Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Cirencester, Gloucestershire

Some people recognize Cirencester as the Capital of the Cotswolds, but during Roman times, the town held a much more significant role.

At that period, Corinium Dobunnorum was the second largest settlement in the country, surpassing all except Londinium, featuring a substantial forum, basilica, and an amphitheatre capable of accommodating 8,000 spectators. This history is narrated at the Corinium Museum, while contemporary Cirencester presents a charming townscape adorned with vibrant Cotswold stone.

The Perpendicular Church of St John the Baptist dominates Cirencester’s skyline, and visitors can enjoy a blend of sightseeing and shopping at the New Brewery Arts studios, pleasant little lanes, and the well-known weekly antiques market at the Corn Hall.

Let’s delve into the most notable attractions in Cirencester:

1. Corinium Museum

Rich in fascinating artefacts from Cirencester’s extensive history, the Corinium Museum merits as much time as can be allocated.

Here, you will find one of the most prominent assemblages of Romano-British artefacts in the UK, remarkably sourced from the land beneath you.

Exhibits include mosaics, coins, architectural pieces, statues, steles, and ceramics; while Roman artefacts form the core of the collection, items from various other periods are also well represented.

You can explore a Saxon burial, a trove of Civil War-era coins, and Medieval sculptures, all enhanced by interactive technology that brings each historical period to life.

During school holidays, an engaging schedule of workshops is available where children can experiment with prehistoric painting, create pop-up books themed on the Ice Age, and construct Roman armour and mosaics.

2. Church of St John the Baptist

Gloucestershire’s largest parish church commands attention in the Market Place in Cirencester.

The structure dates back to the late 12th century, with identifiable early stonework in the chancel.

In the early decades of the 16th century, the church was embellished in lavish style, aided by contributions from affluent wool merchants.

These patrons and their families are commemorated with ornate monuments within.

The impressive Perpendicular castellated porch facing the Market Place was constructed during this period and features extraordinary fan vaulting on its ceiling.

The buttressed tower, surmounted by pinnacles and embellished with blind tracery, dates from the 1400s.

Check the schedule, as visitors can ascend the narrow staircase to the top on designated open days.

3. Sights Around Town

Cirencester’s town center merits a walking tour, particularly due to the charm of its stunning Cotswold stone.

Sheep Street, Castle Street, Park Street, and Market Place are all delightful to explore.

In Market Place, the splendid Corn Hall (1862), adorned with a balustrade, has transformed into a fashionable shopping mall.

Look out for the timber-framed Fleece Hotel on Market Place, a former coaching inn where, in 1651, it is believed Charles II spent the night following his escape from England after the Battle of Worcester.

Venture into the cozy Black Street for unique local shops and boutiques, and on Castle Street, you may be surprised by the notably regal branch of Lloyds Bank.

This Palladian mansion, constructed in 1720, was the residence of a prosperous wool stapler.

4. Cirencester Park

Uniquely for a country estate, the residence of the Earls Bathurst is nearly integrated into the town.

The grounds of the estate are accessible to the public free of charge from 08:00 to 17:00 daily.

Spanning five miles long and three miles wide, the park invites leisurely walks and was laid out in the 18th-century English Forest Style with its distinct geometry.

This design emphasizes tranquility over Baroque extravagance.

The poet and landscape architect Alexander Pope planted trees here over three decades, and visitors can stroll along scenic avenues, one of which is aligned with the tower of St John’s.

Dividing the house from the town is the tallest yew hedge globally, measuring 100 meters, while Cirencester Park Polo Club (1896), the oldest polo club in the UK, is situated within the grounds.

5. Cirencester Amphitheatre

To experience a segment of Corinium Dobunnorum, journey to the Roman amphitheatre located southwest of the town.

While it may not be an intact monument, as the stone terraces have been quarried and the wooden seats have deteriorated, you can still observe the complete earthworks of a venue designed for 8,000 spectators.

Aerial imagery provides insight into how this arena appeared in its 2nd-century prime.

Measuring 46m x 41m, this structure was repurposed as a fort during the 6th century as the Western Roman Empire collapsed.

The site is overseen by English Heritage, with informational boards for context.

6. New Brewery Arts

This arts and crafts center, situated in a repurposed Victorian brewery, features galleries, studios, a café, and a shop.

One of the most commendable aspects of New Brewery Arts is the interaction it facilitates with craftspeople, providing opportunities to observe their work in progress.

This site accommodates a variety of artisans, including ceramicists, glass-blowers, stained glass painters, jewellers, textile artists, book-binders, and upholsterers.

Additionally, the resident weaver is notable for utilizing a classic eight-shaft loom, unique in the UK.

A visit to the shop is recommended for unique homewares and one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry, while the café prioritizes fair-trade and organic ingredients whenever feasible.

Please check the website for a current schedule of courses, craft workshops, and seasonal activities for children.

7. Cerney House Gardens

Nestled in the Cotswolds countryside lies a captivating garden overlooking the Churn Valley.

Encircled by woodland, Cerney House Gardens are located within the grounds of a Georgian estate, revealing new wonders with each season.

The main highlight is the Victorian walled garden, showcasing delightful herbaceous borders and climbing roses on trellises.

In spring, visitors can marvel at daffodils and subsequently tulips, while bluebells blanket the woods.

A Romantic rockery is also present, where you can spend time reading the informative labels in the herb and kitchen gardens, which are especially vibrant in late summer.

These gardens prioritize organic practices, so while some signs of pests may be noticeable, the flowerbeds buzz with bees and butterflies throughout summer.

