Having fun on the 801

Catch the Pulhams 801 bus, visiting some of the best that the Cotswolds has to offer, connecting Chipping Norton and Cheltenham.  

Cutting through the heart of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Pulhams 801 connects Chipping Norton to Cheltenham calling at popular destinations including Moreton-in-Marsh, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water and Andoversford. there’s loads to see and do on your 801 journey! To help you narrow it down, we’ve put together just a few of our favourites to help you have fun when travelling on the 801! 

View the 801 timetable and route map. 

 

Chipping Norton

No one is quite sure when Chipping Norton came to be, although evidence suggests people have lived in the area since Neolithic times. 

 Perched high in the hills, the town really came into its own in the 12th and 13th centuries, as the Cotswold wool trade flourished. In fact, an old saying claimed that “the best wool in Europe comes from England, and in England, the best wool is Cotswold”, bringing prosperity to the region and Chipping Norton itself.  

Chipping Norton even has a surprising claim to fame in the world of medicine. In the mid-18th century, local reverend Edward Stone noted similarities between willow bark that grew in the area and the bark of the Peruvian cinchona tree. It was this discovery that would lead to the development of aspirin. Not bad for a small market town in the Cotswolds. 

Today, Chipping Norton is about as quintessentially Cotswold as it gets. Honey-coloured stone buildings hues sit among green rolling hills that peek through between them, creating the sort of scene you’d find on a biscuit tin..  

Every Wednesday, Market Street hosts a traditional market packed with traders and local produce, while the annual Chippy Mop festival has been taking the town by storm since the Middle Ages with its mix of funfair rides, stalls and entertainment. 

These days, Chippy is perhaps just as well known for its celebrity residents as its rather woolly past. TV personalities, actors, politicians and footballers have all been linked to the area over the years, so keep your eyes peeled. You never know who might be ordering a flat white at the next table. 

Hopping off at Chipping Norton? The 801 stops at Chipping Norton School, West Street and New Street. 

Built in 1872 for a local cloth manufacturer, Bliss Tweed Mill dominates the local countryside. Styled like a country house, the five-story building is a characteristically pretty example of British architecture, topped with a distinctive, pale-blue dome and Tuscan-style chimney stack. Today, the mill has been converted into trendy apartments, but it’s still worth going to have a look just to appreciate the building itself. 

For some of the best views of the mill, join the Bliss Mill Circular Walk, just a short jaunt from the 801’s West Street bus stop. This route takes you straight past the old mill, offering some stunning views of both it and the surrounding areas. Enjoy bubbling brooks, greet local livestock and take some brilliant pics to share online! When you do, be sure to use #GreatEscapesByBus so we can see your brilliant photos too! 

The walk is a great option for those with four-legged friends; just be sure to keep them on a lead when entering fields with sheep and cattle. 

Another short jaunt from the West Street bus stop brings you to Fitzalan Woods. Planted by the Chippy Green Gym and local schoolchildren in 2014, this once thickly overgrown plot has been transformed into safe haven for local wildlife. The woodland offers a unique opportunity to visit some native and heritage species, while seeing a brand-new plot of woodland spring to life. Bring along a picnic, or a quiet book, and enjoy some peace and quiet. Bringing the kids? Why not try out some of the National Trust’s recommended Woodland Activities to help them discover the natural world around them. Less than half a mile from the 801’s bus stop sits Chipping Norton’s iconic Cornish Alms Houses. Built in 1640 by wealthy local wool merchant and philanthropist Henry Cornish, the cottages were originally meant to house local widows. Set back from the road and built with aesthetically pleasing symmetry in typically local Cotswold stone, the houses are a must-see landmark to visit while in Chipping Norton. Keep your eyes peeled towards the end of the row for a small plaque, commemorating the lives of 8 aircrew who lost their lives in a 1942 midair collision nearby the Alms Houses.

The “Chipping” in Chipping Norton comes from the Old English word for market, and more than 800 years after receiving its market charter, the town still knows how to put on a good one! Chippy has a weekly retail market every Wednesday, which sets up almost directly outside of the 801’s bus stop. The market charter has been in place since 1205, marking Chipping Norton as a significant commercial centre of the region. Packed with stalls selling everything from local produce and artisan goodies to traditional Cotswold woollens, it’s dangerously easy to stock up on delicious treats, handcrafted gifts and the odd impulse purchase before heading home with more bags than you arrived with.  

