About Pittville Pump Room
Pittville Pump Room is a historic Regency-era event venue on the edge of Pittville Park in Cheltenham. Built 1825–1830 by architect John Forbes for developer Joseph Pitt, it was once the largest spa assembly hall in town (pittvillehistory.org.uk ). Today this Grade-I-listed building (the finest surviving example of Greek‐Revival architecture in the area (historicengland.org.uk )) accommodates up to 240 seated or 300 standing guests (pittvillepumproom.org.uk ). Its grand Ionic-column portico and copper dome make it architecturally unique, while the original ornate marble spigot (the old spa pump) remains in the main hall (www.venuedirectory.com ). Over the decades it has hosted balls, royal receptions and even exotic exhibitions (an 1800s eyewitness report describes “a stupendous elephant swimming in the Pittville Lake” for a menagerie show (pittvillepumproom.org.uk )). Today it is cherished locally for concerts, artisan markets, weddings and community events (cheltenhamtrust.org.uk ).
Events and Programming
As a multi‐purpose venue, the Pump Room hosts a wide range of events. Regular programmes include classical music concerts (chamber groups, choirs and solo recitals – note its reputation for excellent acoustics (pittvillepumproom.org.uk )), comedy nights (the Pittville Pump Room Comedy Club runs with national headliners), talks and heritage exhibitions, plus pop-up artisan markets and craft fairs. The Cheltenham Trust often runs Christmas and festive markets here each year (cheltenhamtrust.org.uk ). Community events like free lunchtime concerts by local musicians have also been organised (for example, after the closure of the old Chapel Arts, the Cheltenham Music Festival Society staged free recitals at Pittville (friendsofpittville.org.uk )). One-off cultural programs – such as a seasonal pop-up café with live jazz – have appeared (recently a Trust-organised pop-up café ran daily from late October to November 2025, complete with local live music (cheltenhamtrust.org.uk )). Special events like heritage talks and charity fundraisers are frequent. Ticket prices vary by event: typically concert tickets run in the £20–30 range (www.musicatcheltenham.org.uk ) (students and seniors sometimes have reductions), while comedy shows have cost around £19 in recent seasons (cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk ). Entry to arts markets is usually free. Notable past performers include chamber ensembles, local choirs, and touring acts – for example, internationally renowned vocal group VOCES8 is scheduled for late 2025 (www.classicalevents.co.uk ), a sign of the high-quality programming.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at Pittville Pump Room are sold through The Cheltenham Trust’s ticket office (Cheltenham Town Hall’s box office) and official outlets. For concerts and comedy nights, it’s best to book early online or by phone via the Trust (Tel 01242 850270), as popular shows can sell out. The Trust typically announces sales a few months in advance for major events and may offer email/newsletter presales. For smaller events or free community shows, tickets may simply be reserved or issued at the door. Door sales (cash or card on-site) are sometimes available if the show isn’t sold out – but this is not guaranteed. Prices depend on the event: for example, local chamber concerts have recently been around £20–28 (www.musicatcheltenham.org.uk ), and recent comedy club nights have been priced at £19 (cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk ). Concessions (discounts) may be offered for students, seniors or disabled patrons on a per-event basis. For any ticket queries, the Trust’s box office is the primary contact (no third-party ticket platforms are needed to buy official tickets).
Seating and Layout
The Pump Room has a single large main hall with a semi-circular apse at one end. Ground level (the stalls) has flat-floor seating and standing space, while a horseshoe‐shaped gallery wraps around the room on the upper level. In total it seats about 240 comfortably (pittvillepumproom.org.uk ). The upper gallery houses smaller breakout rooms (the East, West and Oval Rooms), each holding around 50 people according to venue guides (www.venuedirectory.com ). Best views depend on the event: front-centre stalls give the closest proximity to performers, but thanks to the building’s geometry even gallery seats enjoy good sightlines under the dome. The colonnade at the back (north) of the hall is often where a stage area or projection screen is set up. For acoustics, many visitors note that the Pump Room sounds excellent for music and spoken-word, so seating location is more about viewing preference than audio quality. A small raised platform (apse) at one end typically serves as the stage. There is no general admission standing-only policy for night events – all seats are fixed but can be reconfigured for dinner or a dance floor (the venue advertises 300 standing capacity for receptions (pittvillepumproom.org.uk )). Keep in mind that the historic nature means theatre-like seating on the balcony (no lift, only stairs to upper areas) and classic wooden chairs on the ground floor.
