Steeped in history, culturally diverse, with some innovative development projects underway, Gloucester is a popular place to live – with favourable property prices too.
If you don’t already live in the city, SoGlos has whittled it down to our best 10 reasons to consider moving to Gloucester.
Property prices in Gloucester
With Gloucester one of the more affordable places to buy a property in Gloucestershire, house hunters could get better value for money in the historic city. There’s plenty of choice too, from modern apartments to beautiful period properties.
Gloucester’s fascinating history
From its Roman roots and magnificent Medieval buildings to its nautical connections, Gloucester has a rich and varied history just waiting to be discovered at places like the Museum of Gloucester, Gloucester Cathedral, Blackfriars Priory and The National Waterways Museum.
Prestigious schools in Gloucester
The King’s School Gloucester is one of the most prestigious independent schools in the country, situated in the heart of the city within the grounds of Gloucester Cathedral. Gloucester is also home to outstanding grammar school The Crypt School, as well as the University of Gloucestershire, with the Gloucestershire College Gloucester Campus and Hartpury University and Hartpury College located nearby.
Waterside living at Gloucester Docks
Who wouldn’t want to watch the world go by with the sun shining and a gin and tonic in hand — with Gloucester Docks providing a gorgeous backdrop for living, dining out, shopping and socialising right at the water’s edge.
Gloucester’s incredible architecture
While Gloucester Cathedral – the famous filming location for Harry Potter’s Hogwarts – is impressive enough, it’s not the only stunning architecture Gloucester has to offer. The town is full of beautiful buildings, including ancient priories dating as far back as the 13th century, Tudor buildings with their characteristic black timber frames, not to mention the Victorian docks.
Glorious green spaces in Gloucester
From Robinswood Hill with its panoramic views on the outskirts of the city, to Gloucester Park right in the heart of it, there are plenty of gorgeous green spaces to explore. Intrepid explorers can also pick up The Cotswold Way from Crickley Hill Nature Reserve, just a short drive from Gloucester.
Job opportunities in Gloucester
Arts and music in Gloucester
Gloucester has a thriving arts scene, with the city hosting everything from spectacular art installations like Gaia at Gloucester Cathedral; grassroots music festival Barn on the Farm at Over Farm; Gloucester History Festival for history buffs; to the diverse appeal of Gloucester Guildhall for live bands, big-name comedians and cinema screenings.
Sport in Gloucester
Of course, rugby fans will know that Premiership team Gloucester Rugby plays home games at Kingsholm Stadium in the city centre. With Gloucester City Football playing at New Meadow Park for the first time in 2020 after a 13-year hiatus. Plus, there’s a thriving ladies’ football side and netball league in the city, excellent hockey side and a burgeoning basketball team – and even a roller derby league to join! There are also world class equestrian facilities at nearby Hartpury College and Hartpury University.
Independent food and drink in Gloucester
As well as a whole host of independent restaurants offering everything from hand-stretched sourdough pizza to the best brownies in the county (dare we say country?!) and a spectacular array of waterside restaurants and bars, Gloucester even has its very own brewery and gin distillery so it's ideal for foodies who love to keep things local. Cheers to that!
