The Gloucestershire Bucket List

Handpicked by the team of journalists at SoGlos, The Gloucestershire Bucket List is the definitive collection of 100 ultimate things to do in the county.

By Michelle Fyrne  |  Published
See how many of the 100 ultimate things you can tick off the Gloucestershire Bucket List.
What are you waiting for? See how many of the 100 ultimate things you can tick off the Gloucestershire Bucket List.

Whether you’re a lifetime Gloucestershire resident or a first-time visitor, The Gloucestershire Bucket List has been curated to offer year-round inspiration – discover just how many of the 100 things you can tick off with friends and family.

With an initial limited edition run of 15,000 copies of the printed Gloucestershire Bucket List distributed to venues featured, pick up your printed guide from a selection of hotels, attractions, museums, theatres and on Stagecoach buses across the county.

And, if you’re out and about on a Gloucestershire Bucket List adventure, don’t forget to share your experiences and photos on social media using the hashtag #GlosBucketList – we’ll reshare our favourites!


This exciting project has only been made possible with thanks to the support of a number of carefully-selected partners, who all share in SoGlos’s mission to showcase Gloucestershire on a local, national and international scale…

In partnership with GFirst LEP | gfirstlep.com

GFirst LEP is the Local Enterprise Partnership for Gloucestershire. As the business voice for the county, it’s their mission to make Gloucestershire the very best place to live, work and play. GFirst LEP is putting Gloucestershire on the map by investing millions in projects covering every corner of the county; innovation, transport infrastructure, education and business support – all to help Gloucestershire grow and thrive.

In partnership with Visit Gloucestershire | visit-gloucestershire.uk

Visit Gloucestershire is the county’s Strategic Management Organisation, established in 2020 to forge a comprehensive vision for the development of the visitor economy and leisure and tourism business sector in Gloucestershire. It comprises several divisions and represents consumers, trade, attractions, accommodation providers, tour guides, retailers, restaurateurs, venues and more.

In partnership with Stagecoach | stagecoachbus.com

With its extensive bus network covering Gloucestershire and beyond, Stagecoach West offers great value travel without the hassle of parking – with group dayrider and family and friends explorer tickets providing unlimited travel for a day. Plus, the Stagecoach app features a journey planner, live bus tracker, ticket purchasing functionality and more.

In partnership with Westonbirt Arboretum | forestryengland.uk

Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, is one of the most spectacular tree gardens in the world – home to five national tree collections and 2,500 different species from the far corners of the globe. Explore 600 acres encompassing natural play areas, the STIHL Tree Top Walkway, woodlands and restaurants – with seasonal highlights the whole family will enjoy all year round.

Explore Gloucestershire’s great outdoors


1. Walk a stretch of the world-famous Cotswold Way

Running from Chipping Campden in the north to the city of Bath in the south, the 102-mile Cotswold Way is one of the most iconic trails in the UK and one of the most beautiful walks in Gloucestershire. Explore a leg or complete the full distance.

2. Find all the installations on the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail

Starting and ending at Beechenhurst, current artwork to spot along the 3.5 mile long Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail includes stained glass windows; swings; giant pine cones and more.

3. Stroll along Stroudwater Canal’s restored towpaths

One of the most stunning beauty spots in Stroud, the restored towpath between Eastington and Sapperton spans 12 miles of peace and tranquillity.

4. Paddle a canoe on the River Wye

Make your way to Symond’s Yat for the chance to paddle canoes, kayaks and paddleboards along the River Wye – with plenty of pubs to stop off at along the way.

5. Catch a rare glimpse of the wild boar in the Forest of Dean

Although the Forest of Dean is home to the UK’s single largest wild boar population, they are still incredible rare to spot. Head to the woodland around The Speech House at dusk for some of the best chances to spot these shy creatures.

6. See The Daffodil Way in full bloom in Dymock

Head to Dymock Woods and Kempley Green for a nine-mile circular stroll filled with fragrant wild daffodils in early spring.

7. Venture underground at Clearwell Caves

Mined for more than 4,500 years, Clearwell Caves is one of the most unique natural attractions in the UK, with different mines open to all ages.

8. Spy sunken boats at Purton Ships Graveyard

Deliberately beached in the 1950s to reinforce the banks of the River Severn, the old boats at Purton Hulks are a special sight on family-friendly – but often very muddy! – walks.

9. Pedal along the Forest of Dean family cycle trail

One of the best places to get on your bike in Gloucestershire, Cannop Ponds is a popular starting point in this nine-mile circular cycling route.

