Cheltenham is the city with the best preserved Regency-era buildings in Great Britain. It is also a famous health resort that uses the only natural alkaline waters in the country.
Although the city has medieval roots, its development began only after the discovery of the local mineral waters in the mid-17th century. However, it gained real fame at the end of the 18th century, when King George III was treated here. Then the city flourished, and the king was followed by neoclassical architecture called regency in England.
The highlight of Cheltenham is Pittville Park, which is built around the spa baths. Alkaline waters were used in them to treat rheumatic diseases, and also as a remedy for digestive ailments. To this day, the city is an important center of sanatorium treatment. The extensive park is divided into a garden part and semi-natural groves with marked hiking and cycling paths and picnic areas.
The history of the spa and people associated with it can be found in the local museum. The city also hosts one of England's most famous equestrian festivals, the Cheltenham Festival.
