Gloucestershire

Berkeley Castle

A magnificent fortress dating back to the 12th century, Berkeley Castle has played a significant role in British history. Visitors can explore its grand halls, chapels and dungeons, as well as its beautiful gardens.

Westonbirt Arboretum

This 600-acre arboretum is home to over 18,000 trees from all over the world, including many rare and endangered species. It's particularly beautiful in autumn when the leaves turn vivid shades of red, gold and orange.

WELCOME TO Gloucestershire

Province Overview

Main city

Gloucester

AREA

3,150 km²

POPULATION

638,600

Main language

English

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

The Cotswolds

A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Cotswolds is a range of rolling hills and countryside dotted with charming towns and villages, historic churches and stately homes. The region is renowned for its stunning landscapes, picturesque cottages, and traditional pubs, and is a popular destination for hiking, cycling, and exploring local markets and festivals.

Forest of Dean

A unique landscape of ancient woodland, stunning scenery, and rich heritage, the Forest of Dean is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore miles of walking and cycling trails, climb to the top of Symonds Yat Rock for spectacular views, and discover hidden caves, historic castles, and Iron Age hill forts.

Gloucester Cathedral

One of the finest medieval cathedrals in England, Gloucester Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and historic cloisters. Visitors can explore the cathedral on guided tours, attend concerts and services, and learn about its fascinating history as a filming location for movies such as Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.

Political

Economy and Government

Gloucestershire has a diverse economy that is supported by a range of industries, including aerospace, advanced engineering, renewable energy, and tourism. The region is home to several major employers, including GKN Aerospace, Renishaw, and Spirax-Sarco Engineering, as well as a growing network of small and medium-sized enterprises. The county council works closely with local businesses to provide support and advice on issues such as skills development, access to finance, and innovation.

In terms of government, Gloucestershire is governed by a two-tier system of local government, with Gloucestershire County Council responsible for providing services such as education, social care, and highways, and six district councils responsible for services such as planning, housing, and waste collection. The region is also represented in the UK Parliament by six Members of Parliament, each of whom represents one of the county's constituencies.

Overall, Gloucestershire's economy is growing and diverse, and the county council and local businesses are working together to ensure that the region remains a great place to live, work, and visit.

History

History and Culture

Gloucestershire has a rich history and culture, dating back over 2,000 years. The region was once part of the Roman Empire, and evidence of its Roman past can be seen at sites such as the Chedworth Roman Villa. In the medieval period, Gloucestershire was an important center for trade and commerce, with many towns and villages developing around the wool industry. This period is reflected in the region's many historic buildings, including Gloucester Cathedral, Tewkesbury Abbey, and Berkeley Castle.

Gloucestershire has also been an important center for the arts and literature, with many famous writers and artists associated with the region, including J.R.R. Tolkien, Laurie Lee, and Gustav Holst. The region has a vibrant cultural scene, with many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Cheltenham Literature Festival, the Three Choirs Festival, and the Wychwood Festival.

Overall, Gloucestershire's history and culture are an important part of its identity, and the region's many historic buildings, literary associations, and cultural events attract visitors from around the world.

HOTELS

The Greenway Hotel & Spa

A luxurious country house hotel set in eight acres of grounds, The Greenway offers elegant rooms, a top-rated spa, and award-winning dining. The hotel is located just outside Cheltenham, making it a great base for exploring the Cotswolds.

Calcot Manor

Set in a 14th-century farmhouse, Calcot Manor is a stylish hotel that combines traditional features with contemporary design. The hotel has 35 rooms, a spa, and a range of dining options, including a Michelin-starred restaurant. It is located near Tetbury, a historic town in the heart of the Cotswolds.

The Painswick

A boutique hotel with 16 stylish rooms, The Painswick is located in the heart of the Cotswolds and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The hotel features a restaurant serving modern British cuisine, a bar, and a garden terrace. It is located just a short drive from Cheltenham and Stroud.

RESTAURANTS

Le Champignon Sauvage

A Michelin-starred restaurant in Cheltenham, Le Champignon Sauvage offers contemporary French cuisine using local and seasonal ingredients. The menu changes regularly and includes dishes such as ravioli of lobster, roasted squab pigeon, and raspberry soufflé.

The Fat Duck

A three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Bray, just outside of Gloucestershire, The Fat Duck is a world-renowned dining destination. The restaurant serves a multi-course tasting menu that takes diners on a culinary journey, with dishes such as "Sound of the Sea" and "Hot and Iced Tea."

The Wild Rabbit

A rustic-chic pub and restaurant in Kingham, The Wild Rabbit offers a menu of modern British cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has two AA Rosettes and a Michelin Bib Gourmand, and the menu includes dishes such as venison tartare, duck breast with heritage carrots, and lemon tart with blackberry sorbet.