8. Abbey Grounds

Overlooking St John’s, Abbey Grounds serves as a public park steeped in historical significance.

This site was once home to the Augustinian Abbey of St Mary, which prospered during Medieval times through the wool industry.

Consecrated in the 12th century, the abbey was dismantled in the 16th century during Henry VIII’s dissolution of monasteries. Visitors will find evocative remnants of stonework from the abbey and the subsequent country house, along with artefacts unearthed in the 1960s showcased at the Corinium Museum.

Bordering the River Churn, the park provides a serene setting ideal for summer days, complete with a children’s playground and a bandstand hosting brass band performances on Sundays.

9. Chedworth Roman Villa

For a profound understanding of Roman history, one of Britain’s most extensive Roman villas is located ten miles to the north.

A National Trust site, this villa was constructed over several phases from the 2nd to the 4th centuries when it reached its zenith.

At its pinnacle, the villa featured a heated west wing with an exquisite dining room adorned with a captivating mosaic floor and two bathing suites.

This archaeological site was revealed 150 years ago and is partially protected by a modern conservation structure, allowing for raised walkways over bathhouses, hypocaust, and mosaics.

The scenic location, nestled within a lush Cotswold valley, is enhanced by winding trails that lead into the surrounding deciduous woodland.

There are dress-up baskets available for children, along with trails designed for younger visitors that depict life in a Roman villa and highlight local nature.

10. Rodmarton Manor

A distinguished example of Arts and Crafts architecture and interior design, Rodmarton Manor was completed over twenty years until 1929, according to designs by notable figures of the movement such as Ernest Barnsley, Sidney Barnsley, and Norman Jewson.

Almost all the fixtures and furnishings at Rodmarton Manor were specifically commissioned for the house and crafted locally by the Cotswold Group of Craftsmen.

This initiative even revitalized some craft skills that were in danger of being lost.

As you traverse this 74-room house, be sure to notice the applique wall-hangings by Hilda Benjamin, Norman Jewson’s leadwork and brass, as well as pottery and furniture created by Alfred and Louise Powell, alongside an array of expertly crafted ironwork.

The gardens are equally reflective of the Arts and Crafts ethos, featuring topiaries, yew hedges, a cherry orchard, a charming pavilion, and a kitchen garden supplying produce for the house.

11. Elemental Sculpture Park

Over the last two decades, this 20-acre expanse of mixed broadleaf and coniferous woodland has evolved into a venue for outdoor contemporary art.

The Elemental Sculpture Park is a dynamic environment, with paths meandering past ponds and into glades adorned with wildflowers.

During your stroll, you will encounter numerous sculptures with a rotating array of artists’ works.

There are more than 100 pieces displayed at any given time, many of which invite deeper contemplation and discussion with your companions.

Consider stopping by the Poppin Tearoom, which provides a delightful patio and an appealing selection of homemade cakes.

12. Cirencester Antiques and Collectables Market

Potentially the finest destination for antiques shopping outside London, the Cirencester Antiques and Collectables Market has been a staple for four decades and remains free to enter.

The market operates in the splendid Corn Hall every Friday from 08:00 to 15:00. Here, one can search for bargains within specialized stalls presenting clocks, jewellery, ceramics, glass, silverware, paintings, furniture, as well as ephemera such as postcards, maps, posters, coins, prints, and much more.

Arriving early is advisable to secure unique finds.

13. Annual Gloucestershire Vintage & Country Extravaganza

The South Cerney Airfield, located just outside of town, serves as the backdrop for an extraordinary showcase presented by the Stroud Vintage Transport & Engine Club.

This event, scheduled for early August, approaches its 45th anniversary, making it a significant occasion to note in your calendar.

The main feature is the vehicle exposition, which includes 70 full-sized moving steam engines, 90 stationary engines, 30 miniature engines, alongside over 700 classic automobiles, as well as numerous tractors, military vehicles, vintage trucks, and historical caravans.

Attendees will enjoy various live demonstrations, an old-time funfair, over 100 vintage trade stalls, specialized displays of nostalgic memorabilia, model tents, delectable food, live music, and even Lindy hop dancing.

14. Cotswold Water Park

Cirencester is positioned on the northern periphery of the UK’s largest system of marl lakes. These lakes were excavated for limestone gravel in the 20th century and have gradually filled with water since the 1970s.

The Cotswold Water Park is not a water park in the conventional sense of slides and pools; however, this landscape, comprised of 147 lakes, has much to offer.

Designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, the eastern section of the Water Park is a nature reserve that attracts various bird species, including great crested grebes, wigeons, sedge warblers, coots, among others, while rare snakeshead fritillaries and bee orchids flourish in the meadows.

Fishing, sailing, and paddleboarding are just a few of the numerous activities available to explore this beautiful environment.

From Kemble train station, a network of bike trails extends into the park, where you can also discover the source of the Thames at the Thames Path National Trail’s trailhead.

15. Cotswold Country Park and Beach

Located just minutes south of the town in the Cotswold Water Park, this family-friendly facility experienced a decline in reputation until its closure and subsequent reopening under new management in 2017. If traveling with younger family members, it is a suitable option, notably because it features a beach.

Situated in the heart of a vast system of reservoirs, the attraction boasts a newly upgraded beach with 100 tons of fresh sand.

In the water, an inflatable obstacle course is available, alongside activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and pedal-boating.

Additionally, two cafes are located near the water, as well as barbecue sites available for hire.