Cirencester
,Cirencester is a historic market town located in the Cotswolds region of England. It is known for its well-preserved Roman history, including the Corinium Museum which showcases artifacts from the Roman era. The town features charming streets lined with traditional limestone buildings, and a bustling market square that hosts regular markets and events.
Surrounded by picturesque countryside, Cirencester offers a peaceful setting for visitors to explore its heritage and natural beauty.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Cirencester
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the Corinium Museum to learn about the Roman history of Cirencester. Grab a coffee at a nearby café to fuel your exploration.
afternoon
:Stroll through Cirencester Park, enjoying the beautiful landscapes and gardens. You can visit the Church of St. John the Baptist, known for its stunning architecture.
evening
:Dine at a local pub to experience traditional British cuisine. End your day with a leisurely walk around the charming streets of Cirencester.
Nature and Wildlife
morning
:Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Cotswold Water Park. Observe the diverse wildlife and enjoy the serene environment.
afternoon
:Have a picnic lunch by one of the lakes in the park. Afterward, visit the Cotswold Country Park and Beach for some outdoor fun.
evening
:Return to Cirencester for dinner at a cozy restaurant. Relax and unwind with a drink at a local bar.
Highlights
Good
- Historic market town with a rich Roman heritage
- Beautiful Cotswold scenery and countryside
- Access to various outdoor activities like hiking and cycling
- Strong community feel with local shops and markets
- Good schools and educational facilities
- Vibrant cultural events and festivals throughout the year
Bad
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
- Higher cost of living compared to some surrounding areas
- Fewer job opportunities in specialized fields
- Can be touristy, especially during peak seasons
- Limited nightlife options for younger residents
- Potential for occasional flooding in low-lying areas
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Cirencester Park
A beautiful park featuring expansive green spaces, walking trails, and lovely gardens, perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls.
Cotswold Water Park
A diverse outdoor recreational area offering water sports, nature trails, and wildlife watching, ideal for families and adventure seekers.
Corinium Museum Gardens
Stunning gardens surrounding the Corinium Museum, with sculptures, flowerbeds, and a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation.
Abbey Grounds
A picturesque park with children's play areas, ornamental gardens, and walking paths, situated near the River Churn.
Cirencester Market Place
Explore the historic market square, often hosting outdoor markets and events, providing a lively atmosphere and local goods.
Walking and Cycling Trails
Numerous trails surrounding Cirencester for walking and cycling, offering scenic views of the Cotswolds and countryside.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Cirencester with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Cirencester Park
Offers a picturesque setting with magnificent views, expansive lawns, and beautiful landscapes, ideal for capturing stunning photos.
Cotswold Water Park
Provides numerous opportunities for breathtaking photos, including tranquil lakes, wildlife, and scenic walking trails.
Cirencester Amphitheatre
Known for its historic significance and panoramic views, providing an excellent backdrop for memorable photographs.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cotswold Lamb
A must-try dish, featuring succulent lamb sourced from the picturesque Cotswold countryside. Recommended at Jesse's Bistro for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
Cotswold Cheese Platter
Indulge in a selection of artisanal cheeses produced in the Cotswold region. The Fleece Restaurant offers a fantastic platter paired with local chutneys and bread.
Cirencester Sausages
Sample the town's renowned sausages, made with premium cuts of meat and savory seasonings. Try them at the Made by Bob bistro for a true local experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cirencester better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Cirencester Farmers' Market
Visit the market held in the town center on Fridays to explore fresh local produce, baked goods, and artisanal treats. Be sure to check out The Cirencester Sausage Company for delectable hot sausages.
Street Food on Castle Street
On select days, Castle Street comes alive with a variety of street food vendors offering delicious options ranging from gourmet burgers to international cuisines, satisfying every palate.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Politeness and Courtesy
In Cirencester, as in much of the UK, politeness is highly valued. It is common to greet people with a simple 'hello' or 'good morning.' Saying 'please' and 'thank you' is expected in both social and commercial interactions.
Queuing
Queuing is an important cultural norm in the UK, including Cirencester. People expect to wait their turn in lines, whether at shops, bus stops, or events. Jumping the queue is generally seen as disrespectful.
