Occupying a prime position in the UK less than 100 miles from the capital,
Cheltenham makes the ideal starting point for a whimsical journey through the
Cotswolds, Bath and Stratford upon Avon. However,
the city is also quite the English gem in its own right and certainly should not be treated as no more
than the convenient hub it is.
The economy is focussed around light engineering, the aerospace
industry and tourism. Although there's also a link to the more mysterious and secretive
world of espionage too, as Cheltenham is also the base for the government's GCHQ
electronic surveillance station, affectionately known as the Doughnut due to its shape.
The main street known as the Promenade is where everything comes
together in spectacular style. Stunning regency terraces lead the way to the famous
Neptune Fountain, while the town's A-listers reside in the prestigious Montpellier
area nearby. Unique boutiques mix wonderfully with bistros and wine bars, including
one that is run by world famous chef Raymond Blanc.