Cheltenham’s Regency history and top attractions make it a great place to visit. The town holds exciting events throughout the year, attracting locals and those from further afield. Wondering what to do in Cheltenham this year? Our guide explores the top 2023 festivals and events, including:
When? 19-20 April 2023
Where? Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Rd, Cheltenham GL50 4SH
More information: Book your tickets here
If you love the thrill of the Cheltenham Festival, don’t miss out on The April Meeting. This exciting and competitive two-day racing event sees professionals take to the track once more before the summer break. If you’ve never visited Cheltenham Racecourse before, it’s the perfect time to go!
Cheltenham Racecourse is located at Prestbury Park, just off the B4075 road. With fantastic restaurants, viewing areas and other facilities, it offers an unforgettable day out.
When? 6-7 May 2023
Where? Heritage Café Orangery, Pittville Park and Pittville Pump Room
This year, Prince Charles will be crowned King of England on the 6th of May. Celebratory events are set to take place across the country, and Cheltenham is no exception.
Join the fun at Cheltenham’s free Community Coronation Celebration. This two-day Coronation Weekend event will be held at Pittville Pump Room, Pittville Park and the Heritage Café Orangery. Here’s what you can expect:
When? 13 May 2023
Where? Imperial Gardens, Cheltenham, GL50 1QA
In 2023, Cheltenham Pride Festivals and Pride in Gloucestershire will collaborate for an incredible Pride celebration. Cheltenham Pride will take place on the 13th of May and feature a range of LGBTQ+-focused events. It will be held in the spectacular Imperial Gardens – a new location for this year – and begin with a Pride march through Cheltenham’s town centre.
Other highlights include live music, a funfair, food stalls and Trans and Multi-Sensory Areas. Don’t miss out – keep up to date with the latest Cheltenham Pride news here.
When? 2-4 June 2023
Where? Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Rd, Cheltenham GL50 4SH
More information: Book your tickets here
Looking for fun things to do in Cheltenham with the kids? Head to Wychwood Festival for a wonderful lineup of music, comedy and workshops. Held at the racecourse, this is one of the most popular Cheltenham festivals.
Expect delicious food and drink, including signature Wychwood Ales. Visit for the day or extend your stay with overnight camping beneath the Prestbury Hills. With something for all ages, Wychwood Festival is a great event for the whole family.
When? 11 June 2023
Where? Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Rd, Cheltenham GL50 4SH
More information: Sign up for the festival here
If you love running, don’t miss the 2023 Cheltenham Running Festival. Organised in support of the Cheltenham & Gloucestershire Hospital Charity, this worthy event sees runners complete a chip-timed 5k, 10k or Half Marathon around the iconic Cheltenham Racecourse. Participants receive a themed medal, free race photographs and other goodies!
When? 23-25 June 2023
Where? Montpellier Gardens, 24 Montpellier Spa Rd, Cheltenham GL50 1UL
More information: Book your tickets here
Calling all foodies! The Cheltenham Food and Drink Festival is set for June and promises a brilliant weekend. 2023 will mark the 15th Food and Drink Festival in Cheltenham, with live music, cheese tasting and free wine tasting talks on the agenda. Expert chefs – including British presenter and chef Rosemary Shrager – will be cooking delicious foodie creations. Pop this exciting festival in your diary.
When? 5-8 July 2023
Where? Upcote Farm, Withington, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 4BL
More information: Book your tickets here
Set in the scenic Cotswold Hills, 2000trees is an independent Cheltenham music festival. Held in the second week of July over three days, this event features the very best British underground music, with previous acts including You Me At Six, Mallory Knox and Frank Turner. This year, the lineup includes Skindred, Deaf Havana and many other well-known names. This is a fantastic event to visit with friends.
When? 6-15 October 2023
Where? Cheltenham Town Centre
The Cheltenham Literature Festival is an unmissable event for book lovers. This is the world’s first literature festival, showcasing work by well-known literary authors and up-and-coming names.
Taking place again this autumn, it’s held over 10 days and features a range of free family activities and ticketed events across Cheltenham’s historic town. Last year’s lineup included book character meet and greets, spoken-word gigs and comedy and storytelling sessions. Keep your eyes peeled for what’s to come in 2023.
Looking for hotels in Cheltenham? Our Leonardo Cheltenham Hotel is the perfect base in the town, only a short drive from Cheltenham Spa train station. Whether you’re attending Cheltenham Literature Festival or celebrating at Cheltenham Pride, this hotel offers a great space to relax after a jam-packed event.
Enjoy excellent facilities, including free Wi-Fi, spacious guestrooms and a modern restaurant. Take a dip in the swimming pool or switch off from the outside world at the luxury spa. Plus, you’ll have the very best Cheltenham attractions close by, making it easy to plan an exciting itinerary.
Explore the rest of the Leonardo Hotels blog for more travel and event ideas.
Most Royal Regions in the UKMaking up a large and significant part of the ...
MORE +The Second Names of Cities in the UK and Around the WorldThe Big Apple, The City...
MORE +Widely considered the beating, bustling heart of the North of England, Mancheste...
MORE +
