How to get to Cheltenham by Train
Trains to Cheltenham from London depart around once an hour at peak times. These trains depart from London's Paddington train station, home of the famous Paddington Bear children's stories. Paddington train station is located to the north of the city centre and can be reached from central London via the District, Circle, Bakerloo, and Hammersmith and City underground lines, as well as by buses that depart several times an hour. The train journey from London to Cheltenham takes between 1 and 1.5 hours, and is a direct service with no changes needed. The train company that handles the vast majority of journeys passing through Cheltenham train station is First Great Western. There are also trains to Cheltenham from various other stations in the UK, such as Edinburgh, Cardiff, Bath, Bristol, and various stations in the desirable Lake District region. Cheltenham train station is located a short bus journey (of around 15-20 minutes) from bus stops in Cheltenham town centre.
Cheltenham
With its elegant Regency buildings and wide shopping streets, Cheltenham is one of the jewels of the Cotswolds. Make sure to go and see the famous fairytale clock in the Grand Arcade, which features a snake, a goose laying a golden egg on the hour, and a mouse. Each hour, the clock releases bubbles, to the delight of children waiting below. Concerts of classical music (as well as many other genres of music) are regularly held in the Pittvile Pump Rooms and the Town Hall. The Pump Rooms are also an excellent place to come if you want to engage in the centuries-old practice of 'taking the waters' from the natural spa there: these hot and minerally waters are said to be excellent for the health.