Called the Capital of the Cotswolds, Cirencester is a historic market town with an enthralling Roman past.
Its twisting cobbled lanes, half-timbered houses and ancient sights are all located in the heart of the condensed city – which makes it a perfect place to explore on foot!
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We created this Free, Self-Guided Cirencester Walking Tour to showcase the must-see spots. Not only does it lead to the top city center attractions, it navigates down hidden lanes.
The walk follows the same route we used when we toured Cirencester during our weeklong trip to the Cotswolds Without a Car.
About Our Cirencester Walking Tour
Our outlined walking tour of Cirencester is about 2 miles in length. We completed the walk in roughly 1.5 hours, which allowed plenty of time for photos.
For each sight, we include a link to a map for walking directions. Later, we share a map of all the attractions so you can get a general idea of how the tour loops through town.
Would you prefer this tour without the advertisements? You can buy the ad-free PDF for less than a cup of coffee!
Self-Guided Cirencester Walking Tour Route
Lace up your shoes and get ready to discover Cirencester – a city steeped in history and drenched in charm!
#1 Market Place
MAP. Begin your self-guided walk of Cirencester in the atmospheric Market Place. The street – which was already established by the year 1086, according to the Domesday Book – has long been the center of trade.
The wide, curving lane is lined with pastel-painted houses that host boutique shops and international brands.
Throughout the year, markets of all kinds are held on the thoroughfare. Be sure to pop inside the Corn Hall on Market Place. The arcade has been a hub of commercial activity since the 1860s.
#2 St. John the Baptist Church
MAP. The second stop on our Cirencester tour is St. John the Baptist; it’s an absolute must-see!
The oldest parts of the church date to the 12th century, but it was during the wool trade heyday that it was significantly expanded and enhanced.
Particularly interesting is the three-story South Porch that was originally built separately from the main structure.
Visiting is one of the free things to do in Cirencester, so be sure to step into the interior of this gorgeous, gothic church. We were impressed by the soaring ceilings, fan vaulting and colorful stained-glass windows.
#3 Abbey Grounds
MAP. The Abbey Grounds – a sprawling green space – was once home to the 12th century St. Mary’s Abbey.
Long ago demolished, the only remains are the central trout lake and the Norman Arch and Gatehouse at the north end of the park.
With a wide-open lawn and large shade trees, the grounds are a great spot for a picnic on sunny days.
#4 Roman Town Wall Remains
MAP. In the 3rd century, when Cirencester – then called Corinium Dobunnorum – was under Roman rule, the town was surrounded in protective stone walls.
Most of the walls have been torn down, but a small section remains in the most eastern part of Abbey Grounds.
While not a particularly engaging attraction, the history is undeniably fascinating.
#5 Black Jack Street
MAP. Next up on our self-guided walk is Black Jack Street – a part of the city where it feels like stepping back in time. The curving cobblestone lane appears as if it were plucked right out of the Middle Ages.
Not only is it atmospheric, but it’s also a treasure trove of independent retailers, boutique stores and stylish restaurants.
As you window shop your way down the street, duck into The Stable Yard and Swan Yard – two hidden alcoves with more locally-owned shops and dining establishments.
At the Jesse Smith Butcher Shop – which opened in 1808 – pause and turn around to take in the spectacular sight. The street frames that church tower in a postcard-picture view!
#6 Corinium Museum
MAP. If your interest in the region’s Roman past has been piqued, then pause your walking tour in Cirencester for about an hour and head inside the Corinium Museum.
The award-winning institution displays a vast collection of ancient artifacts and intricate mosaics, while detailing the timeline of Roman history in the region. Tickets are required for entry.
#7 Cecily Hill
MAP. Cecily Hill – an inclined street of honey-colored houses – is next on our list of places to see in Cirencester. Enhanced with bright and colorful flowers in the summertime, the street is simply idyllic.
At the top of the sloping hill is ‘The Castle’. Built as an armory in 1857, the striking crenelated structure is a magnificent sight (but it’s disappointingly used as an office building today).
