Things To Do
in Charlton Kings

Charlton Kings is a leafy suburb of Cheltenham in Gloucestershire, known for its green spaces and village charm. It blends quiet residential streets with convenient access to the town center and the Cotswolds beyond. The area is anchored by historic pubs, traditional tearooms, and family-friendly parks such as Pittville Park.

Its position near Cheltenham makes it a relaxing base for experiencing Regency architecture, cultural events, and weekend market strolls.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore the Cotswolds
morning
:

Start your day with a scenic walk through the picturesque landscapes of the Cotswolds, enjoying the rolling hills and charming villages. Grab breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly baked pastries and locally sourced ingredients. This peaceful morning sets the perfect tone as you lace up your walking shoes and prepare for a day of adventure.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the historic town of Cirencester, often considered the capital of the Cotswolds. Explore the Corinium Museum to learn about the Roman history of the area, followed by a leisurely lunch at a traditional pub. Stroll through the town's quaint streets, filled with unique shops and art galleries that reflect the region's rich culture.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to Charlton Kings for a delightful dinner at one of the local restaurants specializing in farm-to-table cuisine. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and perhaps chat with locals about their favorite hidden gems in the area. End your day with a peaceful walk through the village, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.

day 2
Visit Sudeley Castle
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Sudeley Castle, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. Explore the castle's impressive history and its connections to Queen Katherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII. After a guided tour, enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee in the castle café, overlooking the verdant grounds.

afternoon
:

After lunch, immerse yourself in the castle's gardens, where you can wander through vibrant flower beds and ornamental paths. Don't miss the beautiful chapel, which contains the tomb of Katherine Parr. Spend some time exploring the surrounding grounds, which are perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

evening
:

Return to Charlton Kings to enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes inspired by the region. As the sun sets, take a moment to relax in one of the village's lovely parks, listening to the sounds of nature. This serene evening backdrop promises a magical end to your day of history and beauty.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🍕Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant$25-40
Coffee$3-5
🥗Lunch at a mid-range cafe$12-20
🧀Groceries for a week$40-80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to the Cotswolds and Cheltenham cultural scene
  • Green, walkable neighborhoods with leafy streets
  • Limited nightlife within Charlton Kings itself
  • Higher prices for dining out compared to more rural areas

Places to Visit in Charlton Kings

Visit one of these nice places.

Cleeve Hill Panorama

A sweeping view over the Cotswolds from the highest point in the area, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour shots.

Leckhampton Hill Quarry

Dramatic ridges, wildflowers in season, and sunset light with views of Cheltenham.

Culinary Guide

Food in Charlton Kings

Charlton Kings and nearby Cheltenham offer a comforting mix of traditional British pub fare, cream teas, and regional cheeses, with plenty of farm-to-table options and seasonal menus.

Charlton Kings Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cream Tea

A classic Gloucestershire treat: scones with clotted cream and jam, best enjoyed in a village tea room.

Must-Try!

Gloucestershire Cheese on Toast

Toasted bread topped with local cheddar or goat cheese, melted to gooey perfection.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cheltenham Market

Weekly market offering cheeses, bakery goods, fresh produce, and prepared foods from local producers.

Climate Guide

Weather

Charlton Kings experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters; rainfall is fairly evenly distributed year-round, with occasional fog and frost in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queueing

British queueing etiquette applies; wait your turn patiently and avoid cutting in.

Politeness

Use polite phrases like please and thank you; keep conversations courteous in pubs and shops.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of typical safety considerations: keep valuables secure in busy areas, watch for uneven pavements, and use licensed taxis or reputable rideshares after dark.

Tipping in Charlton Kings

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving around 10-12% in restaurants is common.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common in shops and pubs.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Longer days and mild temperatures; occasional showers; great for outdoor markets, hikes, and outdoor concerts.

Autumn

Colorful foliage and harvest festivals; comfortable hiking weather and village events.

Winter

Cool and damp with possible frost; Christmas markets in nearby Cheltenham and cozy pubs provide warmth.

Spring

Blooming gardens and wildlife; longer daylight hours, perfect for park walks and flower displays.

Nightlife Guide

Charlton Kings at Night

The nightlife in Charlton Kings is modest, with a concentration of traditional pubs and wine bars in neighboring Cheltenham. You’ll find live music, trivia nights, and seasonal events, though late-night clubbing is more common in larger cities nearby.

Hiking in Charlton Kings

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Leckhampton Hill

Popular hill with chalk grassland, sweeping views over Cheltenham valleys, and sunset opportunities.

Cleeve Hill

Highest point in Gloucestershire with expansive views and varied trails.

Airports

How to reach Charlton Kings by plane.

Gloucestershire Airport (GLO)

A small regional airport near Staverton, offering domestic and private flights and good rail links to Cheltenham.

Bristol Airport (BRS)

Large international airport about 40-60 miles away with frequent domestic and international flights; accessible by car or train.

Birmingham Airport (BHX)

Major hub about 100 miles away; accessible by rail and road for longer trips.

Getting Around

Walkability

Charlton Kings is a walkable suburb with easy access to parks, shops, and frequent bus services to Cheltenham town center; some hills may require effort.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Families with children benefit from good schools, parks, and safe neighborhoods.

Students and professionals

People connected to Cheltenham or the University of Gloucestershire with office or study commitments.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Cheltenham Town FC)

Local matches and football culture with games at nearby venues.

Rugby and Cricket

Weekend matches and local clubs in the Gloucestershire countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavier during morning and evening peaks around Cheltenham town center; public transport such as trains and buses is a good alternative; events and markets can temporarily increase road congestion.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Charlton Kings.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many pubs and cafés in Charlton Kings offer vegetarian mains; look for seasonal vegetables, pulses, and dairy-free options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Access to healthcare includes local GP practices in Charlton Kings and the broader Cheltenham area; Cheltenham General Hospital provides acute care nearby, with NHS services available and typical waiting times.

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