Perched right on the fringes of the Cotswolds, Cirencester is a totally gorgeous market town that’s steeped in history. With thousands of years of history, even with heaps of Roman settlements, there are some many epic and best things to do in Cirencester dotted all around the town.
We totally loved our visit and often use Cirencester as our stepping stone before heading to the timeless villages in the Cotswolds. Filled with little markets, historic spots and Roman history, it’s a place you can easily spend a few days. Best of all, there’s no faff in getting around, it’s small enough to wander by foot without any worries of getting lost.
You’ll have a lovely day trip to Cirencester and it really is a great little spot to see a traditional market town in England. So, to help you find the best things to do in Cirencester, take a look at some of our favourites that we totally loved.
Have the best time exploring.
1.) Church of St John the Baptist
So, the Church of St John the Baptist is one of the largest and most beautiful medieval churches in the south of England to see. Nestled right within the heart of historic Cirencester, it’s a spot that you really can’t miss whilst you explore the town.
Once inside, you’ll be able to take a wander down the impressive nave and learn more about its 12th-Century beginnings.
Also, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the iconic stained glass windows; just stunning.
Read more: Our time exploring Cirencester
2.) Chedworth Roman Villa
Around a 20-minute drive from the centre of Cirencester, Chedworth Roman Villa is one of the largest Roman villas in Britain to visit.
Famous for its mosaic floor and museum containing historical artefacts that date back to Roman occupation. Once inside, you’ll be able to explore how Romans lived in this area of England and you can easily whisk away a few hours before returning back to Cirencester.
Read more: Best places to see in the Cotswolds
3.) Market Place
The main street in Cirencester, Market Place is one of the spots you won’t miss when wandering around. It’s almost like every little street and alley leads its way back to Market Place.
Of course, this is great as it means you can’t really get too lost in Cirencester!
As you stroll the area, you’ll be able to pop in all the little shops, partner it with a trip to Cirencester Market and popping in The Marlborough Arms for a pint (or two).
4.) Corinium Museum
The Corinium Museum is relatively cosy (as museums go) but has heaps of collections dating right back from the neolithic and victorian times. It’s a perfect little spot to take a gander at the area’s history, especially if the weather isn’t playing nice and it starts to rain.
It’s so impressive to see the prehistoric tools and easily one of the best things to do in Cirencester for history buffs!
Read more: Best places to see in the Cotswolds
5.) Cerney House Gardens
Although just outside of Cirencester (10-minute drive), Cerney House Gardens is a stunning place to spend a morning exploring the Victorian Walled Garden.
This is a lovely place to relax and have a great day and one of the best things to do in Cirencester on a sunny day.
With blooming lovely flowers, it’s a totally stunning place for anyone that loves a mix of history and nature. Be sure to see the 19th-century conservatory, the picturesque orchard, and a herb garden.
6.) Cirencester Antiques & Collectables Market
This place is worth a visit to shop for antique jewellery and art pieces from all over the UK. From indoor to outdoor pieces you can get brilliant antique treasures to take home.
This is easily one of the best things to do in Cirencester for any budding shopaholics!
7.) Cirencester Park
With centuries of history, Cirencester Park is a superb example of a forest style garden that’s totally beautiful to visit.
With expansive walking routes and trails, you can easily spend a few hours here on a sunny day. It’s the perfect little spot for a picnic and well worth a gander when the sun is out.
8.) Cotswold Water Park
Considered the UK’s largest marl lake system, the Cotswolds Water Park is one of the best things to do in Cirencester that’s just south of the town. Taking around 10-minutes to drive, you can head here for some of the gorgeous trails, fishing, sailing, cycling, and paddleboarding, too.
Oh, and if you’re a birdwatcher, you’ll love this spot.
Read more: Best places to see in the Cotswolds
9.) New Brewery Arts
If you have an interest in craft making and love to see beautiful craftwork then this place has lots to offer.
New Brewery Arts is the place where you’ll find everything related to crafts that include galleries, artists’ studios, café, and shop. It is a great place to see art exhibitions and connects people with craftsmen and artists.
Honestly, you’ll find loads of little trinkets and goodies to take home. We didn’t wanna leave.
10.) Elemental Sculpture Park
The Elemental Sculpture Park features over 100 sculpture works of many great artists. The beautiful garden has lots of different plants and trees. It’s a great place to see and admire the amazing work of art.
Afterwards, head over to The Fleece for a proper English pub lunch.
It’s centuries-old and the dishes were traditional favourites. We loved the fish and chips and sticky toffee pudding for dessert.
11.) Abbey Grounds
Abbey Grounds is the perfect place to chill after a day plodding the cobbled streets of Cirencester. Totally peaceful and serene, it’s gorgeous for a little stroll.
Though don’t be expecting some whopping “Hyde Park” style grounds, it’s much smaller and intimate.
Read more: Best places to see in the Cotswolds
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