Gloucestershire, located in the South West of England, offers a variety of attractive places to live, each with its own unique charm, amenities, and lifestyle advantages. Here are some of the best places to consider:
1. Cheltenham
- Description: Known for its Regency architecture, Cheltenham is a vibrant spa town with a rich cultural scene.
- Amenities: Excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment options including festivals like the Cheltenham Literature Festival.
- Education: Good schools and the University of Gloucestershire campus.
- Transport: Good rail and road links to Bristol and Birmingham.
- Attractions: Pittville Park, Cheltenham Racecourse, and the Cotswolds nearby.
2. Gloucester
- Description: Historic cathedral city with a blend of old and new, situated on the River Severn.
- Amenities: Gloucester Quays shopping and leisure complex, restaurants, and cultural venues.
- Education: Good schools and University of Gloucestershire campus.
- Transport: Direct train links to Bristol, Birmingham, and London.
- Attractions: Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucester Docks, and nearby Forest of Dean.
3. Stroud
- Description: Market town nestled in the Cotswold Hills, known for its artistic community and eco-conscious lifestyle.
- Amenities: Independent shops, cafes, and weekly farmers’ market.
- Education: Good schools and proximity to Stroud College.
- Transport: Direct trains to London and Birmingham, and easy access to M5 motorway.
- Attractions: Stroud Valleys Artspace, Museum in the Park, and scenic walks in the Cotswolds.
4. Cirencester
- Description: Often called the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’, Cirencester is a historic market town with Roman roots.
- Amenities: Charming streets with shops, cafes, and traditional pubs.
- Education: Good schools and Cirencester College.
- Transport: Close to the M4 for commuting, and accessible to Swindon and Gloucester by road.
- Attractions: Corinium Museum, Cirencester Park, and proximity to Cotswold Water Park.
5. Tewkesbury
- Description: Historic town where the rivers Severn and Avon meet, known for its medieval architecture.
- Amenities: Quaint streets with shops, restaurants, and Tewkesbury Abbey.
- Education: Good schools and Tewkesbury School.
- Transport: Easy access to M5 for commuting, and nearby Cheltenham and Gloucester.
- Attractions: Tewkesbury Abbey, Tewkesbury Battlefield, and riverside walks.
6. Tetbury
- Description: Picturesque market town in the Cotswolds, known for its antiques shops and Royal connections.
- Amenities: Boutique shops, cafes, and annual Woolsack Races.
- Education: Good schools and close to Westonbirt Arboretum.
- Transport: Accessible to M4 for commuting, and proximity to Cirencester and Stroud.
- Attractions: Highgrove House (Prince Charles’ residence), Chavenage House, and Westonbirt Arboretum.
Summary:
Gloucestershire offers a range of towns and villages, each with its own appeal based on lifestyle preferences, amenities, and proximity to natural beauty spots like the Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean. Whether you prefer the cultural scene of Cheltenham, the historic charm of Gloucester, or the tranquility of the Cotswold market towns, Gloucestershire provides a variety of options for a desirable place to live in the South West of England.