Gloucester: The Complete Guide

Gloucester Cathedral

Visiting Gloucester offers a charming blend of urban culture and scenic surroundings in the heart of the South West England region. The city’s compact centre is easy to explore on foot, with a variety of shops, cafes, and markets creating a lively atmosphere. Visitors often enjoy strolling along the Gloucester Docks, a revitalized historic waterfront area filled with restaurants, galleries, and boutique shops that provide a relaxed and vibrant experience.

Gloucester’s location in Gloucestershire means it’s a great base for exploring nearby natural attractions like the Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling, and boating in the surrounding countryside. The city’s parks and green spaces also offer pleasant spots for relaxation, making it appealing for families and nature lovers alike.

Cultural offerings in Gloucester include theatres, museums, and festivals that reflect the city’s creative spirit. From live performances at the Guildhall to events celebrating local food and music, there’s often something happening to engage visitors. This combination of accessible city life with easy access to rural landscapes makes Gloucester a versatile and welcoming destination in the South West.

History of Gloucester

Roman Gloucester

Gloucester was founded by the Romans in AD 48 as a military fort to guard a strategic river crossing. By AD 97, it had developed into a full Roman colony known as Colonia Glevum Nervensis, one of the most important Roman settlements in Britain. The city was laid out in a grid pattern, featuring a forum, temples, and bathhouses. Roman Gloucester thrived as a center for trade and administration until the empire’s decline in the 4th century.

Saxon and Viking Gloucester

Following the Roman withdrawal, Gloucester saw a period of decline before being revived by the Saxons in the 7th century. A monastery was established, and the town became a center for religious activity. In the 9th century, Gloucester was fortified as part of a network of defensive burhs to protect against Viking invasions. The remains of St. Oswald, a Northumbrian king, were brought to Gloucester in 909, turning the city into a pilgrimage site.

Medieval Gloucester

During the Norman period, Gloucester gained prominence, with William the Conqueror visiting in 1085 and commissioning the Domesday Book. The construction of Gloucester Castle and Gloucester Cathedral in the 11th and 12th centuries solidified its importance. The city became a center for trade, particularly in wool and leather. In 1155, Gloucester was granted its first charter, giving it self-governing rights. The Wars of the Roses saw Gloucester play a strategic role due to its fortified position.

Tudor and Stuart Gloucester

Gloucester remained a stronghold of Catholicism during the Tudor period, but religious tensions grew during the Reformation. The city supported Parliamentary forces during the English Civil War, successfully resisting a Royalist siege in 1643. This victory was crucial in shaping the outcome of the war. The 17th century saw Gloucester expand as a market town, with industries such as cloth-making and shipbuilding flourishing.

Industrial Gloucester

The 18th and 19th centuries brought industrial growth to Gloucester, particularly with the construction of the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal in 1827, which improved trade routes. The city became a hub for engineering, manufacturing, and transportation. The arrival of the railway in the 19th century further boosted economic development, making Gloucester a key industrial center.

Modern Gloucester

In the 20th and 21st centuries, Gloucester evolved into a thriving city with a mix of historic charm and modern development. While traditional industries declined, new sectors such as finance, technology, and tourism emerged. The city’s rich heritage is preserved through its historic sites, museums, and annual events that celebrate its long and varied history.

Visiting Gloucester for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Gloucester on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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8 Best places to See in Gloucester

This complete guide to Gloucester not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Gloucester and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Greyfriars Priory, Gloucester

Greyfriars Gloucester April 2016
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Philafrenzy
The Franciscan house of Greyfriars was founded in 1231 on land granted to the church by Lord Berkeley. It was one of three Gloucester monasteries supported by Henry III. By 1285 the priory was home to the forty begging friars - religious men who had all taken vows of poverty, chastity and obedience - that were locked into a series…
Location: Greyfriars Walk, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL1 2EZ | Hours: Any reasonable daylight hours | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Greyfriars Priory, Gloucester