Getting There and Parking
Pittville Pump Room lies at East Approach Drive in Pittville Park (postcode GL52 3JE) – about 2 miles north of Cheltenham town centre (cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk ) (www.cheltenhamfestivals.org ). Coming by car, Cheltenham is accessed via junction 10 or 11 of the M5 (junction 10 allows northbound exit). Signposted routes from the town take you via A435 (Evesham Road) past Pittville Park to the Pump Room entrance (cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk ). There is a pay & display car park immediately behind the Pump Room (run by Cheltenham Borough Council) (cheltenhamtrust.org.uk ). Note that this on-site car park is popular and can fill up quickly on event days (www.cheltenhamfestivals.org ), so visitors should allow extra time or consider alternatives. Other nearby public car parks within a 10–15-minute walk include North Place (GL50 4DW) and the Brewery NCP (GL50 4EJ), both in town; Cheltenham Racecourse also offers parking with about a 1-mile walk to the venue (www.cheltenhamfestivals.org ). For public transport, the Pump Room is not directly served by the train – Cheltenham Spa Station is about 3 miles away (a 30–40 minute walk) (www.cheltenhamfestivals.org ). Stagecoach bus routes 99 and D however do serve Pittville Park: the D route runs from the train station (and High Street) past the Pump Room, and other town centre buses stop on the Promenade roughly 30–40 minutes on foot from the venue (www.cheltenhamfestivals.org ) (www.cheltenhamfestivals.org ). On arrival, a taxis or ride-share vehicles can drop-off outside the main entrance (East Approach Drive), and there is a taxi rank directly outside Cheltenham Spa Station if needed (www.cheltenhamfestivals.org ). For disabled visitors, six accessible bays are marked in the venue car park (Blue Badge holders get 3 hours free parking) (www.cheltenhamfestivals.org ).
Inside the Venue
On entering Pittville Pump Room, ticket holders will pass through a small foyer into the historic hall. Staff from Cheltenham Trust often greet guests and may perform a quick ticket scan or ID check at the door. A cloakroom is not permanent, but staff will offer to store coats or umbrellas for evening shows if needed (no formal cloak check fee is usually charged). The atmosphere is typically relaxed – for concerts and talks, lights are dimmed; for markets and daytime events, the space is brightly lit by skylights or artificial lights. An internal licensed bar is available in the side colonnade area for events, serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks, tea/coffee). In late 2025 the Trust trialled a temporary on-site café (open daily 9.30am–4.30pm) offering brunches, cakes and beverages (cheltenhamtrust.org.uk ), so keep an eye on Trust announcements for any future café pop-ups between events. Restroom facilities (toilets) are on the ground floor near the entrance; one is wheelchair-accessible (pittvillepumproom.org.uk ). Wi-Fi is not typically provided to the public, and cell coverage is patchy in the park but usually adequate inside the building. Visitors can often see the building’s features up close – for example, the ornate central water pump (marble and scagliola) is normally accessible in the hall (www.venuedirectory.com ) (though after 2003 the original spring was shut off). There are no on-site merchandise stalls except for special festivals. Overall, expect a historic yet well-maintained interior with Georgian-style columns, a painted dome ceiling and a small balcony – ideal for photos if photography is permitted by the event (always ask for permission for flash or professional cameras).
