Gloucester Vacations: Things To See And Do When You Stay in Gloucester

The city of Gloucester is situated on the River Severn and is the 46th largest settlement in England. Certainly when it comes to Gloucester,

you’re sure to find plenty of
things to keep you occupied in the city and nearby.  A short drive from the city and you are soon in the Forest of Dean or looking at the views from atop the Malvern Hills. In the other direction you have the Cotswolds with its variety of quiet unspoilt villages, which you can visit. 

Although the city is a port, the docks got neglected and then in the 1980’s the city
decided to renovate this area. There are plenty of riverside open spaces to wander around or you can visit one of the many shops in the docks area. And, as you’d expect, there are also plenty of bars where you can sit and enjoy some great drinks and food. One of the warehouses that are situated in this part of the city also houses the National Waterways Museum. Whilst in Custom House you will find a museum that is dedicated to the Soldiers of Gloucestershire. 

A visit to the city wouldn’t be complete without seeing Gloucester Cathedral. This building has been a place of worship for more than thirteen hundred years. If you take the time to expore inside, you’ll be able to see its detailed architectural features and its cloisters are considered to be among the most beautiful in England today. If you find thinking that, you know this building from somewhere you almost certainly do as the cathedral has been used as a location for the Harry Potter movies.

Gloucester also has a large, central tranquil park. This can be found just a short stroll from the city center and was the first park to be developed. The park has lots of space to keep your children occupied and you to enjoy a picnic on a summers afternoon. There are many events which take place here during the summer months. A quick visit to the Park’s Information Office that is housed in a Tudor Cottage and will keep you informed about all the current events.

One more place that may well be of interest to you when you v is Blackfriars. This is the oldest surviving Dominican Priory in England.  Although it hasn’t been a friary since 1538, the buildings were then bought by Thomas Bell. He then spent money converting the church into a home and the remainder of the building was turned into a factory where his cloth could be made. If you time your visit well, you may be able to take one of the guided tours offered by English Heritage.

You can get a list of places to stay in Gloucester here.