Cheltenham Museums and Art Galleries

(Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England, UK)

There really are only two museums of note in Cheltenham, both of which offer plenty to fill a few hours and serve as perfect wet weather attractions. Located within the town centre and close to both the High Street and St. George's Place, the Cheltenham Art Gallery and Museum dates back as far as the end of the 19th century

Of great local historical significance, the Gustav Holst Birthplace Museum is always popular in Cheltenham for it was in this Victorian house where acclaimed English composer Gustav Theodore Holst (1874 to 1934) was actually born.

Cheltenham Art Gallery and Museum

Address: Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 3JT, England, UK
Tel: +44 01242 237 431
The Cheltenham Art Gallery and Museum came into being after a past mayor bequeathed his private hoard of paintings to the town. Initially opened as just a gallery, several years later, additional rooms were added and the museum's collection of artefacts has grown in both size and stature ever since. This attraction was extended in 1989 and officially opened by HRH The Princess Royal, making this an especially important year in its history. Today, the exhibits cover many different topics, ranging from Dutch art and British paintings, with sections devoted to William Morris, Edward Wilson and also the Arts and Crafts Movement. The ground floor is home to a temporary exhibition gallery, where the works of local artists are promoted and often for sale.
Open hours: Monday to Saturday - 10:00 to 17:30
Admission: free

Gustav Holst Birthplace Museum

Address: 4 Clarence Road, Cheltenham, GL52 2AY, England, UK
Tel: +44 01242 524 846
Once owned and managed by the Cheltenham Art Gallery and Museum, the Gustav Holst Birthplace Museum is now an independent attraction in its own right. There is a huge amount of memorabilia relating to the many successes of Gustav Holst, together with fascinating information relating to the lives of the house's servants. As you explore the exhibits, you will be able to listen to some of Holst's musical compositions, including 'The Planets', which has featured in the score of countless movies over the years.
Open hours: Tuesday to Saturday - 10:00 to 16:00
Admission: charge