Sandford Park
A historic Milner White-designed park in Cheltenham, featuring mature trees, a lido, and beautiful ornamental gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Sandford Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Milner White-designed park in Cheltenham, featuring mature trees, a lido, and beautiful ornamental gardens.
"A little jewel in the town of Cheltenham, perfect for strolling or relaxing."
Pack a picnic 🍕
Plenty of benches available for a relaxing meal amidst the greenery. Great for families!
Explore the whole park 🌳
Don't just focus on the lido; discover hidden gems like the sunken pond and ornamental gardens.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sandford Park Lido
Central Cheltenham
An iconic open-air swimming pool offering a refreshing dip and family fun, especially during warmer months.
Ornamental Gardens
Throughout the park
Beautifully maintained flower beds and mature trees create a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and relaxation.
Italian Sunken Pond
Central area
A historic and charming water feature, evoking nostalgia and offering a peaceful spot for reflection.
Play Area
Enclosed zone
A well-equipped play area suitable for toddlers to juniors, with a separate concrete play zone and picnic benches.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Lido
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack a picnic 🍕
Plenty of benches available for a relaxing meal amidst the greenery. Great for families!
Explore the whole park 🌳
Don't just focus on the lido; discover hidden gems like the sunken pond and ornamental gardens.
Check lido opening times 🌊
The lido is a major draw, so confirm its operating hours before your visit.
Wear comfy shoes 🥾
You'll want to stroll through the expansive park and its various features.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack a picnic 🍕
Plenty of benches available for a relaxing meal amidst the greenery. Great for families!
Explore the whole park 🌳
Don't just focus on the lido; discover hidden gems like the sunken pond and ornamental gardens.
Check lido opening times 🌊
The lido is a major draw, so confirm its operating hours before your visit.
Wear comfy shoes 🥾
You'll want to stroll through the expansive park and its various features.
Bring change for parking 💰
If driving, be prepared for parking meters, as some visitors have noted.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sandford Park is widely praised as a beautiful, well-maintained green space in Cheltenham, offering a delightful mix of relaxation and recreation. Visitors particularly enjoy the ornamental gardens, the historic sunken pond, and the family-friendly atmosphere. While the lido is a major draw, the park's overall charm and accessibility make it a beloved local spot.
"Sandford Park was built to commemorate the fifth century battle of Sandford Plain. The Angles, Saxons, Jutes, and Frisians were all vying for power at the time. It was originally planned for the four parties to fight each other on a home and away basis but the logistics proved problematic. It was decided, therefore, to meet at Sandford and battle it out on a head to head (to head to head) basis. The Frisians had problems from the start. Their coach driver actually took them to Sandford in Somerset, they failed to show, however they consoled themselves by partaking of the Sandford brewed Thatchers Cider. The Jutes had decided to travel by river but at the time the Chelt was only four inches deep and was difficult to navigate. The fact that it flows underground from Waitrose ended any chance of a Jute victory. The Angles parked up in the Lido car park and intended to walk into battle. They failed to bring enough change for the meters so had to trade swords and axes for parking spaces, thus depleting their armoury. The Saxons, on the other hand, were well prepared. They had stopped off at Wolfies sandwich shop in the Bath Road for a boost of protein based energy. They marched the short distance to go to war with the late arriving Angles, who were fighting with only one weapon between two. In a fairly short while it was all over. The Saxons were triumphant. A large silver cup and the head of the Angles leader mounted on a stick were presented in the winners enclosure."
Bill Robson
"Lovely garden near central Cheltenham. Loads of benches to sit and watch the world go by. Very well maintained."
Victoria Elsmore
"I love this Park. When you sit back. Take time as they say. Sit back and smell the roses, life, there is a chance for a future. So much history of my childhood based around the Italian sunken pond. That's another chapter about raising children the right way. Public should surely start to think. Respect life as at the moment public are making their foot print to gloom unlike the beauty in Sandford Park under threat from human traits."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sandford Park is conveniently located near the center of Cheltenham. You can reach it by public transport, with local bus routes serving the area. On-street parking is available, but be mindful of parking meters and potential charges.