Nearby Amenities
Though set slightly outside the town centre, there are a few eateries and pubs within walking distance, and many more a short drive or bus ride away. For a quick bite or drink before an event, the popular Stable pub with pizzas sits near Cheltenham Racecourse (about 0.5 miles east of the Pump Room, 10–15 minute walk). Several small cafes and bistros (e.g. Italian, Indian, or gastropubs) are scattered around Pittville and Charlton Kings within 1-2 miles. In the town centre (Montpellier and Promenade areas), visitors will find a wide range of restaurants and bars – from classy venues like The Ivy or Malmaison’s bar (1–1.5 miles, a short taxi or bus ride) to pubs such as The Queens Hotel bar or the historic The Parlour on Cheltenham’s Promenade. For late-night transport, note that taxis and rideshares are generally available; after some late events the Town Centre is better served by buses running until late, or you may book a taxi in advance. Nearby hotels include several within a mile: the boutique Cotswold Grange Hotel (Pittville Circus) and No 38 The Park (Evesham Road) are under 20 minutes’ walk (www.concerthotels.com ). There are also central hotels for any attendees staying overnight (e.g. Holiday Inn Express in town (www.concerthotels.com ), Malmaison Montpellier (www.concerthotels.com ) or the historic Queens Hotel).
What Makes This Venue Special
Pittville Pump Room’s charm lies in its blend of history, architecture and community spirit. Architecturally, it is a rare intact Regency pump room: an Ionic-columned portico and sweeping dome give it a grand, classical presence (historicengland.org.uk ). Its interior decoration reflects its past as a spa assembly hall (once the town’s largest), complete with a stately oval ballroom feel. Culturally, it’s a monument to Cheltenham’s 19th-century spa heyday (Queen Charlotte even took the waters in Cheltenham in 1788, a heritage captured here) (pittvillehistory.org.uk ). For locals and artists, it is beloved for its warm acoustics (Cheltenham Trust notes it is a “favoured venue for orchestras, choirs and chamber groups” (pittvillepumproom.org.uk )) and scenic backdrop (it looks out onto Pittville’s ornamental lake and wooded lawns). Legendary anecdotes – like the elephant swimming in the Pump Room lake – give it a quirky lore that visitors still enjoy. Today, its regular role in town life (housing festivals, markets, community concerts and weddings) ensures both artists and audiences love the space: it combines a heritage atmosphere (the building itself is a history lesson) with modern amenities. This unique character – old spa roots mixed with 21st-century events – makes Pittville Pump Room more than just another hall, but a special Cheltenham landmark.
Visitor Tips and Information
The Pump Room is a public space open during events or exhibitions; otherwise it may be closed, so check the programme schedule before visiting. Arrive early for large events to settle parking and cool your tickets. Allow at least 15–30 minutes before showtime for any bag checks and finding your seat. Ticket holders usually show e-tickets on a phone or printed copy – staff will scan and check IDs especially if an event has an age limit (e.g. 18+ for comedy). Security is generally light but reasonable; nothing special is usually confiscated unless clearly dangerous, and small bags/phones are fine. Dress code is informal – visitors often wear smart-casual attire (no special uniform), but wear layers in colder months since the large stone hall can feel cool. Photography for personal use is normally allowed, but please silence your phone during performances. No outside food or alcohol can be brought in, but the on-site bar or pop-up café provide snacks and drinks. Smoking and vaping are banned inside (please only smoke in designated outdoor areas, well away from doors). The venue has an old-world feel, so for safety use handrails on stairs; children should be supervised on the balcony. Finally, enjoy the Pump Room experience: many visitors taste a sample of the spa-style water at the marble pump (www.venuedirectory.com ) (though note the actual spring was decommissioned in 2003). Toilets (including an accessible one) are on ground level near the entrance, and there is no charge for standard events (unless otherwise noted).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I purchase tickets for Pittville Pump Room events?