10. Take a dip in the Cirencester Open Air Swimming Pool

One of the nicest places in the Cotswolds to cool off in the summer months, head to Cirencester Open Air Swimming Pool for a delightful dip.

11. Summit Cleeve Hill – the UK’s ‘fastest mountain to climb’

As well as being the highest point of the Cotswold Hills, and the highest point in Gloucestershire, Cleeve Hill in Cheltenham has also been dubbed the UK’s fastest mountain to climb.

12. Be wowed by the autumn colour at Westonbirt Arboretum

Nature puts on a vibrant autumnal show from September at the awe-inspiring Westonbirt Arboretum. Soak up the dazzling display of colour and head for the acer glade – a hotspot for keen photographers.

13. See where Star Wars was filmed at the enchanting Puzzlewood

May the force be with you as you explore Puzzlewood in the Forest of Dean, one of the most mysterious and beautiful places to visit in the county, the woods have inspired some of the best fantasy and sci-fi productions – including Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens.


Get your Gloucestershire culture fix


14. Soak up Gloucester Cathedral’s incredible architecture

Immerse yourself in history and admire the painstaking skill of the stonemasons who crafted a masterpiece. Built more than 1,000 years ago, Gloucester Cathedral has stood the test of time to stand proud as one of the county’s most iconic landmarks.

15. See carpets of snowdrops at Painswick Rococo Garden

Dating back to the 1740s, and tucked away in a Cotswold valley on the outskirts of Painswick, is one of Gloucestershire’s most beautiful snowdrop displays at Painswick Rococo Garden.

16. Follow in the footsteps of royalty at Sudeley Castle

The final resting place of Katherine Parr, the last of King Henry VIII’s six wives, Sudeley Castle is an atmospheric venue to soak up history, with gorgeous gardens to explore too.

17. Climb down into Gloucester’s underground Eastgate Chamber

Organised by the Museum of Gloucester and open for tours at certain times of the year, explore what lies underneath the pavements of the city.

18. Delve into Cirencester’s Roman past at the Corinium Museum

The Corinium Museum is located at the heart of Cirencester, the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’, and plays host to one of the largest collections of Romano-British antiquities in the UK.

19. Peer into King Edward II’s cell at Berkeley Castle

With a remarkable history, stunning grounds and plenty of children’s activities, Berkeley Castle offers a fantastic day out – including the chance to explore the ancient keep or brave a trip to the dungeon where King Edward II was imprisoned.

20. Wander around Cotswold Sculpture Park’s outdoor art gallery

Open from April to September, the outdoor Cotswold Sculpture Park gallery in Somerford Keynes is home to an impressive range of sculptures to admire and buy.

21. Discover Gloucestershire’s aviation history at the Jet Age Museum

Preserving aviation heritage, the Jet Age Museum in Staverton is home to an impressive collection including a replica of Britain’s first jet aircraft, the Gloster E.28/39.

22. Tour the royal grounds at Highgrove Gardens

A must for horticulturalists, The Royal Gardens at Highgrove, near Tetbury, offer an impressive setting with royal pedigree, book a garden tour throughout the year.

23. Be inspired at the Cotswold retreat of William Morris, Kelmscott Manor

Built towards the end of the 16th Century, Kelmscott Manor was described as a ‘Heaven on Earth’ by Morris.

24. Snap a picture of Bibury’s famous Arlington Row cottages

Another favourite of William Morris – and Instagrammers galore – the quaint row of cottages in Bibury are some of the most photographed in the Cotswolds.

25. See the Cotswold doorway which inspired Tolkien

A unique sight squeezed between two ancient yew trees – and widely rumoured to have inspired Tolkien’s fantasy world – hunt out The North door to St. Edwards Church in Stow-on-the-Wold.

26. Admire a 200-year-old Mogul Indian palace at Sezincote

Sezincote, near Moreton-in-Marsh, is a stunning Indian house built in the Mogul style of Rajasthan, set among incredibly romantic gardens.

27. Connect with local artists at New Brewery Arts

Cirencester’s vibrant New Brewery Arts gives visitors the opportunity to watch artists and craftspeople at work, enjoy exhibitions, and learn new skills too.

28. Uncover the city’s origins at Museum of Gloucester

Home to an internationally important collection of treasures – comprised of nearly one million objects! – The Museum of Gloucester spans two floors of exhibitions and interactive experiences, including a Roman kitchen playhouse, a medieval street and part of the original Roman wall.

