Gloucester

Visit Gloucester

A city where history, culture, and waterside living meet

Gloucester is a vibrant, multicultural city that blends stunning historic architecture with a dynamic mix of attractions, festivals, entertainment, and shopping. Whether you're visiting for the day or planning a longer stay, Gloucester offers a unique city experience with easy access to the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley countryside.

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. During its heyday, Gloucester’s docks bustled with the trade of timber, corn, metals, wines and spirits, with the sight of towering ships on the River Severn a familiar scene.

Today, Gloucester’s historic Victorian docklands are beautifully restored. The redbrick warehouses house museums, restaurants, shops, and cafes, all set around the impressive Gloucester Docks and the Gloucester–Sharpness Canal. The city’s proud military and industrial heritage is celebrated through its many museums and events.

Things to do in Gloucester

• Gloucester Cathedral: A true masterpiece of English Gothic architecture, Gloucester Cathedral is a must-visit. Known as the coronation site of King Henry III and the burial place of King Edward II, its stunning cloisters also famously doubled as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films.
• Historic Gloucester Docks: The docks offer a vibrant waterside experience with independent shops, bars, and restaurants, alongside the award-winning Gloucester Quays Outlet for shopping lovers. Explore the Gloucester Waterways Museum or simply soak up the lively atmosphere. All foodies need to visit the Gloucester Food Dock for some of the best local producers, eateries and bars.
• Sports and Stadiums: Every sports fan needs to feel the roar of the crowd at a Gloucester Rugby match at Kingsholm Stadium. It's a must to experience the legendary atmosphere of ‘The Shed’! Football fans can catch a match at Gloucester City AFC’s new stadium.
• Festivals and Events: Gloucester hosts an exciting calendar of events year-round.
  • Gloucester Tall Ships Festival: Celebrate Gloucester’s seafaring heritage with stunning tall ships, live entertainment and family fun.
  • Gloucester Goes Retro: Step back in time with a city-wide celebration of classic cars, vintage fashion and nostalgia.
  • Gloucester History Festival: Critically acclaimed and packed with fascinating talks, tours and exhibitions.
  • Gloucester Quays Victorian Christmas Market: Experience a magical festive atmosphere at one of the UK’s best-loved Christmas markets.

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.

Gloucester is around a 15 minute drive from the Forest of Dean, see our Getting Here page for information on travel.

Interested in combining historic sightseeing with countryside adventures? The Gloucestershire Way, a fantastic national trail, links Gloucester with the Forest, offering a brilliant off-road walking route for those keen to explore on foot.

For everything you need to plan your trip to Gloucester, discover more at using the Visit Gloucester website linked here.