A minute’s jaunt away from the market, the Jaffe & Neal Bookshop and Café is a risky place for anyone with an already overflowing bookshelf. Fiercely independent, the shop has been recommending new titles to eager bookworms since 2001, guided by a philosophy of good reads and good customer service. With friendly staff on hand to help choose your next page-turner, the store is a dream destination for bibliomaniacs! Once you’ve chosen your next read, settle into the café with a coffee, tea or slice of cake and make a head start while watching the world go by. 

On the first Wednesday of every month, Jaffe & Neal also hosts a thriving book club. There’s no application fee, no membership and no obligations, just informal chats, good books and the occasional glass of wine to enjoy. Pair it with a visit to the market for a perfectly chilled day out on the 801! 

If you’ve got a taste for a more laid-back sort of day out, an antiques centre is always a perfect way to round off the day and Station Mill is no exception. Located just out of the town centre, it’s home to 80 local antiques dealers with a huge range of stock to suit all tastes. Whether you’re looking for a new home centre piece, the comfiest of couches, or you’re a Bargain Hunt fanatic, it’s always worth popping in and having a browse. With 11,000 square metres of antiquities on offer, don’t be surprised if you leave with something you didn’t know you needed until you spotted it. 

Got a sweet tooth? Then look no further than the Cotswold Sweet Shoppe! This proper old-fashioned store is stocked with glass jars brimming with sugared delights and chocolatey treats. Fill a bag with traditional pick-and-mix sweets or seek out unusual delights from lands afar for that gratifying sugar rush. The shop also offers soft serve ice-creams, adorned with even more sweets, plus treats for doggie visitors too. 

If flaky pastries and freshly baked goods are more your thing, then Oxfordshire favorite Nash’s Bakery has a Chipping Norton branch to satisfy your cravings. Baking since the 1930s, Nash’s has been a family business for three generations and has been perfecting their recipes for nearly 100 years! With no soggy bottoms in sight, the store is loaded up with luscious lardy cakes, freshly baked bread, made-to-order sandwiches and plenty more besides.  

 

Moreton-in-Marsh

Nestled in the Evenlode Valley, Moreton-in-Marsh is widely regarded as the real-life version and primary inspiration of Bree, a town in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings series. 

The town’s roots stretch back to the Iron Age, though it grew significantly during Roman times before developing into a thriving market town in the 13th-century. Following the Norman Conquest, Moreton-in-Marsh was monastic property, and developed into a market town throughout the mid-13th century. 

Today, Moreton is everything you’d hope for from a Cotswold market town, with typical honey-coloured stone buildings, specialist shops and no shortage of cosy cafes.  

Want to see more of Moreton? The 801 stops right in the heart of town at the Corn Exchange, as well as several other stops along the main road. 

Step through the doors of Chastleton House and it’s easy to feel as though time has stood still. Located on the road to Chipping Norton, this National Trust property is home to nationally significant collections of art, textiles and architecture.  

The area has been settled for over 1,000 years, with the Doomsday Book recording 31 households and a church on the site in 1086. By 1602, the house and land were purchased from Robert Catesby, the leader behind the Gunpowder Plot, demolished and rebuilt into the Chastleton House we know and love today. 

Though the explosion of the wool industry allowed for the purchase and rebuild of the house, choosing the wrong side of the Civil War meant that the family fell into genteel poverty. Their love of Chastleton kept it in the family for over 400 years, and a lack of funds for renovation meant that it remained in remarkably original condition, something rarely seen in old estates like this one. 

Today, visitors can enjoy a steady meander around the gardens, enjoy the croquet lawns or explore the Wilderness Walk to see native plants and flowers flourishing. Produce from the Kitchen Gardens is often available in season, allowing you to take a taste of Chastleton home with you. Keep an eye out for sheep grazing in the surrounding fields, too, though your dog may find them rather more interesting than you do. 

Inside, you’ll find everything from works by Disraeli and first-edition novels, to musical arrangements and family keepsakes. Together, they paint a fascinating picture of the family who lived here and the changing world beyond its walls.  

To visit Chastleton House on your 801 journey, hop off at Brewery Lane. 

Just around the corner from the 801’s Corn Exchange stop, the Arboretum Walk leads through the rolling countryside to Batsford Arboretum & Garden Centre. A 60-acre collection of rare flora and fauna, the Arboretum offers a unique outdoorsy day out for all ages. 