29. Taste the famous Cheltenham waters at Pittville Pump Room

The Spa Well in the iconic grade I listed Pump Room is the only place to taste the famous Cheltenham Waters.

30. Hunt for antiques and collectibles in Tetbury

Dubbed the antiques capital of Gloucestershire, Tetbury is a treasure trove for serious collectors and casual shoppers alike, with decorative antiques, interiors and collectables galore.


Gloucestershire family fun


31. Feed the animals at Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park

Popular family attraction Cotswold Farm Park offers the chance to meet rare animal breeds; bottlefeed lambs, explore play areas; and even stay overnight on the campsite or in one of the luxury lodges.

32. Ride a steam train on The Friendly Forest Line

Head to Lydney for the chance to take a steam train ride on the Dean Forest Railway Friendly Forest Line.

33. Explore 100 acres of wetland nature at Slimbridge Wetland Centre

Home to a world of wetland wildlife, Slimbridge Wetland Centre offers visitors the chance to see swans, ducks, geese and even flamingos and otters up-close.

34. Build a sandcastle at Cotswold Country Park & Beach

Pack your bucket and spade for a sunny day out at Cotswold Country Park & Beach, with boat hire, adventure playgrounds, outdoor swimming and water sports galore.

35. Fly a kite on Minchinhampton Common

Get up to the highest heights and blow away the cobwebs at this beauty spot, near Stroud, with wonderful windswept views.

36. Walk alpacas in the Cotswolds

A wonderful chance to bond with these unique creatures, the herd of hypoallergenic animals at home on the farm at Cotswold Alpacas in Cowley love being taken out for walks (almost) as much as dogs do!

37. Count the yew trees in pretty Painswick

Also referred to as ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’, historic Painswick boasts pretty streets lined with beautiful buildings, with St Mary’s Church and its famous 99 yew trees in the centre.

38. Splash in the babbling brook at Wenchford

One of the nicest places to take the kids when its sunny in Gloucestershire little ones can make a splash in the winding Blackpool Brook.

39. Row a boat on Pittville Park lake

Boats are available to hire in Cheltenham’s Pittville Park from Easter to September, with the chance to take a relaxing row around the lower lake – before returning for a well-earned ice cream from the boathouse.

40. Peep inside Beatrix Potter’s House of the Tailor of Gloucester

Wander along College Court for the tiny House of the Tailor of Gloucester museum and shop, complete with a menagerie of Beatrix Potter creatures to spot.

41. Stroll alongside the ships at Gloucester Docks

The most inland port in the UK, Gloucester Docks is home to historic vessels and colourful barges, as well as Gloucester Quays with its vibrant mix of shops, restaurants and bars.

42. Discover the history of the Forest of Dean at Dean Heritage Centre

Spanning five acres, Dean Heritage Centre spans local history, arts, crafts and culture in a stunning setting, ideal for family days out.

43. Catch a film at Sherborne Cinema

Located in Kingsholm, Sherborne Cinema is an independent and unique Art Deco picture-house, showing an eclectic mix of films – including family matinees.


Gloucestershire food and drink


44. Browse the stalls at the world famous Stroud Farmers’ Market

One of the biggest, busiest and most popular farmers’ markets in Gloucestershire, Stroud’s weekly market boasts between 45 and 60 stalls every Saturday from 9am.

45. Catch your own fish supper at Bibury Trout Farm

Open from March to October, Bibury Trout Farm is one of England’s oldest working trout farms with a chance to catch your own fish dish.

46. Dine at Le Champignon Sauvage

The only Gloucestershire Michelin Star restaurant, Cheltenham’s Le Champignon Sauvage has been feeding discerning gastronomes for 35 years.

47. Visit the fish market at Severn & Wye Smokery

Upmarket Forest of Dean foodie hotspot Severn & Wye Smokery is packed with gorgeous produce, with a nice café and restaurant too.

48. Give Tewkesbury Mustard a go – it was good enough for Shakespeare!

One of Gloucestershire’s most unique artisan food products Tewkesbury Mustard Company is the only true producer of Tewkesbury Mustard in Tewkesbury – continuing a tradition that dates back to the 16th century.

49. Savour a glass of wine at wine at Woodchester Valley Vineyard

There’s no better way to appreciate a Woodchester Valley red, white, rosé or sparkling wine than surrounded by the rows of vines that produced them – fortunately, the vineyard near Stroud runs regular tours and tastings.

