Pittville Park & Pump Room
Cheltenham
Discover Pittville Park
Just a short stroll from the vibrant town centre, Pittville Park is the crowning glory of Cheltenham’s green spaces. Opened in 1825 as a private playground for the fashionable elite, it remains the town’s largest and most beloved ornamental park – a perfect blend of grand history and everyday escape.
A Step Back in Time: The Pump Room
Dominating the northern lawns is the magnificent Pittville Pump Room. Built by Joseph Pitt in 1830, this Grade I listed masterpiece was the last and largest of Cheltenham’s spa buildings.
Today, its iconic Colonnade and dome stand as a testament to the town’s Regency golden age. While it no longer serves the medicinal waters that once drew royalty, it remains the elegant heart of the park, hosting concerts, weddings and many other events.
Local legends: George & Zelda
The park’s sprawling lakes are a haven for nature lovers. Look closely and you might spot the flash of a Kingfisher, a patient Heron, or Cormorants drying their wings by the water’s edge. If you’re lucky, you may even glimpse the park’s more elusive residents: otters and terrapins.
Of course, no visit is complete without saying hello to the park’s most famous residents, George and Zelda. Our resident swans are local celebrities (complete with their own Facebook page!), and watching them glide across the lake with their new cygnets each spring is a quintessential Cheltenham tradition.
Whether you’re looking for high energy or a slow afternoon, Pittville is made for play; you can explore the lake from the water in a traditional rowing boat, let the kids run riot in one of the region’s largest creative playgrounds, or enjoy a more active challenge on the tennis courts and popular golf course.
Food & Drink
Whether you need a quick caffeine fix or a full lunch, the park’s local cafes have you covered. There’s The Boathouse, located right on the water’s edge and managed by the always-amenable Sean, this is the place for a great coffee, sandwiches, snacks and Winstone’s ice creams. It’s also the hub for hiring a traditional rowing boat to explore the lake.
On the other side of the road, Central Park Cafe is a brilliant spot for families, offering a wider selection of hot food – perfect for a proper lunch after a morning of exploring. A third cafe, located conveniently next to the playground, is the perfect place to grab a brew or an ice cream while the kids run riot.
Whether you’re here for the Regency architecture, the vibrant wildlife, or a family afternoon in the sun, Pittville Park is where Cheltenham comes to breathe.
Properties Nearby
Winchcombe The Hayloft
