It’s unlikely to be a surprise to many people that Cheltenham was recently crowned the second-best place to live in the UK. The town offers a rare blend of good local employment, heritage, extensive amenities, outstanding schools, and a great quality of life.
Collectively, these attributes make moving to Cheltenham very appealing to families.
The town also outperforms many UK cities thanks to its relative affordability, while still not compromising on character or opportunities.
The town centre offers great shopping, theatre, pubs/eateries, and heritage architecture. It regularly hosts nationally renowned music and cultural festivals, attracting international stars of screen and stage.
The town boasts great charm and most amenities are close-by.
Among the wards within Cheltenham that are most popular with families are Heatherley, Charlton Kings, Benhall, Leckhampton, and Prestbury.
Each ward has its own individual character and characteristics, which becomes evident if we just compare three of them: Prestbury, Leckhampton and Hatherley.
Prestbury
Prestbury has been a village since Anglo-Saxon times, but its history goes back far longer to the Roman occupation.
During the English Civil War Prestbury was Parliamentarian, with evidence of skirmishes still apparent from the bullet holes in some house walls.
Today, Prestbury is renowned for its rural charm and its historic properties, some dating back to the 16th century, as well as its contemporary homes.
It retains a strong village character with some great pubs, and a highly regarded primary school, St Mary’s.
Demand for properties is high and values hold strong, often commanding premium prices.
Leckhampton
This ward boasts a thriving local hub of supermarkets, cafés and pubs which supports its strong community spirit.
Its Edwardian housing stock and access to excellent schools adds to its appeal.
There is easy access to green areas like Leckhampton Hill and major road links to the M5, A417 and M4.
Typical house prices are slightly below that of Prestbury but hold their value as demand is strong.
Hatherley
Famously family-oriented, Hatherley offers modern housing estates, affordability, and safe, child-friendly cul-de-sacs.
Its good selection of local state schools, parks and easy motorway access make it a practical option for young families.
Properties tend to be priced below many of Cheltenham’s more historic areas, offering attractive entry points for first-time buyers.
Summary
For families seeking the ideal blend of schooling, job opportunities, green spaces, safe neighbourhoods, property value retention, and community warmth, Cheltenham offers many outstanding options.
Along with its demographic balance, Cheltenham remains an excellent choice for families seeking both a great lifestyle and long-term stability.
Further Reading:
Should You Rent Out Property Personally or Through a Limited Company?
Choosing a Buy-to-Let Property
Renters Reform Bill: What Every Landlord Should Know from a Letting Agent in Cheltenham