Tickets are sold through the official Cheltenham Trust box office (Cheltenham Town Hall) and trusted vendors. You can buy online or by calling the box office. It’s best to book in advance, since popular shows often sell out. Occasionally small shows may offer unsold tickets at the door if seats remain.
How much do event tickets typically cost at Pittville Pump Room?
Ticket prices vary by event. Recent classical concerts have been around £20–30 per seat (www.musicatcheltenham.org.uk ), while comedy nights have been about £19 (cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk ). Artisan markets and community events are often free to attend. Concessions (e.g. student, senior, or disabled discounts) may be available for each show – check the event details before booking.
Where can I park when attending the Pump Room?
There is a pay-and-display car park immediately behind the Pump Room (run by Cheltenham Borough Council) (cheltenhamtrust.org.uk ). This fills up quickly on event nights (www.cheltenhamfestivals.org ), so it’s wise to arrive early. Additional pay-parks are within a 10–15 min walk: North Place (GL50 4DW) and the Brewery NCP (GL50 4EJ) are in town. The Racecourse car park (0.5 mile east) is also busy for events. Disabled badge holders have six marked spaces at the Pump Room lot (Blue Badge parking is free for 3 hours) (www.cheltenhamfestivals.org ).
How can I reach Pittville Pump Room by public transport?
Cheltenham Spa railway station is about 3 miles away (35–40 minutes walk) (www.cheltenhamfestivals.org ). By bus, Stagecoach routes serve the area: the D service runs from the station and town centre past the Pump Room (www.cheltenhamfestivals.org ), and other buses (e.g. route 99) stop in the town centre (1–2 miles on foot). From the town centre Promenade (30–40 min walk) several buses connect to Pittville Park (www.cheltenhamfestivals.org ). Taxis and ride-hailing services can also drop off at East Approach Drive right outside the venue entrance.
What is the seating capacity and layout of the Pump Room?
The main hall seats up to about 240 people for formal dinners or shows, with space for up to 300 standing for receptions (pittvillepumproom.org.uk ). There is a ground-floor seating area (stalls) and a horseshoe gallery above on three sides. At the back of the hall is a small stage area (the apsidal end). For audience comfort, each seat is a standard chair on the flat floor; viewing is good from almost any seat thanks to the dome’s acoustics. Upstairs are three smaller meeting rooms (Oval, East, West) each holding about 50 people (www.venuedirectory.com ), but note there is no wheelchair lift.
Is Pittville Pump Room wheelchair accessible? Are there accessible toilets?
Yes. The Pump Room is fully accessible at ground level (pittvillepumproom.org.uk ): the main entrance has automatic doors and there are no steps to enter the hall, bar or adjacent colonnade (pittvillepumproom.org.uk ). An accessible (wheelchair) toilet is available on the ground floor (pittvillepumproom.org.uk ). However, the building has no lift, so seating upstairs in the gallery cannot be reached by wheelchair. Visitors needing special access should book stalls seating on the ground floor and may book a companion seat; concessions and a free companion ticket have been offered for disabled patrons (pittvillepumproom.org.uk ).
Are guide dogs or assistance dogs permitted inside?
Yes. Guide dogs and certified assistance animals are welcome in Pittville Pump Room (pittvillepumproom.org.uk ). Staff are accustomed to accommodating visitors with service dogs. (For safety, dogs must be kept on a lead or harness. Dogs are not permitted on seating areas.)
Does the venue have restroom facilities, including accessible toilets?
Yes. Restrooms are located on the ground floor near the main foyer. One stall is wheelchair-accessible (pittvillepumproom.org.uk ). These are available to ticket holders during events. In large venues like this, facilities are maintained by The Cheltenham Trust, so expect clean, modern toilets (gender-neutral or separate men’s/women’s depending on the event).
Is there a café or bar on site at Pittville Pump Room?
