Cheltenham was named as one the best places to raise a family in the UK (The Times 2018) so why not take a trip there with your brood to see why? Explore its history as a grand Regency spa town, or attend one of its numerous festivals, from jazz and literature to food and drink.
BabyBreaks has done the hard work for you, and researched best Cheltenham Attractions for your Kids.
1. The Jet Age Museum
This award winning museum is a fantastic day out for all ages. Celebrating Gloucestershire’s rich aviation heritage, it has a wide range of aircraft, engines and restoration projects on display. Most are displayed undercover, in the hanger, so it’s a good option for a rainy day.
Kids will love the fact they get to sit in the cockpit of some of the planes, pretending to be a pilot! There are knowledgeable volunteers on hand for guided tours, some of whom flew the planes themselves.
Opening Hours:Â Open 10am – 4pm on Saturdays, Sundays, the majority of UK Bank Holidays and selected Wednesdays during school holidays.
2. The Wilson
Opened in 1899, this art gallery and museum is really popular with local families. It’s exhibits include a world renowned arts and crafts collection, and items relating to Cheltenham-born Dr Edward Wilson’s part in Captain Scott’s expedition to Antarctica.
World of Wonders is a brand new gallery for young people which encourages interactive learning. Little ones can touch, play, sing and dance their way through the exciting exhibits and activities, letting their imagination run wild. They also have guided play sessions for under 5’s and regular events for families.
Opening Hours: Opening times vary, check the website for more info.
3. The Play Farm
A soft play centre is perfect for entertaining energetic kids on a rainy day, and this attraction in Cheltenham ticks all the boxes. Spacious and affordable , it provides hours of fun for your little ones and a chance for adults to relax while they play. There are special areas for babies and toddlers, so it’s suitable for children of all ages.
The owner, Richard, who has 3 young children himself, has made a special effort to ensure the food and drinks in the café are fresh, tasty and nutritious, so the parents will be as happy as the kids. Expect artisan breads , home-baked pastries, freshly prepared salads and a dedicated ‘Free-From’ section.
Opening Hours: Open 9:30 am – 5:30 pm  Monday to Friday and 10am – 6pm weekends and holidays.
4. Airborne Trampoline Park
Trampolining is a really fun activity for all the family, and an indoor park like this one is a great place to let your kids burn off some energy. As well as standard trampolines, there are tall Towers, Battle Beams, a Ninja Run and LED reaction wall. Early morning Toddler Time sessions are perfect for little ones to bounce and play without worrying about boisterous older children. This is one of the best Cheltenham Attractions with your Kids!
Air Time and Dine (Wednesday and Fridays) is an excellent value session which lets you pre-order your food before you bounce, so it’s ready as soon as your trampolining is over – perfect for rumbling tummies.
Opening Hours:Â Opening times and sessions vary, check the timetable on the website for more info.
5. Everyman Theatre
Bringing theatre to Cheltenham residents since 1891, the Everyman is renowned for its independent spirit and support of local creative communities. Offering a wide range of performances, from ballet and opera to comedy and traditional family pantomime, the Everyman is sure to have a show you can take your family to when visiting Cheltenham. Upcoming performances include Oliver, The Greatest Showman Singalong and Cinderella.
They also run events and workshops for young people, which could be perfect if you have an aspiring thespian in your family. This is another great Cheltenham Attractions with your Kids!
Address:Â Address on Google Maps
Opening Hours: Show times and performances vary, check the website to see what’s on.
6. Sudeley Castle and Gardens
Firstly, a historic, stately home makes for a wonderful family day out. Sudeley Castle lies in the heart of the Cotswolds, just 9 miles from Cheltenham town centre. The 1,200 acre estate has 10 award winning gardens, an amazing Adventure Playground and a family picnic area.
Inside, the castle rooms contain fascinating treasures from ancient Roman times to the present day. In addition, visitors can also look around the 15th century church where former Queen Katherine Parr is buried.
Address:Â Sudeley Castle & Gardens Gloucestershire, Winchcombe GL54 5JD
Opening Hours: Open daily 10am – 5pm from March to October and  10am – 4pm from October to December. Closed in January and February.
7. Walk to Cleeve Common
Cleve Common, on the outskirts of Cheltenham, has over 1000 acres of splendid scenery to explore. From its highest vantage points you can admire views as far as the Black Mountains in Wales and the Shropshire hills. Locals and tourists head here to enjoy horse riding, golf, cycling, rock climbing and birdwatching.
The ‘Cotswold Way’ runs over Cleeve Common –a National Trust protected trail which covers over 100 miles between Chipping Campden and Bath. For example you can download a route map for a 4 or 6 mile walk.
However, if you have younger children, the shorter 2.3 mile walk will be more manageable for little legs.
8. Sandford Parks Lido
This heated outdoor pool is one of the largest in the UK and therefore attracts many Cheltenham families each summer. Open from March to October, the 50 metre main pool is heated to 26C and the children’s pool to 30C. In addition to the pools there are slides and a paddling pool for the kids. Lastly, there’s a pleasant café to enjoy when you’ve worked up an appetite.
Address:Â Keynsham Road, Cheltenham GL53 7PU
Opening Hours:Â Opening hours vary, check the website for more details.
9. Pittville Park
This is the largest ornamental park in Cheltenham, and a firm favourite with families thanks to its excellent play area. In addition, the park is famed for its Grade 1 listed Pump Room -a prime example of regency architecture. So let the kids loose in the park’s manicured lawns and tranquil lakes, and don’t miss the aviaries where you can see birds and bunnies! Fishing on some of the lakes is permitted in season, which could be great for older kids. Lastly there are tennis courts, a pitch and putt golf course and a skate park to enjoy.
Address:Â Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL52 3AB
Opening Hours:Â Open 24/7. (Individual attractions may vary)
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