Cirencester is right on the edge of the Cotswolds and is a beautiful market town steeped in history. With a history going back thousands of years, even with heaps of Roman settlements, there are plenty of epic and best things to do in Cirencester across the city.
We totally loved our visit and often used Cirencester as a stepping stone before heading to the timeless villages of the Cotswolds. It’s full of small markets, historical places and Roman history, and a place that you can easily spend a few days. Best of all, getting around is no problem. It’s small enough to hike on foot without worrying about getting lost.
You will have a nice day trip to Cirencester and it really is a great little place to see a traditional market town in England. Take a look at some of our favorites that we totally loved so you can find the best things to do in Cirencester.
Have fun exploring.
1.) Church of John the Baptist
The Church of John the Baptist is one of the largest and most beautiful medieval churches in the south of England. Nestled in the heart of historic Cirencester, it’s a place that you really cannot miss while exploring the city.
Once inside, take a stroll around the impressive nave and learn more about the early 12th century.
Also, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the famous stained glass windows. simply stunning, simply gorgeous.
Read more: Our time in Cirencester
2.) Chedworth Roman Villa
Chedworth Roman Villa is around 20 minutes’ drive from the center of Cirencester and is one of the largest Roman villas in Britain.
Famous for its mosaic floor and museum of historical artifacts from the Roman occupation. Once inside, explore how the Romans lived in this part of England and cover a couple of hours before your return to Cirencester.
Read More: Best Places To See In The Cotswolds
3.) Marketplace
The main street in Cirencester, Market Place, is one of the places not to be missed while strolling. It is almost like every small street and alley that leads back to the market square.
This is great, of course, because you can’t really get lost in Cirencester!
As you stroll through the area, stop by all the little shops, take a trip to Cirencester Market, and have a pint or two at The Marlborough Arms.
4.) Corinium Museum
The Corinium Museum is relatively cozy (as museums go) but has tons of collections from the Neolithic and Victorian times. It’s a perfect little place to get a glimpse of the history of the area, especially when the weather isn’t playing well and it starts to rain.
It’s so impressive to see the prehistoric tools and one of the best things to do in Cirencester for those interested in history!
Read More: Best Places To See In The Cotswolds
5.) Cerney House Gardens
Though just outside Cirencester (10 minutes’ 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 beautiful flowers blooming, it is a breathtaking place for anyone who loves a mixture of history and nature. Be sure to see those 19th century winter garden, the picturesque orchard and a herb garden.
6.) Cirencester Antiques & Collectables Market
This place is well worth a visit to buy antique jewelry and art objects from all over the UK. From indoor to outdoor pieces, you can take home brilliant ancient treasures.
This is sure to be one of the best things to do for budding shopaholics in Cirencester!
7.) Cirencester Park
With centuries of history, Cirencester Park is an excellent example of a woodland style garden that is beautiful to look at.
With extensive hiking trails and trails, you can easily spend a few hours here on a sunny day. It’s the perfect little spot for a picnic and a peek when the sun is shining.
8.) Cotswold water park
Considered the UK’s largest marl lake system, Cotswolds Water Park is one of the best things to do in Cirencester south of the city. The journey takes about 10 minutes. Here you can explore some of the wonderful hiking trails. Fishing, sailing, cycling and paddling too.
Oh and if you are a bird watcher you will love this place.
Read More: Best Places To See In The Cotswolds
9.) New brewing skills
If you are interested in crafts and love to see beautiful handicrafts then this place has a lot to offer.
New Brewery Arts is where you can find anything to do with arts and crafts, including galleries, artist studios, cafes and shops. It’s a great place to see art exhibitions and connect people with craftsmen and artists.
In all fairness, you can find lots of little trinkets and goodies to take away. We didn’t want to go.
10.) Elementary sculpture park
The Elemental Sculpture Park offers over 100 sculptures by many great artists. The beautiful garden has many different plants and trees. It’s a great place to see and admire the amazing work of art.
Then head over to The Fleece for a decent English pub lunch.
It’s centuries old and the dishes were traditional favorites. We loved the fish and chips and sticky toffee pudding for dessert.
11.) Abbey Grounds
Abbey Grounds is the perfect place to relax after a day on the cobbled streets of Cirencester. Completely peaceful and quiet, it is wonderful for a little walk.
While don’t expect lush Hyde Park-style grounds, it’s much smaller and more intimate.
Read More: Best Places To See In The Cotswolds
14 best places to visit in the Cotswolds
