Cheltenham is located just off the M5 motorway, between Bristol and Birmingham and is close to the cities of Cirencester and Oxford. It is also close to the picturesque villages that can be found in the Cotswolds.

But, in the town of Cheltenham there are lots of things to see and do when you stay in this historic town.

1. Cheltenham Racecourse Hall of Fame – This looks at the history of racing and steeple chasing from it’s beginnings in 1819 through to the present day. You can trace through the history of the Gold Cup, the major race which takes place each year at this course, but you can also find out how Cheltenham has become an Irish stronghold in the world of racing. It also takes a look at the many trainers and riders who over the years have played a major part in the history of this course.

2. Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway – Steam trains run almost every weekend during the summer between Cheltenham, Winchcombe and Toddington. At other times of the year, the railway runs special events which both young and old alike can enjoy.

3. The Holst Birthplace Museum – This terraced Victorian property has had the kitchen lovingly renovated and in it you will be able to look at many items that date back to the time of the composer of “The Planets”. You can spend time not just learning about the composers life as a child and as he grew older and look at the very piano on which he composed his music together with a collection of his musical scores.

4. Pittville Pump Room – This is the certainly the grandest of all the towns many spa buildings still remaining and is a celebrated example of Regency architecture. It looks out over Pittville Park, with
its lawns and lakes and is host to many displays and exhibitions throughout the year. If you are feeling brave you can sample the foul tasting spa waters which originally brought fame to the town for their supposed ability to cure all sorts of diseases.

5. Sandford Parks Lido – Here you will find one of the largest outdoor pools in the UK and is surrounded by landscaped gardens. The main pool is 164 feet long but there is a children’s pool as well along with a paddling pool as well All the pools are heated during the summer season. For those who prefer dry land, the Lido also offers basketball, table tennis and volleyball facilities.

6. St Mary’s Church – This is the oldest building in Cheltenham and was built during the middle part of the 11th Century. You will note that it bears the Royal Coat of Arms and this was to commemorate the visit made by George III in 1788. Another feature which many enjoy is the 14th Century rose window, the canopied piscine and lierne vaulting of the baptistery. The church also is home to many memorials of Cheltenham’s most famous citizens.

When you next visit Cheltenham, make sure to check the Cheltenham hotels and guest houses listed here.

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Brighton weekend breaks are a popular choice, not just with UK residents but with visitors from all over the world as well. Perched on the south coast of England, this town is one of the biggest of all the settlements to be located by the sea in the UK.

It was originally called Brighthelmston and can trace it’s roots back in time – even earlier than 1086 of the Domesday Book. That said, the town’s significance as a health spa only really happened in the 1700’s. It became even more popular with young and old alike thinking about spending a day at the sea side when the railways reached here in 1841. This is a place where many of the aristocracy of the 18th and 19th Centuries would spend time together.

Actually, when you look back in history during the 1500’s Brighton was only a tiny fishing village and only had 1,500 inhabitants in small cottages. There are still examples of these buildings to be found in The Lanes. But things drastically began to change in the 17th Century because Dr Richard Russell from the nearby town of Lewes started to extol the virtues of using seawater for treating glandular diseases.

From 1750 onwards the town began to fill with people who wanted to test the sea water to see if it really could help them. The town also became popular after members of the Royal Family came to try the sea waters and even to bathe themselves.

Nowadays, Brighton sees over eight million people a year visit and they enjoy everything that this coastal town has to offer. Accommodation in the town span the complete range from total luxury to medium and lower priced hotels. There are also lots of fantastic guesthouses and bed and breakfast accommodation which offer a friendlier, more personal, service.

When you get to Brighton there is plenty for you to see and do from wandering the local streets. Or a stroll along the historic promenade and you will come to the Palace Pier and the Royal Pavilion both of which normally end up on your tourist agenda. Definitely, the you should include the Royal Pavilion on your itinerary.

Called a folly this building was created by the Prince of Wales who was later crowned George IV. He was renowned for his eccentricity and flamboyany ways but the building he created is still standing as a memory of a bygone era even though the town has long since been host to many tourists.

As well as all the usual seaside attractions, you’d expect to see in a prestigious UK seaside resort, Brighton is also host to a myriad of cultural events every year too. Of course, you’ll still find the amusement arcades plus souvenir shops but look further and you are sure to find all sorts of other delights that help people come back to this town.

When it comes to holidays in Brighton you’ll be pleasantly surprised at all the different things to see and do here.

You can find a list of Brighton hotels here.

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