Discover the hidden treasures of Cheltenham in this episode of Spotlight on Cheltenham, where we unveil "LocaJoin your host, Solomon Prescott, for Episode 33: Locals Only. In this episode, we share six places that Cheltenham residents quietly love — spots that don’t always make visitor lists but play a big role in everyday local life. These are dependable, familiar, and rooted in routine rather than hype — the kinds of places locals recommend to friends, not guidebooks. Places featured: Petit Social Website: https://www.petitsocial.co.uk Address: 1 Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7HG Highlights: A low-key neighbourhood favourite with loyal regulars. Roots & Fruits Website: https://rootsandfruitscheltenham.co.uk Address: 250 Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7NE Highlights: A long-standing local shop woven into daily life. Sandford Park Alehouse Website: https://sandfordparkalehouse.co.uk Address: 284 High Street, Cheltenham GL50 3HQ Highlights: A true locals’ pub with community feel. Curious Café Website: https://www.curiouscafe.co.uk Address: 204 Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7NE Highlights: A café locals return to again and again. John Gordon’s Menswear Website: https://johngordons.co.uk Address: 51 Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1PJ Highlights: Trusted by generations, rarely visited by tourists. The Railway Cheltenham Website: https://www.therailwaycheltenham.co.uk Address: New Street, Cheltenham GL50 3QL Highlights: A relaxed local staple with regulars and character

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Spotlight on Cheltenham

Cheltenham Between the Cracks: Six Overlooked Corners Most People Walk Past

Join your host, Solomon Prescott, for Episode 32: Cheltenham Between the Cracks. In this episode, we focus on the small, easily missed corners of town — places you’ve probably walked past dozens of times without stopping. These overlooked squares, courtyards, lanes and in-between spaces reveal a quieter, more intimate side of Cheltenham once you slow down and notice them. Places featured: Cambray Place Courtyard Address: Cambray Place, Cheltenham GL50 Highlights: A tucked-away courtyard that quietly connects shops and offices — blink and you’ll miss it. St James Square Address: St James Square, Cheltenham GL50 Highlights: A small, historic square hidden behind main routes, offering calm and character. Rodney Road Back Lanes Address: Rodney Road area, Cheltenham GL50 Highlights: Narrow back lanes revealing original architecture and forgotten pathways. Imperial Square Passageways Address: Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 Highlights: Quiet pedestrian cut-throughs between grand buildings most people rush past. Lower High Street Corners Address: Lower High Street, Cheltenham GL50 Highlights: Side streets and architectural details hiding in plain sight. Montpellier Courtyard Rear Walks Address: Montpellier Street, Cheltenham GL50 Highlights: Lesser-used paths and rear views that show Montpellier from a different angle.

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Spotlight on Cheltenham

Slow Cheltenham: Six Calm Places to Switch Off and Take Your Time

Join your host, Solomon Prescott, for Episode 31: Slow Cheltenham. In this episode, we explore six calm, low-key places where the pace naturally drops — perfect for quiet reflection, solo wandering, or simply stepping out of the rush. These are spaces designed for breathing room rather than buzz. Each location is currently accessible and well-known locally, making it easy to plan a slower kind of Cheltenham day. Places featured: Imperial Gardens Address: Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QB Highlights: Formal Regency gardens with benches and symmetry, offering a peaceful pause right in the town centre. Lansdown Crescent Address: Lansdown Crescent, Cheltenham GL50 Highlights: A quiet architectural walk showcasing Cheltenham’s elegance, best enjoyed slowly with no agenda. Cheltenham Rare Books Website: https://cheltenhamrarebooks.co.uk Address: 12 Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QB Highlights: A calm, unhurried bookshop where browsing is encouraged and silence is respected. St Gregory’s Churchyard Address: St James Square, Cheltenham GL50 3LB Highlights: A hidden green pocket just off the busy centre — ideal for sitting, reading or decompressing. The Wilson Café Website: https://www.wilsonmuseum.org.uk Address: Clarence Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JT Highlights: A relaxed café space welcoming solo visitors looking for a quiet coffee without pressure. Cheltenham Ladies’ College Grounds Address: Bayshill Road area, Cheltenham GL50 Highlights: Calm perimeter walks and open views around historic college buildings.

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Spotlight on Cheltenham

One-Street Wonders: Six Cheltenham Roads Packed with Personality

Join your host, Solomon Prescott, for Episode 30: One-Street Wonders. In this episode, we explore six streets and small districts where you can eat, shop and explore without travelling far — each one a micro-neighbourhood with its own identity. Places featured: Bath Road Address: Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 Highlights: Independent shops, cafés and local life. Suffolk Parade Address: Suffolk Parade, Cheltenham GL50 Highlights: Dining hub with strong neighbourhood feel. Montpellier Walk Address: Montpellier Walk, Cheltenham GL50 Highlights: Boutiques, wine bars and historic architecture. Winchcombe Street Address: Winchcombe Street, Cheltenham GL52 Highlights: Traditional shops and local services. High Street Address: High Street, Cheltenham GL50 Highlights: Central, lively and full of character. Tivoli Street Address: Tivoli Street, Cheltenham GL50 Highlights: Quiet charm and specialist independents.

