Gloucestershire is one of the most desirable counties in the UK. Nestled just East of Bristol, many of its towns and villages are also convenient for those commuting to London or Birmingham, proving that getting the very best of both worlds is definitely a distinct possibility.
With beautiful green spaces, breathtaking views, quintessentially British cottages, market towns, picturesque villages, countryside walks, consistent average property prices, great local community, local services, highly acclaimed schools, fantastic commuter links and no shortage of culture, the question isn’t, “should I move to Gloucestershire?” but, “where?”
We can’t give you any definitive answers on that front, but we can introduce you to some of Gloucestershire’s most desirable gems.
1. Stroud
A market town nestled between Painswick and Nailsworth, Stroud is a haven for the well-cultured soul. From its world-renowned weekly farmer’s market to its beautifully restored canals, art galleries, independent restaurants and unspoilt countryside, this is one of those towns that just seems to have it all.
In fact, just last year Stroud was voted The Best Place to Live in the UK by The Sunday Times. Even just a flying visit to its quirky, cobbled high street will be enough to convince you of that accolade.
Keep in mind that Stroud’s high status among house buyers makes for a competitive market. You’ll want to start your search early, and find an esteemed solicitors in Gloucestershire who understands the local market – and how to make a house purchase go through as efficiently as possible.
2. Cheltenham
If you consider yourself a fan of lofty, Regency architecture, an annual calendar brimming with cultural events – like the ever-popular Literary and Poetry Festivals – then you may want to jump back in the car and drive 30 minutes up the road to the picture perfect choice spa town of Cheltenham.
From elegant townhouses to spacious homes located in and around the town, Cheltenham’s renowned fleet of schools – including the Cheltenham Ladies’ College – makes it the perfect place for families, as well as young professionals looking to put down roots in a cultural oasis.
3. Winchcombe
Like many of Gloucestershire’s favourite spots, Winchcombe has featured in plenty of TV series and films, including Father Brown. If you’re a fan of the show, you may recognise the charming little train station, but go beyond the platform and you’ll find a bustling market town filled with timbered buildings, stunning architecture, and the golden-hued Cotswold stone.
This quiet town is overlooked by Sudeley Castle, which is worth visiting for its sprawling gardens and enchanting history. It’s also within a stone’s throw from the city of Gloucester.
4. Cirencester
Another buzzing market town, Cirencester has ancient roots worth tracing if you’ve got a head for history. Pay a visit to the Corinium Museum to learn more about the Romans who settled here – or the old amphitheatre if you want to see it all for yourself. After that, explore the abbey and its grounds, founded almost 1,000 years ago, before exploring the town’s market that continues to thrive in the abbey’s shadow.
Cirencester offers a thriving community with great facilities and so many beautiful places to live, from the charming cottages just off the main square to the family-ready estates at its fringes. While the town is lacking its own train station, it’s within easy access of Swindon and Cheltenham by car.
5. Tetbury
If there was ever a town that better represents the Cotswolds’ unique beauty and rural charm, we have yet to see it. A haven of quirky cottages, friendly pubs and quaint shops, Tetbury offers a countryside retreat with a slower pace of life, surrounded by green fields, countryside walks, and the welcome ring of church bells.
Just a few minutes’ walk from Minchinhampton Common, a popular picnicking spot where, each year, hundreds of friendly cows are put out to graze, it’s one of our favourite places, where you’ll be happy to put down roots for life.
