The Five Best Historic Attractions In Gloucester

Serving as the gateway to England’s West County, providing a setting for Beatrix Potter’s well-loved The Tailor Of Gloucester, and situated at the cusp of the stunning Cotswolds, Gloucester is one of the country’s most historic inland ports and is filled with historic attractions to uncover.

The city’s foundation began as the Roman fort of Glevum, defending a crossing on the River Severn, and then gained its town charter under Henry II in 1155. A couple hundred years later, in the 19^th century, the region and all its fortunes were transformed by the construction of the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal – creating a transformational means of sharing goods and services with the rest of the country. Evidence of this revolution cannot be made more obvious by the striking Victorian warehouses that still surround the docks. 

As such, the charming and surprisingly quiet Gloucester is famed for a variety of attractions, which are steeped in Roman and English heritage, while some also remaining relevant in pop culture (any Harry Potter fans here?).

Travel and Accommodation In Gloucester 

Gloucester is only a 2-hour train ride from London, is incredibly close to Wales and is within easy reach from more northern English cities like Manchester – making it a great place for a day trip or fantastic middle ground for friends travelling from across Britain. 

Accommodation options include:

• Stylish Modern City Centre Apartment
• Holiday Inn Gloucester / Cheltenham

Five Historic Attractions In Gloucester 

Gloucester Cathedral

The roots of Gloucester Cathedral go back to an abbey set up in the 670s by Osric, King of the Hwicce, while the magnificent structure as we see it today was completed between the 11th and 15th centuries. With over 1000 years of history found within its walls, the cathedral is the most prominent site of the city, and its Norman Romanesque core that blends with embellishments from every phase of English Gothic architecture is something to admire. 

As one of the oldest religious sites, Gloucester Cathedral has witnessed great history, including the crowning of King Henry III in 1216 and the burial of King Edward II in 1327.

However, what holds Gloucester Cathedral in its highest regard in the current era is more than its historic beauty and significance. It has become a must-visit attraction in Gloucester after serving as one of the most important filming locations for the Harry Potter series, debuting its appearance in the first film and then recurring in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. Potterheads flock to the intricately carved passages, lined with stunning glass art, for a glimpse into this magical world – and you should too.

Spot the cathedral in the following scenes: 

• HP1: the way to the Gryffindor common room, the fat lady entry to the Gryffindor common and when Ron and Harry hide from the troll 
• HP2: when the teachers announce that the chamber of secrets has been opened, the flooded corridor and entry to moaning myrtles bathroom
• HP6: as Harry and Ron pass between classes and when Harry overhears a conversation between Snape and Malfoy

Gloucester Docks

With the growing advantages of rail, the docks fell into disuse in the 20th century. However, these historic attractions in Gloucester are now a stylish residential and commercial area where you can have a meal by the water or wander past the Victorian warehouses that testify to the volume of goods that passed through Gloucester 200 years ago.

Highnam Court and Gardens 

Highnam Court and Gardens were built in 1658 after the original house was destroyed during the Civil War. It is one of the few houses built during the Commonwealth Period, and after restoration works were complete in 1994, its lush and colourful gardens have been opened to the public every year on selected Sundays between March and September. 

It is an underrated estate on the city outskirts that is perfect for anyone hoping to immerse in a beautiful and historic setting but avoid the large crowds of more popular locations.

Greyfriars Priory  

Greyfriars takes you back to Tudor-era England, and the friary church ruins are awe-inspiring for being one of the most complete surviving Dominican friaries in England.

Robinswood Hill Country Park

What makes the park one of the best historic attractions in Gloucester is the fact it is a 200-metre hill south of the city that once provided the residents with a water supply, while today, 250 acres of lush nature provides breathtaking views of the Black Mountains, Severn Bridge and Cotswolds.

Average Cost For A Day Trip To Gloucester Per Person

Transport (train from London + local travel): £35

Accommodation: £0

Attractions: £5

Food and amenities: £20

Practical Information About Gloucester

Location: England, United Kingdom

National Languages: English 

Currency: Sterling Pound

Neighbouring Countries: Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland