The Best Boutique Hotels to Book Near Cheltenham, England

Behind this immaculate Georgian facade are some of the smartest rooms in Cheltenham – generously proportioned spaces in dark blues and gunmetal grey, with brass fixtures and black-and-white photos of jazz greats. Downstairs, a continental breakfast is served in an American-style diner. The hotel is well-appointed for shopping on the promenade, a four-minute walk away, or admiring the regency architecture. Retro lunch and dinner joint, the Tavern, run by the George’s sister company, is just over the road.

Pack your walking boots because this dog-friendly hotel is perfect for a weekend country retreat. Built on the edge of the Cotswolds’ Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the early 1900s, each of its twelve rooms has far-reaching views, either of the Malvern Hills to the west or the sheep-scattered Cleeve Common to the east. Request a packed lunch for a day in the hills and unwind afterwards with a pint of local ale in the lounge. Cheltenham is a ten-minute drive away.

Rooms at No. 131 pair Georgian refinement with top-end country chic, featuring sash windows, fireplaces and raised ceilings alongside statement walls, industrial lighting and original artwork by David Hockney and Banksy. Occupying three handsome whitewashed townhouses on the promenade, the hotel also owns one of the busiest late night venues in Cheltenham, Gin & Juice, an indoor-outdoor space with DJs at the weekend and over 350 gins to sample. Dine at the Asian-inspired restaurant, where top dishes include Korean beef tartare and miso-glazed salmon with chilli-fried pak choi.

With a grand, Italianate exterior, Cowley Manor is the stand out property in the sleepy village of Cowley. Its 55-acre (22ha) estate is home to a Victorian cascade leading to a lake, one of two to be discovered while staying here. Its rooms are surprisingly contemporary, but no less inviting for it. All come with huge soaking tubs and separate drench showers. For dinner, expect locally sourced, exquisitely prepared British dishes. Don’t leave without venturing into the spa, complete with two pools.

Jessop House sits in the medieval market town of Tewkesbury, occupying a historic townhouse, part of which dates from the 12th century. A 20-minute car ride will take you to Cheltenham, but Tewkesbury’s Norman abbey, riverside walks and independent retailers are a worthy alternative. Inside, suites feature period pieces, fine linens and views over the abbey. You’ll also find a traditional English breakfast menu with ingredients sourced from local farms.

When it opened in 1838, the Queens Hotel – its name a nod to Queen Victoria – was one of the first purpose-built hotels in Europe. Now it overlooks one of the most arresting streets in Cheltenham, as well as the Imperial Square and Gardens. Its regal moniker is matched by its neoclassical architecture, dominated by 50 all-white Corinthian columns. Rooms combine heritage pieces with contemporary stylings. There are also several dining options including a traditional afternoon tea room.

From the outside, with its grand facade and sweeping driveway, Malmaison fits in well with regency Cheltenham. Inside, it’s a different story. Contemporary stylings bring you into the modern age. Rooms are decorated with block colours, statement wallpapers and modern furnishings. At night, head to the in-house bar for a cocktail, or two, with your other half. There’s also a brasserie serving an international menu.

Occupying a Georgian town house in Pittville, No 38 the Park is a 15-minute walk to Cheltenham Racecourse. If – and when – you’ve sunk your money in the ponies, returning to this boutique hotel is ample consolation. Its 13 rooms are decorated with mahogany leathers, antiques and carpets woven with seagrass. In the morning, a continental breakfast features freshly baked pastries, artisanal teas and freshly brewed coffee.

Traditional Gloucestershire beauty is found in abundance at the Cotswold Grange, one of the finest luxury hotels in Cheltenham. Its honey-hued facade and stone mullion windows are typical of the large country manors in the area. This continues inside where high ceilings, decorative cornicing and the original cantilevered staircase are found. Sitting in the historic suburb of Pittville, Cotswold Grange has easy access to both Cheltenham town centre and the racecourse. If you don’t want to leave, however, there’s an in-house bar and a restaurant serving modern British cuisine.

Hugging the edge of the Montpellier district in Cheltenham, Lypiatt House is well located for shopping during the day and dining at night. Set in private grounds, this boutique hotel was built in the Victorian period and finished with contemporary flourishes. Fancy exploring the nearby Cotswolds by car? Onsite parking is available. Fill up for the hike with a continental or full English breakfast.