Starting with the arboreal side of the Arboretum, Batsford hosts a collection of nearly 3,000 specimens, including the National Collection of Japanese Flowering Cherries, turning springtime at Batsford into a bright pink spectacle. Visiting with kids? Pick up a trail map and let them loose in search of the next clue while you admire the towering branches, colourful leaves and views at a lightly more leisurely pace.  

Bullseye! Shoot your shot at Cotswold Archery and discover whether you’re a natural-born Robin Hood or someone who should probably stick to spectating. Hitting targets at Batsford Arboretum since 2012, visitors are invited earn their fletching and to choose from a variety of modern and historically-styled bows, then put your aim to the test under expert guidance. Feeling particularly adventurous? Swap arrows for axes and unleash your inner Viking instead. It’s absolutely worth a visit on your next trip to Moreton-in-Marsh. 

Ever wanted to fly an owl? Nestled within the grounds of Batsford Arboretum, the Cotswold Falconry Centre is home to around 150 birds of prey. The centre specialises in flying displays and educational research, and cares for everything from native raptors and owls to critically endangered birds taking part in various breeding programmes. A visit offers the opportunity to see these avian marvels for yourself, and with different experiences on offer, you might even make a new feathered friend on the way. 

If feathers aren’t your thing, but you still have a love of aviation, then jet off on the 801 and head for Wellington Aviation Museum. Housed in an old Victorian school building, the museum is dedicated not only to preserving artefacts and RAF heritage but also remembering and paying tribute to those who served. With model planes suspended from the ceiling and memorabilia scattered throughout, the museum is a flight path through RAF history and its connection to Moreton-in-Marsh. Back on the ground, the museum boasts a collection of classic cars, kept in pristine condition. Jaguars, Bentleys, MGs and more are all on display, parked pride of place at the front door for petrolheads to mouth-water over.  

Tolkien fans shouldn’t miss a stop at The Bell Inn, just a couple of minutes from the 801 bus stop at the Corn Exchange. A proper pub in all regards, it offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with good food and well-kept drinks. The owners pride themselves on an ever-changing seasonal menu, keeping up with the freshest, local ingredients to create mouthwatering marvels. There’s also a kids’ menu for even the pickiest of eaters, and a traditional weekly Sunday roast with all the trimmings. 

If you’re as musically inclined as Tom Bombadil himself or a Tolkienesque minstrel, head to The Bell for one of their musical evenings. Live At The Bell takes place on selected Saturdays, welcoming a mix of different musicians and artists that are both local and from further afar. From swinging jazz to high-octane covers and more, it’s always worth checking their website before hopping on the 801 to see if there’s something for you. 

Prefer a lighter bite? Then why not head over to the Moreton-in-Marsh market to grab something on the go! Held every Tuesday outside of The Bell Inn, Moreton-in-Marsh market is reported to be one of the prettiest in the Cotswolds. Nationally famous and internationally acclaimed, the market is home to a huge variety of food and drink options for visitors to sample during their visit.  

It’s not just food on offer either! The market is home to a huge mix of local craftsmen and small businesses. Vintage records, nature-inspired décor, bags, plants and more are there for you to window-shop to your heart’s content and pick up some bits that you’ll love forever. 

 

Stow-on-the-Wold

On 21st March 1646, a contingent of Royalist forces was intercepted by Parliamentarian troops on their way to Oxford, just outside the a small Cotswold market town of Stow-on-the-Wold. The resulting Battle of Stow-on-the-Wold is considered to be the final battle of the English Civil War and marked the end of the final Royalist field army. Just one month later, Charles I would be smuggled out of the besieged Oxford and, with no more troops to back him up, was eventually handed over to Cromwell’s armies and then executed in 1649. 

Today, aside from a marker, there is little evidence that such significant warfare took place. Instead, visitors arriving on the 801 will find a lively little market town lined with independent shops, pubs and historical sites that are well worth exploring. 

The 801 stops at the Post Office, the Porch House and the Police Station, so you have plenty of options when visiting on your bus journey. 

Following the winding pathways of St Edward’s Church, you’ll find a very special doorway tucked beneath the north porch. Framed by ancient yew trees and tucked below an arch of stained-glass windows, these ancient wooden doors, studded with iron rivets, have become something of a local legend. 

Allegedly, the door was the inspiration for the Doors of Durin, the mystifying west gate of Moria in Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. With twisting branches and the ethereal glow of an old lamp from above, it’s easy to see where the inspiration may have come from. 

