A cosmopolitan energy

Cheltenham has always held a distinctive position within the Cotswolds property landscape. While neighbouring villages trade on bucolic charm and seclusion, Cheltenham offers something different: elegance and culture mixed with a confident, cosmopolitan energy.

For some, the town has a west London feel, while others liken it to Bath. I can see elements of both, but for me, Cheltenham stands apart from anywhere else as a place to live.

Cheltenham’s lifestyle appeal

It is Cheltenham’s lifestyle appeal that continues to underpin demand, and it is no surprise that two of the town’s postcodes feature in the top ten highest value areas in the Cotswolds, according to Savills latest research.

Unlike some towns, Cheltenham’s desirability has been organic. Its established festival calendar – spanning racing, literature, jazz and science – has grown steadily in scale and profile, reinforcing the town’s cultural pull.

Meanwhile, its lively food and drink scene – encompassing smart restaurants and bars, like Kibou on Regent Street, The Nook on Five on Imperial Square, and 131 on the Promenade, and good neighbourhood cafés and pubs, such as Clementine in Montpelier and The Kings Arms in Prestbury – ensures Cheltenham feels alive all year round.

The property scene

The Regency spa town is renowned for its architectural heritage. Georgian white stucco houses epitomise the property scene, and it’s this period elegance that typically draws the vast majority of buyers we see, especially where traditional façades are complemented by modern interiors and best-in-class lifestyle features to boot. And while period architecture dominates the town centre, Cheltenham is also home to a number of impressive contemporary, architect-designed homes, especially on the outskirts. Whether traditional or modern in style, such properties can be a compelling option for families looking for space and comfort.

Who’s buying property in Cheltenham?

In our experience, around three-quarters of those buying property in Cheltenham come from within a 15-mile radius, often moving locally to upgrade or reposition within preferred neighbourhoods. It is also a notable relocation hotspot for Londoners, with buyers from the capital – more often than not ‘returners’ who were brought up or educated here – accounting for roughly 20 per cent of buyers.

Across the Cotswolds, international buyers accounted for just over a fifth of prime property sales above £1.5 million last year, which is well above average. In Cheltenham, schooling is a major pull, with the likes of Cheltenham Ladies’ College attracting families from across the globe who will often choose to stay long term.

House prices in Cheltenham

After a slow start to the year, the local market is showing early signs of recovery. World events mean that buyers remain highly selective but we are seeing more confidence and this is supporting successful sales where quality and value align.

Price growth has been modest – around 2 per cent over the past two to three years – which has helped reset expectations. The most consistent activity sits firmly in the £750,000 to £1.5 million range, supported by strong underlying demand. The Cheltenham property market feels quietly poised – a place where realistic pricing, crisp presentation and decisiveness are rewarded.

Sought-after neighbourhoods

Location remains key. Buyers are spoilt for choice between Montpelier, the Suffolks, Tivoli and Leckhampton, each pocket with its own character, all anchored by highly regarded schools, such as, Balcarras Academy, The High School Leckhampton, plus other prestigious schools including Cheltenham College, Cheltenham Ladies College, Dean Close and Pates Grammar.

If the idea of moving to Cheltenham has piqued your interest, here’s a selection of properties currently available on the market:

Further information

Contact Phil Bates or Andy Morrison