Discover Cirencester | A Visitor's Introduction to Cirencester

Why is Cirencester Worth a Visit?

Cirencester’s unique history dates back to Roman times when it was known as Corinium Dobunnorum, the second-largest town in Roman Britain. Today, remnants of this ancient past can still be seen in the town’s architecture, layout, and numerous archaeological sites. With its bustling markets, traditional stone buildings, and vibrant arts scene, Cirencester is a popular hub that attracts both history enthusiasts and those looking to soak up the relaxed Cotswold atmosphere.

The town’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider Cotswold region, but Cirencester itself has plenty to offer. It’s home to a variety of independent boutiques, art galleries, and cosy cafés that are perfect for leisurely afternoons. Whether you’re visiting to delve into its Roman roots, enjoy the beautiful countryside, or simply wander its charming streets, Cirencester provides an experience that captures the essence of the Cotswolds.

Cirencester Highlights: Things to See and Do in Cirencester

1. Corinium Museum: One of Cirencester’s top attractions, the Corinium Museum offers a fascinating insight into the town’s Roman past. The museum houses one of the largest collections of Romano-British artefacts in the UK, including stunning mosaics, intricate sculptures, and ancient coins. The immersive exhibits bring the town’s history to life, showcasing everything from daily life in Roman times to the town’s development through the Saxon and medieval periods. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and families alike.

2. Church of St. John the Baptist: Dominating the town’s market square, the Church of St. John the Baptist is a striking example of perpendicular Gothic architecture and one of the largest parish churches in England. Its impressive exterior, with its intricately carved tower and battlements, hints at the wealth of the medieval wool merchants who funded its construction. Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained glass windows, a 15th-century wine-goblet-shaped pulpit, and the historic Boleyn Cup, believed to have belonged to Anne Boleyn. The churchyard is a peaceful spot for reflection, offering lovely views of the surrounding town.

3. Abbey Grounds and Cirencester Park: The Abbey Grounds, located on the site of the former Cirencester Abbey, is a beautiful public park with serene lawns, a large lake, and ancient stone remains. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or picnic. Adjacent to the Abbey Grounds is Cirencester Park, part of the Bathurst Estate, which is known for its grand tree-lined avenue stretching as far as the eye can see. The park is open to the public and offers miles of walking trails, making it an ideal spot for walkers, joggers, and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors.

4. Cirencester Amphitheatre: A short walk from the town centre lies the remains of one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in Britain. Built in the 2nd century AD, this historic site once seated up to 8,000 spectators and was used for gladiatorial games and public events. Today, the grassy mounds of the amphitheatre provide a peaceful space to relax, explore, or have a picnic. Informative signs around the site offer insights into its history and significance.

5. New Brewery Arts: Housed in a converted Victorian brewery, New Brewery Arts is the creative hub of Cirencester. This vibrant arts centre showcases the work of local and regional artists, with ever-changing exhibitions featuring ceramics, textiles, glasswork, and more. Visitors can explore the onsite studios to watch artisans at work, attend workshops, or browse the gift shop for unique handmade pieces. The on-site café is a great place to enjoy a coffee and soak up the artistic atmosphere.

6. Cirencester Market Place: The heart of the town is its historic Market Place, where markets have been held since the medieval era. The twice-weekly Charter Market, held on Mondays and Fridays, is a lively affair with stalls selling everything from fresh produce and artisanal foods to crafts and vintage items. There’s also a monthly Farmers’ Market and a Crafts Market, perfect for picking up unique local products and experiencing the town’s vibrant community spirit.

7. The Woolmarket and Black Jack Street: Wander down Black Jack Street and explore the Woolmarket, a charming collection of independent shops, boutiques, and cafés set in beautiful historic buildings. This area is perfect for a leisurely shopping trip, with stores selling antiques, jewellery, clothing, and gifts. After exploring the shops, pop into one of the traditional tearooms or modern eateries for a bite to eat.

8. Cotswold Water Park: Just a short drive from Cirencester, the Cotswold Water Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. This sprawling network of 150 lakes offers a wide range of activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and fishing. The park is also home to numerous walking and cycling trails, nature reserves, and birdwatching spots. It’s a fantastic destination for a day of adventure or a relaxing escape into nature.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There: Cirencester is easily accessible by car, located just off the A419 and A429. If travelling by public transport, the nearest train station is Kemble, around four miles from the town centre. Regular bus services run between Kemble and Cirencester, making it a convenient option for those arriving by train. If you’re coming from London, you can reach Kemble in about 90 minutes by train from Paddington Station.

Parking: Cirencester offers several car parks, including the Forum and Brewery car parks, both centrally located and convenient for exploring the town on foot. There’s also parking available at Abbey Grounds and Sheep Street. Parking can fill up quickly on market days, so it’s advisable to arrive early.

Dining: Cirencester boasts a thriving food scene, with something for everyone. For a taste of modern British cuisine, try Jesse’s Bistro, known for its seasonal dishes and relaxed atmosphere. Made by Bob, located in the Corn Hall, offers a trendy setting with a menu that focuses on locally sourced ingredients. Traditional pub fare can be enjoyed at The Bear Inn, while Diversitea Café is perfect for a light lunch or an indulgent afternoon tea. For a unique dining experience, visit Teatro, the restaurant at Ingleside House, which serves imaginative dishes in an elegant setting.

Shopping: Cirencester is a treasure trove of independent shops and boutiques. Explore the antique shops around Black Jack Street, discover handcrafted goods at New Brewery Arts, and browse the unique homewares and gifts at shops like Octavia’s Bookshop and French Grey. The Corn Hall, a beautiful 18th-century building, hosts regular craft and food markets where you can find an array of local produce and artisan goods.

When to Visit: Cirencester is lovely year-round, but spring and summer are particularly pleasant times to visit, with the parks and gardens in full bloom and outdoor events in full swing. Autumn is also a great time to explore, with the changing colours of the surrounding countryside adding an extra layer of beauty to the town. Winter offers a more tranquil experience, and the town’s festive decorations and Christmas market add a magical touch during the holiday season.

Local Events: Cirencester hosts a variety of events throughout the year. The annual Cotswold Show & Food Festival, held in Cirencester Park, celebrates local agriculture, food, and crafts with a weekend of family-friendly activities. Phoenix Festival, a free community music festival held in the Abbey Grounds each summer, is another highlight. In December, the town transforms into a winter wonderland with its Christmas Market and light switch-on, bringing festive cheer to the Market Place.

Exploring Beyond Cirencester: The town’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring the wider Cotswolds. Nearby villages such as Bibury, with its iconic Arlington Row cottages, and Tetbury, known for its antique shops and royal connections, are well worth a visit. The majestic Cotswold Wildlife Park and Westonbirt Arboretum, famous for its collection of rare and exotic trees, are also within easy reach.