Gloucestershire: History Meets Adventure

Gloucester - A City Steeped in History

International Museum Day is coming up on May 18th, and there's no better place to celebrate than in the amazing county of Gloucestershire. This area has a rich history and stunning views of green natural landscapes.

Let's start our adventure in the city of Gloucester itself. You gotta see the Jet Age Museum - it has some really cool aircraft displays!. Then walk through history at the Gloucester Museum, where you can actually see parts of an ancient Roman wall! The Folk Museum lets you see what life was like in Gloucester's past. But one of the highlights has to be the reenactments of the 1643 Siege of Gloucester.

While you're in Gloucester, grab a delicious meal at spots like The Fountain Inn for classic pub grub, Greek on The Docks for med flavours, or Bangkok Canteen to get your Thai food fix with dishes like creamy Tom Yum prawns. In the centre of the city there are two food trucks where you can choose from a hot pork roll with stuffing, crackling and apple sauce or a filled jacket potato.

Cheltenham and Its Cultural Delights

Next up, let's head to the posh town of Cheltenham. This place screams elegance with its Regency buildings and cultural scene..Don't miss the Holst Victorian House, birthplace of the famous composer Gustav Holst. Cheltenham also has an art galley named The Wilson which has a great art collection. But I'm most excited about riding the steam trains at the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway!

Cheltenham is home of jump racing and holds the famous Cheltenham Horseracing festival.

For unique dining in Cheltenham, there's the Black Gold coffee shop, the swanky Sixways Wine Bar, the delightful French bistro Petit Coco, or you can get your Caribbean food fix at Turtle Bay.

Explore The Forest of Dean

Now let's venture into the woodsy Forest of Dean area. This place is filled with fascinating industrial heritage sites, such as the Hopewell Colliery in Coleford.. You'll also want to explore spots like the Dean Heritage Centre, the old Littledean Jail, and the really cool Clearwell Caves formed in limestone mines.

While you're in the Forest of Dean, you've got to treat yourself to some amazing local food and drink. I'm talking smoked fish and meats from Severn & Wye Smokery, delicious artisan chocolates at The Chocolate Bar in Lydney, and the iconic Double Gloucester cheese from Smarts Farm. Then relax over craft ciders at Severn Cider or cosy up at Tudor Farmhouse Hotel.

Stroud's Artsy Vibe and Local Flavors

Stroud is a great place for anyone who enjoys arts and culture . Wander the Stroud Museum, explore the gorgeous Painswick Rococo Garden, go paddleboarding on the canal, and maybe even have a spooky encounter at the haunted Ancient Ram Inn!

Stroud has an awesome foodie scene too. Hit up the Five Valleys Night Market for amazing street food, sip beers at Stroud Brewery, shop the Farmers Market, drink proper cider at The Woolpack Pub, and don't miss the famous fish and chips at Simpsons.

Medieval Charm in Tewkesbury

Speaking of awesome old towns, Tewkesbury is like stepping onto the set of a medieval movie. See the mind-blowing Roman remains at Chedworth Villa, tour the stunning Tewkesbury Abbey, and learn all about local nature at the John Moore Countryside Museum.

You've got to experience The Cross House Tavern in Tewkesbury. This tiny micropub won major awards for their incredible ales, ciders, perrys and more - though no lagers or food are served. For heartier fare, JellyRoll Cafe offers up full English breakfasts, cute floral biscuits, and coffee in a fun jazz-themed setting.

Cirencester - The Cotswolds Capital

Last but not least, let's talk about picturesque Cirencester, considered the "Capital of the Cotswolds." This place has all the charming English scenery and history you could want. Don't forget to see the Roman Amphitheatre leftovers, the cool Roman stuff at the Corinium Museum, and catch a thrilling polo match if you can!

While in Cirencester, treat yourself to upscale seafood fare like lobster at Henry's, a smoked salmon benny and latte at the charming Fleece Hotel, or authentic Chinese cuisine like Kung Po Chicken from Mark's Kitchen. With so many amazing options, your tastebuds will thank you.