The church itself requires no riddle to be solved to enter and is a fantastic example of local architecture. Originally medieval, the Grade I listed building has undergone many additions and alterations over the years, with different influences and styles combining to create an unusual, yet pretty, building. In the churchyard, a headstone commemorates the Battle at Stow-on-the-Wold and the 1,000 prisoners who were held at the church following the Royalist defeat. 

If you’re interested in seeing the actual site of the battle, why not join the Upper Swell Loop Walk? Starting from the 801’s Police Station stop, this two-and-a-half-hour jaunt takes you past different landmarks and memorials, culminating at the Battle monument before bringing you back to the bus stop. Along the way, why not take a detour and grab some refreshments at The Fox Inn? The walk passes by the pub, so it’s a great option to take a well-earned break. The kitchen is open daily, serving elevated pub classics and delicious light bites to refuel you for the rest of your journey. The monument itself has some stunning views of the local area and rolling hills of the Cotswolds, as well as a map of the battle itself, making it well worth a visit for history buffs and appreciators of a good view alike. 

If old and quirky is your style, look no further on your 801 journey than The Porch House!  Believed to be England’s oldest inn, it’s a higgledy-piggledy mix of flagstone floors, knotted wooden beams and inglenook fires. Entering the bar feels like stepping back in time in the best way possible, with vintage charm and busy bric-a-brac scattered throughout. Beautifully decorated rooms are also available, with bright windows and en-suite bathrooms. Better still, the 801 stops directly outside, making it easy to pop in for a visit. 

No market town is complete without a proper market square, and Stow-on-the-Wold is no exception! With so many options, from independent boutiques to international chains, it’s hard to narrow it down to just a few here, so you’ll just have to see it for yourself!  

The Flapjakery, on the northern side of the market square, is a uniquely British experience. It sells a massive range of flapjacks in different flavours, making it easy to mix and match the perfect gift. Crisp edges and chewy centres, each one is handmade with care, using high-quality, gluten-free ingredients to create the perfect sweet treat. Alongside year-round favourites, the Flapjackery you’ll also find seasonal specials like orange-flavoured Egg-Splats and sweet treacle toffee fudge, so be sure to pop in and see their latest offerings. 

Warm day? Head to Alfonso Gelateria! Founded in Oxfordshire by Italian entrepreneur Lewis, Alfonso’s combines traditional techniques with innovative flavours to create a unique experience that will transport you to the Italian Riviera with each bite. The flavours change regularly, so check in to see what’s new. Alongside the gelato, you can also grab a speciality coffee, luxury hot chocolate or decadent milkshake to really tantalise the taste buds. 

The Cotswolds were built on wool, so pop into the Lambswold to pick up some of your own! Woolly sheep teddies make a great keepsake or gift, and their softness is only matched by the genuine sheepskin rugs, elevating any space into a countryside delight. Socks aren’t normally the most exciting prospect, but with such a range of colours and patterns, you’re sure to find something that’ll make even the biggest grump smile when they open them! Sheepskin gloves and slippers are some of the most comfortable money can buy, with soft leather that moulds easily to their wearer. 

Art is personal. Everyone has a differing opinion on what is art, and what art is considered ‘good’. At the Cotswold Galleries, you’ll find a carefully curated collection of paintings and works from a range of selected artists. Each piece has a story, and the staff at the gallery are more than happy to share them with you if asked, telling the tales of the inspiration behind each piece and how it came to be. If you fall in love with something, the artwork is available for purchase both in store and online, ready and waiting to decorate your walls at home. 

Does your four-legged friend have a taste for the finer things in life? Welcome to DOG! A luxury boutique for pampered pups, DOG is a hub for luxury pet essentials and accessories that are sure to have tails wagging! Have a look for the style that’ll keep your canine companion looking their best, and with many luxury designers featured in store, you might even find something that matches with your own wardrobe. It’s one thing to rock a Barbour coat; it’s quite another to match your dog with one! Your dogs are on their paws all day after all. They deserve a treat.

 

Bourton-on-the-Water

Five gently arched footbridges criss-cross the River Windrush, giving our next stop the nickname the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’. Bourton-on-the-Water is, arguably, one of the most stunning Cotswold towns you can visit, especially on the 801. The village has a population of less than 3,500, but receives a whopping 300,000 visitors a year, making it a true tourist hotspot in the area. Though the river here is too shallow and the bridges too low for gondola rides, Bourton still manages to capture that romantic, far-away holiday feeling, just a little closer to home. 

