Podcast episodes — Cheltenham

Browse the latest episodes from Spotlight on Cheltenham.

Showing 12 of 31

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.

Listen →

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.

Listen →

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.

Listen →

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.

Listen →

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.

Listen →

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.

Listen →

Spotlight on Cheltenham

Rainy-Day Cheltenham: Six Indoor Spots to Save a Grey Afternoon

Join your host, Solomon Prescott, for Episode 26: Rainy-Day Cheltenham. In this episode, we explore six indoor venues across town that are perfect when the weather isn’t playing ball — or when you simply want an all-weather plan. From immersive games and bowling lanes to cinemas and creative indoor escapes, these are dependable, currently active places with a clear online presence and physical addresses so you can plan ahead with confidence. Places featured: Hollywood Bowl Cheltenham Website: https://www.hollywoodbowl.co.uk/locations/hollywood-bowl-cheltenham Address: The Brewery Quarter, St Margaret’s Road, Cheltenham GL50 4FA Highlights: A modern bowling alley with arcade games, food, drinks and late opening hours — a reliable go-to for groups, dates, and rainy-day fun. Escape Hunt Cheltenham Website: https://escapehunt.com/uk/cheltenham/ Address: The Brewery Quarter, St Margaret’s Road, Cheltenham GL50 4FA Highlights: High-production escape rooms and city-hunt games offering immersive, story-driven challenges that work brilliantly as a weather-proof group activity. The Everyman Cinema Cheltenham Website: https://www.everymancinema.com/cheltenham Address: Regent Arcade, Cheltenham GL50 1JZ Highlights: A premium cinema experience with sofa seating, food and drinks brought to your seat — ideal for turning a rainy afternoon into a relaxed event. The Play Farm Cheltenham Website: https://www.theplayfarm.co.uk Address: Unit 4, Kingsditch Trade Park, Cheltenham GL51 9PQ Highlights: An indoor soft-play and activity centre designed for younger children — a dependable option for parents when outdoor plans fall apart. Flight Club Cheltenham Website: https://flightclubdarts.com/location/cheltenham/ Address: 9–11 The Brewery Quarter, Cheltenham GL50 4FA Highlights: A tech-driven social darts venue combining games, food and drinks — great for adult groups looking for something fun without relying on good weather. Revolution Cheltenham Website: https://www.revolution-bars.co.uk/bar/cheltenham Address: 9–11 St George’s Road, Cheltenham GL50 3DT Highlights: More than just a bar — offering indoor seating, food, cocktails and casual games, making it a safe fallback when plans need to move indoors.

Listen →

Spotlight on Cheltenham

Local Legends: Six Long-Standing Businesses That Shaped Cheltenham

Join your host, Solomon Prescott, for Episode 24: Local Legends — Six Long-Standing Businesses That Shaped Cheltenham. In this episode, we celebrate Cheltenham institutions — businesses that have earned their reputation through longevity, consistency, and deep community roots. These are places locals trust, recommend, and return to year after year. Each business is currently active, well-established, and has a clear online presence so you can explore their story and visit with confidence. Places featured: The Daffodil Website: https://www.thedaffodilrestaurant.co.uk Address: 18–20 Suffolk Parade, Cheltenham GL50 2AE Highlights: A striking Art Deco restaurant housed in a former cinema, known for refined dining, iconic interiors, and years of consistent acclaim on Cheltenham’s food scene. Petit Social Website: https://www.petitsocial.co.uk Address: 1 Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7HG Highlights: A long-running neighbourhood favourite offering relaxed, high-quality food and a loyal local following — understated, dependable, and deeply rooted in Bath Road life. John Gordon’s Menswear Website: https://johngordons.co.uk Address: 51 Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1PJ Highlights: A traditional independent menswear and tailoring business that has dressed generations of Cheltenham residents with craftsmanship, service, and personal expertise. Cotswold Cycles Website: https://www.cotswoldcycles.co.uk Address: 58–60 Winchcombe Street, Cheltenham GL52 2NW Highlights: A trusted local bike shop that has supported Cheltenham’s cycling community for decades — known for repairs, advice, and no-nonsense expertise. Badham Pharmacy Website: https://www.badhampharmacy.co.uk Address: Multiple Cheltenham locations (see website) Highlights: A family-run pharmacy group that has served Cheltenham for generations, combining healthcare, wellbeing advice, and strong community presence. The Suffolk Arms Website: https://thesuffolkarmscheltenham.co.uk Address: 30 Suffolk Parade, Cheltenham GL50 2AE Highlights: A Grade II listed pub that has become a modern Cheltenham institution — known for its pies, roasts, local sourcing, and a loyal following that spans generations.