Yes, there is on-street parking available near Sandford Park. Some visitors have mentioned needing change for parking meters, so it's advisable to be prepared.
Cycling is a great way to access Sandford Park, and it's a popular spot for families to cycle around.
The park is generally well-maintained with paved paths, making it accessible for wheelchairs and prams. There are also disabled and able fitness points.
Walking is the best way to explore Sandford Park. Wear comfortable shoes to enjoy the gardens, play area, and other features.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Sandford Park is a public park and generally free to enter. However, there may be charges for specific facilities like the lido.
Sandford Park is typically open from dawn till dusk, offering ample time for visitors to enjoy its amenities. Specific facility hours, like the lido, may vary.
It's recommended to check the official website or contact the lido directly for the most up-to-date information on booking requirements and admission fees for the Sandford Park Lido.
Sandford Park is a community hub and may host various events throughout the year. Checking local listings or the Friends of Sandford Parks website is advisable.
Yes, the play area at Sandford Park is free to use for children.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Sandford Park offers a variety of activities including swimming at the lido, exploring ornamental gardens, enjoying the Italian sunken pond, and a dedicated play area for children.
Absolutely! With a great play area, open spaces for running around, and the lido for fun, Sandford Park is a fantastic destination for families. 
Yes, Sandford Park has numerous benches and open grassy areas perfect for picnics. It's a popular spot for families to relax and enjoy a meal.
The park features well-maintained gardens, a lido, a play area, and public toilets accessible at the back of the play area.
Yes, Sandford Park includes disabled and able fitness points, making it a great spot for outdoor exercise.
📸 📸 Photography
The ornamental gardens, the Italian sunken pond, and the lido itself offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The mature trees also provide lovely backdrops.
While not a primary nature reserve, the mature trees and well-kept gardens can offer pleasant scenes for nature photography, especially during different seasons.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more appealing atmosphere.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local bylaws and park rules before flying a drone over Sandford Park.
The historic Italian sunken pond and the distinctive architecture of the lido are popular landmarks for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2Many parents find it a great spot for kids to burn off energy in a safe and engaging environment. The park's overall pleasant atmosphere and free entry (for the park itself) make it an ideal budget-friendly outing.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peaceful Strolls
Take your time to wander through the mature trees and enjoy the well-maintained grounds. It's a perfect place to read a book, people-watch, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk. The park is generally well-kept and feels safe for solo exploration.
🏃♂️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Charm of Sandford Park
The park's history is also intertwined with local lore, with humorous tales of historical battles supposedly taking place in the area. While these are fanciful, they add a layer of local character to the park's narrative. The Friends of Sandford Parks group plays a vital role in its upkeep, ensuring it remains a beautiful and welcoming environment for all visitors.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Sandford Park offers functional amenities like a well-equipped play area and fitness points, making it a versatile destination for recreation and relaxation. Its central location makes it easily accessible for a quick escape or a full day out.
Experiencing the Sandford Park Lido
Visitors often praise the lido for its family-friendly atmosphere and the fun it provides. It's a place where memories are made, from splashing in the water to enjoying the surrounding parkland. It's advisable to check the lido's specific opening times and any admission fees before planning your visit, as these can vary.
While the lido is a highlight, remember that Sandford Park itself offers much more. Combining a swim with a stroll through the gardens or a picnic makes for a complete day out.
Family Fun at Sandford Park
Beyond the playground, the open spaces are perfect for running around, playing games, or enjoying a family picnic. The park's proximity to the Sandford Park Lido also provides an excellent opportunity for a fun-filled swimming session.
Many families appreciate the park's well-maintained environment and the variety of attractions. It’s a place where kids can burn off energy while parents can relax and enjoy the pleasant surroundings.
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