A picturesque market town in the Cotswolds, renowned for its thriving independent scene and honey-coloured cottages, has been named one of the finest in Britain.
The Cotswolds Gem
With rolling hills, cobbled streets, and picture-perfect towns, the Cotswolds is undeniably one of England's most stunning regions. Among its gems, Cirencester outshines the rest, crowned Gloucestershire's best market town and ranked among the UK's top market towns by Bullock Coaches, thanks to its long-established markets, antique shops, boutiques, and cafes.
A Town of Character
Dubbed the 'capital of the Cotswolds', Cirencester is home to roughly 19,000 residents. Its close-knit community spirit is evident after just an afternoon wandering its streets. Far from the sleepy charm found elsewhere, it boasts a thriving independent scene and celebrated markets. Glimpses of its Roman heritage, when it was the second-largest city after London, are visible in its grand architecture and ancient medieval streets.
I strolled along cobbled high streets flanked by warm, honey-coloured stone buildings, which felt like a scene from Downton Abbey. The Parish Church of St John Baptist stands proudly over the market square, where I discovered the renowned outdoor Charter Market, one of the oldest in the country, held every Monday and Friday.
Market Delights
The stalls overflow with everything from plants and outdoor furniture to fresh produce and household essentials. Locals peruse the vast array of goods before nipping into a nearby cafe for a cuppa. I settled on a warming cappuccino in the snug surroundings of Keith's Coffee Shop, its shelves bursting with tempting treats like loose-leaf tea, biscuits, jams, chutneys, and chocolates.
For a freshly baked treat, KNEAD Cirencester is an independent bakery worth visiting, offering classic pastries, including a pecan and maple danish. The charming Heather's is another brilliant option for a decent coffee, tucked away down a characterful lane, close to delightful independent retailers.
Independent Shopping
Cirencester's flourishing independent shopping scene is one of its greatest draws, making it a goldmine for unique gifts. During a recent day out, a browse through Octavia's Bookshop turned up a great read, while the gift shop m.a.d.e. and the welcoming Corn Hall Indoor Market proved well worth exploring.
Open year-round, Sunday to Thursday, the indoor market is packed with traders selling organic beauty products, jewellery, art, bags, scarves, cards, wood, craft, Persian rugs, and carpets. Just a stone's throw away is the Corn Hall Cellars Wine Shop, stocking a fine selection of wines, beers, and spirits, along with tasty treats for a night in with friends.
Beyond the independents, familiar high street names such as White Stuff, Seasalt Cornwall, Barbour, Mountain Warehouse, French Grey, and Waterstones are also well represented. While the independent retailers and bustling daily markets were standout attractions, Cirencester is undeniably a thriving town in every sense.
Getting There
Those keen to soak up the delightful character of Cirencester will find it just a 30-minute drive from both Gloucester and Cheltenham, or less than a two-hour train journey from London. Alternatively, make it a weekend escape and explore surrounding Cotswolds villages such as Bibury and Tetbury.
