AN ancient town that was once the largest behind London is found in the Cotswolds.
Cirencester is often nicknamed the Capital of the Cotswolds, being its largest town.
5
5
It was founded by the Romans, and was even the second largest town behind London at the time.
Now, it remains a popular market town and a commuter spot, being less than an hour from the capital.
There is the central Cirencester Market Place, with a market every Monday and Friday, as well as seasonal ones on Saturdays.
Don’t expect to find many chain shops in town either, with the majority being independent stores.
Read more on the Cotswolds
Make sure to head to Malt and Anchor, named one of the best fish and chip shops in the UK.
The town even has its own Cirencester Castle, which dates back to the 1107.
The town is is home to its own lido as well, which opened back in 1870.
Cirencester Open Air Pool is open until next week, before closing for the season.
There are two pools, a four-lane adult pool which is always at 26C as well as a kids pool.
Our pool’s serenely beautiful setting is just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of town so come and enjoy the sessions that run from May to September.
The main pool is 27m long, has 4 lanes and is kept at an inviting 26 degrees. Originally built as a 30 yard pool, a 1 mile swim is 59 lengths.
We also have a children’s pool that’s 0.5m deep.
One of the popular places to stay is the Kings Head Hotel, which was named as the best hotel breakfast in the UK last year.
Along with that, it also has 66 rooms, as well as an underground spa and on-site deli.
5
5
Three other Cotswolds places to visit
Bourton-on-the-Water
Often referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” this village is famous for its beautiful low bridges over the River Windrush, scenic streets, and attractions like the Cotswold Motoring Museum and Birdland Park and Gardens.
Bibury
Described by William Morris as “the most beautiful village in England,” Bibury is renowned for its quaint stone cottages along Arlington Row, the tranquil River Coln, and the picturesque Bibury Trout Farm.
Stow-on-the-Wold
This historic market town offers a quintessential Cotswold experience with its charming market square, antique shops, historic inns, and the impressive St. Edward’s Church, famous for its unique door flanked by ancient yew trees.
Otherwise we stayed at The Fleece hotel in in Cirencester – here is what we thought.
There is also the Corinium Museum, named after Cirencester’s original name.
Otherwise there is the modern Barn Theatre if you want to catch a show.
Cirencester has its own train station with direct trains to London taking less than 50 minutes.
Here is a Cotswolds village with its own sandy beach and lagoon.
5