Cirencester is an enthralling market city situated within the coronary heart of the Cotswolds. With a wealthy historical past courting again to Roman instances, there are a lot of great issues to do in Cirencester from exploring the bustling city heart to close by nature walks, stately houses, and extra.
The city is dwelling to a number of boutique retailers, eating places, and cafes and there are weekly markets, in addition to a bi-monthly farmers’ market, promoting native produce, beers, wines, and handmade items. A number of the high locations to go to in Cirencester embody the Corinium Museum and the Roman Amphitheatre.
I’ve been visiting the Cotswolds for years and I typically discover Cirencester makes an important base for exploring the Cotswolds Space of Excellent Pure Magnificence. The close by cities and villages reminiscent of Bibury, Bourton on the Water, Stroud, and Chipping Norton are all reachable in below an hour by automotive. Take a look at Uncover Vehicles for reductions on leases.
Greatest Issues To Do in Cirencester
Beneath, you’ll discover a collection of one of the best issues to do in Cirencester from exploring the charming city heart to enjoyable within the many parks and gardens and trying out historic websites and museums just like the Roman amphitheater and villa at Chedworth.
1. Store on the Weekly Markets
Top-of-the-line issues to do in Cirencester is to take a look at the weekly markets. The Constitution Market takes place each Monday and Friday within the Market Place between 10 am and three pm. Right here, you’ll be able to decide up a spread of products from regionally made meals and drinks to handicrafts, garments, and presents.
Across the Market Place, you’ll additionally discover the Corn Corridor Indoor Market which holds common specialty stalls from artisan meals to classic clothes and extra. On the second and fourth Saturday of the month is the Cirencester Farmers’ Market the place you’ll be able to decide up specialty meals, drinks, and produce from native farmers.
Looking the markets is one in every of my favourite issues to do once I’m on the town and I do know each time I go to, I’m positive to finish up shopping for a number of bits and items (normally handmade cooking sauces and native brews). The Market Place overlooks the beautiful Chuch of St John the Baptist which is nicely value trying out too (see under).
Handle: Bingham Home, 1 Dyer St, Cirencester GL7 2NX, United Kingdom. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Go to the Corinium Museum
If, like me, you’re fascinated by Roman historical past, (being born within the Roman capital of Britain most likely has one thing to do with it), then you definitely’ll wish to head to the wonderful Corinium Museum which homes one of the crucial spectacular Roman collections within the nation.
Right here, you’ll discover a wealth of regionally excavated stays and displays from flooring mosaics to sculptures and rather more. This is without doubt one of the greatest museums within the nation and is nicely value an hour or two to browse the shows. This is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Cirencester for households because it’s each instructional and interesting.
The Corinium is open from 10 am till 5 pm from Monday to Saturday and a pair of pm till 5 pm on Sundays. Entrance prices £7.40 for adults and £4.60 for kids aged 5 to 16. There’s a present store and cafe that sells cold and hot drinks and light-weight snacks.
Handle: Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX, United Kingdom. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Take a Stroll Round Cirencester Park
The beautiful Cirencester Park was initially created as a deer park within the 18th Century and in addition served as a navy base throughout the First and Second world wars. The park covers an space of over 3,000 acres of woodland and open pasture that was as soon as thought of the largest park on the planet.
The park is open each day from 8 am to five pm and is free to enter. Canines are allowed however have to be stored on a lead, and there are designated signposted trails particularly for canine strolling. Contained in the park, you’ll discover the spectacular Cecily Hill Gates which is a Grade I listed constructing used to type a part of the navy barracks.
Simply contained in the Cecily Hill Gates is the Beano espresso stand the place you’ll be able to seize a espresso and a snack. It’s also possible to decide up provides from one of many supermarkets within the city because the park is the right place for a picnic. There isn’t an entry price and so visiting the park is without doubt one of the greatest free issues to do in Cirencester.
Handle: Cecily Hill, Cirencester GL7 2EF, United Kingdom. Click on right here for instructions.
4. Go to Cerney Home and Gardens
The picturesque Cerney Home and Gardens accommodates unique Victorian Gardens which have been stored and maintained by the Angus household for a whole bunch of years. This is without doubt one of the greatest locations to go to close to Cirencester for those who’re trying to escape into some beautiful nation environment.
