History of Cheltenham
Cheltenham began as an Anglo-Saxon village over 1200 years ago. In 1226 it became a market town, which was the basis of its economy until the 18th century when its medicinal waters were discovered in a field to the south of the town, where Cheltenham Ladies’ College now stands. These were regarded as beneficial for a whole range of illnesses and by the late 18th century the town was one of England’s leading spas.
A Royal Destination
In 1788, King George III spent 5 weeks in Cheltenham drinking the waters. From then on the town’s popularity increased dramatically. The population rose between 1700 – 1850 to 35,000 to become the largest town in Gloucestershire. Many famous visitors included Queen Victoria, the Duke of Wellington, Jane Austen and Lord Byron.
The Original Spa Break
Visitors would drink the waters, promenade often with a band of musicians; have public breakfasts, fetes, firework displays and other entertainments at the larger spas. Visitors also attended balls, assemblies and concerts at the Assembly Rooms, plays at the Theatre Royal and horse races at the racecourse. They shopped in the new fashionable Montpellier which was rapidly becoming the stomping ground of the fashion conscious crowd with its bespoke milliners, tailors and dressmakers.
Cheltenham then and today
Today, Cheltenham with a population of 115,000 is said to be “the most complete Regency town in England". After becoming known as a health and holiday spa town resort following the discovery of mineral springs in 1716, today over three hundred years later, the town still attracts a wide audience by hosting several annual festivals of culture, often featuring nationally and internationally famous contributors and attendees.
Stay in Cheltenham
The Chase offers luxury group accommodation in the heart of the Cotswolds.