50. Try Sri Lankan street food at The Coconut Tree

The Sri Lankan street food restaurant chain founded in Cheltenham was immensely popular with locals even before The Coconut Tree got its glowing review from Jay Rayner in The Observer, but has since expanded across the south west, helped by dishes like the Cheesy Columbo and hoppers.

51. Devour Italian-style ice cream on the farm at Wholly Gelato

Head along Elmore’s country lanes to discover Wholly Gelato, an artisan ice cream producer, using milk from cows reared on the family farm.

52. Sip a pint of local ale at England’s oldest inn, The Porch House

Said to be the oldest inn in England and dating back to the 10th Century, The Porch House in Stow-on-the-Wold offers Cotswold quintessential charm and excellent food.

53. Dine with breathtaking rural views at The Scenic Supper

Book one of the specially made glasshouses at The Scenic Supper in Todenham, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views while you sample a tasting menu showcasing the best food and drink from the Cotswolds.

54. Take a cider making masterclass at Dunkertons

Learn the ancient secrets of cider making before having a go at creating your own blend, under the watchful eye of Dunkertons’ master cider maker. You’ll get to try carefully matched ciders and cheeses, and get a guided tour of Dunkertons Organic Cider too.

55. Devour some of the most delicious brownies in the land from Hetty’s Kitchen

Henrietta Kitt’s brownies have built a cult following – track them down at Hetty’s Hatch in Gloucester, as well as markets, coffee shops and farm shops across the county.

56. Feast on great British desserts at The Pudding Club

Started in 1985 to preserve the great British pudding and held regularly at the Three Ways House Hotel, The Pudding Club starts with a jovial introduction by The Pudding Master, before a parade of seven puddings complete with noise and ceremony – the aim being to taste them all and then vote for your favourite.

57. Stock up on organic produce at Daylesford’s farm shop

A quintessentially Cotswolds shopping experience at Daylesford is as delightful as the tasty organic produce on offer, just ensure to visit close to payday! The charming café, with its picture-perfect outdoor dining area is well worth a visit too.

58. Sample the earth-conscious beer at Gloucester Brewery

Situated in Gloucester Docks, get an insight into the beer making process and meet the brewers at Gloucester Brewery, before stocking up on IPAs, golden ales and lagers – or head to the Warehouse 4 Taproom to try the award-winning beers straight from the keg.

59. Relax with a book at The Woolpack Inn, Laurie Lee’s watering hole

It’s like stepping back in time in the gorgeous Woolpack Inn, near Stroud, a pub packed with literary local history, wonderful Slad Valley views and a cracking range of beers.


Gloucestershire sporting action


60. Experience the jump racing action at Cheltenham Racecourse

There’s nothing like the roar of a Cheltenham Racecourse crowd to make the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end – with The Festival and famous Cheltenham Gold Cup the absolute pinnacle in the calendar for horseracing fans.

61. Cheer on Gloucester Rugby at Kingsholm Stadium

Join 16,000 spectators on a Gloucester Rugby match day to see the mighty Cherry and Whites take on rival clubs in Premiership Rugby. Stand in The Shed for an authentic experience.

62. Catch a thrilling chukka at Beaufort Polo Club

Home to the famous Tomlinson polo dynasty, Beaufort Polo Club is a great place to experience what is one of the world’s oldest known team sports, as skilful horse riders try and score against the opposing team over a number of ‘chukkas’.

63. See the planes touch down at Gloucestershire Airport

Head to The Aviator Restaurant in Staverton and you’ll get a front row seat for an afternoon of free entertainment, watching private jets and helicopters taking off and landing on the busy airfield.

64. Hit the slopes at Gloucester Ski & Snowboard Centre

Boasting one of the longest dry ski slopes in the UK, head to Gloucester Ski & Snowboard Centre for skiing, snowboarding or tubing sessions sans snow.

65. See Bugattis zoom around Prescott Speed Hill Climb

Established in 1938, Prescott Speed Hill Climb is a charming motor racing venue, home to a busy calendar of annual events offering the chance to see competitors take on the famous uphill course and get up close to rare prestige and classic cars.

66. Scale the walls at Far Peak Climbing Centre

If you have a head for heights, travel to Far Peak Climbing Centre in Northleach to mount the indoor and outdoor climbing walls.

67. Try mountain biking at Flyup 417 Bike Park

Set on a 100-acre farm on Crickley Hill, Flyup 417 Bike Park features beginner ‘blue’ to expert ‘black’ mountain biking trails, with an uplift to get you and your bike back to the top of the hill.

