16 Enjoyable Issues To Do In Cirencester, Cotswolds
Whether or not you’re a historical past fanatic, an artwork lover, or just in search of a soothing getaway, there are a lot of nice issues to do in Cirencester. Guests can discover the beautiful structure of the Church of St. John the Baptist, wander via the bustling market sq., or benefit from the serene landscapes of Cirencester Park.
Uncover what makes this market city a must-visit vacation spot. Our listing of the highest sights and actions helps make planning your journey to Cirencester simple.
The place Is Cirencester?
Cirencester is a market city in Gloucestershire, England. It’s positioned within the Cotswold Hills, roughly 80 miles (130 kilometers) west of London.
The city is sometimes called the “Capital of the Cotswolds” resulting from its central location inside this scenic space. It’s about 15 miles (24 km) southwest of Cheltenham and 17 miles (27 km) northwest of Swindon.
The River Churn, a tributary of the River Thames, flows via the city.
A Temporary Historical past of Cirencester
Cirencester has a wealthy historical past relationship again to Roman instances. It was often called Corinium Dobunnorum and was the second-largest city in Roman Britain after London.
Cirencester was an essential administrative middle with main Roman roads intersecting right here. A Roman amphitheater and elaborate public buildings had been constructed throughout this time.
After the Roman withdrawal, it turned a part of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Mercia. Cirencester Abbey was based in 1117, boosting the city’s significance.
Through the medieval interval, Cirencester prospered as a wool buying and selling middle. St. John the Baptist Church, which is among the largest parish church buildings in England, was constructed.
The wool commerce continued to flourish within the Sixteenth-Seventeenth centuries, aka the Tudor and Stuart Eras. Cirencester was held by a number of completely different forces in the course of the English Civil Conflict.
Within the Georgian and Victorian Eras, it turned a trendy market city. The Royal Agricultural School (now college) was based in 1845.
Right this moment, Cirencester is a well-liked vacationer vacation spot identified for its Roman historical past, lovely Cotswold stone structure, and surrounding countryside.
High Issues to Do in Cirencester, Cotswolds
Listed here are the highest issues to do close to Cirencester that showcase its wealthy historical past, distinctive tradition, and beautiful landscapes.
These locations encapsulate the essence of days out in Cirencester; every place affords distinctive experiences that mix historic discovery with up to date enjoyment.
1. Corinium Museum
The Corinium Museum transports you to the period when Cirencester was acknowledged as Corinium, an important location in Roman Britain. This well-liked vacationer attraction which opened in 1938 options an in depth compilation of historical artifacts bringing to mild the city’s considerable historical past.
Guests can admire a few of the most finely conserved Roman mosaics in England, study remnants from Roman Britain, and uncover riches that depict every day life centuries again. The collections had been initially made by the Fourth Earl Bathurst and Main Wilfred Cripps and introduced to the city in 1936.
Each show narrates a story, providing an understanding of how people lived, labored, and loved on this historic hub.


2. Unbiased Retailers
Take time to discover the various, stand-alone shops adorning the streets of Cirencester. Visiting these outlets is undoubtedly a spotlight for anybody in search of enjoyable actions on this picturesque city.
These enchanting boutiques supply hand-crafted presents, custom-made clothes and native hand-made meals, making them good spots to expertise in Cirencester. Every retailer exudes a singular aura and attraction, providing guests a customized purchasing expertise distinct from normal retail chains.
These shops not solely empower native artisans and producers but additionally play a vital position in sustaining the city’s full of life group. Within the Corn Corridor there are indoor markets going down on daily basis of the week – from the Friday Antiques & Collectables Market to the Saturday Craft Market.


3. Cirencester Park Polo Membership & Brasserie
With its illustrious heritage firmly rooted in Cotswold custom, Cirencester Park Polo Membership stands as an embodiment of magnificence and athleticism. The membership’s wealthy historical past and dedication to selling polo as each a sport and a social occasion make it a must-visit for sports activities fanatics and cultural explorers alike.
Established in 1894, that is the oldest polo area and membership within the UK. In a scenic setting, guests can witness thrilling polo matches and tournaments.
Whether or not observing seasoned gamers or studying find out how to play polo on their rigorously maintained grounds, guests are certain to be charmed by the timeless attract of this esteemed sporting venue. We had nice enjoyable throughout our polo lesson with Ollie, who’s an knowledgeable trainer.
The Cirencester Park Polo Brasserie serves scrumptious do-it-yourself meals ready by gifted chef Ethan Rodgers and crew. There’s ample seating indoors and in addition a terrace overlooking the grounds.
We loved a 3 course lunch with prawn cocktail, sea bass with heritage tomatoes, rooster salad and Eton Mess to complete. The restaurant is open from Wednesday to Sunday.






