Summer holidays are here, and if you're a teenager looking for some serious fun in Cheltenham, you've come to the right place! Whether you're into adrenaline-pumping activities, chilling with mates, or discovering something totally new, Cheltenham has got you covered. From free adventures to epic days out, here's your ultimate guide to making this summer absolutely legendary.

Chase the Lions Around Town (FREE!)

This summer, 32 massive lion sculptures are taking over Cheltenham and Gloucester streets from 11th July to 14th September as part of Lions at Large – The Pride of Gloucestershire Trail. Think of it as the ultimate treasure hunt meets Instagram photo opportunity! These aren't just any old statues – they're designed and painted by local artists celebrating Gloucestershire's history and culture, plus there's a Cub Club with adorable little lions created by schools and community groups.

Grab your squad, download a trail map, and make it a mission to find them all. It's completely free, perfect for those epic group selfies, and you'll discover parts of Cheltenham you never knew existed. Pro tip: turn it into a competition with your friends to see who can spot the most creative designs!

Get Your Adrenaline Fix at The Brewery Quarter

The Brewery Quarter is basically teenager heaven – it's like someone designed a place specifically for hanging out with your mates. Here's what's waiting for you:

Escape Rooms That'll Blow Your Mind

Escape Hunt offers mind-bending themed experiences including escape rooms, virtual reality, and city hunt adventures. Perfect for ages 11 and over, birthday party packages cost £30 per person (with the birthday person playing for free) and include 60 minutes of gameplay with up to six players per escape room. Choose from themes like A Dalek Awakens, Alice in Puzzleland, or the GCHQ-themed Our Finest Hour. Can you and your crew solve the puzzles before time runs out?

For something different, check out the independent Escape Rooms Cheltenham on Winchcombe Street, which creates all their games in-house based on local themes like Operation Foresight (based on GCHQ) and games inspired by Gustav Holst and local folklore.

Mr Mulligans Lost World Golf

Dodge volcanoes and dinosaurs at Canopy Creek, or venture into the deep to battle Neptune's Mist. It's not your typical mini golf – this is adventure golf on steroids! Plus they have ping pong tables, shuffleboard, electro darts and pool to keep the fun going.

Hollywood Bowl

With 16 lanes, a luxury VIP area, American themed diner, relaxing bar and thrilling amusements area, Hollywood Bowl guarantees fun for all. Perfect for those rainy summer days when you still want to hang out with your crew.

Free Adventures and Outdoor Fun

Skate Your Way Around

Pittville Park has a skate park alongside a boating lake, golf, tennis, and an award-winning cafe. Pack a picnic, bring a frisbee or football, and make it your summer base. There's also Oakley Skate Park on Clyde Crescent, which is perfect for practicing your skating skills. Both are completely free.

Cheltenham Lido – Retro Swimming Vibes

Built in 1935, Cheltenham Lido retains all its original features and is one of the country's few remaining lidos. It's like swimming in a piece of history! The outdoor heated pool is perfect for those hot summer days, and the vintage vibes make for some seriously cool photos. You'll also find a cafe for snacks and drinks to stay cool on hot days.

Festival Fever

Summer 2025 in Cheltenham is absolutely packed with festivals that'll give you serious FOMO if you miss them:

Summer Jam at The Brewery Quarter (FREE!)

Running from Friday 25 to Sunday 27 July 2025, this free music festival kicks off the summer holidays. It features top talent handpicked from the Lakefest line-up, plus the final of the Road to Lakefest competition where local bands battle for a place on the main stage. There's also a silent disco, so you can grab headphones and dance under the stars.

Cultural Adventures (That Are Actually Cool)

Steam Train Adventures

The GWSR Steam Railway offers a unique opportunity to sample train travel from 50 years ago. Before you roll your eyes, hear us out – there's something genuinely awesome about riding vintage trains through the gorgeous Cotswolds countryside. It's also perfect for those aesthetic Instagram posts!

The Wilson Art Gallery & Museum

The Wilson has an outstanding museum and art gallery with exciting programmes. Check out their current exhibitions – they often have really interesting contemporary stuff alongside the historical collections.

Foodie Adventures

Hub Box at The Brewery Quarter

Teenagers will love the laid-back atmosphere and fast-food inspired menu featuring gourmet burgers, organic hot dogs, dirty fries and delicious desserts like salted caramel peanut brownie. Perfect for refuelling between activities.

Food Markets and Street Food

On the second and last Friday of every month, stalls line Cheltenham Promenade selling various meats and charcuterie, fruit and vegetables, desserts, preserves and pickles, cakes, bread, and cheese. There's also a monthly Cheltenham Crafts Market along the Promenade with local producers and artisans.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Activities:

• Lions at Large trail
• Pittville Park (including skate park)
• Summer Jam festival
• Various markets on the Promenade
• Exploring Cheltenham's Regency architecture
• Museum visits

Mid-Range Options (£5-25):

• Cheltenham Lido
• Cinema at The Brewery Quarter
• Adventure golf

Splurge Activities (£25+):

• Escape rooms
• Steam train rides

Key Takeaways

Summer 2025 in Cheltenham is shaping up to be epic! The biggest highlights are the free Lions at Large trail (perfect for exploring with friends), Summer Jam festival for music lovers, and the incredible range of activities at The Brewery Quarter. Whether you're into adrenaline activities, cultural experiences, or just want to chill in beautiful parks, there's something for every teenager.

Top tip: Mix free activities like the lion trail and Pittville Park with a few paid experiences like escape rooms or adventure golf to get the best of both worlds. Most importantly, grab your mates and start making those summer memories – Cheltenham's waiting for you to explore it!

Don't forget to check social media and Cheltenham Rocks regularly for last-minute events and activities – summer in Cheltenham is always full of surprises!