The village has been inhabited for thousands of years, with new archaeological evidence popping up all the time. A Roman cemetery was uncovered in the 1980s during the construction of a local school, while so many coins have been found on Fosse Way that the area has earned the moniker ‘Money Ground’ by locals.  

Bourton’s colourful history is still celebrated today through traditions such as the annual Mob Football match. Dating back to 1720, local teams will get together to have a friendly football match in the river. With more splashing each other than actual footie taking place, the game has come far from its origins and evolved into a yearly tradition beloved by locals. 

Today, Bourton-on-the-Water may be recognisable to visitors thanks to its TV and film appearances, as it remains a popular filming location. Liam Gallagher visits the area in the I’m Outta Time music video, while 007 swings by in Die Another Day. 

To visit Bourton, hop off the 801 at the Newsagent, right in the heart of the town. 

Also, we may be a teensy bit biased when it comes to Bourton-on-the-Water, as our main Pulhams bus depot is based here. The 801 passes right outside, so be sure to give us a wave on your way through!

Auto buffs will be slipping into 5th and speeding over to the Cotswold Motoring Museum. Founded in 1978 by car enthusiast Mike Cavanagh, the museum is a celebration of 20th-century motoring memorabilia, including vehicles, kits and penny tin toys. The star of the collection is Brum, who Cavanagh starred alongside in the popular kids’ show. Be sure to keep an eye out for his cheeky face and iconic yellow panels as you explore the collection. With sleek Jags, quirky Austins, intriguing Levis and much more besides, petrolheads young and old will love spending a few hours cruising through the museum. Be sure to pick up some specialist merch at the Gift Shop for a souvenir to remember your day by! Who doesn’t want a little Brum on their desk? 

Feel like a giant at the Model Village! A faithful recreation of 1930s Bourton, the model was handcrafted with local Cotswold stone and carefully pruned Alpine plants to keep everything as authentic as possible. There’s even a model village in the Model Village! Whether you see yourself as Gulliver in Lilliput or a regular BFG, the model is sure to be enjoyed by all, and is absolutely worth a visit when travelling on the 801! 

If you’ve worked up an appetite after all that giant-sized sightseeing, look no further than The Old New Inn! Custodians of the Model Village, the Old New Inn is a Grade II listed restaurant and hotel sits right in the village centre. The Inn’s menu even includes a map showing where their produce comes from, and how far it has travelled. It’s one thing to say food is local; it’s another to see exactly where your eggs came from. Dog friendly and packed with character, the restaurant serves up deliciously decadent meals and mouthwatering desserts that are sure to keep you coming back for more, 

Just on the edge of the village, and only a 6-minute walk from the 801 bus stop, you’ll find the feathered friends at Birdland! Home to around 500 birds, Birdland was the brainchild of Len Hill, known as the Penguin Millionaire for his love of avian species and his investment in conservation. A must-see highlight of the park is the Penguin Shore. Redeveloped in 2022, the shore is home to England’s only waddle of King Penguins, and you can also spot some super-rare Humboldt Penguins hopping about. See if you can spot Spike for a quick pic. Hatched and hand-raised at the park, he’s the resident celeb who has featured in a number of photoshoots, TV appearances and has even the honour of shaking flippers with Sir David Attenborough. Spike also has his own social media accounts, managed by the keepers, to keep his fans up to date on his antics! 

When you’re done cawing over the birds, why not fly next door to the Dragonfly Maze? This traditional yew hedge maze lets you wander through half a mile of gravelled paths, finding clues to unlock a puzzle at the maze’s centre. Author and artist Kit Williams helped design the maze’s centrepiece, inspired by the Masquerade hunt he created back in 1975. While it’s not a full day out, it’s worth popping in during your 801 adventure to put your puzzle-solving skills to the test. for yourself. The maze is also dog-friendly, so it’s a great option to take your furry friends looking to dry off from a dip in the Windrush. 

Bourton-on-the-Water, as we mentioned earlier, is easily one of the prettiest places in the Cotswolds. When visiting, especially on a nice day, it’s always worth taking some time to simply sit back and enjoy the area. Despite its popularity, Bourton remains a peaceful slice of English country life with slow-paced living. 

Picnics are commonplace on green spaces that line the Windrush, and if you haven’t packed your own, you’ll find plenty of cafés and takeaways nearby. Be sure to save some room for an ice-cream from one of the many local parlours before you hop back on the 801. It would be rude not to. 

