How to Visit Gloucestershire: A Guide for the Traveller

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When it comes to exploring Britain, the country’s second most populous country offers plenty of opportunities for the traveller. Head to the Cotswolds and you’ll find rolling hills, picturesque villages and some of the best country houses in the land. Gloucestershire is also home to several important sites, including ancient hillforts such as those found on Littlebury Hill and Silchester Hill, two World Heritage Sites included on account of their connection with Julius Caesar. Just look beyond the famous attractions, though, and you’ll discover an underrated county brimming with hidden gems.

From exquisitely preserved historic towns such as Cheltenham or Stow-on-the-Wold to idyllic hamlets dotted across vast agricultural landscapes. If you’re looking for a new destination that boasts plenty to see without being too crowded or overwhelming, take note: we have some excellent tips on how to visit Gloucestershire so that you can explore this county at your own pace without spending too much time getting from A to B..

Where is Gloucestershire?

If you’re planning a trip to the UK, your first port of call should be Gloucestershire. The county covers an area of approximately 1,600 square miles, making it the eighth-largest county in England by size, while it’s also in the heart of the Cotswolds, a scenic region of rolling hills and vineyards. There are plenty of reasons to visit this part of the country, from its storied history and stunning natural beauty to the many activities on offer for visitors, from walking to canyoning. So, if you’re looking for a new destination to explore, check out the tips below for how to visit Gloucestershire.

Getting to know Gloucestershire

The heart of Gloucestershire is the city of Gloucester, which sits in a valley near the River Severn. The city has been a major trading hub since the Middle Ages, when it hosted the Cotswold Market, which was once one of the biggest in Europe. About halfway between London and Bristol, Gloucestershire is a convenient place to base yourself while exploring the south-west region of England, as well as the Midlands. The city of Bristol is just a two-hour drive away, while London is less than three hours’ drive away. The county has been a popular destination for tourists and holidaymakers for centuries, and the area is still a popular choice for those looking for a quieter escape from the city life.

Must-see sights in Gloucestershire

The Cotswolds

Home to some of the most beautiful towns in the UK, the Cotswolds also make for an excellent place to explore. It is home to some of the most gorgeous old English villages in the whole country, as well as beautiful countryside. If you want to explore a more traditional and rural side of England, then the Cotswolds are the way to go.

Check out my post on the top Cotswold villages to visit here.

Visit the Georgian city of Cheltenham

which is known for its wide streets lined with shops and restaurants, as well as its annual race meeting, the Gloucestershire Hunt, which draws competitors from around the world. Cheltenham almost reminds me of a mini-Bath, with its gorgeous Georgian architecture. It’s a stunning old town to visit, with lots of upmarket shops for you to indulge in.

Visit the cathedral city of Gloucester

Gloucester is the cathedral city of Gloucestershire and is a great place to visit if you want somewhere a bit more modern to explore. There are plenty of shops to enjoy, with a lot of eclectic stores, as well as great eateries and small music venues. Definitely pay a visit to the gorgeous Gloucester Cathedral to see where some of the Harry Potter movies were filmed. Also visit the adorable Beatrix Potter shop, as well as the great views of the Quay.

Things to do in Gloucestershire

If you’re looking for things to do when you visit Gloucestershire, there’s no need to look any further. This beautiful county is home to a wide range of attractions, from shopping in the city centres to hiking in the countryside. Here are a few of our favorite things to do in Gloucestershire:

1. Shop in the city centres: Gloucester, Cheltenham, and Tewkesbury are all great places to shop for clothes, jewellery, and other accessories. If you fancy somewhere a bit smaller with boutique shops, Cotswold villages such as Chipping Campden and Stow-on-the-Wold are great spots to head to.
2. Hike in the countryside: Gloucestershire is home to some of the best hiking trails in England. Head to Fyfield Garden or Longleat Safari Park for a scenic hike. The Cotswolds are also a great spot for hiking, as well as the stunning Forest of Dean.
3. Visit historic sites: Gloucester Cathedral, Cheltenham Spa, and Tewkesbury Abbey are all worth a visit. Chedworth Roman Villa is another unique historic site to explore here. Gloucester is an extremely historic county, and no matter where you go, you are sure to find some history to explore here.

There’s really no limit to what you can do when you visit Gloucestershire – so go have some fun!

Where to stay in Gloucestershire

The Cotswolds are one of the most well-known destinations in England, thanks to their picturesque setting and history, but the countryside surrounding the area is also worth a visit. Head to the Forest of Dean to discover a large area of ancient woodland overlooking the River Severn, while the Wylye valley in the north-west of the county is home to some of the most idyllic local pubs. Gloucestershire has a range of hotels to suit different budgets, from luxurious five-star establishments to more affordable bed and breakfasts. For those looking to escape the bustle of the city, the Cotswolds offer a range of romantic options, from country house hotels in the vineyards to boutique hotels in the towns.

Here are our top recommendations for places to stay in Gloucestershire:

1. Stonehouse Court Hotel – A gorgeous old 17th-century hotel built from Cotswold stone. This is located a short distance from the Cotswold way, making it perfect for hikers.
2. The George Inn – A cosy Victorian lodge, located nearby to the Forest of Dean and directly next door to a Victorian pub.
3. Lords of the Manor – A stunning Cotswold hotel, set in a 17th-century rectory. A truly impressive building with a fine dining restaurant in a peaceful location.
4. De Vere Cotswold Water Park – A modern hotel overlooking Cotswold Water Park, a perfect spot for wildlife watchers to enjoy the water park life.
5. Queens Hotel Cheltenham – Travel back in time to Jane Austen’s era of grandeur with this stunning Georgian-era hotel on the tree-lined promenade of Cheltenham.

Eating and drinking in Gloucestershire

If you’re visiting the Cotswolds, you’ll find that the region is well-known for its wines. Visit the vineyards and wine farms in the area and you can sample a variety of wines as well as go on wine-tasting tours. If you prefer your drink to be a little more nourishing, you can also visit the cider farms in the county. As well as wine and cider, the Cotswolds also have some great-tasting cheeses. The Gloucestershire Old Spot is a hard cheese made from unpasteurised milk, while Cotswold-style cheese is made from unpasteurised milk and has a strong flavour.

Here are our top recommendations for places to eat in Gloucestershire:

1. Swan House Tea Room – A classy tearoom in Lydney with great afternoon teas.
2. Buckland Manor Restaurant – Fine dining in a stunning old country house.
3. The Rising Sun – Delicious traditional pub on the outskirts of the Forest of Dean
4. Thornbury Castle – An impressive building with delicious food to cover all tastes.
5. Old Dairy Tearoom – A cute country tearoom in Longhope, with great lunch options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a new destination to explore, look no further than the county of Gloucestershire. The Cotswolds are famous for their beautiful vineyards and towns, while the Jurassic Coast and Forest of Dean offer plenty of natural beauty and cultural heritage. If you’re looking for a new destination to visit, check out our guide for how to visit Gloucestershire, and you’ll be well on your way to a memorable adventure.