England's most complete Regency town has shrugged off its reputation as staid and conservative and makes an ideal and very stylish base for touring in the Cotswolds, Stratford upon Avon and Bath, less than 100 miles from London. Regency town houses characterised by intricate ironwork balconies and painted stucco facades line the historic Promenade, squares and terraces of the town, with its award-winning gardens, impressive range of stylish shops and restaurants, and its festivals of horse racing, music and literature. Its accommodation for visitors, once dowdy to say the least, now ranges from trendy hotels to warmly welcoming privately run guesthouses to a branch of the funky budget Big Sleep hotels. The order of the hotels in this list bears no reflection on our preference.

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  Ellenborough Park

  Cheltenham (Southam)

  16th century rambling manor restored to former glory in beautiful Costwolds setting. Opulent luxury suites boast antiques, four posters and Nina Campbell interiors. A serious country house hotel, with spa, pool and gourmet dining.

  62 rooms from $370

  Restaurant  -  3 AA Rosettes

  Great walks  -  Borrow hunter wellies and brollies for a stroll in the Cotswolds.

  Spa  -  Extensive range of luxury treatments

  Swimming Pool  -  Heated outdoor pool

  Recommended by  -  Johansens, Kiwi Collection, Michelin Travel
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  Montpellier Chapter

  Cheltenham

  Understated, sophisticated hotel behind a neoclassical facade that mixes modern and traditional to good result. Chic, contemporary interiors, central location, fine dining.

  60 rooms from $193

  Spa  -  Small spa offering treatments with REN products.

  Swimming Pool  -  Use of local pool

  Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.

  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Sawdays, Mr & Mrs Smith
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  Hanover House

  Cheltenham

  Elegant, instantly welcoming privately run b&b in the centre of town. Full of warmth, colour and personality - intimate, just three rooms, a family home full of antiques.

  3 rooms from $161

  Recommended by  -  Sawdays
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  Hotel Du Vin Cheltenham

  Cheltenham

  A designer hotel in a fine building, one of the best in this established group. Brasserie food and a buzzy bar is the signature here, and rooms with boutique detailing.

  49 rooms from $159

  Spa  -  Health du vin spa treatment rooms

  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Travel Intelligence
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  Strozzi Palace Suites

  Cheltenham

  Affordable luxury in a central location - so long as you forego the hotel amenities. Stylish and comfortable self catering apartments Italian palazzo style. Very private.

  6 rooms from $143

  Sights nearby  -  Bang in the centre of town next to the Library, Art Gallery and Museum
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  The Big Sleep

  Cheltenham

  Great value for money with town centre location, a cross between a youth hostel and a hotel. Sparse facilities, simple, bright decor, designer clothes, budget rates, no frills.

  60 rooms from $89

  Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.