With at least eight churches in and around Cheltenham there are several attractive buildings worth visiting. Some of the highlights are as follows:
St Mary’s Church, Clarence Street
This is the oldest building in Cheltenham, and is located just off the Promenade. It dates back to the middle of the 11th Century. The church features a spa theme, and has a royal coat of arms that commemorates George III’s visit in 1788. There is also a memorial to Henry Skillicorne the founder of the first spa in Cheltenham.
St Andrew’s Church, Montpellier
The spire is perhaps the main feature of this Early English church that is located on one of the main thoroughfares, Montpellier Street, opposite the Cheltenham Ladies College. The church was built in 1885 for a Presbyterian congregation, and underwent a substantial refurbishment in 2002. It is now the local United Reformed Church, and is used by many local community organisations. The nearby town hall serves as a centre for Cheltenham’s famous international arts and science festivals. St Andrew’s is used for some of the fringe events.
Christ Church, Lansdown
The main feature of this church is the 174 feet high tower with its four pinnacles. The church was built in 1837 for the new Lansdown estate. The foundation stone was laid by Francis Close a key figure in the development of the Cheltenham Ladies College. The building was originally designed by the Jearrad brothers who were local architects. However, the church was altered by John Middleton who added the domed apse in 1888. The parish of Christ Church was formed in 1865.
Rose Window St Marys Cheltenham
