Summary
Gloucestershire encapsulates all that individuals cherish about rural England.
This county boasts a wealth of history, stunning landscapes, and remarkable architecture, among other attributes.
In the heart of Gloucestershire rise the Cotswolds, limestone hills of unparalleled natural beauty, home to enchanting towns and villages, each constructed with a unique yellow stone.
Gloucester serves as a fitting county city, showcasing a magnificent cathedral and revitalized historic quays that now bustle with life, while the spa town of Cheltenham radiates Georgian elegance.
In Gloucestershire, one can trace the origins of the River Thames or navigate through the age-old and mystical Forest of Dean.
Let us explore the premier destinations in Gloucestershire:
1. Gloucester
Situated on the River Severn, and nestled between the Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean, Gloucester has surged into public attention as a vibrant cultural hub in recent years.
This transformation has coincided with the rejuvenation of the historic quays, which now host an array of nightlife and dining options.
Gloucester is steeped in captivating history, as evidenced by its cathedral.
Constructed incrementally from the 12th to the 15th century, it combines elements of Norman and Gothic architecture.
An impressive medieval stained glass window remains intact in the Great East Window, alongside a shrine commemorating King Edward II, who was tragically murdered nearby.
Moreover, the maiden flight of the world’s first jet aircraft occurred just outside Gloucester at Brockworth.
In recognition of this achievement, the Jet Age Museum narrates the early history of jet-powered aviation.
2. Cheltenham
Located on the western edge of the Cotswolds, Cheltenham has been a refined leisure destination for the affluent for over two centuries.
Visitors can indulge in upscale shopping and dining amidst one of the most regal settings imaginable.
The mineral springs in Cheltenham were uncovered in 1716, but it was not until the turn of the next century that the resort truly began to develop.
During the Regency period, the spas were refined, and the elegant Montpellier district saw the addition of opulent townhouses.
While hydrotherapy and spa treatments are no longer available, much of the grand architecture remains intact, such as the Pittville Pump Room and the picturesque Pittville Park.
3. Cotswolds
This expansive Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty encompasses a substantial portion of the Gloucestershire countryside.
With pastoral farmland and charming villages constructed from the region’s distinctive limestone, the Cotswolds often align with the public’s vision of the quintessential English countryside.
The area features hills that rise over 300 meters, culminating at the dramatic escarpment known as Cotswold Edge.
For those seeking adventure, the Cotswold Way offers a 100-mile National Trail that navigates along the western escarpment.
Days spent traversing breathtaking landscapes can be complemented by evenings of relaxation in cozy inns and bed & breakfasts.
4. Forest of Dean
Adjacent to the Welsh border in western Gloucestershire lies 11,000 hectares of ancient woodland—one of the last remaining areas of wilderness in the United Kingdom.
The Forest of Dean has served as a royal hunting ground since before the Norman Conquest, contributing to its preservation over the centuries.
Your pursuits in this region can vary greatly, from rock climbing and long-distance hiking to uncovering remnants of historical mining activities or visiting significant sites like Tintern Abbey, located just across the River Wye in Wales.
5. Cirencester
This beautiful town with Roman roots serves as an excellent gateway to the Cotswolds.
It is noteworthy to highlight the remarkable Cotswold stone used throughout Cirencester, imparting an additional sense of grandeur to its venerable structures.
The 14th-century Church of St John the Baptist is resplendent in the late-afternoon sun, showcasing perpendicular Gothic architecture dating back to the 1300s, complemented by earlier features.
At the heart of the town, the Corinium Museum, named after its Roman appellation, houses over 60,000 remarkable artifacts discovered in the vicinity, including intricate mosaics, carved marble, pottery, and jewelry, all meticulously curated by the museum.
6. Tewkesbury
The quaint town of Tewkesbury is replete with medieval and Tudor charm.
Strolling along Barton Street, High Street, and Church Street unveils numerous half-timbered houses of significant interest.
A notable example is the Olde Black Bear, recognized as the oldest pub in Gloucestershire, which has been in operation since 1308. A small cluster of streets offers enough captivating stories and sites to engage visitors for hours.
The magnificent Tewkesbury Abbey, featuring the largest Norman tower in England, not only withstood the Dissolution of the Monasteries due to its purchase by local citizens but also retains much of its Norman architectural detail.
Additionally, the Mythe Bridge, spanning the Severn, was conceived by celebrated Georgian engineer Thomas Telford.
7. Stroud
Situated just west of the Cotswold Edge escarpment, where the Five Valleys converge, Stroud is known for its artistic character and steep, winding streets.
The town has attracted a number of artists, writers, and musicians, including renowned artist Damien Hirst, who maintains a studio here.
Every August Bank Holiday, Stroud hosts a festival celebrating theater, art, literature, and music.
