What’s on in Cheltenham
Just moments from the heart of the picturesque Cotswolds, Cheltenham is a regency town packed full of history, culture and charm. Often referred to as ‘The Festival Town’, it also plays host to a wide selection of popular events throughout the year, from sporting fixtures, to art, literature and music festivals. Use our handy guide to discover what’s on in Cheltenham and plan your trip today.
Cheltenham Cricket Festival
When: 20th July - 4th August
Where: Cheltenham College
Cost: £150 for a festival pass, or from £10 per match
First up in our list of ‘what’s on in Cheltenham’ is the longest running cricket festival in the world. Watch home team Gloucestershire take on opponents over 12 days at Cheltenham college kicking off with Glamorgan in Division Two of the LV = Insurance County Championship. Whether you’re a cricket fan or not, the fantastic atmosphere and setting makes each match a great day out. Tickets can be bought per match or you can buy a festival pass to enjoy the whole event.
Cheltenham 7s Sports & Music Festival
When: 21 - 22 July 2023
Where: Newlands Park
Cost: From £27.99
One of the most unique events in our ‘what’s on in Cheltenham’ guide, this festival has been running since 2021 and combines music and sport to create a spectacular two days of fun. Take part in the 5k colour fun run, catch the all-star charity rugby match and celebrity guests, including James Haskell and Gemma Cairney. You can visit for a day or stay for the whole weekend and take part in as many activities as you like.
Cheltenham Paint Festival
When: 29 - 30th July 2023
Where: Various locations
Cost: Free
One of our top picks in our ‘what’s on in Cheltenham’ guide and voted ‘Event of the Year’ in the 2023 Gloucestershire Lifestyle Award, this popular festival showcases work from over 170 artists in various locations across the town. The best way to enjoy this festival is on foot - it’s approximately a 5 mile walk around the regency town to view all works of art.
Tuckwell Open Air Theatre Festival
When: 1st August - 13th August
Where: Tuckwell Amphitheatre
Cost: £17 per person
This secluded stone built amphitheatre is a truly magical setting for enjoying some outdoor theatre this summer. From Shakespeare and classic drama to jazz performances and family entertainment, there’s a great selection of shows to choose from. For those who prefer a movie, it also plays host to an outdoor cinema too. Not to mention, there’s a fully stocked bar and delicious food for you to enjoy during your visit too.
Cheltenham International Film Festival
When: 15th - 24th September
Where: Various Cheltenham cinemas and theatres
Cost: TBC
Catch screenings of new films from across the world at the fifth annual Cheltenham International Film Festival. 2022’s headline guest was the incredible Dame Judi Dench, as part of a celebration of work by distinguished actors. A selection of cinemas and theatres across the town will play host to the festival, and films will be streamed online too as part of the festival’s ‘screen and stream’ approach, following the fully online festival in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic. New for this year there will be talks from high profile guests, music and more.
Cheltenham Heritage Open Days
When: 8th - 17th September 2023
Where: Various locations
Cost: Free
A celebration of history and culture, this fantastic event is run across Europe and coordinated in the UK by the National Trust. In Cheltenham visitors will have access to historic buildings, guided walks, talks and exhibitions absolutely free! It’s not to be missed, and even more reason to plan a visit our wonderful regency town.
Cheltenham Literature Festival
When: 6-15th October 2023
Where: Various locations
Cost: TBC
The longest running fixture in our ‘what’s on in Cheltenham’ guide, is the inspiring Cheltenham Literature Festival. It’s the world’s oldest and globally renowned literature festival. Visitors can expect 10 days of high profile speakers, celebrating fiction and poetry, plus free family activities and exciting events across the town.
An elegant escape
Take your pick of events from our ‘what’s on in Cheltenham’ round-up, then plan your visit to the historic town. You’ll need somewhere equally charming to stay during your trip. Cotswold Grange Hotel offers spacious and characterful bedrooms and is perfectly situated in a leafy location not far from the town centre. Book your stay today.