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Spotlight on Cheltenham

First-Timers’ Cheltenham: Six Places to Get to Know the Town

Join your host, Solomon Prescott, for Episode 29: First-Timers’ Cheltenham. This episode is designed for visitors or new residents, spotlighting six places that give an instant feel for Cheltenham’s culture, food, history and layout — perfect for orientation and easy exploration. Places featured: Montpellier Gardens Website: https://www.visitcheltenham.com Address: Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham GL50 1SD Highlights: Central, walkable and surrounded by cafés and shops. The Promenade Website: https://www.visitcheltenham.com Address: The Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1NW Highlights: Cheltenham’s main boulevard — architecture, shops and cafés. The Wilson Art Gallery & Museum Website: https://www.wilsonmuseum.org.uk Address: Clarence Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JT Highlights: Free culture and local history in one stop. Cheltenham Farmers’ Market Website: https://www.farma.org.uk/markets/cheltenham Address: The Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1NW Highlights: Weekly snapshot of local food and community. Pittville Park Website: https://www.visitcheltenham.com Address: Pittville Park, Cheltenham GL52 3AA Highlights: Green space, lakes and classic Cheltenham scenery. The Brewery Quarter Website: https://www.cheltenhamrocks.co.uk Address: St Margaret’s Road, Cheltenham GL50 4FA Highlights: Food, cinema and activities in one compact area.

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Spotlight on Cheltenham

Late-Opening Cafés: Six Places for Coffee After Hours in Cheltenham

Join your host, Solomon Prescott, for Episode 28: Late-Opening Cafés in Cheltenham. In this episode, we highlight six relaxed venues that stay open later than the typical café crowd — ideal for evening catch-ups, post-dinner coffee, quiet conversations, or a low-key alternative to bars. Each place listed is currently active and has a clear online presence so you can check opening hours before heading out. Places featured: Curious Café & Bistro Website: https://www.curiouscafe.co.uk Address: 204 Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7NE Highlights: Café by day, bistro by night — open into the evening with coffee, desserts and a relaxed neighbourhood feel. The Find Coffee House Website: https://www.thefindcoffeehouse.co.uk Address: 1 Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7HG Highlights: Independent coffee house known for later openings, calm atmosphere and a loyal local crowd. No.131 The Terrace Website: https://www.no131.com Address: 131 The Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1NW Highlights: A hotel lounge that works well as an evening coffee spot, with comfortable seating and a quiet, grown-up atmosphere. Hotel du Vin Cheltenham Website: https://www.hotelduvin.com/locations/cheltenham/ Address: Parabola Road, Cheltenham GL50 3AQ Highlights: A refined indoor space serving coffee and desserts into the evening — ideal for slower, post-dinner conversations. Côte Brasserie Cheltenham Website: https://www.cote.co.uk/restaurant/cheltenham/ Address: 14–16 Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1NB Highlights: Open late and happy to accommodate coffee and dessert-only visits in the evening, making it a reliable after-hours option. The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie Website: https://theivycheltenhambrasserie.com Address: Montpellier Walk, Cheltenham GL50 1SW Highlights: A comfortable, stylish setting that remains open late — popular for post-meal coffee, dessert, and relaxed evening chats.

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Spotlight on Cheltenham

Creative Cheltenham: Six Classes & Workshops to Learn Something New

Join your host, Solomon Prescott, for Episode 27: Creative Cheltenham — Six Classes & Workshops to Learn Something New. In this episode, we explore six creative spaces offering hands-on classes, courses, and workshops — from pottery and painting to photography, dance, and craft. Whether you’re looking to try something new, build a skill, or meet like-minded people, these places provide structured, welcoming ways to get creative. All venues are currently active and have clear booking information online. Places featured: Cheltenham Art Studio Website: https://www.cheltenhamartstudio.co.uk Address: 26 Suffolk Road, Cheltenham GL50 2AQ Highlights: A friendly studio offering painting, drawing and mixed-media classes for beginners and experienced artists alike. Cotswold Pottery Website: https://www.cotswoldpottery.co.uk Address: Cambray Place, Cheltenham GL50 1JN Highlights: Hands-on pottery workshops and courses where participants can learn throwing, glazing and ceramic techniques in a relaxed studio environment. Create Cheltenham Website: https://www.createcheltenham.org Address: Various Cheltenham venues (see website) Highlights: A creative organisation hosting workshops, talks and community art projects across disciplines — ideal for exploring creativity beyond traditional classes. The Playhouse Theatre Website: https://www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk Address: Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7HG Highlights: Alongside performances, the Playhouse offers drama groups, acting workshops and creative opportunities for all ages. Cheltenham Photography School Website: https://www.cheltenhamphotographyschool.com Address: Cheltenham (workshops at various locations) Highlights: Photography courses and workshops covering camera skills, editing, and creative composition for beginners and enthusiasts. The Wilson Creative Workshops Website: https://www.wilsonmuseum.org.uk Address: Clarence Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JT Highlights: Artist-led workshops and creative sessions hosted by Cheltenham’s museum and gallery, blending culture, learning and hands-on creativity.