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Gloucester . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Museum of Gloucester

Gloucester City Museum Art Gallery
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Jaggery /Gloucester City Museum & Art Gallery
The Museum of Gloucester tells the story of the city’s origins as a Roman settlement and its subsequent development through the Dark Ages and Medieval period. This fine Victorian building also has a significant collection of art including paintings by Richard Wilson, Thomas Gainsborough, John Atkinson Grimshaw and Thomas Dibdin. The museum features ground floor exhibitions and exhibits that promise…
| Hours: PEAK SEASON (February half-term to end October half-term) Tuesday-Saturday | 10am-5pm and Sunday | 11am-4pmOFF-PEAK SEASON (End October half-term to February half-term) Tuesday-Saturday | 10am-4pm and Sunday | 11am-3pm | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Museum of Gloucester

Blackfriars Priory Gloucester

Gloucester Blackfriars
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Philafrenzy
Blackfriars Priory, with its magnificent timbered roof, is the most complete example of a medieval Dominican Priory in Britain. The original medieval cloister, completed in 1239, includes the scriptorium where the friars were trained for their preaching mission over 750 years ago. The original study cells or carrels are housed in the oldest surviving library building in the country. After…
| Hours: The priory is open Sunday to Tuesday from 10am to 3pm | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Blackfriars Priory Gloucester

The House of the Tailor of Gloucester

The House Of The Tailor Of Gloucester
© Visit Gloucester
Beatrix Potter created one of her most loved characters here (The Tailor of Gloucester). This charming shop and museum, housed the same building that inspired the very story and is used in the illustrations, is open to the public every day where you will be served by enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers. Visitors may enjoy viewing the tailor’s kitchen as well…
Location: 9 College Court, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL1 2NJ | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting The House of the Tailor of Gloucester

Gloucester Cathedral

Gloucester Cathedral
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Gary Ullah
Gloucester Cathedral, formally the Cathedral Church of St Peter and the Holy and Indivisible Trinity, is one of Britain’s greatest buildings, representing over 1,300 years of Christian faith and heritage. The Cathedral is open daily, entry is by donation, and all are welcome. The Cathedral stands in the north of the city near the River Severn. It originated in 678…
| Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Gloucester Cathedral

Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum

SoldiersofGloucestershireMuseum2
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Chris Ryland
The Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum makes for an enjoyable visit for all. There is no substitute for seeing the items in our magnificent collections first hand. There is something for everyone here from researchers to young children, from detailed archives and research facilities to children’s quizzes that help to explore and explain the displays. Our visitors can experience what it…
Location: Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum, Commercial Road, The Docks, Gloucester, UK | Hours: Wednesday to Sunday (10am - 4pm) including EasterPlease note that the last entry is at 3pm. | Price: Adult £5.00 per ticket Child £3.00 per ticket Concessions £4.00 per ticket Family £12.00 per ticket | Website | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum

Gloucester Waterways Museum

Gloucester Waterways Museum Tall Ships Day
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Rodw
Housed in the old Llanthony Warehouse in the heart of what once was the bustling Gloucester Docks, the museum will take you on a whole new journey, charting the ting 200-year history of the docks and the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal. The museum opened in 1988. Formerly known as the "National Waterways Museum, Gloucester", it was one of three museums…
Location: National Waterways Museum Gloucester, The Docks, Gloucester, UK | Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm. Open daily over the Jubilee Bank Holiday weekend, 2nd to 5th June. | Price: Adult (16+) £8.50. Child (6-15) £5.00. Child (5 and under) Free. Family £20.00. Concession £7.50. Boat trips charged seperately. | Website | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Gloucester Waterways Museum

Gloucester Historic Docks

Gloucester Docks Tall Ships Day
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Rodw
Free to visit, visitors can experience a complete example of a Victorian port. Gloucester Docks is Britain's most inland port ands consist of fifteen Victorian warehouse. The former dock estate has become a popular destination where visitors can enjoy interesting views and a range of modern facilities while wandering around a remarkably complete example of a Victorian port. Views include…
Visiting Gloucester Historic Docks

Best Day Trips from Gloucester

A day trip from Gloucester offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Gloucester provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary.

