GlosArch volunteers will be back at the site of the grandstand of the original Cheltenham Racecourse from 2^nd-7^th August from 10am-3pm to continue their excavation of the remains of this lost landmark. Racing took place here from 1819-1842 and race meets were attended by up to 30,000 people. The grandstand, constructed in 1835, was a very grand, stone-built building, visible from the centre of Cheltenham. So far we have examined the western and southern walls and found the main entrance and evidence of the room layout and decoration. This year we will be uncovering the north-facing part and interior of the building.

Why not drop by for a chat and see how we are getting on?

Travelling by Car

Cleeve Common lies some 4 miles or 7km north east of Cheltenham in the County of Gloucestershire. Parking is available at five main locations (see map below):

• In the Quarry car park (charges apply see below). Turn off the B4632 at the summit of Cleeve Hill, signposted to Cleeve Hill Golf Club. Go over the cattle grid and bear left to find the car park. Grid reference SO989272, nearest postcode GL52 3PW. W3W ///tutorial.pinging.necklace

  The car park gate is locked at night. The closing time varies with the season and is clearly displayed at the entrance. A release service is in operation which will cost £35+VAT.

  Parking bays are not marked here, but the entrance to the car park requires crossing a cattle grid and tight turn into the car park.

• In the golf club car park. W3W ///glorified.adjuster.sideburns. Parking bays are not marked here.

  PLEASE NOTE: there is a charge of £2 per visit for the above two car parks. Payment can be made via the PayByPhone app, or by card or cash at the machine outside the Golf Club.‍ ‍Cleeve Common Trust Members park for free.For more information, see Parking FAQ.

• On the B4632 at Stockwell Lane viewpoint, Cleeve Hill. W3W ///nesting.supported.alarming. This is road side parking in laybys where parking bays are not marked.

• At the Radio Masts. Access from Cheltenham via Harp Hill and Aggs Hill, or from Whittington. Limited parking. Grid reference SO994249. W3W ///clays.unveils.sock. this is a small parking area with some additional parking in roadside laybys. No marked bays.

• At West Down/Wardens’ Wood, access from Brockhampton or Whittington. Grid reference SP009239. W3W ///perused.purifier.sanded. This is a small car park at the end of a long single track. There are no marked bays and adequate space for turning unless the car park is exceptionally busy.

From the south side of the common use the Radio Masts car park (Grid reference SO994249, ) or West Down car park (Grid reference SP009239 nearest postcode GL54 5TL).

No motor vehicles are permitted on the Common itself.