Listen →

Spotlight on Cheltenham

Markets & Makers: Six Places to Shop Local in Cheltenham

Join your host, Solomon Prescott, for Episode 23: Markets & Makers — Six Places to Shop Local in Cheltenham. In this episode, we explore six markets, producer-led shops, and maker-focused spaces where Cheltenham’s independent spirit really shines. From weekly markets to permanent artisan hubs, these are the places where local food, crafts, and creativity come together. Each location is currently active, has a working website or strong official online presence, and a clear address so you can plan your visit. Places featured: Cheltenham Farmers’ Market Website: https://www.farma.org.uk/markets/cheltenham Address: The Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1NW Highlights: A long-running weekly market bringing together local farmers, bakers, cheesemakers, and food producers. Expect seasonal produce, fresh bread, street-food stalls, and a lively Saturday-morning atmosphere right in the town centre. The Suffolks Market Website: https://thesuffolkscheltenham.co.uk Address: Suffolk Parade & surrounding streets, Cheltenham GL50 2AE Highlights: A neighbourhood street market celebrating independent traders, makers, food vendors and local creatives. It has a strong community feel and showcases Cheltenham’s independent side away from the main high street. Bath Road Artisan Market Website: https://www.bathroadcheltenham.co.uk Address: Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7HG Highlights: A popular artisan market bringing together small producers, handmade goods, baked treats and local crafts. Perfect for relaxed browsing, meeting makers, and supporting small businesses in a residential part of town. Montpellier Courtyard Website: https://www.montpelliercourtyard.co.uk Address: Montpellier Street, Cheltenham GL50 1SR Highlights: A tucked-away courtyard filled with independent shops, galleries and specialist retailers. While not a traditional market, it functions as a permanent hub for locally run businesses and creative traders. Chaplais Deli Website: https://www.chaplais.co.uk Address: Tivoli Street, Cheltenham GL50 2TG Highlights: A well-loved deli and food shop stocking high-quality local and European produce, cheeses, wines and giftable food items. A strong example of a specialist retailer supporting artisan producers. Roots & Fruits Website: https://rootsandfruitscheltenham.co.uk Address: 250 Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7NE Highlights: A long-standing independent greengrocer and florist offering fresh produce, local goods, flowers and gifts. A cornerstone of Bath Road’s independent shopping scene.

Listen →

Spotlight on Cheltenham

Get Active Cheltenham: Six Sport & Adventure Spots to Move and Play

Join your host, Solomon Prescott, for Episode 22: Get Active Cheltenham. In this episode we visit six active-living and adventure spots around town — each with a verified website or clear online presence, plus a physical address so you can plan your next fitness outing or sporty day trip. Expect climbing walls, water activities, team sports, gyms, racing days and outdoor adventure — all offering fun ways to get moving in and around Cheltenham. Places featured: 1. Cotswold Country Park & Beach Website: https://www.cotswoldcountryparkandbeach.com/ Address: Cotswold Country Park & Beach, Somerford Keynes, Cirencester GL7 6BF Highlights: Outdoor adventure destination with the UK’s largest inland beach, paddleboarding, kayaking, pedal boats and beach games — plus AquaVenture inflatable water course and mini golf for a full sporty-fun day outside. 2. Cheltenham Town Football Club (EV Charger Points Stadium at Whaddon Road) Website: https://www.ctfc.com/ Address: Whaddon Road, Cheltenham GL52 5NA Highlights: Home of Cheltenham Town FC (“The Robins”), offering lively matchday atmosphere in League One and community football events — great for fans of grassroots and professional sport alike. 3. Boulders Cheltenham Website: https://cheltenham.bouldersuk.com/ Address: Boulders UK – Cheltenham, check site for exact unit & booking info Highlights: A modern climbing and fitness facility with top rope walls, speed climbing, bouldering and strength training space — ideal for active climbers and those wanting a dynamic workout. 4. YMCA Cheltenham Sports Centre Website: https://ymcacheltenham.com/sports-centre/ Address: YMCA Sports Centre, Vittoria Walk, Cheltenham GL50 2SG Highlights: Large community sports hub offering badminton, table tennis, martial arts, yoga, walking football, gym spaces and fitness classes for all ages and abilities — perfect for those who like variety. 5. Leisure at Cheltenham Website: https://leisureatcheltenham.com/ Address: Leisure at Cheltenham, Tommy Taylors Lane, Cheltenham GL50 4RN Highlights: Full-service leisure centre with gym, classes, pool and family-friendly fitness facilities — whether you’re after a gym session, swim or an activity class, this place has something for everyone. 6. CLC Health & Fitness Centre (Cheltenham Ladies’ College) Website: https://fitness.cheltladiescollege.org/ Address: Cheltenham Ladies’ College Health & Fitness Centre, Bayshill Road, Cheltenham GL50 3EP Highlights: Well-equipped fitness facility with gym, indoor pool, squash and tennis courts, and classes — ideal for structured workouts and sport-specific training within a community setting.