68. Paddleboard at Cotswold Water Park

Cotswold Water Park is undoubtedly the best water sports destination in the county – and, with stand up paddleboarding becoming an increasingly popular sport, now offers a number of centres offering tuition and hire.

69. Shoot clays at Ian Coley Shooting School

One of the UK’s top clay shooting venues, beginners and experienced licence holders are welcomed at Ian Coley Shooting School, where they can find excellent tuition, a huge range of challenge stands and fun clay shooting experiences.

70. Play fast-growing sport, padel, at East Glos Club

A fun and sociable racquet game that’s played in doubles – and already a huge hit in Spain – padel is taking the UK by storm and East Glos Club opened some of the first padel courts in the south west.

71. Soar with a glorious gliding experience in Nympsfield

Head to this beautiful airfield on the Cotswold Edge for an introduction to the world of gliding with Bristol and Gloucestershire Gliding Club, take the controls or simply sit back and enjoy the stunning views.


Unique Gloucestershire stays


72. Escape to the most romantic getaway in Britain, the Temple at Stancombe

A Grade I-listed Doric Temple with Folly Gardens, complete with a two-acre lake and hidden tunnels, The Temple at Stancombe offers a private retreat for two, providing plenty of inspiration for romantics, poets and wild swimmers.

73. Stay aboard historic lightvessel the SULA Lightship

Originally used to protect mariners on the Humber Estuary, the landmark LV14 SULA Lightship moored at Gloucester Docks can accommodate up to four adults in two luxurious cabins as the UK’s only stay-aboard lightship.

74. Rent a lakeside retreat at Cotswold Water Park

From Finnish log cabins and fishermen’s hides on the edge of the angling lake to Cotswold stone cottages and New England-style holiday homes, the variety of self-catering accommodation at Cotswold Water Park is surprising – with lovely lakeside views, fresh air and proximity to nature as standard.

75. Stay in The Queens Hotel Cheltenham

Overlooking Imperial Square in Cheltenham, the grand Queens Hotel was one of the first purpose-built hotels in Europe, opening its doors in 1838 and offering upmarket accommodation for those who flocked to the regency spa town to ‘take the waters’. Former guests have included Edward Elgar and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

76. Camp under the stars at Thistledown Farm

Leaving plenty of long grass to encourage the wildlife around its green campsite pitches, Thistledown Farm in Nympsfield, near Stroud, gives campers ample opportunity to get back to nature with chances for stargazing and foraging, while learning about the farm and the environment.

77. Connect with nature at the Golden Oak Treehouse

For a unique Forest of Dean cabin experience for up to 10 guests, book Forest Holidays’ Golden Oak Treehouses, complete with all the mod cons – including an outdoor heated hot tub.

78. Borrow some wellies and explore the stunning grounds at Cowley Manor

Nestled in 55 acres of beautiful gardens and rolling countryside, Cowley Manor near Cheltenham offers a luxurious escape – with 31 chic bedrooms, a fantastic restaurant and the C-Side spa.

79. Enjoy a rural glamping retreat in Mrs Mills’ Yurts

Tucked away in the May Hill countryside, Mrs Mills’ Yurts offers a luxurious way to ‘glamp’, with the Gloucestershire yurts complete with king-size beds, gas stoves, kitchenettes, and more.

80. Relax at Gloucestershire’s only five star hotel, Ellenborough Park

With stunning views of Cheltenham Racecourse and Cleeve Hill, Ellenborough Park is one of the most luxurious hotels in the county, popular with racing fans – with an outdoor pool, fabulous dining and a spa too.

81. Stay at St Briavels Castle, one of the most unique youth hostels

A moated Norman castle – and a youth hostel! – St Briavels Castle was once the hunting lodge of King John, and now offers affordable accommodation in the Wye Valley.


Unmissable Gloucestershire events


82. Experience the timeless magic of Giffords Circus

The vintage circus touring the south west, the team behind Giffords Circus train their own animals, make their own costumes and paint their own sets, performing in beautiful rural locations like Blenheim Palace, Marlborough Common and Sudeley Castle.

83. Soak up the live music at Cheltenham Jazz Festival

Bringing a host of huge names to the town including rock royalty, pop chart-toppers and jazz legends, Cheltenham Jazz Festival is an annual highlight for music fans from near and far.

84. Browse works from hundreds of artists at Fresh Art Fair

Get inspired at this colourful art event held each year at Cheltenham Racecourse. Exhibitors come from across the UK and beyond to showcase their inspiring artwork, with impressive sculptures too.

