Červený Kostelec is a town situated in the Náchod District within the Hradec Králové Region of the Czech Republic. It lies on the border between the Giant Mountains Foothills and the Orlické Foothills, positioned approximately eight kilometres northwest of Náchod and thirty-four kilometres northeast of Hradec Králové. The settlement is defined by its location along the Olešnice Stream, which flows through the town and contributes to the local landscape's character.

The area was first mentioned in written records in 1362 as Kostelec, initially part of the Vízmburk estate until 1447. It later belonged to the Náchod estate until becoming an independent municipality in 1848. The settlement was promoted to town status in 1876, at which point it adopted the prefix červený to distinguish itself from other municipalities with similar names, referring to red Permian formations and the stream's colour during floods.

The town consists of seven municipal parts and is anchored by its main landmark, the Church of Saint James the Great. Originally a Gothic structure from the fourteenth century, it was destroyed by fire in 1591 before being restored and rebuilt in the Baroque style between 1744 and 1754 based on plans by architect Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer. The highest point in the vicinity is the hill Končinský kopec, which rises to 530 metres above sea level.

Cultural life in the town is highlighted by the annual Červený Kostelec International Folklore Festival, which has been hosted since 1952. This event draws visitors interested in traditional performances and heritage. The community also maintains connections with international partners, being twinned with Küsnacht in Switzerland, Uchte in Germany, Warrington in England, and Ząbkowice Śląskie in Poland, fostering cross-cultural exchange.

As of 2025, the town has a population of 8,262 inhabitants. Transportation infrastructure includes the I/14 road running through the settlement and its location on the Prague–Trutnov railway line, facilitating access for residents and travelers. The area supports notable figures such as actor Martin Růžek and composer Viktor Kalabis, reflecting a rich historical and cultural profile within the region.