4. Barn Theatre
The Barn Theatre is a cultural gem in Cirencester, providing top-notch stay performances and leisure. This theatre showcases a various vary of productions, together with traditional performs, musicals, and up to date works.
With its dedication to excellence, The Barn Theatre has gained recognition as probably the greatest locations to expertise performing arts in Cirencester. Company can seize dinner at Teatro, the on-site restaurant or a drink within the Barn Theatre bar.
Past its creative choices, The Barn Theatre actively engages with the group via instructional packages and outreach initiatives. The theater’s dedication to enriching the lives of residents and guests alike provides depth to its position as a vibrant cultural hub inside Cirencester.


5. Cirencester Park
Cirencester Park, a historic property relationship again to the eleventh century, spans over 3,000 acres of beautiful parkland. It’s dwelling to an array of wildlife and affords picturesque strolling trails for guests to discover.
The expansive grounds additionally present the proper setting for picnics and leisurely strolls amidst historical woodlands and manicured gardens. As you wander via this idyllic house, maintain a watch out for the spectacular structure of Cirencester Mansion Home, which stands on the coronary heart of the park.
Cirencester Park has been rigorously maintained since its creation in 1702 by the primary Earl of Bathurst. Guests should pay to enter sections of the park, though a move will not be required to enter The Outdated Kennels, its courtyards, the play space and the Jubilee Group Arboretum.


6. Dinner at Teatro
At Teatro, take pleasure in a pleasant eating expertise with a various menu that includes Italian and Mediterranean delicacies. The restaurant affords an intimate and alluring ambiance, good for a romantic dinner or a particular celebration. There’s a big courtyard backyard for sunny days, and a piano bar part the place you’ll be able to take pleasure in stay music a number of nights every week.
Teatro supplies a perfect setting to savor delectable dishes ready utilizing recent native elements. Company may also take pleasure in an in depth collection of wonderful wines to enrich their meal.


This acclaimed Cirencester restaurant stands out for its distinctive service and a focus to element in each its menu choices and presentation. Whether or not you’re craving traditional pasta dishes or modern seafood creations, Teatro’s menu caters to varied tastes whereas showcasing the best flavors of the area.
We extremely advocate the Twice Baked Cheese Souffle, Burrata with Heritage Tomatoes and the Moules Marinieres, in addition to the Native Breed Pork Store ready on a Josper grill. End with a succulent Chocolate Delice or a Sticky Toffee Pudding.
The restaurant’s dedication to offering a memorable eating expertise makes it a must-visit vacation spot for these trying to take pleasure in an unforgettable meal throughout their keep within the Cotswolds.




7. St John Baptist Cirencester
St John Baptist Church in Cirencester proudly holds the title of the biggest parish church in Gloucestershire. Relationship again to the twelfth century, this historic monument showcases a formidable Perpendicular Gothic structure and is famend for its beautiful medieval stained glass home windows.
Moreover, the church is dwelling to a set of fantastically carved wood screens from the fifteenth century, a uncommon Saxon arch and Anne Boleyn’s Cup. Company can take guided excursions to discover the wealthy historical past and architectural significance of this iconic landmark.
The Church of St John Baptist additionally hosts varied occasions all year long, together with classical concert events and artwork exhibitions, making it not only a place of worship but additionally a cultural hub inside Cirencester’s vibrant group.


8. Abbey Grounds
Abbey Grounds, located within the coronary heart of Cirencester, is a scenic park with fascinating inexperienced areas and spectacular historic stays. Guests can discover the remnants of a Roman wall and see the unique Norman gate home.
The park additionally boasts an enthralling lake the place one can take pleasure in a leisurely stroll by the water’s edge. All year long, varied occasions and actions are hosted right here, creating an enticing ambiance for locals and vacationers alike.
With its mix of historical past and pure magnificence, Abbey Grounds affords guests a chance to immerse themselves in each the heritage and tranquility of Cirencester.