Respecting Personal Space
Maintaining a respectful distance in conversations is customary in Cirencester. People prefer personal space, so it's advisable to avoid standing too close during discussions, especially with those you don't know well.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cirencester with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Cirencester, as in the rest of the UK, tipping is generally discretionary and varies by the establishment. In restaurants, it is common to leave a tip of around 10-15% if service is not included in the bill. Pubs and cafés may not require a tip, but rounding up the bill or offering change is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers is usually around 10%, and for hair and beauty services, a tip of 10-15% is customary.
Payment
Payment methods in Cirencester are varied, with most establishments accepting debit and credit cards. Contactless payments are widely used and accepted for convenience. Cash is still accepted but is becoming less common, and many places prefer electronic payments. In restaurants, it is typical to pay at the end of the meal, while in bars and cafes, patrons often pay when ordering or upon receiving their bill.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May)
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Cirencester, with blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the lush countryside.
Summer (June to August)
Summer brings warm weather and longer days, making it perfect for enjoying outdoor events and festivals. It's an ideal time for exploring the Cotswolds and taking leisurely walks.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn in Cirencester is stunning, with the changing colors of the trees creating a picturesque setting. It's a great time for scenic drives and visiting local markets.
Winter (December to February)
Winter can be cold in Cirencester, but it also offers a charming atmosphere with festive decorations and events. It's a cozy time to visit local pubs and explore historic sites.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Cirencester Park
A large and beautiful park offering several trails through woodlands and along the River Cec. It's a great spot for a leisurely hike.
Crickley Hill Country Park
Located just a short drive from Cirencester, this park provides stunning views and a variety of walking paths through hilly terrain.
Cotswold Water Park
A collection of lakes and nature reserves with numerous walking paths. Perfect for hiking and enjoying the varied wildlife.
Rodborough Common
Offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside, this area features many trails ideal for hiking and exploring.
Sapperton Valley
A picturesque valley with trails that case through woodlands and meadows, suitable for hikers of all levels.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Cirencester by plane.
Birmingham Airport (BHX)
Birmingham Airport is located approximately 75 miles north of Cirencester and serves as one of the major international airports in the UK.
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
London Heathrow Airport, about 85 miles southeast of Cirencester, is the busiest airport in the UK and one of the busiest in the world.
London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
London Gatwick Airport is situated around 95 miles southeast of Cirencester and is another major international airport serving London.
Bristol Airport (BRS)
Bristol Airport is located roughly 50 miles southwest of Cirencester and provides a variety of domestic and international flights.
Cardiff Airport (CWL)
Cardiff Airport, approximately 70 miles southwest of Cirencester, is the main airport in Wales offering international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White British
The largest demographic group in Cirencester, representing the majority of the population.
Other White
Includes individuals from other European countries and white ethnicities.
Asian or Asian British
Represents a smaller percentage of the population, including people of South Asian, East Asian, and Southeast Asian descent.
Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME)
Includes individuals from African, Caribbean, Middle Eastern, and various mixed ethnic backgrounds.
Other Ethnic Groups
Encompasses a diverse range of ethnicities not classified in the other categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby
Rugby is a popular sport in Cirencester, with local clubs and teams providing opportunities for both youth and adults to participate in the sport.
Football
Football is widely played in Cirencester, with various leagues and clubs catering to different age groups and skill levels.
Cricket
Cricket is a traditional sport in the area, with local teams and community involvement, particularly during the summer months.
Hockey
Field hockey has a strong following in Cirencester, with clubs offering training and competition for players of all ages.
Running
Running events, including marathons and fun runs, are popular in Cirencester, with the scenic countryside attracting many enthusiasts.
Cycling
Cycling is a favored activity, with numerous cycling routes and clubs in and around Cirencester, promoting both competitive and recreational cycling.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many eateries in Cirencester offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus, ensuring that those with plant-based diets can enjoy a wide range of delicious meals.
Gluten-Free Options
The town's dining establishments are attentive to gluten-free requirements, with numerous venues providing dedicated menus or accommodating requests for gluten-free variations of their dishes.