Uncover cirencester classy and chic, cirencester is considered to be the capital of the cotswolds. in roman times it was known as corinium and was the second largest town in england. today it is a thriving, vibrant community. day 1 where to stay Cirencester is one of those towns that Stay in the heart of Cirencester at are ideal for pottering and exploring, The King’s Head overlooking the full of intriguing little alleyways and iconic market square – an elegant winding streets. The centrepiece is boutique hotel in a historic setting. the striking parish church of St John Or choose The Fleece , a charming, Baptist with its impressive south traditional coaching inn where porch. It stands on one side of the reputedly King Charles II hid from Market Place and on the opposite side Cromwell’s troops. is the alleyway leading to the Corn Hall where antique and crafts markets hidden gems are held. Shopping and eating in New Brewery Arts is an arts and Cirencester are delights – there are so crafts centre, unique in the many individual shops, cafés and Cotswolds. Watch craftspeople and restaurants to choose from. Whichever artists at work and buy a lovingly street you choose, you’re in for a treat! crafted souvenir in the gift shop. Coxwell Street, Gloucester Street and Dollar Street are the most historical parts of Cirencester. top tip To get to know the town properly join a walking tour led by a local guide. Or follow one of the themed Cirencester is a historian’s delight – from Roman ruins to elegant Georgian and trails – choose from Roman or Victorian buildings, its rich past is there to see – if you know where to look! Medieval or the more rural Hare Discover more at the award-winning Corinium Museum which, as well as having Festival Way. The Abbey Grounds an amazing collection of Roman artefacts, traces the story of the town from are a peaceful alternative, as is the prehistoric times to the modern day. leafy Cirencester Park . www.cotswolds.com hidden gems On the edge of Cirencester is The Organic Farm Shop at Abbey Home Farm. Why not stay here in a yurt or a cottage and take one of their cookery or craft courses? Cerney House Gardens is one of the ‘secret’ Cotswold gardens just to the north of Cirencester. Enjoy a pre-theatre meal at Téatro before taking in an evening performance at the adjacent Barn Theatre . day 2 Discover more Roman history at Chedworth Roman Villa . Many of the artefacts in the Corinium Museum came from this National Trust site. Hidden away in the Coln Valley and surrounded by woods, it is an idyllic spot. After a picnic lunch or snack in the café, head south to the top tip Cotswold Water Park . If you Rodmarton Manor is a perfect are feeling energetic have introduction to the Arts and Crafts a go at water skiing or wild movement – an exquisite example swimming, or simply take a of true craftsmanship. The gentle stroll around the lake. Gardens are also a work of art. 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