquisite stained-glass rose window.
The Promenade
One of England’s most beautiful main streets, the Promenade is a wide, tree-lined boulevard flanked by imposing period buildings and neat gardens. At its northern end there are the Municipal Offices, built in 1825 as private residences. In front stands a statue of Edward Wilson. Continuing south, visitors can see the grandiose Imperial Gardens en route to Montpellier.
Montpellier
This part of Cheltenham hosts a lively collection of bars, restaurants and independent shops and boutiques. Along Montpellier Walk, 32 caryatids, draped female figures based on those of Athens’ Acropolis, act as structural supports between the 1840s era shops, each balancing an elaborately carved cornice on her head. Directly opposite are the pretty Montpellier Gardens, established in 1809.
Sudeley Castle
Near Winchcombe, this Tudor-era castle and gardens is the home of Lady Ashcombe. It is the place where Queen Katherine Parr lived and is buried in the chapel. Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and Charles I also lived here.
Hidcote Manor Garden
Located in the village of Hidcote Bartrim in Gloucestershire, it is a famous Arts and Crafts garden, established in 1905.
How to Arrive at your Language Course
By Air
Gloucestershire Airport is located 10 minutes from the centre of Cheltenham.
By Train
Cheltenham is served by CrossCountry trains with direct services from many mainline stations including Bristol, Manchester, Leeds, York, Sheffield and Edinburgh.
By Coach
Stagecoach run regular services locally to nearby town and villages.