Gloucester's Delight: A weekend escape itinerary
Discover the hidden charm of Gloucester, where history meets modernity.
03 May 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
Gloucester in the United Kingdom is a historic city that is best known for its charming waterfront, fascinating museums, and stunning medieval architecture. Visitors can marvel at the beauty of Gloucester Cathedral, explore the city’s Roman history at the Gloucester City Museum, and take a relaxing stroll through the scenic Gloucester Docks. With its blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, Gloucester is a must-visit destination for any tourist.
Travel plan
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- Hotel: Stay at the Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall Hotel, a stunning mansion set in 12 acres of landscaped gardens.
- Begin the day with a visit to Gloucester Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece dating back to the 11th century.
- Explore the Gloucester Docks, a vibrant area filled with shops, galleries, and restaurants.
- Visit the Gloucester Waterways Museum to learn about the city's maritime history.
- Take a tour of the Victorian Stained Glass Workshop, where you can see the art of stained glass making up close.
- End the day with dinner at The Fountain Inn, a historic pub dating back to the 18th century, serving traditional British food and ales.
- Start the day with a walk through the Cotswold Hills, an area of outstanding natural beauty.
- Visit the Slimbridge Wetland Centre, a haven for wildlife that spans over 800 acres.
- Grab lunch at the Three Choirs Vineyard, an award-winning vineyard that produces some of the best English wine.
- Head to Cleeve Hill, the highest point in the Cotswolds, for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- End the day with dinner at The Butchers Arms, a cozy country pub that serves delicious food made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Gloucester is a hidden gem of the United Kingdom, with a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff or a nature lover, there's something for everyone in this charming city.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Gloucester by plane is to fly into Bristol Airport and then take a train or bus to Gloucester. Alternatively, you can fly into Birmingham Airport and then take a train or bus to Gloucester.
Car
The best way to get to Gloucester by car is to take the M5 motorway and exit at Junction 11 for Gloucester. Alternatively, you can take the A40 from London or the A38 from Birmingham to get to Gloucester.
Train
The best way to get to Gloucester by train is to take a direct train from London Paddington to Gloucester. Alternatively, you can take a train from Birmingham New Street to Gloucester.
Boat
There are no direct boat routes to Gloucester, but you can take a boat tour along the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal to reach the city. Alternatively, you can take a boat to a nearby city like Bristol or Birmingham and then take a train or bus to Gloucester.
Bus
The best way to get to Gloucester by bus is to take a National Express coach from London Victoria Coach Station to Gloucester. Alternatively, you can take a Stagecoach bus from Birmingham to Gloucester.