Cirencester

Cirencester

Once an important Roman settlement, Cirencester is a growing town with good links to the motorway network yet still a quintessential Cotswolds market town.

Cirencester town centre has a mix of the usual high street names and local independent shops making it a unique shopping destination where tourists and visitors rub shoulders with residents and locals.

Here is a selection of things to do, places to eat and businesses in the Cirencester area of Gloucestershire.

5 reasons to visit Cirencester

Cirencester offers a charming blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Here are five compelling reasons to explore this picturesque town:

Historic Charm: Immerse yourself in the rich history of Cirencester, dating back to Roman times. Explore the well-preserved Roman amphitheater, one of the largest in Britain, or wander through the historic market place, lined with quaint shops and traditional pubs.

Stunning Cotswold Scenery: Cirencester is a gateway to the stunning Cotswold countryside. Enjoy scenic walks or bike rides through rolling hills, picturesque villages, and idyllic meadows. Discover hidden gems like the Corinium Museum, which showcases local history and artifacts.

Vibrant Market Town: Experience the bustling atmosphere of Cirencester's market, held every Monday and Friday Browse a wide range of local produce, crafts, and gifts, while soaking up the friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Cultural Events: Cirencester hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and historical reenactments. Immerse yourself in the local community and enjoy the vibrant cultural scene.

Gastronomic Delights: Indulge your taste buds with Cirencester's diverse culinary offerings. From traditional English pubs serving hearty meals to fine dining restaurants showcasing local produce, there's something to suit every palate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the top attractions in Cirencester?

Cirencester offers a fascinating mix of historical, cultural, and outdoor attractions that appeal to all types of visitors:

Corinium Museum - One of the UK's most important Roman museums, featuring mosaics, coins, tools, and personal artefacts unearthed in and around Cirencester. It provides an immersive experience into life in Roman Britain.
Cirencester Park - A magnificent landscape park forming part of the Bathurst Estate. It's ideal for walking, jogging, and relaxing in nature, with grand avenues, hidden follies, and far-reaching views of the countryside.
Parish Church of St John Baptist - One of the largest parish churches in England, noted for its impressive Perpendicular Gothic architecture, rich history, and central role in the town?s development.
Roman Amphitheatre - Located on the outskirts of the town, this site once held up to 8,000 spectators. Visitors can walk around the remains and learn about the gladiatorial events that once took place here.
Cotswold Lakes - Just a few miles from the town centre, this area features over 150 lakes offering opportunities for water sports, birdwatching, cycling, and family activities in a beautiful natural setting.

Permalink: What are the top attractions in Cirencester?

What are some interesting facts about Cirencester?

During Roman times, Cirencester was known as Corinium Dobunnorum and had a population of over 10,000 people - a major urban centre by ancient standards.
The town's Roman amphitheatre, built in the 2nd century, is one of the largest in Britain and remains a popular historical site today.
Cirencester Park is part of the Bathurst Estate and is home to the oldest polo club in the UK - the Cirencester Park Polo Club, established in 1894.
The town has over 400 listed buildings, showcasing a remarkable blend of Roman, medieval, Georgian, and Victorian architecture.
Cirencester was a major hub for the wool trade during the Middle Ages, contributing significantly to its wealth and the grandeur of the Church of St John Baptist.
The town is still a thriving market town with strong ties to agriculture, heritage crafts, and Cotswold rural life.

Permalink: What are some interesting facts about Cirencester?

Cirencester has a history that spans more than two millennia. Its origins can be traced back to the Roman conquest of Britain around AD 43, and it quickly developed into the thriving Roman town of Corinium Dobunnorum by around AD 75. During the second and third centuries AD, Corinium was the second-largest settlement in Britain, covering over 240 acres and acting as a major administrative and commercial centre. After the Romans left, the town continued to flourish throughout the medieval period, especially as a centre for wool and textile production. Many of Cirencester's streets and buildings reflect this layered history, making it one of the most historically significant towns in the UK.

Permalink: How old is Cirencester?

Cirencester is located on the A417 and is easily accessible by car from Swindon and Cheltenham. The nearest train station is in Kemble, around 3 miles from Cirencester, with a bus or taxi connection available.

Permalink: How do I get to Cirencester?

Cirencester has a rich calendar of annual events and regular markets that highlight its cultural vibrancy and community spirit:

Cirencester Charter Market - This traditional open-air market takes place every Monday and Friday in the town's Market Place, offering everything from fresh produce and baked goods to crafts, clothing, and antiques.
Cirencester Advent Market - A festive Christmas market held in early December, featuring seasonal food, handmade gifts, mulled wine, carol singing, and a magical atmosphere in the town centre.
Phoenix Festival - A free family-friendly music and arts festival held every summer in the Abbey Grounds. It features local bands, food stalls, kids' activities, and workshops.
Cirencester Food and Drink Festival - Celebrating the Cotswolds' culinary heritage, this event brings together artisan food producers, chefs, and live cooking demonstrations in a bustling market setting.
Cirencester Vintage & Antiques Markets - Regular indoor and outdoor fairs featuring high-quality antiques, collectibles, and retro finds, reflecting the town's strong reputation for vintage treasures.

Permalink: Are there any annual events or markets in Cirencester?

No, there is not a train station in Cirencester. The nearest railway station to Cirencester is in Kemble.

Permalink: Is there a train station in Cirencester?

Cirencester, often called the 'Capital of the Cotswolds', is known for its deep historical roots, particularly from the Roman period. During Roman times, it was known as Corinium Dobunnorum and became the second-largest town in Roman Britain after Londinium (modern-day London). The town is renowned for its Roman heritage, which is showcased at the Corinium Museum. Today, Cirencester is equally famous for its stunning Cotswold stone architecture, lively town centre filled with independent shops and cafes, and access to natural beauty such as the Cotswold Lakes (previously known as the Cotswold Water Park) and Cirencester Park. Its historic Market Place is still a vibrant hub for weekly markets and local events.

Permalink: What is Cirencester known for?

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the top attractions in Cirencester?

What are some interesting facts about Cirencester?

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