Map Of Gloucestershire Showing Villages Travel Guide

Introduction

Gloucestershire is a county in South West England known for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and historic landmarks. This travel guide aims to provide a comprehensive list of the top attractions, hidden gems, and outdoor adventures in the area. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or outdoor enthusiast, there is something for everyone in Gloucestershire.

Top Attractions

Cheltenham Racecourse

Cheltenham Racecourse is one of the most famous horse racing venues in the world. The races take place over four days in March, and the atmosphere is electric. Even if you’re not a fan of horse racing, the event is worth attending for the fashion and people-watching alone.

Bristol Zoo Gardens

Bristol Zoo Gardens is home to over 400 species of animals, including gorillas, lions, and red pandas. The zoo also has a botanical garden with over 9,000 plants. The zoo is a great day out for families with children.

Hidden Gems

Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the-Water is a picturesque village known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds.” The village is home to a series of low bridges that cross the River Windrush. The village is also home to the Cotswold Motoring Museum, which has a collection of vintage cars and motorcycles.

Woodchester Mansion

Woodchester Mansion is an unfinished Gothic revival mansion that was abandoned in the mid-19th century. The mansion is now a popular tourist attraction and is said to be haunted.

Food Scene

Gloucestershire is known for its local produce, including cheese, cider, and ale. The county is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, including Le Champignon Sauvage in Cheltenham and The Butchers Arms in Eldersfield.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Gloucestershire has several free attractions, including the Gloucester Cathedral, which was used as a filming location for Harry Potter. The county is also home to several parks and gardens, including the Westonbirt Arboretum and the Rococo Garden in Painswick.

Outdoor Adventures

The Cotswold Way

The Cotswold Way is a 102-mile trail that runs through Gloucestershire and several other counties. The trail offers stunning views of the countryside and passes through several picturesque villages.

Go Ape Forest of Dean

Go Ape Forest of Dean is a high ropes course that offers a variety of activities, including zip lining and tree-top adventures. The course is suitable for all ages and abilities.

Historical Landmarks

Tewkesbury Abbey

Tewkesbury Abbey is a Norman abbey that was founded in the 11th century. The abbey is famous for its Norman architecture and stained glass windows.

Berkeley Castle

Berkeley Castle is a medieval castle that was built in the 12th century. The castle is famous for its role in the murder of Edward II and is said to be haunted by his ghost.

Family-Friendly Activities

Cotswold Wildlife Park

The Cotswold Wildlife Park is home to over 260 species of animals, including giraffes, zebras, and penguins. The park also has a train ride and a playground for children.

Gloucester Cathedral

Gloucester Cathedral is a beautiful cathedral that was used as a filming location for Harry Potter. The cathedral offers several family-friendly activities, including a family trail and workshops.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Chavenage House

Chavenage House is a historic house that dates back to the 16th century. The house has been used as a filming location for several TV shows and movies, including Poldark and Wolf Hall.

Bateman’s Brewery

Bateman’s Brewery is a family-owned brewery that has been operating since 1874. The brewery offers tours and tastings of its award-winning ales.

Natural Wonders

Symonds Yat

Symonds Yat is a scenic viewpoint that offers stunning views of the River Wye. The area is also popular for kayaking and canoeing.

Brockhampton Estate

Brockhampton Estate is a National Trust property that offers several walking trails through the countryside. The estate is also home to a medieval manor house and a cider mill.

Vibrant Nightlife

Gloucestershire has several bars and clubs, particularly in Cheltenham and Gloucester. The county is also home to several music venues, including the Cheltenham Jazz Festival and the Gloucester Guildhall.

Local Markets

Gloucestershire has several markets that offer local produce and handmade goods. The Stroud Farmers’ Market is particularly popular and is held every Saturday.

Beaches and Mountains

The Malverns

The Malverns are a range of hills that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The area is popular for hiking and cycling.

Brean Beach

Brean Beach is a long stretch of sand that is popular with families. The beach is also home to several attractions, including a funfair and a golf course.

Cultural Immersion

The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum

The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum is a museum that showcases the history and culture of Gloucestershire. The museum has a collection of artwork and artifacts from the region.

Cotswold Motoring Museum

The Cotswold Motoring Museum is a museum that showcases the history of motoring. The museum has a collection of vintage cars and motorcycles.

Art and Music Scene

Gloucestershire has a vibrant art and music scene, particularly in Cheltenham and Gloucester. The county is home to several music festivals, including the Cheltenham Jazz Festival and the Wychwood Festival.

Walking Tours

Gloucestershire has several walking tours that offer a glimpse into the county’s history and culture. The Gloucester Ghost Walk is particularly popular and takes visitors on a tour of the city’s haunted locations.

Architectural Marvels

Gloucester Cathedral

Gloucester Cathedral is a beautiful cathedral that was used as a filming location for Harry Potter. The cathedral is famous for its Gothic architecture and stained glass windows.

Tewkesbury Abbey

Tewkesbury Abbey is a Norman abbey that was founded in the 11th century. The abbey is famous for its Norman architecture and stained glass windows.

Historical Sites

Berkeley Castle

Berkeley Castle is a medieval castle that was built in the 12th century. The castle is famous for its role in the murder of Edward II and is said to be haunted by his ghost.

Westonbirt Arboretum

Westonbirt Arboretum is a National Arboretum that was founded in the 19th century. The arboretum has over 15,000 species of trees and shrubs.

Biking Routes

The Cotswold Line

The Cotswold Line is a 50-mile cycle route that runs through Gloucestershire and several other counties. The route offers stunning views of the countryside and passes through several picturesque villages.

Bristol to Bath Railway Path

The Bristol to Bath Railway Path is a 13-mile cycle path that runs along a disused railway line. The route is flat and suitable for all ages and abilities.

Wellness Retreats

Calcot Manor

Calcot Manor is a luxury spa and hotel that offers a range of wellness treatments. The spa has a heated indoor pool, a sauna, and a steam room.

Barnsley House

Barnsley House is a country house hotel that offers a range of wellness treatments, including massages and facials. The hotel also has a heated outdoor pool and a sauna.

Adventure Sports

Go Ape Forest of Dean

Go Ape Forest of Dean is a high ropes course that offers a variety of activities, including zip lining and tree-top adventures. The course is suitable for all ages and abilities.