Cotswold Grange, Cheltenham, UK is a quintessential representation of this charming town. Constructed from light honeyed Cotswold stone in 1856, it was initially built for its affluent merchant owner to indulge in the grandeur of high ceilings and spacious dimensions. The house's facade exudes confidence, characteristic of the mid-Victorian era, with a symmetry that hints at the presence of Bridgerton-era elegance. Although the Regency era had already passed by the time Cotswold Grange's foundation stones were laid, an aura of refinement lingers on, as if Jane Austen could have easily found a quiet corner to jot down her thoughts. Cheltenham, with its picturesque Cotswolds' quaint villages and rolling hills, is renowned for being an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Once a Regency spa town, Cheltenham has evolved into the Cultural Capital of the Cotswolds, offering a plethora of festivals, including cricket, food and drink, jazz, literature, music, poetry, pride, horse-racing, and science. Cotswold Grange is conveniently located within walking distance of these vibrant events. Upon arrival, guests are greeted via a grand, tree-lined avenue with ample complimentary parking – a rare find in Cheltenham. The check-in experience is warm and personal, with helpful orientation to the bar, lounge, and breakfast room. The rooms at Cotswold Grange are designed to harmoniously blend historic heritage with contemporary comforts. Every room features soft furnishings that evoke the spirit of the Cotswold hills, creating a serene ambiance reminiscent of idyllic countryside retreats. Each space is individually crafted to combine Cheltenham's rich history with modern amenities. The generous dimensions of the rooms allow for ample space, accommodating wide beds and two-seater sofas, an era-defining feature that evokes nostalgia. Bespoke sustainable Mango wood furniture provides ample storage, complemented by a well-provisioned beverage point. Guests can indulge in the finest drinks while taking in the tranquil atmosphere. The bathrooms at Cotswold Grange are designed to be a modern sanctuary within period walls. Chic black-and-white tiles adorn a deep soaking tub, perfect for unwinding after a day exploring. A powerful rainfall shower is also available, providing a refreshing respite from the stresses of everyday life. Guests can indulge in an extensive breakfast menu at Cotswold Grange, featuring full English breakfasts, vegetarian options, salmon with scrambled eggs, Eggs Benedict, and other delectable choices. The hotel's commitment to sustainability has earned it an eco-award for its initiatives, including a focus on locally sourced produce and reducing food miles. The lounge bar serves as the perfect spot for guests to unwind after busy days in town or exploring the surrounding countryside. For those looking for cultural experiences, walking into town via Holst Victorian House provides insight into one of Cheltenham's most famous sons, Gustav Holst. Another stroll leads to Pittville Park, featuring grand columns framing the 1820s domed Pump Room and a neoclassical Regency temple. Montpelier is an upscale area that strives for the grandeur of Ancient Athens, with caryatids and draped female figure pillars adorning its boutiques, galleries, hairdressers, restaurants, and shops. Cheltenham's cultured cafe society spills over onto the wide pavements of Montpelier, creating a charming atmosphere perfect for strolling and socializing. For those seeking an authentic taste of English history, Sudeley Castle at Winchcombe is just a 15-minute drive away. A guided tour and film narrated by David Starkey reveal that the misconception surrounding Katherine Parr as Henry VIII's last wife and caregiver was erroneous. She was, in fact, a shrewd marketeer who published a successful prayer book. Country enthusiasts can enjoy a 'Have a go 25' clay-pigeon shooting experience at the Ian Coley Shooting School, with expert tuition available for pupils looking to develop their skills. The Country Clothing store also offers bespoke gun fittings for serious shooting aficionados. During our stay, we enjoyed a welcome of apples, bananas, grapes, nectarines, and strawberries in our room's fruit bowl – a thoughtful touch that sets the tone for a warm and inviting experience. Reception provided us with a map and instructions on navigating Cheltenham's charming streets. Although Cotswold Grange only serves breakfast, its website and staff offer helpful recommendations for exploring Cheltenham's thriving culinary scene. We dined at Prithvi, where Tom Law's classical French training paired with Jay Rahman's extensive knowledge of sub-continent cuisine created a truly memorable dining experience. Our second night was spent at Kibou, a vibrant Japanese restaurant that brought flashes of Tokyo neon to Cheltenham. Specializing in spectacular sashimi and sushi, it offered a culinary experience unlike any other – one that would have been perfect had we had time for a third night exploring the town's culinary delights. Cotswold Grange exudes a gentle, old-world glamour that permeates every corner of its elegant architecture and interior design. From its golden stone exterior to ornate cornicing on the ceiling and tall sash windows, every detail has been carefully crafted to evoke an era of refinement and sophistication. The greatest luxury at Cotswold Grange lies in the sense of calm and genuine hospitality that fills every room – a feeling that transcends the hotel's historic charm. Whether you're visiting Cheltenham for its festivals, romance, or countryside rambles, this is a place that feels like home.