If walking’s more your thing, then the Four Crossings of the Windrush is something to explore. Starting near Birdland, the circular walk follows the river, taking in lakes, farms and hillsides as you go. Keep your eyes peeled along the waterways as water voles, otters and kingfishers have been known to pay a visit to ramblers on the route. Laid out by the Cotswolds National Landscape, signs along the way mark the route which takes around 2 hours to complete. When you’re done, be sure to pick yourself up a reward from one of the local boutiques or eateries; you’ll have earned it! 

Theres a good chance you’ve heard of Jeremy Clarkson. While he first found fame through Top Gear, Clarkson’s Farm has become a major favourite of households across the world since launching in 2021. Following the highs and lows of Jeremy’s farming career, the offers a hilarious and accurate portrayal of farm life in the UK, shedding light on the realities and struggles that farmers face. 

As part of the show, Clarkson launched his own beer brand, Hawkstone Brewery. Now found far and wide, 801 travellers have the chance to visit the brewery themselves. With both a shop and pub on site, visitors can enjoy the fruits of the farm’s labour for themselves. The shop not only sells drinks but also merchandise and treats from Diddly Squat Farm. The brewery also hosts independent food trucks for visitors getting peckish during their visit.  

Be sure to snap a photo of the Clarkson/Cooper mural on the side of the building and sign up for the Order of Hawkstone for discounts and membership benefits. 

 

Andoversford

Sitting on the banks of the River Coln, Andoversford is a small village with a population of fewer than 1,000. Really more of a hamlet than a village, Andoversford is made up of Cotswold stone cottages, white rendered houses and ivy-laden walls, making it a postcard-worthy stop on the 801. Rolling green hills peak between the houses, framed by well-maintained trees and hedgerows. Hop off the 801 at the Cattle Market or Hunter’s Way to see everything that Andoversford has to offer! 

One of the most perfect ways to appreciate the beauty of the Cotswolds, other than by bus, is on foot. Thankfully, Andoversford is the starting point for many sedate strolls, leisurely plods and longer hikes! 

If you’re looking for an easier walk, why not try The Frogmill Inn loop? Starting at the 801 Cattle Market bus stop, this hour-long route takes you to a popular pub before looping back to your bus stop. Passing golf courses, farmer’s fields and stunning views of the region, this walk is a great option for beginners, dog walkers and those wanting a nice, chilled day out.  

About halfway through the walk, you come across The Frogmill. This 16th-century pub and boutique hotel is known for its British cuisine and charming atmosphere. The pub is brimming with character: winding wisteria coats a pergola on the patio, firepits are available in the cooler months to cosy up around, and a waterwheel runs connecting two ponds, creating a soothing background noise. Inside, flagstone floors, inglenook fireplaces and winding wooden bars add to the character of the whole place. The Frogmill also serves Afternoon Teas, ideal to prebook if you’re planning the walk and is operated by the same people as the Porch House in Stow-on-the-Wold, so if you’ve already tried there then you’ll know you’re in safe hands! 

Looking for a bit more of a challenge? The Miles without Stiles route may be for you! With stunning views of the Coln Valley, this two-and-a-half-hour jaunt links Andoversford with Sevenhampton and Brockhampton. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient Roman settlements, areas of Neolithic occupation and mature woodlands. With unparalleled views of the area, the hike is worth tackling.

After a long walk, you’re sure to have earned yourself a treat and worked up an appetite. The Royal Oak at Andoversford is a quintessential example of Cotswold hospitality. Serving up proper pub grub since 1628, the Royal Oak boasts roaring open fires and real ales. Share a drink with one of the (wooden) horses scattered around the bar area and be sure to check and see what live music is coming up, held outside on the patio. The pub also hosts a weekly quiz night, so feel free to get stuck in and compete to win.

 

Cheltenham

The archetypal British spa town, Cheltenham sits proudly in the Western Cotswolds, welcoming visitors from around the world to its streets. Though it has always been a spa town of some sort, it wasn’t until the discovery of mineral springs in 1716 that Cheltenham became the town we know today. With a total overhaul in architecture and style taking place, Cheltenham is now regarded to be the most complete Regency town in Britain. 

Captain Henry Skillicorne is known for being the first to discover the springs and rejuvenate the town; but it was a visit from George III, who visited the town with Queen Charlotte and their daughters, that truly cemented Cheltenham’s reputation as a fashionable place to holiday. 