85. See brave competitors take on the Gloucestershire Cheese Rolling

Infamous around the world, the Gloucestershire Cheese Rolling is a May event that has international appeal and is not one for the faint-hearted. Watch in wonder as brave souls run – and tumble – down Cooper’s Hill to catch the fabled wheel of cheese.

86. Cheer on the runners in the Tetbury Woolsack Races

Held on the last bank holiday Monday in May, this traditional Cotswold display of strength attracts crowds of up to 5,000. Previous participants have included Eddie the Eagle!

87. Experience opera in intimate surrounds at Longborough Festival Opera

Longborough Festival Opera is a unique summer festival taking place in a 500-seat home-grown theatre, welcoming talented opera performances created especially for the festival – all enjoyed against sunning views of the Evenlode Valley.

88. Witness the World Shinkicking Championships at the Cotswold Olimpicks

The stuff of legend, steel toe caps may be banned but this sport is definitely not for the faint hearted as two competitors grasp each other’s shepherd’s smocks and attempt to throw them to the ground – all while unleashing powerful kicks in the hopes of winning a title in the Robert Dovers Cotswold Olimpick Games.

89. Relive the famous battle at Tewkesbury Medieval Festival

Regarded as the biggest free Medieval gathering in Europe, the family-friendly festival held annually in July celebrates the anniversary of the Battle of Tewkesbury. Get there early for the best view of the re-enactment.

90. Be bowled over at Cheltenham Cricket Festival

Gloucestershire County Cricket Club has been playing the annual sporting highlight that is Cheltenham Cricket Festival since 1872, which sees up to 25,000 fans descend on the stunning Cheltenham College grounds for a summer festival with teams competing from across the country.

91. Enjoy live music at Gloucester Rhythm and Blues Festival

The long-running Gloucester Rhythm and Blues Festival takes place at various indoors and alfresco venues across the city, including the lively Café Rene, with local, national and international blues artists playing intimate live music gigs.

92. Experience the world’s greatest air show at Royal International Air Tattoo

Alongside the spectacle in the sky, the chance to view aircraft from around the world at close range and meet the people who fly them, are just some of the reasons the Royal International Air Show at RAF Fairford, held annually in July, attracts 170,000 visitors.

93. Celebrate the best of the countryside at The Cotswold Show

Taking place in Cirencester Park over two days in July, The Cotswold Show was established in 1989 by Lord Bathurst and sees tens of thousands descend on the capital of the Cotswolds to take in everything from rare breeds and falconry displays to rural skills.

94. Watch teams make a splash at Bourton’s Football in the River

Taking place on the River Windrush annually in August, Bourton Rovers Football Club play a footie match up to their knees in water, in this 100-year-old Gloucestershire whacky event.

95. Marvel at the surfers riding the Severn Bore

One of Gloucestershire’s most famous spectacles – and a natural phenomenon too – big Severn Bores attract hundreds of spectators and scores of extreme sport enthusiasts, who can be seen surfing the wave up the river.

96. Watch the eye-watering onion eating competition at Newent Onion Fayre

Another one of the wackiest events in Gloucestershire, the world-famous raw onion-eating contest is a highlight of the Newent Onion Fayre, giving competitive types something to get their teeth into every September!

97. Get a book signed at Cheltenham Literature Festival

Contributing in no small part to Cheltenham’s reputation as ‘The Festival Town’, Cheltenham Literature Festival saw J.K. Rowling showcase her first Harry Potter book in 1998 and continues to bring heavyweights like Jacqueline Wilson, Michael Morpurgo and Sir Salman Rushdie flooding in, annually in October.

98. Catch a live gig at Gloucester Guildhall

Gloucester Guildhall is an iconic venue in the heart of Gloucester city centre, playing host to an eclectic programme of events – particularly lively music gigs. Playing host to concerts from Lilly Allen, The Stereophonics, George Ezra and many more big names over the years.

99. Boo the baddies at the Everyman Theatre pantomime

Booing, hissing and double entendre aren’t the only popular fixtures of Cheltenham’s annual Christmas panto at the Everyman Theatre, which just wouldn’t be the same without star of the show, Tweedy.

100. Brave the Christmas Swim at Sandford Parks Lido

The Christmas Day swim is a tradition in many parts of the world, Cheltenham included – with brave swimmers aged 16 or over making the freezing splash at Sandford Parks Lido.


Click here for a PDF copy of the printed Gloucestershire Bucket List, distributed to some of the venues featured.

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