9. New Brewery Arts
New Brewery Arts hosts an array of latest crafts, together with ceramics, glasswork, and jewellery. It supplies a platform for native artists to showcase their work and affords workshops for guests to attempt their hand at varied craft actions.
The gallery store options distinctive handmade merchandise which might be good as souvenirs or presents. Guests may also benefit from the on-site café, serving domestically sourced delicacies and providing a soothing house to unwind.
The New Brewery Arts is thought for its numerous assortment of artworks and crafts, making it a must-visit attraction in Cirencester. With its give attention to native expertise and hands-on experiences via workshops, it has turn out to be a hub for creativity inside the group.


10. Roman Amphitheatre
The Roman Amphitheatre in Cirencester is a formidable historic website that dates again to the Roman occupation of Britain. With a capability for over 8,000 folks, this historical construction was as soon as used for public occasions and gladiatorial fight.
The stays of the amphitheater are well-preserved, providing guests a glimpse into the previous and offering a chance to soak up its wealthy historical past.
Notably, Cirencester Roman Amphitheatre stands as an impressive testomony to the area’s previous, and it additionally affords beautiful views of the encompassing countryside. Located on Cotswold limestone, it serves as an intriguing attraction for historical past fanatics and curious vacationers alike.
The positioning supplies an enchanting perception into life in the course of the Roman period whereas including depth to Cirencester’s attraction as a prime historic vacation spot inside the Cotswolds.


11. Cirencester Open Air Swimming Pool
Since 1870, Cirencester Open Air Swimming Pool affords a refreshing expertise on the coronary heart of Cirencester. With various opening hours from morning to early night, guests can take pleasure in a dip or some leisurely swimming.
This spring water pool is positioned on Riverside Stroll and is a perfect spot for households and people to unwind and funky off throughout heat climate.
With altering rooms and a tuck store serving drinks and ice lotions, this attraction caters to all ages in search of to take advantage of the outside whereas staying lively and having fun with a swim beneath sunny skies.


12. Dinner at Stratton Home
Stratton Home affords a pleasant eating expertise in Cirencester. The menu includes a mixture of traditional British delicacies and domestically sourced elements.
With its elegant ambiance and attentive service, The Backyard Restaurant is a perfect spot for guests trying to savor native flavors in consolation and magnificence. Company can take pleasure in dishes resembling baked camembert and pan-seared sea bass or succulent roasted lamb whereas having fun with the charming environment of this historic constructing.
The rigorously curated wine listing enhances every dish completely, including to the general culinary expertise. In Summertime, company can dine on the terrace with its picturesque backyard views.






13. Water Sports activities at Cotswold Water Park
Discover quite a lot of water sports activities at Cotswold Water Park, good for adventurers searching for extra than simply sightseeing. With 180 lakes and an array of actions, together with paddleboarding, kayaking, windsurfing, and crusing, there’s one thing for everybody.
Whether or not you’re navigating the intricate waterways or venturing on custom-made experiences tailor-made in the direction of adrenaline seekers, the park affords an ever-changing realm of aquatic adventures.
Not solely does it function one of many prime sights in Cirencester but additionally supplies a first-hand expertise for thrill-seekers. So in the event you’re contemplating diving into exhilarating water-based actions throughout your go to to Cirencester, think about the choices at Cotswold Water Park.


14. Supply of the River Thames
Think about a go to to the supply of the River Thames for a singular expertise. The Thames begins as a small spring within the village of Kemble close to Cirencester, the place guests can witness the standard starting of England’s most well-known river.
Surrounded by picturesque countryside, this group of seasonal springs affords a serene setting for nature lovers and outside fanatics.
The supply of River Thames is a vital cease for these interested by understanding the historical past and pure great thing about the Cotswolds area. There’s a marker stone in a meadow referred to as Trewsbury Mead, which has the best positioned springs.


15. Cotswold Sculpture Park
Positioned simply outdoors Cirencester, the Cotswold Sculpture Park presents a formidable 10-acre outside gallery that showcases over 300 sculptures created by greater than 80 completely different artists.
Set amidst lovely environment, this park affords a singular alternative to understand up to date artwork in a peaceable and pure setting. Guests can wander via the serene panorama whereas admiring all kinds of sculptures crafted from supplies resembling stone, steel, and wooden.
With its numerous vary of items on show all year long, this park is a hidden gem ready to be explored by vacationers in search of one thing distinctive throughout their go to to Cirencester.