Today, Cheltenham remains a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. With stunning architecture, delightful green spaces and enough shops to test even the most disciplined visitor, there’s so much to see and do in Cheltenham that it’s difficult to narrow down into just a few paragraphs, but we’ll do our best! 

Visiting on the 801? Hop off at Royal Wells Bus Station to explore the town centre! 

Founded in 2015, local independent brewery DEYA is a must-see stop for hopheads and at-home brewmeisters alike. DEYA prides itself on taking a holistic approach to brewing, operating fair and sustainable business practises while combining traditional UK with more unusual fermentation processes to create hoppy ales and lagers. Among them is Steady Rolling Man, a pale ale voted the UK’s number one beer by We Are Beer in 2026 and a regular fixture in the top 3 since 2024.  

Cheltenham is also home to DEYA’s Taproom, less than a 30-minute walk from the Royal Wells Bus Station. Serving up 25 different drinks on tap, and even more in cans, it’s a great spot for those wanting to sample some different options and broaden your beer horizons. Looking for a foodie aperitif? DEYA also hosts local, independent food vans and kitchens for you to try out. You can check out who’ll be there on your visit here. 

Cheltenham is also home to a Mad Dog Brewery Taproom. On the up and up since 2014, Mad Dog Brewery is originally from Wales, but they’ve very much made themselves at home in Cheltenham! Brilliant Alongside a range of craft beers, the Taphouse also serves smokehouse style American BBQ. Smoky flavours make for the perfect pairing for a beer tasting experience, courtesy of their craft brewery. 

If coffee and cake are more your thing, look no further than the Curious Café! With its vintage boho vibe, this family-run café has been a Cheltenham staple for more than 16 years. The café serves hearty breakfasts, brunches and burgers, but save some room to try out a homemade cake. Or two. We won’t judge!  

Next door, you’ll find the Curious Deli. Serving even more cakes, as well as crepes, ice-creams, scotch eggs and more, the deli champions local suppliers and seasonal produce. It a great option if you’re looking to grab on the go or to take home with you on the 801! 

Java junkies and coffeeholics converge at Scandinavian Coffee Pod, just a 3-minute walk from the bus station. The espresso bar works to a simple philosophy: do something simple well. In a sleek, modern café, the Coffee Pod’s menu is small but mighty. Choose your blend from a menu that reads a bit like a wine list, then choose how you’d like it served. The coffee is very much the start of the show here, but a food menu is available if you’re feeling nibbly. Cakes and pastries pair beautifully with the coffee, while yoghurts, porridges and sandwiches are available to start your day off right! 

A stone’s throw from the 801 bus stop lies a Journey like no other. Tucked behind two inconspicuous grey doors in the town centre, this restaurant is a fine dining experience that is not to be missed. Included in the Michelin guide for three years running, the menu at Journey is forever changing and evolving, so every time you visit, you’ll be treated to something new. The menu is set, with the option of either 7 or 10 courses for you to enjoy over 3 or more hours.  

Loved your meal? Why not sign up for a cookery course where Michelin trained head chef Jeff teaches you how to create signatures from the menu, while you enjoy coffee and pastries, plus plenty more to take home. 

 

One simply can’t mention Cheltenham without mentioning its festivals. Known as one of the most musical places in the country, Cheltenham hosts a huge range of festivals that take over the town throughout the year. 

Taking place in July since 1945, Cheltenham Music Festival is a hub of extraordinary performers and world-class sounds. Cheltenham has produced some incredible musical talents, like Richard O’Brien, Brian Jones and Michael “Wurzel” Burston, so you’re in the right place for a dose of musical inspiration. The festival hosts a range of talents and artists, from household names to up-and-coming future stars. If you’re the sort of person who keeps Spotify on shuffle, or listens to a bit of everything, then why not hop on the 801 to discover your next favourite artist? 

Every March, the Cheltenham Festival comes galloping to town. For four days, fabulous outfits, statement hats and racing aficionados descend on the Racecourse for a celebration of sport and glamour. While the racing is, of course, the highlight with horses thundering around the course to compete for the cup, the festival itself is so much more. Artisan sellers from across the country set up stalls for visitors to peruse their wares, making the festival a fab opportunity to pick up something new. Enhance your style with the clothing stalls, find handcrafted leatherworks and more; it’s all to be found at Cheltenham Festival. When you’re done for the day, it’s just a quick trot back to the 801 bus stop to get you home again. 

