Crowned the capital of the Cotswolds, Cirencester’s charm is a big draw to thousands of visitors all year round, making a delightful destination for a day trip or longer stay.
Casting a careful eye over what’s on offer, SoGlos rounds up 11 of the best things to do in Cirencester, including popular places to eat, shop and experience local culture.
Dine, drink and be entertained at Téatro Bar & Restaurant
Nestled on the Ingleside site at the edge of town, Téatro Bar & Restaurant is renowned for its stylish interiors, award-winning cocktails and chic dining options, serving up delicious food made with locally sourced, seasonal produce.
Open from Tuesdays to Sundays, take advantage of its impressive a la carte menu, featuring 'exciting but unpretentious' dishes that are big on flavour; or dine alfresco from its Josper grill in the courtyard on warmer days. Also stick around for a memorable night out, with cocktails at its lively piano bar nights on Fridays and Saturdays!
Explore the past at Corinium Museum
Taking its name from Cirencester’s original Roman title, the Corinium Museum is a must-visit where history lovers of all ages can discover more about the town's origins as the second largest city in Roman Britain.
The museum is home to internationally significant archaeology collections, with relics of the medieval, English Civil War and Victorian eras to see, too – and there's plenty for kids to enjoy, from interactive exhibits to activity trails and craft workshops.
Discover the remains of a Roman amphitheatre
Famous across Britain and beyond, the earthwork remains of Cirencester's Roman amphitheatre — once one of the biggest in the country — can be found on the outskirts of town.
Free to explore, visitors can take in the impressive remains that once held 8,000 spectators for public games and later became a fortress, to protect the town after the Roman army left Britain in the fifth century AD.
Get creative at New Brewery Arts
Take in the exciting exhibitions in the galleries at New Brewery Arts, shop for beautiful handmade creations from across the UK or try your hand at something crafty with one of its many workshops.
From children’s crafts to creative writing, ceramics and watercolour painting for adults, New Brewery Arts is bursting with inspiration on ways to embrace your inner artist; while visitors can also meet and buy direct from local craftspeople and enjoy a coffee in the on-site cafe, too.
Tuck in to modern British fare at Sam & Jaks
Restaurant, cafe and wine bar Sam & Jak is one of Cirencester's best places to eat, offering a unique take on modern British cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Focusing on seasonal, local produce, the restaurant serves up 'hearty yet refined dishes' inspired by the Cotswolds countryside, with an impressive wine list and cocktails to enjoy on the side.
Take in a show at the Barn Theatre
The award-winning Barn Theatre, set on the Ingleside site, has built a reputation as one of the UK's best boutique theatres, bringing some of the country's top productions to the Cotswolds.
With a broad and ambitious programme of new work, family entertainment, musical theatre and reinterpretations of beloved classics, there's something for everyone to enjoy at the Barn — and for pre-show dinner and drinks, Téatro is conveniently located right next door!
Enjoy the outdoors at Cirencester Park
Open from 8am to 5pm every day, a stroll, run or even horse ride around the stunning Cirencester Park is magnificent in every season.
Forming part of the expansive Bathurst Estate, a gloriously long stretch of green runs parallel with the main path, with the wider park offering scenic walking trails around Grade I listed open parkland, an arboretum and a kids' play area, shops, cafe and brewery at The Old Kennels near the entrance — perfect for a post-run treat!
Stop off for a sweet treat at He Says She Waffles
Hidden away down a quiet side street, the cheekily named He Says She Waffles is the devoted to all things delicious — namely waffles, of course.
Satisfy a sweet tooth with toppings including salted caramel, chocolate and peanut butter. Or, keep it savoury with breakfast waffles or melted cheese toppings.
Hunt for antique gems around town
With a stellar selection of antique shops around town, you can find everything from statement pieces for your home to vintage clothes to suit all budgets in Cirencester.
And bringing a trove of treasures to town every Friday, there's always a wide range of wares from ceramics and silver, to furniture and paintings to be found at the Cirencester Antiques & Collectables Market at The Corn Hall, too.
Shop for goodies at one of Britain's oldest markets
Held in the central Market Place from 10am to 3pm on Monday and from 9am to 3pm on Friday each week, don’t miss Cirencester’s famous Charter Market — one of the oldest in Britain.
Regular stalls include gourmet deli treats, beautiful plants, fresh fish, pickles and preserves, bespoke décor pieces and more, with special events throughout the year including 'twilight' markets where visitors can enjoy live music, hot food and drinks while they shop.
Stay the night at Ingleside House
Ranked the best hotel in Cirencester by TripAdvisor in 2024, Ingleside House prides itself on its luxury accommodation, vibrant decor and highly-rated entertainment offering, making it a destination for locals and visitors alike.
Completing the trio of businesses at Ingleside, guests can choose to dine at Téatro, take in a show at the Barn or enjoy a combination with its renowned cabaret, featuring performances from some of the UK's top tribute acts, paired with delicious food and drink.