Gloucester and Sharpness Canal

Gloucester And Sharpness Canal At Frampton On Severn
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Celuici
The Gloucester and Sharpness Canal also known as the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal is a canal in the west of England, between Gloucester and Sharpness. For much of its length it runs close to the tidal River Severn, but cuts off a significant loop in the river, at a once-dangerous bend near Arlingham. It was once the broadest and deepest…
| Website | Distance: 9.6km
Visiting Gloucester and Sharpness Canal

Chedworth Roman Villa

Chedworth Roman Villa 2012 View From Northeast
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Pasicles
Chedworth Roman Villa is located near Chedworth, Gloucestershire, England and is a scheduled monument. It is one of the largest and most elaborate Roman villas so far discovered in Britain and one with the latest occupation beyond the Roman period. The villa was built in phases from the early 2nd century to the 5th century, with the 4th-century construction transforming…
Location: Chedworth Roman Villa, Cheltenham, UK | Hours: 10am-5pm Apr-Oct, to 4pm mid-Feb–Mar & Nov | Price: adult/child £10.50/5.25 | Website | Distance: 22.1km
Visiting Chedworth Roman Villa

Hailes Abbey

Hailes Abbey Landscape
Hailes Abbey is a former Cistercian abbey, in the small village of Hailes, two miles northeast of Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, England. It was founded in 1246 as a daughter establishment of Beaulieu Abbey. The abbey was dissolved by Henry VIII in 1539. Little remains of the abbey. It is a Grade I listed building[1] and a scheduled monument. The site is…
| Hours: 10am-6pm Jul & Aug, to 5pm Easter-Jun, Sep & Oct | Price: adult/child £5.90/3.50 | Website | Distance: 24.3km
Visiting Hailes Abbey

Chepstow

Chepstow Castle
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Steve Slater
Chepstow, located in Monmouthshire, is a charming town that serves as the gateway to Wales. Nestled along the banks of the River Wye, it offers breathtaking scenery and a mix of historic and modern attractions. Visitors can explore its bustling high street, filled with independent shops, cafés, and traditional pubs. The town’s award-winning redevelopment has enhanced its pedestrian areas, making…
Visiting Chepstow

Bristol

Bristol
Visiting Bristol offers a dynamic experience in the South West of England, combining vibrant city life with rich cultural attractions. The city is well known for its lively harbourside, where visitors can enjoy a mix of restaurants, bars, and galleries along the waterfront. Bristol’s compact city centre makes it easy to explore on foot, with a blend of historic architecture…
Visiting Bristol
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Bath

Puente Pulteney, Bath
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Diego Delso
Visiting Bath is a rewarding experience, set in the scenic South West of England. The city is renowned for its stunning Georgian architecture and compact layout, making it easy to explore on foot. Bath offers a rich cultural scene, with numerous theatres, galleries, and festivals taking place throughout the year. Visitors often enjoy leisurely walks along the River Avon and…
Visiting Bath
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North Leigh Roman Villa

North Leigh Roman Villa
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Lolalatorre
North Leigh Roman Villa was a Roman courtyard villa in the Evenlode Valley about 0.5 miles (800 m) north of the hamlet of East End in North Leigh civil parish in Oxfordshire. It is a scheduled monument[1] in the care of English Heritage and is open to the public. It was enlarged over time from the late 1st c. AD…
Location: North Leigh, Witney, Oxfordshire , OX29 6PZ | Hours: Open any reasonable time during daylight hours| Price: Free | Website | Distance: 56.0km
Visiting North Leigh Roman Villa

