Montpellier

Staying in Montpellier, Cheltenham

The stylish heart of the town, where Regency elegance meets modern living

Montpellier is widely regarded as Cheltenham’s most desirable and vibrant district. Known for its elegant Regency architecture, boutique shopping, and exceptional dining scene, this beautiful neighbourhood blends historic charm with contemporary lifestyle — making it one of the best places to stay in Cheltenham.

Whether you’re visiting for business, a festival, a weekend break, or a longer stay, Montpellier offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere with everything within easy walking distance.

Why stay in Montpellier?

Montpellier offers the perfect balance of convenience, culture, and character.

Staying here places you within minutes of Cheltenham’s best restaurants, independent shops, parks, and major event venues. The area feels lively and sophisticated during the day, yet calm and elegant in the evenings — ideal for both work and leisure.

It’s particularly popular with:

• Festival visitors

• Corporate travellers

• Couples and weekend visitors

• Guests wanting central but peaceful surroundings

• Longer stays and relocations

If you want to experience Cheltenham at its most stylish and walkable, Montpellier is the place to be.

Atmosphere & lifestyle

Montpellier has a distinctly European feel, with wide tree-lined streets, pastel-coloured Regency terraces, and relaxed outdoor dining. The neighbourhood has a strong sense of identity — creative, independent, and effortlessly elegant.

Days often begin with coffee at a local café, followed by boutique shopping or a walk through nearby gardens. Evenings bring a vibrant dining scene, wine bars, and cultural events — all set against the backdrop of stunning historic architecture.

It’s lively without feeling crowded, central without feeling busy, and refined without being formal.

Best places to eat & drink

Montpellier is one of Cheltenham’s main food destinations, with everything from casual brunch spots to award-winning restaurants.

You’ll find:

• Stylish wine bars and cocktail lounges

• Independent cafés and artisan bakeries

• Contemporary British and international dining

• Fine dining experiences

• Relaxed outdoor terraces

Many venues are within just a few minutes’ walk of each other, making the area perfect for relaxed evenings out.

Shopping & boutiques

Montpellier Walk and the surrounding streets are famous for their independent boutiques and specialist shops. Rather than large chains, you’ll discover carefully curated stores selling fashion, homeware, gifts, and lifestyle items.

This makes the area one of Cheltenham’s best destinations for unique shopping — ideal for browsing, gifts, or simply enjoying the atmosphere.

Parks & green spaces

Despite its central location, Montpellier is surrounded by beautiful green spaces.

Montpellier Gardens

A peaceful and beautifully maintained park featuring:

• The iconic bandstand

• Seasonal events and markets

• A café and gallery

• Tennis courts

• Plenty of seating and open lawns

Imperial Gardens

Located just moments away, these formal gardens are famous for their spectacular floral displays, often featuring tens of thousands of bedding plants. During festival season, they become a lively hub for events and entertainment.

Together, these spaces provide a relaxing contrast to the vibrant streets nearby.

Culture & festivals

Montpellier sits at the centre of Cheltenham’s world-famous festival culture.

The area hosts or sits beside major events including:

• Cheltenham Literature Festival

• Cheltenham Jazz Festival

• Cheltenham Science Festival

• Cheltenham Music Festival

During event periods, the neighbourhood comes alive with pop-up venues, performances, and outdoor entertainment. Seasonal attractions — such as winter ice rinks or festival installations — add even more atmosphere throughout the year.

Transport & getting around

Montpellier is exceptionally well connected.

• Cheltenham town centre — easy walking distance

• Cheltenham Spa railway station — around 20 minutes on foot or short taxi ride

• Cheltenham Racecourse — quick drive or bus route

• Direct road access to A40 and M5

• Bristol Airport — around 90 minutes by car

For most visitors, daily life in Montpellier is completely walkable.

Apartments in Montpellier

Staying in Montpellier means experiencing Cheltenham’s most elegant and lively district from the comfort of a spacious, fully serviced apartment. With restaurants, shopping, parks, and transport all nearby, it provides a perfect base for both short visits and extended stays.

If you’re looking for a location that combines heritage, convenience, and lifestyle, Montpellier is one of the best places to stay in Cheltenham.