The Pump Room has an indoor licensed bar for event refreshments (selling beer, wine, tea/coffee etc.). In late 2025 the venue trialled a pop-up café in the main hall (open daily 9:30am–4:30pm) serving brunches and cakes (cheltenhamtrust.org.uk ). Outside of such special periods, there is no permanent café, but stalls or vendors may appear during craft fairs or open days. Otherwise, visitors often eat before or after the event at nearby pubs/restaurants.
Are there age restrictions or dress codes for events?
Age restrictions depend on the event. Stand-up comedy nights are strictly 18+ (pittvillepumproom.org.uk ), so carry ID if you plan to attend. Concerts and markets are usually all-ages (often family-friendly). Dress code is informal: smart-casual is typical (nice trousers/shirt or a dress). There’s no strict uniform—just dress to the comfort level of the event. For example, many people wear layers in winter as the hall can be cool and business-casual attire to concerts.
What should I not bring into Pittville Pump Room?
Outside food/drink and large coolers are generally not allowed (the on-site bar provides snacks and drinks). Weapons or sharp objects are prohibited (as with any public venue). No unattended tripods or professional photo gear is allowed at most events unless specifically approved. Smoking and vaping inside are banned by law. It’s also polite to keep noise (phones, talking) to a minimum during performances.
Are there restaurants or pubs nearby for meals or drinks?
Yes. Within a short drive or 10–15 minute walk are places to eat and drink. For example, The Stable pub (with pizzas) is by Cheltenham Racecourse (~0.5 mile east). In Pittville and the suburbs there are casual cafes and Indian/Italian eateries. A few pubs (like The Park House and The Imperial) and a small number of restaurants can be reached on foot or a very short taxi ride. For a broader choice, Cheltenham’s town centre (1–2 miles south) has a full range of dining options (gastro pubs, bistros, chain brasseries like The Ivy, or upscale hotel restaurants like the Malmaison bar). It’s wise to book ahead if eating in the centre on a busy evening.
Are there hotels close to Pittville Pump Room?
Several hotels are very nearby. The boutique Cotswold Grange Hotel (on Pittville Circus Road) is about 0.5–0.8 miles (10- to 15-minute walk) (www.concerthotels.com ). No 38 The Park (Evesham Road) is under 0.5 miles. In Cheltenham centre, 1–2 miles away, there are many options including Malmaison Montpellier and Holiday Inn Express (www.concerthotels.com ) (www.concerthotels.com ). Ask your booking agent for “Pittville Pump Room” to see the closest choices. Many attendees simply stay in town centre hotels (Queens Hotel, etc.) and take a short taxi/bus to the Pump Room.
Can I taste the spa water from the original pump?
Historically visitors could sample the spring water here. The decorative marble-and-scagliola pump still stands in the hall and signage suggests waters can be tasted (www.venuedirectory.com ), but in fact the original wells were closed in 2003 due to leakage. Any “spa water” now offered is treated tap water used for tradition. You may find a small dish or spout at the pump for show – it’s part of the experience, though it’s no longer a true mineral spring.
What is the architectural style and history of the building?
The Pump Room is a fine example of Regency or Greek-Revival architecture※ (historicengland.org.uk ). Designed by John Forbes (founder Joseph Pitt’s architect), it features classical details based on the Athenian Temple of Ilissus (historicengland.org.uk ). Construction took place 1825–1830, and it opened as the centerpiece of the new Pittville Spa (historicengland.org.uk ). Over time it’s been carefully restored (notably re-opened by the Duke of Wellington in 1960 after a mid-century renovation). Its Grade-I listing reflects this heritage. (historicengland.org.uk )
Is smoking permitted inside the Pump Room?
No. Pittville Pump Room is entirely a non-smoking venue. UK law bans smoking and vaping indoors. There are outdoor smoking areas well away from entrances, and signs will indicate the nearest point if needed. Fireworks and open flames (e.g. sparklers) are also not allowed indoors for safety.
Are there any hearing assistance facilities?
