Experience the best of Cheltenham and the Cotswolds this spring
May is one of the most beautiful months to visit Cheltenham and the Cotswolds. With blooming gardens, longer days, vibrant festivals, and mild weather, it’s the perfect time to explore the region before the summer crowds arrive.
Whether you're a jazz lover, garden enthusiast, or countryside rambler, May in Cheltenham offers the perfect blend of culture, nature, and relaxation — making it an ideal time to stay at Cotswold Grange Hotel.
Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2025:
World-Class Music in a Historic Setting
Every May Bank Holiday weekend, Cheltenham bursts into life with the Cheltenham Jazz Festival — one of the UK's most prestigious music events. Held in Montpellier Gardens, just a short walk from Cotswold Grange, the festival features a stellar lineup of international jazz stars and exciting new talent.
Festival Highlights – 2025 (April 30 – May 5):
Corinne Bailey Rae headlines with Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra
David Gray performs tracks from Dear Life
Amadou & Mariam bring Afro-blues rhythms to the Jazz Arena
Nubya Garcia returns after a sold-out 2022 appearance
Jools Holland & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra close the festival in style
Beyond the main stage, enjoy:
Free pop-up performances
Family-friendly activities
Local food trucks & street entertainment
Insider Tip: Book early! Festival tickets, restaurant reservations, and hotel rooms sell out quickly. Staying at Cotswold Grange means you’ll be just minutes from the action.
The Cotswolds in Bloom: Stunning Gardens to Explore in May
May marks the beginning of the Cotswold garden season, with world-renowned gardens bursting into colour. A stay at our hotel places you within easy reach of the region’s most beautiful floral escapes.
- Top Gardens to Visit in May:
Hidcote Manor Garden (National Trust) – A 45-minute drive from Cheltenham, this Arts & Crafts gem features garden 'rooms', rare plants, and peaceful orchards. - Kiftsgate Court Gardens – Next to Hidcote, this family-owned estate boasts panoramic views, a modern water garden, and some of England’s largest roses.
- Painswick Rococo Garden – An 18th-century delight with whimsical follies and curved hedges. May marks the start of their outdoor theatre season.
- Cerney House Gardens – A peaceful, less-discovered garden with wildflowers, walled areas, and bluebell-filled woodland trails.
Travel Tip: Wear comfy shoes and bring a picnic — many gardens have lovely tearooms and shaded picnic spots.
Spring Walks in the Cotswolds: Fresh Air & Glorious Views
May is the perfect month for walking in the Cotswold countryside. Expect dry trails, fields of lambs, and the scent of wildflowers like garlic and bluebells.
- Best Spring Walks Near Cheltenham:
Cleeve Hill Circular – Panoramic views from the Cotswolds’ highest point - Leckhampton Hill & Devil’s Chimney – A scenic loop with wildflowers and dramatic cliffs
- Cotswold Way (Charlton Kings to Crickley Hill) – A gentle section of the national trail
- Bluebell Walks – Visit Lineover Wood or Dowdeswell Reservoir for a magical bluebell display (early May only!)
Seasonal Experiences & Local Favourites
- Sudeley Castle – Explore beautifully maintained gardens and seasonal exhibitions
- Cotswold Vineyard Tours – Taste award-winning English wines at Three Choirs or Woodchester Valley
- Cheltenham Farmers’ Markets – Sample local produce at Suffolk Market or Cirencester Market
- Alfresco Dining & Afternoon Teas – Enjoy spring menus on sunlit terraces at local favourites like The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie and The Find
Why Visit Cheltenham in May?
- Fewer crowds than summer
- Lower mid-season hotel rates
- Peak garden and countryside beauty
- Cultural events in full swing
3-Day Itinerary: Your Perfect May Escape
- Day 1: Arrive at Cotswold Grange, stroll Montpellier Gardens, enjoy Jazz Festival
- Day 2: Visit Hidcote & Kiftsgate, lunch in Chipping Campden, vineyard tour
- Day 3: Walk Cleeve Hill, lunch in Broadway, visit Sudeley Castle