Listen →

Spotlight on Cheltenham

Offbeat & Outdoors: Six Unique Experiences Within Reach of Cheltenham

Join your host, Solomon Prescott, for Episode 19: Offbeat & Outdoors: Six Unique Experiences Within Reach of Cheltenham. In this episode we stray beyond the usual restaurant and bar beats — exploring hidden‑nature spots, historic corners, and unexpected experiences that mix leisure, adventure and local charm. Each destination has public access or visitor info and a clear listing, so you can plan a little outing yourself. Expect countryside strolls, heritage railways, woodland walks, and off‑the‑beaten‑track spots that give Cheltenham a different flavour. Places featured: Lineover Woods Website: woodlandtrust.org.uk Address: Lineover Wood, Near Dowdeswell, Cheltenham GL54 4HG Highlights: A steep woodland nature reserve with sweeping views over Cheltenham, ancient trees, wildlife, and tranquil walking routes. It's perfect for those seeking a quiet, nature-filled outing just beyond town. Leckhampton Hill (and nearby Devil's Chimney landmark) Website: https://cotswoldlittleexplorers.co.uk/2024/02/21/leckhampton-hill-and-devils-chimney-walk/ Address: Leckhampton Hill, just south of Cheltenham. Highlights: A scenic hillside local‑nature reserve on the edge of town — rugged limestone terrain, woodland, the quirky “Devil’s Chimney” rock formation, and panoramic countryside views. Great for short hikes or a spontaneous countryside escape. Dowdeswell Reservoir & Woods Website: https://www.cheltenhamrocks.co.uk/things-to-do/dowdeswell-reservoir Address / Access: On the outskirts of Cheltenham (see local maps / guides for exact entry) Highlights: A quiet reservoir surrounded by woodland — ideal for nature lovers, bird‑spotting, walking, or a peaceful escape just outside town. A lesser-known alternative to busier spots. Cotswold Farm Park (a short drive away from Cheltenham) Website: https://cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk/ Address: Cotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power, Cheltenham, Glos. GL54 5FL Highlights: A working farm‑park with animals, hands‑on experiences, countryside charm and family‑friendly atmosphere. Great for a fun day out, especially with kids or groups looking for a countryside escape. Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (Heritage Railway & Countryside Ride) Website: gwsr.com (official heritage‑railway site) Address: Churchward House, Winchcombe Railway Station, Winchcombe, Cheltenham, GL54 5LD Cotswolds. Highlights: A nostalgic steam‑train ride through lush countryside — a mix of history, scenic beauty, and relaxing travel. Ideal for relaxed day‑trips or a unique getaway into the Cotswolds without needing a car. The Wilson (Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum) Website: wilsonmuseum.org.uk Address: 51 Clarence Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JT Highlights: A top‑class museum and art gallery showcasing local heritage, arts & crafts collections, changing exhibitions and cultural displays — perfect for a calm, inspirational indoor outing in any weather.

Listen →

Spotlight on Cheltenham

Paws & Places: Six Dog‑Friendly Spots in Cheltenham

Join your host, Solomon Prescott, for Episode 21: Paws & Places — Six Dog‑Friendly Spots in Cheltenham. In this episode, we visit six cafes, pubs, and eateries around town that welcome your four‑legged friends. These places offer water bowls, treats, outdoor space or a relaxed atmosphere that makes dining with dogs easy and enjoyable. Each venue has a verifiable online presence or reliable listing and a physical address so you can plan your next dog‑friendly outing. Places featured: Baker & Graze Website: https://woodkraftcheltenham.com/baker‑and‑graze Address: 48 Suffolk Road, Cheltenham GL50 2AQ Highlights: A beloved bakery‑cafe with fantastic brunch and pastries and a chill vibe that welcomes dogs with open arms and water bowls. Great after a walk in the Suffolks neighbourhood. The Swan Website: https://www.theswancheltenham.co.uk Address: 35–37 High Street, Cheltenham GL50 1DX Highlights: A classic town centre pub with a relaxed layout and dog‑friendly seating inside and in the beer garden — ideal for a laid‑back lunch with your pup. Sandford Park Alehouse Website: https://sandfordparkalehouse.co.uk Address: 284 College Road, Cheltenham GL52 6RJ Highlights: A locally loved craft beer spot with spacious indoor and outdoor areas where well‑behaved dogs are welcome to join you for a pint and some snacks. Sandford Park Ale House The Frog & Fiddle Website: https://butcombe.com/the‑frog‑and‑fiddle‑cheltenham Address: 6 High Street, Cheltenham GL50 1EZ Highlights: A vibrant, dog‑friendly pub with a community vibe, plenty of room for pups under tables, and classic pub grub to enjoy after a town stroll. The Meadow Café Website: https://www.themeadowcafe.net Address: Edge of Cox’s Meadow, Cheltenham (check signage and local park map for precise access) Highlights: A welcoming, independent café on the edge of a lovely meadow walk — dogs can sit with you outdoors or enjoy a post‑walk water bowl while you sip on coffee or brunch favourites. Whiskers Coffee Website: https://whiskerscoffee.co.uk/ Address: Prestbury Park, Cheltenham Highlights: A cosy, dog‑friendly coffee spot in Prestbury Park. Perfect if you’re out exploring with your pup and want a café stop with freshly brewed drinks and homemade cakes — and plenty of space for four legs.

Listen →