If an educational day out is more your thing, then the Cheltenham Science Festival is for you! For one week every year, the town transforms into a playground for curious minds. Scientists, storytellers and explorers come together to teach visitors young and old all about how the world works. There are plenty of activities for kids to get stuck into, like levelling up in the Arcade, taking the pilots seat in the flight deck and asking all those “but why?” questions in the Discover Zone. 

For 40 years, Mark Skipper has been dealing in rare fiction and illustrated books, hunting down ancient and modern literature wherever he could. The culmination of this search is Cheltenham Rare Books. A bibliophile’s dream, the shop is filled to the brim with first editions, signed copies and unusual prints. It’s also a member of both the Antiquarian Booksellers Association and Provincial Booksellers Association, so you know what you’re getting is both high-quality and authentic. Take the time to peruse the shelves, or ask for a recommendation, to find the perfect addition to your collection. Whether you’re simply looking for your next great read or a seasoned collector, it’s definitely worth dog–earing for your next journey on the 801. 

Like quirky home wear and unusual gifts? Unique fashion pieces, handcrafted crockery and more can all be found at Loft & Spires. A celebration of creativity and craftsmanship, the store is open 7 days a week. Every product is hand– selected by the team, reflecting their commitment to quality. You’ll never go back to regular stationery after trying what you find at Loft & Spires, and the Instagram-worthy pieces will help to make your home look like something straight out of Architectural Digest. 

If you’re still looking for the perfect gift or home addition, then the Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen is the place to go! A short jaunt from Royal Wells Bus Station, the guild was founded in 1933 to foster and promote fine craftsmanship and good design, a philosophy they still hold dear today. In Cheltenham, their store is more than just a shop. It’s an exhibition of the works of members, a gallery and a place to purchase unique, handcrafted works made by the professional members of the guild. From ceramics and glass to jewellery and leather, there’s really no limit to what the makers can create. The guild also hosts regular workshops in-store, demonstrating craft skills for you to master at home. 

As a spa town, Cheltenham is naturally dotted with open green spaces and parks for locals and visitors to enjoy. The largest example of these is at Pittville Park. Divided into two by Evesham Road, each side maintains a special identity that is sure to appeal to visitors young and old. 

To the east, you’ll find the Pittville Pump Room, a Grade I listed masterpiece of the Regency era. Overlooking sweeping lawns and ornamental lakes, the Pump Room hosted royalty, housed American GIs and served as an entertainment venue for years. A monthly Artisan Market is held in the main hall, and is free to visit. Showcasing artwork, candles, textiles and more, you’ll find plenty of bits and bobs that you won’t find on the high street. 

Also on the eastern side of the park, you’ll find the Pittville Park Playground. With swathes of sandy areas, a water play area and a vast amount of play equipment, it’s a great place to let the kids go slightly feral.  

For refreshment breaks during their exploration, a kiosk is located next to the play areas, and the Central Cross Café is also close by, selling sandwiches, pastries, ice lollies and pick n mix bags. Directly across from the playground, be sure to swing by and visit the Aviaries. Home to ever-popular birds and bunnies that flit about, ready to say “What’s up, doc?” to visitors. 

The western side of the park is much larger, and it’s here that you’ll find the Lower Lake. A peaceful body of water in the town centre, you can rent a boat to explore the water during the boating season. Two smaller kiddie play areas are dotted about, and a pitch and putt golf course is also available for groups ready to compete! A tennis court is situated at the southern edge of the park and is available to rent, while the BMX and skate parks are open to the public. For more information about activities, check the website or pop into the Boathouse Café on site. With freshly ground coffees, delicious ice-cream and homemade sandwiches and cakes, it’s worth popping in here too for refreshments before tackling the rest of the park. 

If aimless meandering is less your thing, why not take yourself on a guided walk? The Old Courthouse and Regency Cheltenham Walk is a circular amble around some of the key attractions and open spaces in Cheltenham, including Pittville Park. Relatively flat, the walk is approved as dog-friendly, so be sure to bring along four-legged companions for a lovely dog walk. Starting outside of The Old Courthouse, which is a largely unaltered Italianate courtroom that has been converted into a fantastic pub, the walk takes you through Pittville Park, past several other local green spaces, churches and the bus station, before returning to the Courthouse. The walk is an excellent way to view some of the area’s stunning architectural features and pretty spaces, while also having a direction to head in.