Contained in the gardens, you’ll discover hidden walkways crisscrossing the property and secluded spots hidden by excessive partitions and crops. Cerney Home holds common occasions together with foraging walks that are an effective way to find out about native edible crops.
The gardens are open to the general public day by day between 10 am and seven pm (contact for visits exterior these hours) and price £6 for adults and simply £1 for kids. Canines are additionally welcome however have to be stored on a lead. Visiting these stunning gardens is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do round Cirencester.
Handle: Cerney Home, North Cerney, Cirencester GL7 7BX, United Kingdom. Click on right here for instructions.
5. See the Church of St John the Baptist
The Church of St John the Baptist is situated within the Market Place and was first a part of an Augustinian monastery that dates again to 1117. The church is constructed with the native Cotswold Stone which can also be used for lots of the cute cottages throughout the area. The church and tower as you see it in the present day was accomplished within the fifteenth Century.
St John’s is a working church however it’s potential to each go searching or attend a service. Inside, you’ll discover guides in a wide range of languages providing you with a historical past of the church. There are additionally guided excursions obtainable on Tuesdays and Thursdays every week (ask inside for particulars).
This spectacular church is unquestionably one of many high Cirencester points of interest and might be mixed with a go to to the markets round Market Place.
Handle: 5 Market Place, Cirencester GL7 2NX, United Kingdom. Click on right here for instructions.
6. Take a Dip within the Open Air Swimming Pool
One in every of my favourite issues to do on a scorching summer time’s day is to take a dip someplace and the open-air swimming pool subsequent to Cecily Hill and the park is the right place to chill off. The pool has incredible views of the Cecily Gates and surrounding parkland and is unquestionably the most effective issues to do in Cirencester for households and teams of associates.
The pool first opened in 1870 and guests have loved splashing about right here ever since. In contrast to many others across the UK (together with my native one), the pool at Cirencester is heated so you’ll be able to take pleasure in it even when the solar isn’t making a lot of an look. That is undoubtedly one of the crucial enjoyable issues to do in Cirencester throughout the summer time.
There are completely different classes all through the week (afternoons and weekends are open swims, so everyone seems to be welcome and also you don’t must e book). Different classes embody lane swims, aqua aerobics, and kids’s swimming classes. See the web site for extra info and to e book courses. Open each day from 7 am to 7 pm.
Handle: Riverside Stroll, Thomas Road, Cirencester GL7 2EF, United Kingdom. Click on right here for instructions.
7. See the Roman Amphitheater
Though not intact like amphitheaters present in Greece and Italy, the archaeological website of the Roman amphitheater is nicely value a go to for historical past lovers (like me). The remaining artworks signify what was as soon as one of many largest amphitheaters in Britain.
That is one other of one of the best free issues to do in Cirencester and is without doubt one of the high locations to see within the city. The location is open throughout daylight all year long and there’s free onsite parking. The encompassing space is a good place for a stroll or a picnic and canines are welcome.
Handle: 30 Cotswold Ave, Cirencester GL7 1XW, United Kingdom. Click on right here for instructions.
8. Examine Out New Brewery Arts House
The New Brewery Arts House is situated inside an previous brewery constructing that closed in 1937. The constructing was attributable to be demolished however was saved by an area group of artists and changed into the inventive house it’s in the present day. When you’re on the lookout for stuff to do in Cirencester the New Brewery has a lot occurring and is unquestionably value stopping by.
The house features a gallery, craft store, cafe, and workshop amenities the place artists and makers can develop their expertise and showcase their work. The venue additionally hosts a variety of occasions and exhibitions all year long, together with performances, talks, workshops, and courses.
Examine the web site to see what’s occurring throughout your go to or simply pop in and see what’s at present on show within the gallery. It’s also possible to go to the onsite Glaze Cafe for a lightweight lunch, a cup of espresso, and a collection of yummy home made truffles and different treats.
Handle: Brewery Court docket, Cricklade St, Cirencester GL7 1JH, United Kingdom. Click on right here for instructions.
9. Go to the Westonbirt Arboretum
One of many high issues to do close to Cirencester is to go to the Westonbirt Arboretum. Discover timber and crops from around the globe on this magical backyard that’s successful with company of all ages. With over 2,500 completely different species unfold throughout an unlimited space, it is a great place to flee into nature.
