Imperial Gardens

IMPERIAL SPA

At the site where the Queen’s Hotel stands now, in 1818 Imperial or Sherborne Spa was established, and was connected to town by the Imperial or Sherborne Promenade, a tree-lined drive that is now known simply as the Promenade. Attached to the side of the Promenade, Imperial Gardens started its life as part of the ‘walks and rides’ of the new Imperial Spa. Initially, they were used as ‘ornamental pleasure grounds’ for visitors to the spa.

Beautiful floral displays

Part of the original central garden was built on at the end of 19th century. First in 1878 the Winter Gardens were built, Cheltenham’s own Crystal Palace, which have now long disappeared, and then in 1902 Cheltenham Town Hall. Today’s appearance with neatly planted flowerbeds was adopted after the second world war with approximately 25,000 bedding plants used to produce the magnificent floral displays.

PALETTE OF EVENTS

With its crucial position in the very heart of the town, Imperial Gardens became the place for many public events and festivals. During the summer months Imperial Gardens host Art in the Park exhibition where every week different local artist can show off their work. In July they also provide the background for the Music Festival and in October the Cheltenham Festival of Literature.