Last year many spent the magical Christmas season apart from loved ones and friends as traditional celebrations of the season were curtailed by the ongoing pandemic.

After the restrictions of last year, this coming festive season shines like a beacon, and brings even more reason to embrace the sparkle and spirit lifting magic that yuletide brings.

Last December The Cheltenham Trust supported the community during the darkest of days bringing the Christmas spirit to life with festive lights, carol singers and choirs outside the Pittville Pump Room enabling people to experience those much loved traditions which help to support our overall health and wellbeing.

This year the trust is embracing the spirit of Christmas at the pump room for all to enjoy with an enticing programme of festive food, traditional music, creative crafts against the backdrop of the iconic and beautiful regency splendour of the venue.

After the limitations of last Christmas, this year is a time to fully embrace everything that makes the season so special.

This year we’re hosting a series of events bringing yuletide sparkle to the Cheltenham community.

The seasonal celebrations begin on Thursday November 25 with the switch on of our magical Christmas lights decorating the iconic building and picturesque park. Join us for an evening of family fun including live music, artisan market, festive food and some surprises and special guests along the way.

This December, the pump room hosts its inaugural artisan market and the main hall will be transformed into a treasure trove of artisanal local products. The Christmas market will feature original and stylish products created by local creatives including handmade gifts, jewellery, home accessories and seasonal produce.

As the lead provider of culture in the town, the trust has created a vibrant programme for Cheltenham from decadent festive afternoon teas with a pianist playing festive music on the pump room’s Grand Steinway piano, to children’s storytelling with Mrs Claus, and creative workshops to make your own Christmas wreath, table centrepiece and delicious canapes.

Details of all the events and tickets will be on sale shortly at www.pittvillepumproom.org.uk