A charming market town steeped in history. Roman remains, medieval streets, historic parkland, and independent shops and restaurants. And surrounded by the rolling hills and honey-coloured villages of the Cotswolds. Cirencester has something for everyone: in this post we explore some of the best things to do in Cirencester.
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The Capital Of The Cotswolds
In Roman times Cirencester (then known as Corinium) was a significant town, at the junction of several important roads, including Akeman Street and the Fosse Way (many visitors to the town still arrive via the Fosse Way, now the A429). And in the Middle Ages it was a prosperous centre for the wool trade. Today the town is steeped in its Roman and medieval past, and boasts one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in the country.
Visitors can enjoy wandering the old streets of the historic town. They can eat and drink at leisure, and enjoy a stroll in the extensive Cirencester Park. And this is the Capital of the Cotswolds, conveniently situated for exploring one of England’s most beautiful regions.
What To See And Do In Cirencester
It would take two or three days to explore everything in Cirencester, and you would need a little longer if you want to combine your visit with touring the Cotswolds. If you only have one day you may wish to concentrate on exploring the historic town: a good way of doing this is by following the brass plaques of the waymarked Town Walk (you can buy a map at the Tourist Office). This takes you through the medieval centre and past notable sites like the Corinium Museum and Abbey Grounds.
Some of the most important sights are listed below.
Market Place And The Medieval Centre
Any exploration of Cirencester will start at the Market Place, a bustling area with a variety of shops, cafés, and historic buildings (markets take place here on Mondays and Fridays). From here you can follow the medieval streets in any direction: look out in particular for old buildings on Black Jack Street and Coxwell Street.
Cirencester is still the main market town for the Cotswolds, and it is full of independent and specialist shops. And of course there are numerous hostelries that have been catering for traders and shoppers for centuries.
Church Of St John The Baptist
Located on the Market Place, the Church of St John the Baptist is one of the largest churches in England. It dates back to the 12th century, but has undergone numerous renovations and additions, including the impressive 15th century tower. Particular features of the church include fragments of medieval wall paintings, exquisite fan vaulting, and the Boleyn Cup, made for Anne Boleyn in 1535.
At certain times of the year tours of the tower are possible – see the website for details.
Roman Remains In Cirencester
There isn’t much to be seen of the Roman city in the town centre apart from a fragment of the old wall in the Abbey Grounds. However plaques around the town mark the site of Roman landmarks including the gates into the city and the place where two major roads intersected. And you will find a considerable amount of Roman Cirencester in the Corinium Museum (see below).
But the lack of central sites is made up for by the Roman amphitheatre, just over 1 km from the Market Place. Built in the 2nd century, this could hold 8,000 spectators, making it second only to London’s amphitheatre in size. Although only the earthworks now remain the site is impressive and information boards tell its history, including later use as a fortress.
Corinium Museum
Don’t miss the excellent Corinium Museum! This is a treasure trove of Roman finds in the region, including some almost complete mosaics recovered from local properties. The museum’s rooms are set up to resemble ancient dwelling houses, providing an insight into life in Roman Britain.
You’ll also find displays and artefacts from the prehistoric period to the present day.
Abbey Grounds
Little now remains of the old abbey itself, but the Abbey Grounds offer a peaceful setting for a leisurely stroll. Look out for the Norman arch and the former fishpond, as well as a small section of Roman wall hidden in the corner.
Cirencester Park
Privately owned as part of the Bathurst Estate, the historic Cirencester Park is a vast green space perfect for a relaxing walk. The park offers a choice of walking routes, including the 5km “Follies and Vistas”, taking in the central Broad Avenue and a few sculptures and statues along the way. Note that there is a charge for entrance to Cirencester Park.
As you approach via Cecily Hill stop to look at the imposing building just outside the park gates. This is Cecily Hill Barracks, a Victorian military installation now used as offices.
New Brewery Arts
Art lovers should visit New Brewery Arts, which features contemporary art exhibitions and workshops (there are also one-off classes suitable for visitors). The craft shop offers a variety of local handmade goods.
Exploring The Cotswolds
Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury are within easy reach, as is Tetbury, a picturesque market town known for its antique shops and historic buildings. A little further away are the Westonbirt National Arboretum (23 km) and the cities of Bath (53 km), Oxford (60 km) and Cheltenham (25 km).
Practical Information For Your Visit To Cirencester
- The nearest railway station is at Kemble, 11 km away. The journey time from London by train is around 1¼ hours.
- The town centre is compact and most places are a short walk from the Market Place.
- Cirencester offers a variety of accommodation options. You can read about my stay in The Fleece, or look at other options on booking.com.
This article is now featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Cirencester.
