Explore life in Cheltenham and Gloucester – a dynamic duo offering regency elegance, historic charm, and a thriving student community. Discover everything students need to know about living, studying, and thriving in these two distinct yet interconnected Gloucestershire cities.
Cheltenham and Gloucester in Brief
City Snapshot
- Elegant Regency architecture
- Historic Cathedral city
- Home to University of Gloucestershire
- Vibrant international student community
What Makes Cheltenham and Gloucester Special
Cheltenham, often referred to as the ‘Spa Town’, is celebrated for its elegant Regency architecture, pristine parks, and a sophisticated cultural scene. Its wide, tree-lined avenues and stunning stuccoed buildings exude a timeless charm, making it a truly picturesque place to live. Gloucester, just a short distance away, offers a stark but complementary contrast. A historic cathedral city with roots stretching back to Roman times, it boasts a magnificent medieval cathedral, a beautifully regenerated historic docks area, and a more industrial, gritty heritage that speaks of its past as a significant port. Together, these two cities provide a diverse architectural landscape, from Cheltenham’s grand crescents and garden squares to Gloucester’s ancient alleyways and Victorian warehouses. This blend creates a unique vibe, offering students the best of both worlds: the refined tranquility of a spa town and the rich, authentic history of a cathedral city. The student community largely revolves around the University of Gloucestershire, which has campuses in both Cheltenham and Gloucester, fostering a vibrant and interconnected student life across the two locations. This dual-city setup encourages a diverse student culture, allowing for exploration of different environments and social scenes. Students often travel between campuses, creating a fluid and dynamic community that benefits from the unique offerings of each city. Both cities are incredibly welcoming, with a growing number of student-friendly venues, events, and initiatives. The blend of local residents and the transient student population creates a lively social fabric, where opportunities for involvement in local clubs, societies, and part-time work are plentiful, ensuring a well-rounded student experience within the heart of the Cotswolds.
“I love that I get to experience two totally different cities as a student here. Cheltenham is all about those chic cafes and cool festivals, great for a sophisticated vibe or a fancy coffee. Then Gloucester is so historic, with the massive cathedral and the Docks which are amazing for grabbing a bite or exploring. The university shuttle bus makes it super easy to get between the campuses and hang out with friends in either place. It feels like you’re getting double the student experience without the double commute!” (Second year student, University of Gloucestershire)
History, Culture & Landmarks
Gloucester Cathedral
A magnificent structure with over a thousand years of history, famous for its stunning Norman architecture and Harry Potter cloisters.
Gloucester Historic Docks
A revitalised waterfront area combining Victorian warehouses, vibrant waterways, and a buzzing collection of shops and restaurants.
Pittville Pump Room, Cheltenham
An iconic Regency building set within beautiful parkland, where you can still taste Cheltenham’s famous natural spring water.
Student Life in Cheltenham and Gloucester
Free Things to Do
“Saving money is key! In Cheltenham, I love just wandering through Pittville Park or the Imperial Gardens; they’re stunning and completely free. Gloucester is brilliant for walks along the canal or exploring the historic docks without spending a penny. Both cities have great charity shops for bargain hunting. And the university often puts on free events, so keeping an eye on the student union’s calendar is a must. For food, I swear by the Gloucester Quays outlet centre – they sometimes have ridiculously good deals on meals, or I’ll hit up the local markets for fresh, cheap ingredients to cook at home.” (Third year student, University of Gloucestershire)
Relaxing Sundays
For a perfect Sunday unwind, both cities offer serene spots. In Cheltenham, Montpellier Gardens provides a beautiful setting for a leisurely afternoon, complete with a bandstand and ample green space for picnics or reading. The independent cafes around the Montpellier district, such as Curio Espresso & Vintage, offer cozy corners for a coffee and a chat. In Gloucester, a peaceful stroll along the canals from the Historic Docks is incredibly relaxing, watching the boats go by and enjoying the tranquility. Gloucester Park also offers expansive green space, perfect for kicking a ball around or simply enjoying the fresh air. Many students also enjoy visiting the smaller, picturesque Cotswold villages nearby for a gentle escape, often accessible by local bus routes.
Student Food Favourites
When it’s time to refuel on a student budget, both Cheltenham and Gloucester have excellent options. In Cheltenham, The Stable offers delicious sourdough pizzas and ciders with regular student deals, making it a popular choice. For a quick and tasty lunch, many independent delis and bakeries around the high street offer affordable sandwiches and pasties. In Gloucester, the Gloucester Quays outlet centre has a variety of chain restaurants with frequent discounts, and the numerous cafes around the docks provide excellent value for money. For something a bit different, exploring the market stalls in Gloucester for global street food options can yield some delicious and cheap finds. Don’t overlook the traditional pub lunch, with many establishments offering affordable and hearty meals like fish and chips or a classic burger.
Getting Around
Student Accommodation
University Halls
The University of Gloucestershire provides a range of modern, purpose-built student accommodation across its campuses in both cities.
Popular Areas
In Cheltenham: Pittville and St Paul’s. In Gloucester: Kingsholm and Longlevens offer diverse living options.
Typical Rent
£450–650 per month
Staying Safe
- Keep your valuables hidden and don’t carry large amount of cash.
- Beware of scams, such as street hustlers and unlicensed taxis.
- Keep your belongings close to you at all times.
- Travel as a group and always make sure you tell your friends you got home safely.
