Cirencester (pronounced ‘siren sester’) is a historic town in the heart of the Cotswolds. Formerly known as Corinium, it was once the second-largest city in England during the Roman times, surpassed only by London. Much of its ancient Roman history is still visible in the town today: There, you can find the Roman Amphitheatre and the Corinium Museum, the latter of which is home to numerous ancient artefacts. In more recent times, Cirencester has become a popular market town and tourist destination for people looking to explore the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This tourism has led to town centre development, and Cirencester is now home to some fantastic places to eat and drink, as well as museums, galleries, theatres and country parks. Staying at our hotel in Cirencester will mean you’re right in the heart of it all and give you the perfect base to explore the beautiful Gloucestershire countryside.
Things to do in Cirencester
Places to eat
The quality and variety on offer makes Cirencester’s food scene one of the best in Gloucestershire. Choose from a multi-award winning gastropub, a deli that is recognised with a ‘Bib Gourmand,’ one of the best fish & chip shops in the country, or a multitude of world cuisines. It’s all here and listed in our guide.
Shopping
Cirencester has a traditional town centre with plenty of shopping streets, where you’ll find high-street favourites and independent retailers alike. The pedestrianised Market Place is home to The Corn Hall, an arcade with independent shops and markets running most days. Cricklade Street is where you’ll find a lot of the high-street regulars like Boots, Dorothy Perkins, and Seasalt. A short walk away is Black Jack Street, one of Cirencester’s oldest streets, which is now packed full of independent boutiques selling everything from fashion and jewellery to homeware and artisan foods.
Getting around
If you are travelling to Cirencester by car, exit the M5 at junction 11a and follow the A47 until you reach the town. Cirencester isn’t served by a train station, so if you are arriving by rail you’ll need to use Kemble Station, which is around five miles away. From there, you can get a local taxi or Uber to Cirencester town centre. If you are travelling by coach, National Express operates from London Lane in the town centre near the long stay carpark and offers regular service to London and beyond.
Shopping in Cirencester
