Cheltenham

Cheltenham, or Cheltenham Spa, is a spa town located in the gorgeous countryside of Gloucestershire, England. Being the home of the flagship race of British steeplechase horse racing, the town is very popular with tourists, particularly in the Easter months, however Cheltenham also hosts several other cultural festivals throughout the year. The town reached fame due to its Regency architecture, said to be “the most complete regency town in England”, with many listed buildings and interesting sites. The Cheltenham Art Gallery and Museum gives some insight into the history of the town, but also includes a vast collection of decorative arts, from the era of the Arts and Crafts Movement.

The Holst Birthplace Museum is a tribute to the composer Gustav Holst and features his piano, as well as a working Victorian kitchen and laundry, a Regency drawing room and an Edwardian nursery – truly a step back in time.

Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum, Clarence Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JT (01242) 237431
Opened in 1899, Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum began life showcasing 43 paintings donated by former Mayor and MP for Cheltenham; the third Baron de Ferrieres.
The museum now houses exhibits from local history, archaeology and artefacts belonging to Edward Wilson; Cheltenham’s Antarctic explorer who died with Captain Scott.

Holst Birthplace Museum, 4 Clarence Road, Cheltenham GL52 2AY (01242) 524846
Born in this house in 1874, Gustav Holst was a prolific composer who orchestrated works such as ‘The Planets’.
The museum is displayed as it would have been when the young Holst grew up here in the 1870s.