What does Gustav Holst, arts and crafts and horseracing have in common? The answer, of course, is Cheltenham – a very English spa town in Gloucestershire, which is either the birthplace or home to all three.
Famous for its Regency-style homes, Cheltenham boasts some of the most desirable housing in the whole of Britain. Period property in the town dates back to between 1800 and 1830 when King George IV was Prince Regent and is a continuation of the predating neo-classical Georgian style of housing.
Unsurprisingly, Cheltenham has also been recognised as the best place to raise a family and one of the safest place for students to attend university. But what can you expect if you are house hunting there?
To help navigate this property hotspot, our guide to Cheltenham identifies what’s currently available for first-time buyers, families and those looking to rent. You’ll also find average prices on all types of homes for buyers and renters, including the biggest discounts, as well as expert insight from locals.
Firstly, where is Cheltenham?
The town is situated on the outskirts of The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, in Gloucestershire. It sits 88 miles west-northwest of London, 38 miles northeast of Bristol and 41 miles south of Birmingham.
How much will it cost me?
For buyers, the current average asking price stands at £360,905. The table, below, shows how many properties have sold in Cheltenham over the past 12 months, the average sale price, the current average value based on Zoopla's data and how values are on the rise.
Commuting into London
Despite its surrounding countryside location, London Paddington can be reached in just over two hours from Cheltenham Spa train station, calling at Swindon and Reading en route.
Travel in and out of Cheltenham
Trains to Bristol are just over 45 minutes. By road, the M5 motorway is easy to pick up from Cheltenham and takes you direct to Birmingham or Bristol.
If you are driving to London, you can take the A436/A40 straight out of Cheltenham to Oxford, where you can meet the M40, taking you right into the west of the capital.
Locally, Cheltenham is easily accessible by foot or bicycle. In terms of public transport, the town centre and its outskirts are well-serviced by various bus routes.
Schools
Cheltenham has 14 Ofsted 'Outstanding' rated schools within three miles of the town. The Outstanding secondary schools are Belmont School (also primary), Balcarras School and Pate’s Grammar School. You can compare school and college performance on the Government website here.
Landmarks
Among the cultural treasures you’ll find in Cheltenham, is the Holst Birthplace Museum – dedicated to Gustav Holst, The Planets composer – and the Pittville Pump Room which is a venue for concerts, shows, dances and other events.
Cheltenham Town Hall is another iconic venue, with a year-round programme of events, while in summer, a visit to the art deco Lido at Sandford Park is a must.
Situated on the outskirts of the town is the legendary Cheltenham Racecourse, home to some of the best horse racing in the world, including the Cheltenham Races and the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
History lesson
Legend has it that unassuming pigeons were influential in Cheltenham gaining its spa-town status. In the early 1700s, it is believed that locals were drawn to a robust-looking flock of pigeons pecking at salt on the nearby ground. Their curiosity paid off with the uncovering of the area’s natural spring water.
The spa became recognised in royal ranks with a visit from King George III in 1788. His five week stay and consumption of the water for medicinal purposes led to an explosion in the town’s popularity.
Where to eat, drink and make merry
If you’re feeling fancy, splash out and venture to Le Champion Sauvage, a two-Michelin starred restaurant, serving modern French cuisine. If you can’t get a table there, try Lumiere, another award-winning restaurant offering the best in British seasonal produce.
Indulge in an afternoon tea at the quirky Well Walk Tea Room or, for those thirsty for cocktails, Clarence Social is home to expert bartenders and a hidden speakeasy bar. For the craft ale lovers, head to the vibrant Bath Road area to find traditional pubs such as The Tivoli, the Jolly Brewmaster and The Royal Union.
Retail therapy
Cheltenham is somewhat of a shopping haven with its blend of independent shops and modern retailers. Situated on the High Street, the Regent Shopping Centre hosts over 60 big-name retail stores whereas independent boutiques are spread across the rest of the town. Montpellier and The Suffolks are home to established antiques dealers and Cheltenham’s farmers market is regularly held on the Promenade.
Trivial pursuit
Punters bet, on average, £150m a day at the annual Cheltenham Festival.
What's for sale…
... for the first-time buyer?
Two-bedroom terraced house for £210,000
First-time buyers will be spoilt by this stunning two-bedroom terraced house. The contemporary interior design means there’s no renovation necessary, leaving buyers to enjoy the enviable location. The trendy bars and shops of Bath Road are within walking distance, while Cheltenham town centre is less than a mile away.
Available via Elliot Oliver Sales and Lettings
... for the family?
Three-bedroom semi-detached house for £475,000
Situated in popular Leckhampton, this beautifully refurbished three-bedroom home offers spacious living and a family-friendly garden perfect for the summer. With the option of several ‘Outstanding’ graded local primary schools, this property is an ideal place to raise a family.
Available via Andrews
... for renters?
Renting in Cheltenham doesn’t have to mean foregoing period property. This apartment offers comfortable living in the exclusive location of Montpellier, making it appealing for those who want to be immersed in the charm and heritage synonymous with the town.
Available via Leaders
... with the biggest discount?
Originally on the market for £150,000, this charming apartment within a short walk of the town centre has seen its asking price reduced by £40,000. The low maintenance property is ideal for a first-time buyer or could be a good investment.
Available via RA Bennett & Partners
The most popular Cheltenham property currently for sale is...
This sublime home is turning heads for good reason. Set on the private Battledown estate, the villa combines traditional elegance with high specification fixtures and fittings. Complete with a swimming pool, this six-bedroom property offers the very best in luxury living against the backdrop of beautiful surroundings.
Available via Kingsley Adams
The most expensive streets to buy...
If this guide has whetted your appetite, you can now set up property alerts for Cheltenham, or search for more properties to buy or rent in the area.