Gloucestershire is a county in the south-west of England, in the United Kingdom. It is best known for the Cotswolds, a landscape of rolling hills and villages built from honey-coloured stone. Although it is often thought of as a single place, the county is really a mix of countryside, market towns and historic cities, so it rewards a visitor who is willing to move between them.
What to see
- The Cotswolds countryside: Walking and driving routes pass through villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water, where the River Windrush runs past low stone bridges.
- Chipping Campden: A market town whose old stone buildings give a clear sense of the Cotswolds style.
- Gloucester: A historic cathedral city with a Norman cathedral at its centre.
- Cheltenham: A town known for its Regency elegance, with handsome terraces and wide streets.
Planning a visit
Because the county is spread out, it works well to choose one or two areas as a base rather than trying to cover everything. The villages and market towns suit a slower pace, with time for a stroll, a pub lunch or a look around local shops. Gloucester and Cheltenham offer more city-style sights and amenities, and both are easy to combine with a day in the countryside.
Gloucestershire suits visitors who enjoy scenery, old buildings and a relaxed rural atmosphere. Check ahead for opening times and transport, as these vary by village and season.
