Gloucestershire is as idyllic a holiday destination as they come, with rolling hills and patchwork countryside creating a rather magical backdrop to your stay. Tucked away within this heavenly tapestry of green sits Gloucester, a historic city famous for its iconic cathedral and meandering streets lined with tempting shops.
Whether your interests lie in a bit of retail therapy, history, or dockside dining, Gloucester has something for everyone along its picturesque stone streets. It’s also close to the sprawling beauty of the Cotswolds National Landscape, so you can swap the city limits for cobblestone villages and rural panoramas at the drop of a hat.
Excited to craft the perfect holiday itinerary? Here are our top things to do in Gloucester, from foodie feasts to family-friendly favourites.
The Tailor of Gloucester
One for all ages, The Tailor of Gloucester brings the wonderful world of Beatrix Potter to life through a variety of exhibits. Taking over an entire floor, the Beatrix Potter Museum is home to many magical trinkets and memorabilia from the author’s beloved works, from books and toys to exquisite needlecraft and figurines. The jewel in the crown of this heartwarming collection is a replica of The Tailor of Gloucester’s waistcoat. Hand-stitched with remarkable skill and attention to detail, this beautiful piece of clothing was brought to life by Gloucester’s very own Women’s Institute in 1980.
After your walk down memory lane, head to the onsite shop to pick up some mementoes of your visit. Browse the books that started it all, as well as adorable cuddly toys and music boxes to help your little critters drift off to sleep. Not to mention, a lovely selection of accessories and keepsakes for yourself.
Gloucester Cathedral
A home of history, heritage, and reflection, Gloucester Cathedral stands proud as one of the city’s greatest landmarks. The grand exterior is made of limestone, a type of Cotswold stone, giving the cathedral its iconic honeyed hue. Originally built in 1089 as the Abbey of St Peter, the cathedral has undergone many changes over the centuries, and yet some of its original Romanesque architecture remains. The crypt, East End, Nave pillars, and the Norman Chapter House all originate from this period, while King Edward II led the way for Perpendicular architecture in England with the remodelling of the East End in the French Rayonnant style.
Today, the cathedral stands as a patchwork of design and inspiration, from the magnificent Quire to the Cloister, which has appeared in many films and television series over the years, including Wolf Hall, Mary Queen of Scots, and Harry Potter. When visiting Gloucester Cathedral, there are several important places to tick off your list. The tower is a sight to behold (and worth the 269 steps), while the many stained glass windows bring the storied past to life through colour and artistry. There are a range of tours you can join to make the most of your visit, from library and crypt tours to the film-famous cloisters. Oh, and don’t forget to stop by The Monk’s Kitchen for a bite to eat.
Gloucester Docks
Home to the most inland port in the country, Gloucester Docks is well worth a visit, whether you’re after some tranquil waterside views or a dose of history courtesy of the museums that pepper the water’s edge. The National Waterways Museum tells the story of, well, the country’s many inland waterways, which have been keeping things connected for two centuries. A number of fascinating displays offer a glimpse into life on the water, while regular events bring the past to life - the Tall Ships Festival is a particular favourite.
For a look at the area’s terrestrial past, Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum offers an in-depth look at what life was like for soldiers over the last 300 years. Interactive displays, quizzes, and films ensure all ages are thoroughly captivated during your visit, all while learning about Gloucestershire’s efforts in battles such as Dunkirk and the American Revolutionary War. When curious minds are well and truly satiated, grab a coffee from one of the waterside cafés or see what’s on the docks’ ever-changing calendar - paddleboard yoga, anyone?
Gloucester Quays
If there’s one thing we love more than some waterside shopping, it’s waterside shopping in an outlet! Oh yes, Gloucester Quays is ready and waiting with over 50 premier and high street outlet stores, so you can fill your bags with everything from homeware and accessories to that cosy new jacket you’ve had your eye on. Spend your time browsing discount racks on the hunt for the deal of the century, before heading to one of the excellent eateries to go over your haul and plan your next steps.
While the constant fixture of stores promises superb shopping in every season, Gloucester Quays also enjoys some fabulous markets throughout the year, from foodie favourites to Christmas spectaculars when lights glow overhead, and the air fills with the scent of mulled wine. At Christmas, there’s also a superb outdoor ice skating rink to help make the season all the more magical.
Nature in Art Museum and Art Gallery
Gloucester is home to some truly remarkable art galleries and creative spaces, whether your interests lie in contemporary depictions or brightly coloured houses lined in a row (we really recommend you check out Rainbow Square). Sitting just outside of the city, Nature in Art features a fascinating display of artworks inspired by the natural world around us. The first museum and art gallery of its kind, every piece in this beautiful Georgian mansion delves into the natural world, creating the perfect place for all who marvel at the artistry found in nature and the wild beauty of art.
The exhibitions change regularly, ensuring there’s always something new to catch your eye, while the artists in residence offer an in-depth look at their creative processes. You’ll find an array of courses and workshops too, inviting you to try your hand at crafting captivating works of art. Nature in Art is home to a lovely onsite café for refreshments, as well as a lovely garden where you can fill your reservoir of home-grown inspiration.
Guided walks
With so much history woven into every street, Gloucester is best explored with an experienced guide by your side (or in your pocket if you opt for one of the excellent self-guided tours), who can share interesting tidbits as you go. With a broad selection of guided tours available, the Gloucester Civic Trust is the place to go for fascinating days out around the city.
Find out about the city’s Roman influences, from ancient walls to time-worn mosaics, and delve into a past of great kings and grand battlements. The Trust’s tours last around an hour and a half, and are available every day (except Sundays) in the spring and summer months. Between October and March, walks are condensed to Saturdays at 11am, so we recommend booking ahead of time to nab your place.
Robert Raikes’s House
Combining history with a hearty meal, Robert Raikes’s House is one of Gloucester’s most iconic buildings for many reasons. First and foremost, the exterior’s traditional West Country timber framing cuts quite the opulent picture, standing out against the red-brick of its neighbouring houses. The house was originally built as a merchant’s townhouse, before becoming the base of Gloucester’s very own revolutionary, Robert Raikes, who fought for free education for children.
Today, this historic house stands proud in honour of this local legend, paying homage to the work that was pioneered within these very walls. A huge restoration project funded by Samual Smith Old Brewery saw the building return to its original glory, now hosting thirsty locals and hungry visitors looking to learn a little about Gloucester’s rich heritage while sipping on something tasty.
Cotswolds National Landscape
Perched on the edge of the Cotswolds National Landscape, Gloucester is perfectly placed for winsome adventures amidst rolling countryside. Formerly known as a place of outstanding natural beauty, it’s easy to fill your days with honey-dipped explorations through pretty towns and villages, pausing to marvel at the quaint and quirky cottages that line the cobblestone streets.
There are oodles of fabulous places to visit, from the heavenly hues of Cotswolds Lavender to iconic displays at the last remaining Rococo Garden in the country. You’ll also find grand castles and palaces and some of the most beautiful photography spots around, including the panoramic views found at the top of Broadway Tower. Finish your visit off with a memorable meal at one of the Cotswolds’ incredible Michelin Star restaurants - don’t mind if we do!
Ready to immerse yourself in the UK’s beloved cathedral city? Explore our beautiful holiday cottages in Gloucester and start planning your next historic stay.
