Gloucester Hotels

Mini guide to Gloucester

Situated on the mighty Severn River, Gloucester is famed for its magnificent cathedral, lovely canals and proximity to some of England's most scenic countryside.

Gloucester Cathedral is one of the finest cathedrals in England and rated as one of the seven most beautiful in the world. Now made world-famous by being one of the settings used for the Harry Potter movies, the structure dates from the 12th century, although the Tower was not constructed until the 15th century. The cathedral is noted for its massive windows, with the East Window being the largest in England at 28.8 metres by 11.6 metres. It is also famous for its beautiful cloisters and the wonderful perpendicular choir, while the most outstanding feature of the nave is the Norman arcading with its huge columns.

In the city centre are remnants of medieval structures amidst the modern buildings, while along the river the Victorian dockyards form the heart of the tastefully rejuvenated harbour area. Also popular with tourists is the canal, which was originally opened in 1827 and now plays host to dozens of pleasure boats plying the scenic waters.

The town has a few upmarket hotels and several inexpensive bed-and-breakfasts. Gloucester is not noted for its nightlife, with many restaurants only open during the day. The Cross area features the best selection of pubs and bars.

The rolling green hills of Gloucestershire and Somerset, linking the Midlands with the West Country, encompass numerous relatively remote settlements perfect for getting away from it all. To the east of Gloucester is the lively town of Cheltenham, an elegant Regency spa town most famous these days for its horse racing. From here the land to the south and east rises sharply to the Cotswold escarpment, which is sprinkled with towns featuring beautiful old mansions and churches. In the south of this region lies the busy market town of Cirencester, once an important Roman stronghold and still an important transport hub. Alternatively, the Vale of Gloucester follows the route of the River Severn northeast towards Worcestershire and the charming town of Tewkesbury, famed for its magnificent abbey; while just to the south of Gloucester is Stroud, where the much praised Museum in the Park has recently opened.

Gloucester is well served by an extensive network of roads, with access from London provided via the M4 and M5 motorways. National Express runs buses from all neighbouring cities and beyond, and there are frequent local services from Cheltenham. Trains arrive every 1 or 2 hours at the station at Bruton Way from London, Cheltenham, Cardiff, Worcester and Bristol; the bus station is right opposite. Gloucester boasts its own small airport, Gloucestershire Airport, situated just 6 kilometres to the northeast.

www.visit-glos.org.uk

Selection of hotels in this region:

New County Hotel
Ramada Hotel & Resort Gloucester
Holiday Inn Gloucester
Hatherley Manor Hotel
Express by Holiday Inn Gloucester South
Bowden Hall Ramada Jarvis

Click below for a full list of hotels and online booking

Selection of other locations with hotels available:

Holiday Inn | Travel Inn | Marriott | Travelodge | Hilton | Hyatt | Novotel | Best Western | Comfort Inn | Sheraton
Gloucester Hotels UK from cheaphotelbookings.com