There’s an aerial walkway above the timber for spectacular views, an outside cinema for night leisure below the celebs, and a restaurant serving a collection of cold and hot drinks and snacks. That is one in every of my favourite locations to go to in Cirencester as there’s at all times a lot to see and do.
The arboretum is open day by day from 9 am to five pm. Canines are allowed and there are areas the place they are often let off the lead. Tickets value £12 for adults and £4 for kids and there’s free onsite parking.
Handle: Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS, United Kingdom. Click on right here for instructions.
10. Spend a Day on the Cotswolds Water Park
One of many high vacationer points of interest in Cirencester is the Cotswolds Water Park on the outskirts of city. This isn’t your typical water park with slides and flumes although; it’s made up of 180 lakes over 42 sq. miles. There are many enjoyable actions on supply from riverside walks and picnics to boating, kayaking, and swimming.
This wetland habitat is a breeding floor for hundreds of fowl species and is the right place for wildlife watching all year long. There’s even a sandy seashore for swimming, making sandcastles, and a number of various watersports to strive. You’ll additionally discover a seashore shack cafe right here, and it’s potential to rent your individual BBQ if you wish to cook dinner up your individual lunch.
I like visiting the water park as there’s a lot to do, and in summer time I’m the primary into the lake for a swim (normally adopted by beers and a bbq on the lakeshore). It’s potential to remain throughout the water park in one of many many inns, B&Bs, or below canvas with each tenting and glamping choices obtainable. Click on right here for more information.
Handle: Rigsby’s Ln, Cirencester GL7 6FJ, UK. Click on right here for instructions.
11. Hike A part of the Thames Path Nationwide Path
It’d shock you to know that the supply of the River Thames is situated in a meadow three miles from Cirencester. The spring of Lyd Effectively at Thames Head is nothing however a trickle that belies its development into one of the crucial well-known rivers within the nation.
Top-of-the-line methods to go to the spring is to hike a part of the scenic Thames Path Nationwide Path which runs for 148 miles (240 km) from Tewsbury Mead close to Cirencester to the Thames Barrer in east London.
This 12-mile (20 km) point-to-point part from Thames Head to Cricklade is for critical hikers because it’s reasonably troublesome and takes round 5 hours to finish. The route is extraordinarily various and gives beautiful views of the rolling hills of the Cotswolds.
12. See the Chedworth Roman Villa
Go to the ruins of a 4th Century Roman villa at close by Chedworth which is only a 20-minute drive from the city. I like exploring Roman ruins and have been fortunate sufficient to go to websites throughout England, Italy, Greece, and Turkey. Out of all of the websites I’ve seen, the villa at Chedworth is unquestionably one in every of my favorites.
This is without doubt one of the most spectacular websites in England with flooring mosaics nonetheless in situ, bathhouses, and a water shrine. There’s an onsite museum with finds from the realm, a store promoting souvenirs and academic presents, and a restaurant promoting cold and hot drinks, ice lotions, and different goodies.
The villa and museum are open each day from 9 am to five pm and tickets value £12 for adults and £6 for kids.
Handle: Chedworth Roman Villa, Cheltenham GL54 3LJ, United Kingdom. Click on right here for instructions.
13. Take a Cotswolds Tour of Britain’s Prettiest Villages
Taking a tour of the Cotswolds is the easiest way to get on the market and see a number of the prettiest cities and villages in England. Public transport within the area isn’t nice so aside from having your individual car, taking a tour means you’ll be able to slot in many locations in any other case unreachable.
A number of the high locations to go to embody Fortress Combe, Chipping Norton, Bourton on the Water, and Stow on the Wold. Excursions depart from London, Oxford, Tub, and Stratford upon Avon.
14. Go to Bibury
Bibury is without doubt one of the most picturesque villages within the Cotswolds (and certainly the entire of England) and is a must-visit when staying in Cirencester because it’s simply 7.5 miles (12 km) from the middle of city. Right here, you’ll discover picture-perfect stone cottages with thatched roofs, manicured lawns, and brightly coloured flowerbeds.
See the well-known Arlington Row homes that date again to the 14th Century, stroll alongside the beautiful River Coln that winds its method by means of the village, and cease for lunch at The Catherine Wheel (their Sunday roast is superb).