Newport

Newport Transporter Bridge
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tiia Monto
Visiting Newport offers a chance to explore a vibrant city nestled in the South Wales region. Known for its mix of modern developments and green spaces, Newport provides visitors with a range of attractions and activities to enjoy. The city’s waterfront along the River Usk is a popular spot for leisurely walks, offering views of historic bridges and lively cafes.…
Visiting Newport

Warwick

Warwick Castle
Warwick, located in the West Midlands region, is a charming town that blends heritage architecture with a relaxed riverside atmosphere. It’s best known for its iconic castle, but the town itself is a delight to explore on foot. Narrow streets are lined with timber-framed houses, boutique shops, and welcoming cafés, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely day out…
Visiting Warwick

Hay-on-Wye

Hay On Wye Bookshop2
Public Domain / Nexxo
Hay-on-Wye, located in Powys, is a charming market town renowned for its literary culture and scenic surroundings. Nestled on the border between England and Wales, it sits within the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, making it an ideal destination for book lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The town is famous for its independent bookshops, with over 20 stores offering…
Visiting Hay-on-Wye

Oxford

Oxford
Visiting Oxford offers a unique blend of rich academic tradition and vibrant modern culture, all set within the picturesque landscape of South East England. The city is renowned for its stunning architecture, beautiful college gardens, and charming cobbled streets that invite exploration. Whether wandering through the historic university buildings or enjoying a leisurely punt along the River Cherwell, Oxford presents…
Visiting Oxford
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Birmingham

Birmingham Library
CC BY-SA 4.0 / BlueandWhiteStripes
Birmingham is a dynamic city situated in the West Midlands, known for its rich blend of culture, shopping, and entertainment. Visitors can explore a thriving arts scene, including the renowned Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and the modern Library of Birmingham, both located near the city centre. The city offers a variety of dining options reflecting its multicultural population, from…
Visiting Birmingham
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Cardiff

Cardiff Castle
Visiting Cardiff offers a vibrant blend of cultural attractions, modern entertainment, and beautiful waterfront scenery in the South Wales region. The city is known for its lively atmosphere, with plenty of museums, galleries, and theaters to explore, making it an excellent destination for arts and culture lovers. Strolling around the rejuvenated Cardiff Bay area provides a scenic experience with numerous…
Visiting Cardiff
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Coventry

The Council House, Coventry
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Si Chun Lam
Coventry is a vibrant city located in the heart of the West Midlands, known for its blend of modern culture and rich heritage. Visitors will find a dynamic urban environment where contemporary architecture sits alongside historic landmarks, creating an engaging atmosphere for exploration. The city offers a diverse range of attractions, including art galleries, theatres, and shopping centres, making it…
Visiting Coventry
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Old Wardour Castle

Wardour Castle From The N
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ukiws
The unusual hexagonal ruins of Old Wardour Castle stand serenely in their lakeside setting, protected by acres of wood. But their beguiling scene of rural tranquillity masks a bloodthirsty past - a terrible battle was fought here in 1643 when Parliamentarian forces besieged the castle for several weeks. By the time the occupants surrendered, the damage to the castle was…
Location: Old Wardour Castle, Tisbury, Salisbury, UK | Hours: 10am-6pm Apr-Sep, 10am-4pm Oct, 10am-4pm Sat & Sun Nov-Mar | Price: adult/child £5.40/3.20 | Website | Distance: 92.6km
Visiting Old Wardour Castle

Where to Stay in Gloucester

In Gloucester city centre, visitors will find a range of accommodation options that put them close to the historic docks, shops, and cultural attractions. Staying here means easy access to landmarks like Gloucester Cathedral and the Gloucester Quays shopping outlet. The area offers several comfortable hotels including The New County Hotel, known for its blend of classic charm and modern amenities. For those wanting a stylish yet central base, Holiday Inn Gloucester - Cheltenham is a popular choice.