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Spotlight on Cheltenham

Under-£15 Cheltenham: Six Great Experiences That Won’t Break the Bank

Join your host, Solomon Prescott, for Episode 27: Under-£15 Cheltenham. In this episode, we spotlight six enjoyable, low-cost experiences that prove you don’t need a big budget to enjoy the town. From free culture and green spaces to affordable entertainment and simple pleasures, every place featured here can be enjoyed for £15 or less. Each location is currently active, has a clear online presence or official listing, and a physical location so you can plan an easy, budget-friendly outing. Places featured: The Wilson Art Gallery & Museum Website: https://www.wilsonmuseum.org.uk Address: Clarence Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JT Highlights: A free-entry museum and gallery offering fine art, Arts & Crafts collections, local history and rotating exhibitions — ideal for a relaxed, cultural afternoon without spending a penny. Pittville Park Website: https://www.visitcheltenham.com/things-to-do/pittville-park Address: Pittville Park, Cheltenham GL52 3AA Highlights: One of Cheltenham’s most iconic green spaces, perfect for walking, people-watching, picnics, and lakeside strolls. Completely free and ideal in any season. Holst Victorian House Website: https://holstvictorianhouse.org.uk Address: 4 Clarence Road, Cheltenham GL52 2AW Highlights: The former home of composer Gustav Holst. Entry is typically under £10, offering a fascinating glimpse into local musical history and Victorian life. Cheltenham Farmers’ Market Website: https://www.farma.org.uk/markets/cheltenham Address: The Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1NW Highlights: A lively weekly market where browsing is free and even a small budget can stretch to local treats, street food or fresh produce — a great sensory experience without overspending. Sherborne Cinema Website: https://www.sherbornecinema.co.uk Address: 16–18 High Street, Cheltenham GL50 1DZ Highlights: An independent cinema with regular screenings priced under £15, offering a more intimate and relaxed alternative to big multiplexes. Montpellier Gardens Website: https://www.visitcheltenham.com/things-to-do/montpellier-gardens Address: Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham GL50 1SD Highlights: Beautifully kept public gardens right by Montpellier Walk — perfect for a calm stroll, sitting with a book, or pairing with a low-cost coffee nearby.

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Spotlight on Cheltenham

Lumière Restaurant — Cheltenham’s Michelin‑Star Fine Dining Destination

Lumière Restaurant in Cheltenham is a premier fine dining experience, recognised with a Michelin star for its exceptional cooking and inventive tasting menus. Situated on Clarence…

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Spotlight on Cheltenham

Cheltenham Rare Books — A Specialist Treasure for Book Lovers in Cheltenham

Cheltenham Rare Books is an independent bookshop in Cheltenham’s elegant Imperial Square dedicated to rare, collectible and first edition books. With a carefully curated stock span…

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Spotlight on Cheltenham

Son of Steak Cheltenham — Casual Steakhouse & Grill in The Brewery Quarter

Son of Steak Cheltenham is a popular steakhouse and grill located in The Brewery Quarter — Cheltenham’s vibrant dining and entertainment hub. Known for serving juicy steaks, burger…

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Spotlight on Cheltenham

Baker & Graze — Artisan Bakery, Café & Brunch Favourite in Cheltenham

Baker & Graze is one of Cheltenham’s most loved cafés, combining artisan baking, thoughtful brunch and lunch plates, excellent coffee and a welcoming local atmosphere. Nestled in t…

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What’s on over the next month

Upcoming local events in Cheltenham.

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Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts

Sat 09 May

Cheltenham Town Hall

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A Guy Called Gerald - Live In Session

Thu 14 May

DEYA Brewing Company

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Artisan Cheese and Premium Wine Evening

The K-Pop All Stars

Nick Mohammed is Mr Swallow: Show Pony

Wed 20 May

Cheltenham Town Hall

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Fringe Festival Launch Variety Show

Fri 22 May

Cheltenham Playhouse

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Baker & Graze

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Lumière Restaurant — Cheltenham’s Michelin‑Star Fine Dining Destination

Cheltenham Rare Books — A Specialist Treasure for Book Lovers in Cheltenham

Son of Steak Cheltenham — Casual Steakhouse & Grill in The Brewery Quarter

Baker & Graze — Artisan Bakery, Café & Brunch Favourite in Cheltenham

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