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London; Edinburgh; Manchester: these are the cities which get most of the attention in the UK. The capital city is particularly popular among tourists, both national and international. But, Britain has lots more to offer people than Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. One place which doesn’t get the attention it deserves is Cheltenham. Located in the southwest of the country, it’s a beautiful city that is only a stone’s throw from Glastonbury. Cheltenham has great food, better pubs, and terrific hikes. More than that, it is home to some of the most sought after events in the country.
These are four things to do in Cheltenham this spring and summer.
Among racehorse enthusiasts, the Cheltenham Festival is the greatest spectacle in the world. The Epsom Derby may be the richest, and the Kentucky Derby may have better PR, but the racing that starts on the 13th March is unparalleled. Usually, this is down to the Gold Cup which takes place on the last Friday of the festival. The pinnacle of jump racing, the finest horses in the world take on the marathon course while thousands of fans cheer them home. Even if you aren’t a racing fan, Gold Cup Friday is a once in a lifetime experience.
The area is renowned for music, and the Cheltenham Festivals are high on the list. However, one which sticks out more than most is the Jazz Festival. Held annually in May, the Montpellier Gardens become the setting for the greatest musicians in the world. In the past, icons have graced the stage and this year is no different with Randy Crawford and Beth Hart. For the budding scientists among you, the Science Festival is a month later in June and will be exploring the issue of cybersecurity.
Cheese Rolling
For those of you that don’t know, this festival includes a roll of cheese, an elevated platform, and hundreds of mad contestants. The aim of the game is to catch the cheese before it reaches the bottom, which is nearly impossible. Still, people try their hardest and push their bodies to the limit in the quest for glory. It isn’t in Cheltenham but the Cotswolds, which is a short trip. But, don’t see that as a bad thing because while you’re there you can see The Wood Norton hotel. You may even choose to spend a night in one of the most luxurious residences in Britain.
To be honest, the 417 Project is one all year around but it really is worth a mention. Created in 2016, the bike park is home to some of the finest routes and runs in the country. Of particular note are the black downhill tracks as well as the dual slalom run. Don’t worry if you’re not an avid cyclist because the park has lots to offer, from walks to hikes that also range in difficulty. For the mountain bikers, this can’t be missed.
So, is Cheltenham good enough to go on your bucket list?
This is a collaborative post.
Welcome to Birds and Lilies! I'm Lou: mother, blogger and freelance writer. This is my lifestyle blog, where I talk about motherhood, infertility and IVF, beauty, my love for food and wine, as well as my thoughts about stuff, and our real-life and travel adventures.
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