8 Great Things to Do in Cheltenham, England This Summer

From tai chi and qigong to spa days, hiking, and sightseeing, if you’re looking to visit somewhere picturesque and brimming with wellness activities, Cheltenham, in the Cotswold District of the UK, might be your ideal destination. With plenty of opportunities for relaxation, exercise, and renewal, this inviting Regency Town has lots to offer visitors of all ages and interests this summer:

1. Walks with Hawks. The Walks with Hawks program allows you to handle and fly hawks, owls, or both in the heart of the Cotswolds. You’ll learn about the behavior and welfare of these majestic raptors in an invigorating open-air environment.
2. Castles and palaces. The Cotswolds region of England has numerous historic homes, castles, and palaces. You won’t even notice all your heart-healthy steps as you explore the rich architecture, art, and breathtaking gardens.
3. Spa locations. Cheltenham has been a spa town resort for centuries. Refresh and replenish with a treatment at one of the city’s world-class spa locations, many of which are housed in historic manors.
4. The Neptune Fountain. Thought to be a tribute to the Trevi Fountain in Rome, the Neptune Fountain is a delightful sight in the Cheltenham Promenade. Take a few moments to rest and reflect as you take in the figure of the Greek God Neptune and his shell chariot drawn by four horses.
5. The Colesbourne Gardens. The Colesbourne Gardens are famous for their winter Snowdrop Garden, but they are a picturesque and peaceful destination all year round. Connect with nature by visiting the arboretum and surrounding village.
6. Organized runs. Cheltenham features several organized running events to keep your heart pumping and calories burning. Running has proven cardiovascular and mental health benefits; if you prefer to do it with a group, Cheltenham has plenty of easily accessible options.
7. Fantasy Forest Festival. The annual Cheltenham Fantasy Forest Festival at Sudeley Castle takes place from July 19-21, 2024. If an imaginative escape from reality is your cup of tea, you can enjoy not only medieval-era food, costumes, and entertainment but herb education, a healing area, and drum workshops.
8. Tai Chi Retreat. From August 12-18, 2024, you can take a Tai Chi Holiday with the London School of Tai Chi Chuan & Tai Chi Foundation for a week of fun, learning, self-care, and exploration for people of all skill levels. Explore tai chi, qigong, meditation, Hawaiian Swimming, and lots of special activities at the Dean Close School campus in Cheltenham. Find our more and register here.

Join the Tai Chi Foundation for any of our Tai Chi Holiday Retreats this summer! We will be hosting summer programs for all levels of experience at the Hotchkiss School in Connecticut from June 17-24, 2024, and in Cheltenham, UK, from August 12-18, 2024.

Staying closer to home this summer? Check out our dozens of online classes, in-person schools, and Teachable on-demand courses.

New to tai chi? Start here with one of our free monthly online Open Houses.

Sign-up for our newsletter and stay up-to-date on all of our classes and events.

Join TCF in making the world a healthier and more mindful place!

Oliver Herzfeld

Tai Chi Foundation © 2024

Photo by Benjamin Elliott