Fancy a mini getaway with the kids before the hustle and bustle of Christmas really sets in" Discover where to eat, sleep and visit en famille for a fun-filled 48 hours in this elegant spa town
 

DO: Horse racing at The Open

Avoid the Gold Cup in March ? when Cheltenham turns into one big tipsy party ? and opt for The Open instead. Running from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 November, the dedicated family day on Sunday will keep everyone happy. There are activities in the Family Fun Zone, where you can meet Paw Patrol‘s Chase and Marshall, or take part in face painting, rosette making and balloon modelling. There’s even a special colouring-in section and a chance for little ones to pet miniature Shetland ponies and ducks. In the meantime, parents can take advantage of the six races of the day ? the only races to take place on a Sunday all year at Cheltenham ? with a bet or two.
Adults from £25 when booked in advance; under-18s go free. 
 

EAT: Simpsons Fish & Chips

If your horse didn’t come in (or even if it did!) then make the award-winning fish and chips at Simpsons your next stop. This family-run restaurant was voted best fish and chip shop in Britain in the 2016 National Fish & Chip Awards (yep, that’s a real thing?) and it’s not difficult to see why. With fish sourced from Scotland, Iceland and Norway from sustainable stocks, and British spuds with no nasty ingredients, it’s obvious this eatery is passionate a...