Outdoor enthusiasts can embark on the Five Valleys Circuit or visit Woodchester Mansion, an evocative Gothic revival house that has stood unfinished since work halted abruptly in 1870.
8. Chipping Campden
In medieval times, the prosperous wool trade significantly contributed to the wealth of Chipping Campden, leading to the construction of its stunning church.
St. James’ is known as a “wool church” due to its extraordinary grandeur for a town of its size, made possible by generous benefactors during its construction in the 1400s.
The town makes for a delightful exploration, featuring Cotswold stone architecture and charming historic buildings, including the covered market hall and almshouses from the early 17th century displaying Renaissance influences.
9. Berkeley
Two distinct elements contribute to Berkeley’s historical significance, and we shall begin with the earlier of the two.
The impressive Berkeley Castle has seen minimal alterations since the 12th century and has remained a family possession throughout this time.
A pivotal yet enigmatic event in English history occurred here in 1327, when the deposed King Edward II was allegedly murdered; however, the perpetrator and the circumstances remain uncertain.
Visitors can view the cell where this act is purported to have taken place.
Edward Jenner, the pioneering physician who introduced vaccinations, was born in Berkeley and worked in the town in the late 1700s. His beautiful Georgian residence is now a museum dedicated to the “father of immunology.”
10. Tetbury
This town boasts historical connections to royalty, as Prince Charles resides in an estate nearby.
Begin your visit in the town center to view the distinctive Market House, which was established in 1655 and is supported by three rows of stone pillars.
It is just one among many listed structures in Tetbury, which has a rich history as a wool and yarn town, and is now well-known for its thriving antiques business.
As for Prince Charles, advance reservations are necessary to visit the Highgrove Gardens, designed under his guidance with assistance from botanical experts to conserve and showcase Britain’s indigenous plants and wildlife.
11. Bourton-on-the-Water
Nestled in a broad, shallow valley deep within the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water is an exceptionally charming village situated by the River Windrush.
The verdant waterside area is renowned for its beauty, attracting numerous visitors during the summer months who enjoy browsing the arts and crafts shops, relaxing by the river, and indulging in ice cream, pub fare, and traditional cream teas.
Several delightful attractions invite visitors to linger longer in the village, such as the Dragonfly Maze and the Bourton Model Village.
Additionally, one should not miss visiting the expansive Birdland, a wildlife park, and the Cotswold Motoring Museum, which showcases vehicles dating back to the earliest cars and motorcycles.
12. Stow-on-the-Wold
In this town, the stone exhibits a deeper honey hue than that found further south, distinctly visible at the marketplace which illustrates Stow’s historical significance.
Compared to other market towns, Stow’s square is notably expansive.
Historically, tens of thousands of sheep were traded in this very location during biannual livestock fairs first authorized in 1330 by Edward III. Today, the area is more tranquil, hosting tea rooms and quaint family-operated shops, along with ice cream vendors during the summer months.
However, both the market cross and town stocks, located under an ancient elm tree, remain, with a famous horse fair taking place every October in a field on the outskirts of town.
13. Moreton-in-Marsh
Moreton-in-Marsh is conveniently located near the boundaries of both Warwickshire and Oxfordshire.
Prior to the redefinition of county borders in 1931, Worcestershire also formed part of this quadripoint.
A boundary marker from the 1700s can still be found just west of Moreton.
As a stop along the Roman Fosse Way, this town has played a pivotal role in history as a prominent market and a resting place for travelers throughout the ages.
Moreton’s legacy as a staging post lives on through the numerous inns surrounding the marketplace, which is bustling with stalls every Tuesday.
Family-friendly attractions abound, including the Cotswold Falconry Centre and, for adults, Chastleton House—an exquisite Jacobean estate that was featured as the residence of the Seymour family in BBC’s acclaimed adaptation of Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall.
14. Lechlade-on-Thames
In the county’s southeasternmost corner lies Lechlade, an enchanting village with a notably strategic location.
This is recognized as the highest point at which the Thames is navigable for barges.
The Thames swells at Lechlade due to its tributaries—the Coln and the Leach—which also lend their name to the village.
The scenic Thames Path National Trail runs along the southern edge of the village, offering picturesque views of lush green meadows.
Visitors may feel inclined to take a leisurely stroll along the river, where they will encounter several concrete pillboxes, remnants of the early 1940s defensive line established during World War II.
15. Newent
In proximity to the Forest of Dean, Newent features a town center rich with historical architecture, earning it designation as a conservation area.
The Market House, which dates back to the 17th century, is elevated on wooden piles and was historically used for butter trading.
In September, the town is animated by the annual Onion Fayre, showcasing live music, market stalls, and onion-eating competitions.
Additionally, early spring is a splendid time to visit, as Newent is situated in the so-called Golden Triangle, known for its profusion of wild daffodils that flourish in the meadows and woods surrounding the town.
Guided walks are also available during this season to highlight the most picturesque locations.