Just outside the city centre, the Longlevens area provides a quieter stay with good transport links to Gloucester’s main sights. This suburban district is ideal for visitors seeking a more relaxed environment without sacrificing convenience. Here, smaller boutique hotels and guesthouses offer a homely atmosphere. One well-regarded option is The Angel Hotel, which combines comfortable rooms with easy access to nearby parks and local eateries.

For those travelling by car or looking for countryside charm, accommodation on the outskirts of Gloucester offers tranquil settings surrounded by green spaces. Locations such as Quedgeley and Churchdown provide a peaceful retreat while still being within short driving distance to the city centre. Some countryside inns and converted farmhouses deliver a cozy stay with a touch of rural character. A recommended choice in this category is The Greenway Hotel & Spa, offering wellness facilities alongside traditional comfort.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Gloucester. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Gloucester Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Gloucester

Visiting Gloucester in Spring

Spring in Gloucester brings mild temperatures averaging between 10°C and 15°C, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s historic docks and nearby countryside. This season sees the city come alive with events like the Gloucester History Festival, which celebrates local heritage with talks, tours, and exhibitions. The spring months offer fresh blooms in the city parks and gardens, providing a scenic backdrop for visitors.

Visiting Gloucester in Summer (Best)

Summer is the best time to visit Gloucester, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C, perfect for enjoying the vibrant outdoor spaces and festivals. The city hosts the popular Gloucester Tall Ships Festival, which attracts visitors with impressive sailing vessels, live music, and family-friendly activities along the waterfront. Longer daylight hours allow for extended sightseeing and enjoying the surrounding Cotswolds countryside.

Visiting Gloucester in Autumn

Autumn in Gloucester offers cooler temperatures between 10°C and 15°C and a more tranquil atmosphere as the summer crowds lessen. The city’s parks and nearby woodlands display beautiful autumnal colours, ideal for peaceful walks and photography. Autumn also features local food and craft markets that highlight seasonal produce, providing a taste of Gloucestershire’s culinary scene.

Visiting Gloucester in Winter

Winter in Gloucester is generally mild but can be damp, with temperatures often between 2°C and 8°C. The festive season lights up the city centre with Christmas markets and events, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Though the weather may limit some outdoor activities, the city’s museums, galleries, and theatres offer warm indoor options for visitors during the colder months.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 7°C
  • February 9°C
  • March 11°C
  • April 15°C
  • May 16°C
  • June 20°C
  • July 23°C
  • August 23°C
  • September 19°C
  • October 14°C
  • November 10°C
  • December 10°C

How to get to Gloucester

Getting to Gloucester by Air

Nearest airports:

The closest major airport to Gloucester is Bristol Airport, about 50 miles away, offering flights from many UK and European cities. Birmingham Airport, around 60 miles from Gloucester, is another convenient option with extensive domestic and international connections. London Heathrow Airport, approximately 90 miles away, is also used by many visitors traveling to Gloucester due to its global reach.

Getting to Gloucester by Train

Gloucester is well connected by rail with frequent services to and from major cities such as London, Birmingham, and Cardiff. Direct trains run regularly from London Paddington and London Waterloo, making it accessible for day trips or longer stays. National Rail operators serving Gloucester include Great Western Railway and West Midlands Railway. For train times and bookings, visit National Rail Enquiries.

Getting to Gloucester by Car

Gloucester is easily accessible by car via the M5 motorway, with Junctions 11 and 12 providing entry points to the city. The A40 and A417 also connect Gloucester with surrounding towns and regions, making it a convenient base for exploring the Cotswolds and South West England. Parking is available in various city centre car parks and on-street spaces.

Travelling around Gloucester

Gloucester offers a good network of local buses that connect the city centre with suburbs and nearby towns. Walking and cycling are popular options within the compact city centre. Taxis and ride-sharing services provide additional convenience for visitors. For longer journeys by train, Gloucester station links well with regional and national destinations.

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