So, you've set foot in Stroud and a world of possibility stretches in front of you for 24 glorious hours.
In partnership with The Stroud hotel, let SoGlos lead the way with a itinerary packed full of creative ideas to help you make the most of this truly terrific town.
Begin your day by exploring nature
There's nothing like striding out and starting your day with a wonderful walk to help you soak up your surroundings and get a feel for what lies ahead. Take a route along the canal and you'll see wildlife aplenty — keep your eyes peeled for kingfishers!
This soothing stroll can either take you towards Stonehouse via pretty Ebley or you can follow the River Frome winding along to Brimscombe. You're spoiled for choice — either route is enchanting.
Tuck into a delicious breakfast
If you've walked up an appetite and are back in town, settle down and enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Stroud hotel. There are plenty of delicious dishes on the menu from a 'build your own Benedict' to 'The Imperial' full works of a huge cooked breakfast.
Or, if you're entranced by your walk, try the stylish and hipster vibes of Kitsch Coffee and Wine Bar beside the canal in Ebley — it's stocked with pastries and cakes that go perfectly with a brew.
Enjoy browsing and bag a great buy
Browse Stroud's much-loved Farmers' Market on a Saturday, which fills the streets with sizzling aromas, live music and high energy as well as a glorious, colourful mix of fruit and vegetables, flowers and plants. There's also a whole host of meats, breads, pastries, fish, crafts and drinks on offer.
If you miss the market, don't worry as there are plenty of independent stores to explore. We especially like the eclectic artistic mix in Made in Stroud which is heaving with unique homeware and gifts — for a loved one — or yourself!
Spark creativity
There's an undeniable air of artistic energy in Stroud. Take in the art at the town's various galleries from modern works at Aleph Contemporary to iconic sculptures at Gallery Pangolin in nearby Chalford.
Stroud Valleys Artspace hosts a gallery, project space, cafe and bar area as well as artist studios. There's also an art gallery at Museum in the Park which is free to wander around.
There's lots on the menu for lunch
Have lunch at French bistro Juliet one of the town's hottest new openings, which attracts celebs including Liam Gallagher, Richard E. Grant and Lulu Guinness along with passionate foodies alike.
Stroud institution Woodruffs Organic Cafe promises healthy meals and for a more casual bite to eat, the Mediterranean street food at Falafel Mama is so delicious that there are often queues out of the door.
Get a culture fix
Visit Museum in the Park to take a look at more than 4,000 collection objects on display, telling the story of the people and landscape of the Stroud and if the sun's out take a saunter around the walled garden grounds too.
Stroud's community venue Lansdown Hall & Gallery hosts exhibitions and music events as well as films, theatre and workshops throughout the year. Check online to see what's on.
Fill your lungs with a blast of fresh air
After wandering the streets of Stroud, get a fresh sense of perspective with a stroll on Rodborough Common.
Full of dog walkers and families flying kites, a walk offers wonderful views across the valley and there's a great pitstop at The Bear of Rodborough hotel to soak up the serenity of the area.
Stay refreshed
A trip to Stroud isn't complete without a pint at Stroud Brewery — wander along the pretty Thames & Severn Canal towpath and reward yourself with a chilled pint of organic locally-made bitter.
Or, if you don't fancy more walking, drop into any of the characterful pubs in town, try independent The Bowbridge Arms or savour a sip at cosy town classic The Retreat.
Try something new
There are a whole host of workshops to try in Stroud. From meditative drawing to yoga, dancing and botanical watercolour to sculpture tasters and pottery making.
You might fancy cookery classes at the Natural Cookery School just up the road in Nailsworth or singing or qigong at Stroud Trinity Rooms could catch your eye. Victoria Works Studios in Chalford offers classes in everything from ceramics, to painting, printmaking, jewellery, textiles, photography and upholstery.
Delicious evening dining spots
For Italian lovers Sorrento restaurant, pizzeria and wine bar is hard to beat. The Curio Lounge is great value with a cheerful atmosphere and lots of choice on the menu. Or try authentic Japanese cuisine at Daikoku ramen.
The Stroud hotel has an extensive evening menu with everything from grilled meats to steaks along with pies, fish and chips and burgers as well as small social plates to share. You can enjoy dishes in the relaxed bar area or unwind in the stylish restaurant.
Let Stroud entertain you
Catch a show at The Sub Rooms or listen to live music at The Prince Albert inn. There's a Vue Cinema in town if you fancy a movie and theatre Cotswold Playhouse has a range of performances.
If you time it right, the iconic Giffords Circus could be in town at Fennells Farm too. The talented travelling team always put on dazzling display of acrobatics with a hilarious tale to keep audiences of all ages thoroughly entertained.
Get a sound night's sleep at The Stroud hotel
Located opposite the town's train station, The Stroud hotel is perfectly positioned for a swift getaway in the morning.
Rooms are thoughtfully furnished with nods to contemporary and rustic design, while luxurious 100 Acres toiletries ensure a swanky feel to your stay.