One of the simplest ways to get to Bibury from Cirencester is to drive which can take you simply quarter-hour. There aren’t any buses however you’ll be able to take a taxi or e book an Uber. Another choice is to stroll which ought to take round two and a half hours.
15. Go to the Metropolis of Tub
The beautiful metropolis of Tub lies simply 36 miles (58 km) to the south of Cirencester and takes lower than an hour to drive to (or 90 minutes to 2 hours by prepare as you’ll want to vary in Swindon). This incredible metropolis is nicely value a day journey to see the well-known Roman baths, take a dip in a spa, and research Georgian structure.
Tub is one in every of my favourite cities in England and is a must-visit when within the Westcountry. There are additionally a number of glorious pubs and eating places, boutique retailers, and loads of picturesque walks across the city alongside the River Avon or Kennet and Avon Canal.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Cirencester
When you’re undecided what to see in Cirencester first, these useful itineraries will assist you to get essentially the most out of your go to. Whether or not you have a day to spend or for much longer, these itineraries embody all the highest issues to do in Cirencester:
1 Day in Cirencester Itinerary
With simply at some point in Cirencester, you’ll want to take within the high issues to see within the city such because the Church of St John the Baptist, the Corinium Museum, and the gorgeous park. Cease for a spot of lunch on the MBB Brasserie earlier than persevering with to discover the city. When you’re visiting on a Monday, Friday, or the 2nd or 4th Saturday of the month, you’ll want to cease by the Market Place.
2-3 Days in Cirencester Itinerary
With a number of days to discover, make certain to see the archaeological websites of the Roman amphitheater and the Roman Villa at close by Chedworth. If the climate is nice head to the open-air swimming pool or Cotswold Water Park for boating on the numerous lakes on the outskirts of city.
When you take pleasure in getting exterior, you’ll be able to hike a stretch of the Thames Path Nationwide Path or see the spectacular Cerney Home and Gardens. Attempt some extra of the native pubs and eating places like the wonderful Tierra and Mar or the comfy Bear Inn.
1 Week in Cirencester Itinerary
With every week to spend within the city, comply with the above itineraries for the primary three days and add in visits to locations throughout the Cotswolds Space of Excellent Pure Magnificence. See the cities of Stroud and Chipping Norton and the picturesque villages of Bibury and Bourton on the Water. It’s also possible to add in a day journey to the close by metropolis of Tub.
The place to Keep in Cirencester
These are a number of of one of the best locations to remain in Cirencester for vacationers:
Kings Head Lodge – Greatest for First-Time Guests
The Kings Head Lodge is a boutique lodge situated within the coronary heart of the city. Right here, you’ll discover elegant and trendy visitor rooms full with en-suite bogs, air-con, flatscreen TVs, and the chance to loosen up with a therapy day. There’s additionally an onsite restaurant and bar. Click on right here to search out out extra.
Corinium Lodge and Restaurant – Greatest for {Couples}
The beautiful Corinium Lodge and Restaurant is situated on a quiet aspect avenue only a five-minute stroll away from the city heart. The lodge dates again to the sixteenth Century and is without doubt one of the most romantic locations to remain in Cirencester for {couples}. There’s a big backyard and an out of doors restaurant excellent for summer time al-fresco eating. Click on right here to e book.
The Previous Brewhouse – Greatest for Households
The seventeenth Century Previous Brewhouse is a mattress and breakfast located within the coronary heart of Cirencester that provides trendy and comfy rooms with en-suite bogs (tub or bathe obtainable). Rooms include a Flatscreen TV, DVD participant, and tea and coffee-making amenities. There’s additionally a reasonably, patio backyard for company to take pleasure in. Click on right here to be taught extra.
Greatest Eating places in Cirencester
Discover a collection of one of the best locations to eat (and drink) in Cirencester listed under. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a snack, pub grub, effective eating, or cuisines from around the globe, there’s one thing for everybody.
Teatro: Teatro is a wonderful bar and restaurant that was established in 2017 by the house owners of the close by Ingleside Lodge. Anticipate a high-end eating expertise and be pleasantly shocked by the very affordable costs (mains below £20). The crispy pork and Asian salad is a must-try. Click on right here for instructions.
