Gloucester

Gloucester is a vibrant multicultural city that combines historic architecture with a unique blend of visitor attractions, festivals and entertainment, high street and specialist shops.

The History of Gloucester

The cathedral city of Gloucester, nestled between the Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean along the River Severn is Britain’s most inland port, rich with history dating back from Roman times to its Victorian docklands. In its heyday the port of Gloucester was a major centre for the shipment of timber, corn, metals, wines and spirits and elegant tall ships were a familiar sight.

Today many of the historic warehouses have been converted and the docks provide a major attraction for tourists as well as the Tall Ships Festival and Gloucester’s many museums and attractions tell the stories of those that have made a great impact on England and the world, and showcase the city’s proud military and industrial heritage. 

Things to do in Gloucester

Gloucester's magnificent gothic cathedral is visible from miles around and a must see while in the city. It is the site of Henry III’s coronation and the final resting place of King Edward II, however it is more well known these days thanks to the Harry Potter films, as its beautiful cloisters serve as the interior of Hogwarts School!

Gloucester Docks is a popular leisure destination for shopping and food and drink, set against the backdrop of the beautifully restored Victorian warehouses and the vast Gloucester-Sharpness Canal.

Sports fans flock to the city to experience the roar from ‘The Shed’ at Gloucester Rugby or cheer their team on at Gloucester City AFC’s brand new stadium. The city is also host to many vibrant festivals and events, from the award-winning Gloucester Tall Ships, the nostalgic Gloucester Goes Retro to the critically acclaimed Gloucester History Festival and the atmospheric Gloucester Quays Victorian Christmas Market.

Visit Gloucester from the Dean Wye

The city is easily accessible from the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley and a day trip would take in many of the highlights of the city. Or you could make Gloucester the base for your city break and explore the spectacular countryside of the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley from there. Around a 15 minute drive from the Forest of Dean, see our Getting Here page for information on travel. Interested in walking? The Gloucestershire Way joins the city and the Forest via a fantastic off-road national trail.

If you are looking for ideas while in the city visit Gloucester Tourist Information Centre. They can provide maps, leaflets and advice both on the city itself and its surroundings including the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.

For everything you need to plan your visit to Gloucester discover more at www.visitgloucester.co.uk