When it comes to family-friendly destinations in the UK, Cheltenham stands out as a gem. Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, this charming town offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and outdoor activities that are sure to delight every member of your family. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or an extended stay, StayLets Serviced Apartments on Bath Street provide the ideal base for exploring all the fun activities Cheltenham has to offer.
Why Choose StayLets Serviced Apartments?
Before diving into the exciting activities, let’s talk about where to stay. StayLets offers spacious, well equipped serviced apartments in Cheltenham, designed to make your family vacation as comfortable and convenient as possible. Plus, they’re perfectly situated near Cheltenham’s top attractions, making it easy to explore the town without the hassle.
Top Family Fun Activities in and around Cheltenham
1. Explore Pittville Park – a 23 minute walk from StayLets
One of Cheltenham’s largest and most beautiful parks, Pittville Park is a must-visit for families. With its vast green spaces, boating lake, and playgrounds, the park offers something for everyone. Kids can enjoy the well-equipped play areas, while parents can take a relaxing stroll around the historic Pittville Pump Room. Don’t forget to bring a picnic – the park’s scenic surroundings provide the perfect backdrop. There is also a boating lake where boats can be hired for 30 mins at £8.50 or an hour at £12.
2. Visit the Everyman Theatre – a 8 minute walk from StayLets
For a dose of culture, take the family to a show at the Everyman Theatre. This historic venue hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, from family-friendly plays to lively musicals. The theatre’s beautiful architecture and rich history add to the experience, making it a memorable outing for the whole family. A couple of notable dates to mark your diary with – Peppa Pig comes to the Everyman on the 30th and 31st October with a show called “Fun Day Out” and this year’s pantomime which is the classic Alladin which runs from the 29th November 2024 to the 12th January 2025.
3. Go on a Cotswold Wildlife Park Adventure – a 37 minute drive from StayLets
Just a short drive from Cheltenham, the Cotswold Wildlife Park is a great day trip for families. Home to over 260 species of animals, including giraffes (don’t miss the giraffe walkway where you get to see them eye to eye), rhinos, and lemurs, the park offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with wildlife. The adventure playground and skymaze and mini railway (which runs April to October 12pm-4pm) are sure to be a hit with the kids, while the beautifully landscaped gardens provide a relaxing atmosphere for parents.
4. Enjoy Family Time at the Cheltenham Lido – a 11 minute walk from StayLets
On a warm day, there’s no better place to cool off than the Sandford Parks Lido. This large 50 metre, heated outdoor pool is perfect for a family swim, with areas designed for both younger children and experienced swimmers. The lido also offers a café, making it easy to spend a whole day enjoying the sun and water. Booking in advance is recommended as it can get very busy in the summer months.
5. Explore the Cotswold Farm Park – a 26 minute drive from StayLets
For a hands-on animal experience, Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park is a wonderful choice. Kids can interact with farm animals, learn about farming practices, and even try their hand at milking a cow (not a real one!). Seasonal events and activities ensure there’s always something new to experience, making this a fun and educational outing for the whole family. Also in the summer don’t miss the Maize Maze.
6. The Great Escape – Escape Rooms Cheltenham is a 10 minute walk from StayLets and Escape Hunt a 13 minute walk
If your kids are escape room fans or you want to try the experience for the first time, you will be spoilt for choice in Cheltenham. Escape Rooms Cheltenham in Winchcombe Street is an independently run business and it has three Gloucestershire themed escapes – Cheese Robbers, Pole Position and Operation Foresight. Escape Hunt in the Brewery Complex have a choice of Dr Who, Aladdin or Alice in Puzzleland themes.
7. Gloucester Cathedral – the 94 bus stop in the Promenade is an 8 minute walk from StayLets. The bus journey to Gloucester is 32 minutes and then the transport hub is a 7 minute walk from the Cathedral.
An iconic historic building that is over 1300 years old. It has a bell tower that can be seen from miles around, a tomb of a king and of course it famously was used in scenes for Harry Potter. Whilst in Gloucester also check out the House of the Tailor of Gloucester (a Beatrix Potter shop which is right by the Cathedral and the historic Gloucester Docks with its Food Court and Gloucestershire Quays for shopping and restaurants.
8. The Holst Victorian House – a 13 minute walk from StayLets
Step back in time to experience life in a Victorian house – the birthplace of composer Gustav Holst. Gustav Holst’s birthplace is a unique period house. Hear stories of its residents through time, experience a working Victorian kitchen, and view authentic Victorian interiors above stairs. You’ll discover more about Holst’s life, family and music, and see the piano on which he composed The Planets. After your visit make sure to stop at Imperial Gardens to see the Gustav Holst statue.
9. The Jet Age Museum – a 21 minute drive from StayLets. Open Saturdays and Sundays.
The inspiration behind the Jet Age Museum is the pivotal role in jet aviation, as the first ever jet aircraft was designed, built and flew its first flight in the county. You can pre-book tours of the Cockpit of a Trident Airliner and Vulcan Bomber most famous for their use in the Falklands War. The planes on display include a full size replica of that first jet – the E28/E39, as well other Gloucester aircraft the Gloucester Meteor and Gloucester Javelin.
10. Mr Mulligans – a 16 minute walk from StayLets
Mr Mulligans is situated in The Brewery Complex which also has a Cinema, a ten pin bowling alley and a great selection of family-friendly restaurants. You could quite easily spend hours here with two crazy golf courses, ping pong, electro darts, shuffleboard, pool and a karaoke room.
11. The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum – a 12 minute walk from StayLets
The Wilson is Gloucestershire’s premier art gallery and museum. Home to an internationally significant museum collection, featuring changing displays of their fine art collections, and The Open Archive, which houses fascinating displays and items relating to Cheltenham born Antarctic explorer Edward A. Wilson, and Cheltenham’s history.
12. Get your skates on – at the Cheltenham Ice Rink – 29th November – 5th January – a 7 minute walk from StayLets
The perfect Christmas activity for all the family! Each session lasts an hour, and the real ice rink is indoors meaning that you don’t need to worry about wet weather spoiling your festive day out. Skaters of all ages from 3 years old are welcome and the ice rink is accessible for all.
Tips for a Perfect Family Stay in Cheltenham
Book Early: Cheltenham is a popular destination, especially during festival seasons. To ensure you get the best serviced apartment at StayLets, it’s wise to book early.
Pack for All Weathers: The British weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared with layers, waterproofs, and sunscreen.
Plan Your Itinerary: With so much to do, planning your activities in advance will help you make the most of your time in Cheltenham. Also some attractions are so popular that you may not just be able to walk in on the day.
Cheltenham offers an array of family-friendly activities that make it an ideal destination for a fun-filled family getaway. From parks and wildlife adventures to cultural experiences and interactive museums, there’s something for everyone. And with StayLets Serviced Apartments on Bath Street as your home base, you can enjoy all the comforts of home while exploring the best that Cheltenham has to offer. Book your stay today and start planning an unforgettable family holiday in this charming town!