Tierra & Mar: I like Spanish meals and Tierra & Mar restaurant within the coronary heart of the Cotswolds gives a style of Spain utilizing the freshest native components. From paella to the Iberian platter and glorious tapas choices, that is someplace I like to come back for a chunk to eat when on the town. Attempt the five-course tapas-sharing menu from £32 per individual. Click on right here for instructions.
The Bear Inn: The Bear Inn is a comfy, 18th-Century pub within the coronary heart of the city that serves up a number of the greatest pub meals within the Cotswolds and is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Cirencester at evening. From gentle lunches to an fascinating night menu that includes the likes of burgers, Korean pork, haddock fishcakes, and extra, there’s one thing for everybody. Click on right here for instructions.
MBB Brasserie: The MBB Brasserie is a cultured brasserie with an open kitchen and is without doubt one of the high locations to eat in Cirencester. The menu options British classics with a contemporary twist. From grilled aubergine steak to battered haddock and shoulder of lamb, there’s one thing to excite even the fussiest of tastebuds. Click on right here for instructions.
Thai Emerald: Simply since you’re within the coronary heart of the Cotswolds doesn’t imply you’ll be able to’t take pleasure in a style of South East Asia. I like Thai meals and the Thai Emerald serves up genuine dishes from curries to Phad Thai and Tom Yum soup. This is without doubt one of the greatest Thai locations I’ve eaten at. Click on right here for instructions.
Attending to Cirencester
The closest worldwide airport to Cirencester is Bristol which is 40 miles to the southwest. It takes round 80 minutes to drive by way of the M4 and A429. It’s also possible to take a shuttle bus to Bristol after which take one of many many hourly trains into Cirencester (change at Swindon).
From London, Cirencester is a two-hour drive alongside the M4. There are additionally hourly trains that depart from London Paddington with journey instances below two hours. There are additionally hourly coach providers from London’s Victoria Coach Station which is the most affordable methodology and takes solely half-hour longer than the prepare.
Another choice from London is that this enjoyable, small-group, day journey to the Cotswolds. The tour takes in Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and extra. Click on right here for particulars and to e book your spot.
Because it’s such a small city, all the key points of interest in Cirencester are inside strolling distance. Nonetheless, to get essentially the most out of a visit to the Cotswolds it’s nicely value hiring a automotive so you’ll be able to discover the lovable cities and villages that aren’t accessible utilizing public transport (which is most of them).
Issues To Do in Cirencester: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Cirencester:
Cirencester is understood for its Roman historical past and proximity to the Cotswolds Space of Excellent Pure Magnificence.
Spring to Fall is one of the best time to go to Cirencester to reap the benefits of its many out of doors points of interest and discover the gorgeous countryside that surrounds it. To benefit from the open-air swimming pool and lengthy evenings eating al-fresco, summer time is greatest.
Cirencester is unquestionably value visiting, particularly for those who’re desirous about Roman historical past like me. It’s additionally an important vacation spot for foodies as eating places and pubs within the city use native components from across the Cotswolds and Westcountry (native meats, cheese, and naturally cider).
Because it’s a small city two to a few days is sufficient time for sightseeing in Cirencester, however for those who want to discover the broader Cotswolds (which you undoubtedly ought to) then every week will permit you to go to a number of the different picturesque cities and villages throughout the area.
Cirencester is a protected place in comparison with bigger city areas in England and was actually named one of many greatest locations to stay within the UK. Take the identical precautions you’ll when touring wherever reminiscent of avoiding darkish streets at evening and leaving valuables on show, significantly in your automotive.
Visiting the wonderful Corinium Museum, seeing the church of St John the Baptist, procuring on the market, and making an attempt out the numerous great pubs, cafes, and eating places are a number of the hottest issues to do within the Cirencester.
The Westcountry is without doubt one of the greatest locations for contemporary, native produce, and the highest issues to strive embody the native cider, ice cream, and cheeses.
In Closing
Now you recognize what to do in Cirencester; one of the crucial charming small cities within the Cotswolds however one sufficiently big that you simply gained’t be bored. With its wealthy Roman historical past as evidenced by the Corinium Museum, Roman amphitheater, and Roman Villa, miles of picturesque countryside, and fascinating retailers and eating places, Cirencester ought to undoubtedly be in your listing of Cotswolds locations.