16. Chedworth Roman Villa
A go to to Chedworth Roman Villa affords perception into the world’s wealthy historical past. The villa, relationship again to the 2nd century AD, is an distinctive archaeological website that includes well-preserved Roman mosaics and bathhouses.
This historical property supplies a glimpse into the lavish way of life of its former inhabitants and showcases superior heating methods that had been forward of their time.
Chedworth Roman Villa is among the largest in England and boasts fascinating shows of intricate mosaic flooring, illustrating scenes from classical mythology. Guests may also witness how the Romans ingeniously managed water provide on this grand property.


17. Cotswold Nation Park and Seashore
Cotswold Nation Park and Seashore boasts the biggest inland seashore within the UK. The park spans 42 sq. miles and affords alternatives for biking, SUP and kayaking, hen watching, mini golf, and picnicking towards the picturesque backdrop of the Cotswold Water Park.
The unreal seashore space is ideal for households to take pleasure in swimming or constructing sandcastles within the designated protected swim zone. There’s an array of amenities like a café, playgrounds, BBQ areas, and bookable pedal go-karts.
AquaVenture is the biggest inflatable waterpark within the space.


The place to Keep in Cirencester
Ingleside Home stands out as one of many prime resorts in Cirencester, providing trendy lodging and glorious service. Positioned on Beeches Highway inside strolling distance of Cirencester city middle, company can simply discover the native impartial outlets and vacationer sights.
This elegant resort boasts 11 well-appointed rooms and suites, providing company a soothing retreat in a picturesque setting. The Grade II listed constructing has undergone cautious restoration to protect its historic options whereas incorporating all mod cons.
We cherished the Roberts radio and lovely tub in our King Measurement Tremendous Deluxe Room. The Backyard Room is one other lovely house, open to resort residents.
Ingleside Home has a well-liked restaurant referred to as Teatro. The constructing additionally consists of occasion areas for varied features and an enormous backyard.
The serene environment of Ingleside Home present a peaceable retreat after a day of exploring Cirencester’s sights or participating in outside actions at Cotswold Water Park or Chedworth Roman Villa.




How you can Get to Cirencester
There are a number of methods to get to Cirencester, relying in your place to begin and most popular mode of transportation:
- By Automobile:
- From London: Take the M4 westbound, then exit onto the A419 north in the direction of Cirencester.
- From Birmingham: Take the M5 southbound, then exit onto the A417 in the direction of Cirencester.
- The city is definitely accessible from different elements of the UK through the A417 and A429.
- By Practice:
- The closest prepare station is Kemble, about 4 miles (6.4 km) from Cirencester.
- Common companies run from London Paddington to Kemble (journey time about 1 hour quarter-hour).
- From Kemble, you’ll be able to take a taxi or bus to Cirencester.
- By Air:
- The closest airports are Bristol (46 miles/74 km) and Birmingham (64 miles/103 km).
- From these airports, you’ll be able to lease a automotive or take public transport to Cirencester.


Parking in Cirencester
Parking in Cirencester is mostly well-managed, with a number of choices obtainable. Right here’s an summary of parking within the city:
- Automobile Parks:
- Discussion board: A big, central automotive park with each brief and long-stay choices.
- The Brewery: One other centrally positioned automotive park, good for brief stays.
- Waterloo: Appropriate for longer stays, barely farther from the middle.
- Abbey Grounds: Near the city middle, good for brief visits.
- The Beeches: An extended-stay automotive park, barely additional out however nonetheless walkable to the middle.
- On-Road Parking:
- Restricted on-street parking is offered within the city middle, normally with time restrictions.
- Some residential areas close to the middle have parking restrictions, so verify indicators rigorously.
- Park and Journey:
- Cirencester doesn’t have a devoted park and trip service, however a few of the outer automotive parks (like Beeches) serve an identical goal.
- Disabled Parking:
- Designated disabled parking areas can be found in most automotive parks and a few on-street places.
- Cost Choices:
- Most automotive parks supply pay-and-display machines accepting cash and generally playing cards.
- Some automotive parks could have cellular cost choices – verify native signage for particulars.
Conclusion
Discover Cirencester, Cotswolds with a plethora of actions and experiences. Immerse your self within the fascinating historical past at Corinium Museum or take pleasure in a soothing stroll via Abbey Grounds.
It’s also possible to take pleasure in outside adventures at Cotswold Water Park or go to the exceptional Chedworth Roman Villa. Whether or not you’re a historical past buff, nature lover, or journey seeker, Cirencester affords one thing for everybody to take pleasure in!
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