Our Guide to Cirencester: Best Things To Do
Discover the hidden gems of Cirencester, a picturesque town nestled in the southern part of the Cotswolds, in the county of Gloucestershire. Around 93 miles west of London, Cirencester’s central location makes it easily accessible by road and public transport, allowing visitors to explore not only Cirencester but also the surrounding areas and attractions.
Cirencester Town Centre
Cirencester is easily accessible from other major UK cities like Birmingham, which can be easily accessed via the M5 and M42, and Cardiff in Wales, just a 1.5 hour train journey from the town.
The nearest train station to Cirencester is Kemble - a convenient six miles away.
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Cirencester offers a treasure trove of experiences for every traveller. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, our guide will help you discover the very best things to do in Cirencester.
Join us as we uncover the top attractions, delightful vegan eateries, and enchanting activities that make Cirencester a must-visit destination for all.
7 of the best things to do in Cirencester
Roman Amphitheatre
On the outskirts of Cirencester are the impressive remains of one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in Britain. Built in the early 2nd century, the amphitheatre is open daily all year round (during daylight hours). Find free parking at the eastern end of Cotswold Avenue.
Corinium Museum
Discover the archaeology of the Cotswolds in this impressive museum, featuring significant finds from Prehistoric tools, Roman mosaics, and Mediaeval sculpture. The museum is open every day for a reasonable fee - under 5’s and carers go free.
Dobbies
This garden centre is one of the biggest and most impressive Dobbies we’ve seen! Explore the lovely cafe that has plenty of vegan options, including kids food. If you pre-book, you can even enjoy their delicious vegan afternoon tea.
Pretty & Pip
Pretty & Pip is a delightful independent coffee shop and walled garden. Offering ethical, locally roasted coffee and loose leaf teas, you’ll also come across yummy vegan artisan savouries and cakes.
The Organic Farm Shop
Gaining recognition for its commitment to organic agriculture, the farm follows strict organic standards. Visitors can find a variety of fresh, seasonal produce available at the farm shop - including organic fruits and vegetables.
Tierra and Mar
Tierra and Mar is a fine-dining Spanish restaurant focusing on locally sourced ingredients. Notable vegan options include strawberry and lime gazpacho, asparagus and tarragon croquettes, and some delectable desserts.
Westonbirt Arboretum
Home to 2,500 different species from across the globe and 5 national tree collections, Westonbirt is a magical tree garden to be in awe of. We recommend you pre-book to guarantee entry, especially in the autumn months. The kitchen menu offers plenty of vegan treats to keep your energy up as you explore everything this stunning arboretum has to offer.
Entry fees vary depending on the time of year and visitor type - but no parking fees to worry about!
Are there any free things to do in Cirencester?
Take a free walking tour through Cirencester town on Tuesdays and Thursdays, April through to October.
Browse our Cirencester Vegan Market. It’s free and fun for everyone to come along. Expect to find a variety of vegan traders and businesses, innovative, delicious vegan street food, sweet treats and bakes, vegan cheese, ethical clothing brands, and so much more!
Cirencester Park located in the grand Bathurst Estate is a beautiful location to explore. Open daily from 8 am to 5 pm, you can also take your (well behaved!) furry best friends. Beano - the mobile coffee option - is on hand for your caffeine fix, too.
Enjoy a day out shopping in Cirencester
A day out in Cirencester is not complete without a little retail therapy.
ANI Skincare is one of our original Vegan Market traders - who now runs her own very successful pure skincare shop! This is shopping in Cirencester at its finest, as all products are handmade in the Cotswolds. Offering a combination of fragrant essential oils and only the purest ingredients.
Fern & Ivy is your destination for plants, pots, and plant care. Offering a huge variety of plants for any area of your home, this delightful shop is on hand to advise you on the best spots for your new plants.
Eco-able is a cosy shop full of stunning and sustainable healthy goodies. Encouraging the notion of “slow shopping” - Eco-able welcomes dogs, young children, and all grown-ups to enjoy and explore!
Where to stay in Cirencester
There are a few vegan-friendly hotels in Cirencester. We recommend:
King's Head Hotel - a larger, 64-bedroom boutique hotel in the heart of Cirencester. Boasting two restaurants and a Deli & Wine Cellar, you certainly won’t leave this hotel hungry. Stand-out vegan mains include cauliflower with spiced date puree and grilled aubergine with pine nuts.
Burleigh Court - a 4-star boutique manor house hotel and restaurant set in stunning four acres of lush gardens. With 18 charming country rooms, Burleigh Court is a fantastic option for a weekend stay. They also offer vegan-inspired events such as Wild Food Foraging Experiences throughout the year.
Corinium Hotel - offering guests an on-site private car park and walled garden. 15 individual rooms await inside, each offering a uniquely different feel. Choose from vegan delights such as glazed winter squash and roast almond cream from the Corinium Court restaurant.
Cirencester is definitely worth a day trip - or even longer if you can spare the time. You certainly won’t be stuck with things to do!
Why not come along to one of our upcoming Cirencester markets? Everyone is welcome and it’s a great opportunity to support independent businesses.
We run our Vegan Fairs throughout the South West of England and Wales - find the full Vegan Fairs event list here.