#8 Cirencester Park
MAP. At the end of Cecily Hill are the elegant wrought-iron gates to the massive Cirencester Park and Bathurst Estate.
The gates, which have been standing here since 1856, open onto the park’s renowned Broad Avenue.
Inside, you can stroll along the forested paths, explore The Kennels or take a Mansion Tour. A small fee is required to enter the grounds, which has been home to the Bathurst Family since 1695.
Because there is still more to see in Cirencester, we just stole a glimpse and then continued on with our tour.
#9 New Brewery Arts Center
MAP. An artistic enclave that is full of creativity, the New Brewery Arts Center is a wonderfully repurposed space.
Home to the Cirencester Brewery until it closed in 1937, the old brewery buildings have been transformed into gallery space, artist studios and crafting workshops.
There is even a unique hostel located within the premises, The Barrel Store. In fact, if we were staying in Cirencester, this is where we would have booked a room!
#10 The Woolmarket
MAP. The wool trade flourished in Cirencester during the 16th and 17th centuries. Its reputation for high-quality wool made both merchants and the city quite wealthy.
The Woolmarket was at the center of the thriving industry. Today, it’s a modern entertainment district with cafes, shops and bars. The only remnant of its past is The Ram statue that proudly stands near the entrance.
After Your Self-Guided Cirencester Tour
The Woolmarket marks the last stop on our Cirencester Self-Guided Walking Tour. Stick around for a refreshing beer at the tap room of the local craft brewery: The Hop Kettle (map).
Alternatively, grab a bite to eat at The Bear Inn, just across from The Woolmarket entrance (map). The 18th century pub pours regional Butcombe beers.
If you still have energy to explore, there is more to discover! For more Roman history, walk to the site of the old Cirencester Amphitheatre (map).
It was built in the 2nd century and could accommodate 8,000 spectators. Although there are no visible ruins, the shape of the once-grand arena can be seen in the earthworks.
Families looking for Cirencester things to do with kids might want to check out St. Michael’s Park (map). The green space has multiple play areas and activities.
Map of Cirencester Walking Route
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Cirencester map from below.
Plan Your Cirencester Trip
When planning a Cirencester and Cotswolds trip, keeping track of the details is key. Use our Travel Planner to stay organized!
Getting There
The best way to get to Cirencester is by car or bus. There are several parking lots conveniently located in the city center.
Regional buses connect Cirencester to nearby towns, like Cheltenham, Gloucester, Stroud, Swindon and Bourton-on-the-Water.
For our trip, we traveled from Bibury (home to the famous Arlington Row Cottages) via the 855 Pulhams Bus. Then, we hopped on a Stagecoach 51 bus to return to Cheltenham.
From London, you can use National Express or Megabus from London Victoria Coach Station.
There is no train station in Cirencester; the closest is about 7 miles away in Kemble. From there, you can use a bus or taxi to get into town.
What You Will Need for Your Walk
Before you set off on our self-guided Cirencester stroll, we want to mention a few things that will help make your tour easy and enjoyable!
Walking Shoes
Between the cobblestones and time on your feet, you will want to wear comfortable and versatile travel shoes for your Cirencester walk. We like these trainers for women or trail shoes for men.
Connectivity
We provided maps for walking directions, but you will need a wireless connection to use them.
If you don’t have cell phone coverage in England, buy an eSim (for unlocked devices) or invest in a Pocket WiFi – we have used GlocalMe and love it!
Day Pack
When touring on foot, it’s always a good idea to carry a travel day bag that is big enough to stow your essential travel items. We like these versatile backpacks.
Real Camera
Pictures are our favorite souvenir – so we use a Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens that takes fantastic photos. Even better: it’s an affordable DSLR camera for travelers!
Start planning your trip to the UK! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More UK Travel Guides
- How To Visit The Cotswolds Without a Car
- 1-Day in Cheltenham
- The Best of Bath
- What To See in Bristol
- Things To Do in Windsor
- London in One Week
- Scotland in 10 Days
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