Leisure and Culture

Imagine the English countryside at its best and you're probably already thinking of Gloucestershire. It can be divided up into a number of distinctive areas, each of which enjoys its own local characteristics.

The best known area of Gloucestershire is the Cotswolds , a band of limestone hills covering half of the county. The Cotswolds are internationally renowned for their architecture, with picturesque villages of mellow stone cottages nestling in the valleys.

It has been said that Gloucestershire has the most diverse geology of all the English counties, which is why it can offer such a wide range of landscape, flora and fauna, heritage and attractions. There are lots of activities happening around Cirencester for you to take part in and enjoy.

• The Corinium Museum , The Museum is now open after a two year major refurbishment.

• The Corn Hall , where events are held most days, from tack sales to band performances.

• Leisure Centre . The new building opened in April 2006, is one of the best Leisure Centres in the area. The Centre features both wet and dry facilities, spread over two floors, offering a varied programme of activities for people of all ages and abilities.

• Open Air Swimming Pool. The open-air swimming pool in Cirencester was built around 1870 by the Bathurst family and presented to the people of the town. Over the past couple of decades the pool has been managed by volunteers, and the intriduction of heated water, lifeguard training and swimming lessons makes it a popular place for all ages during it opening months of May to September.

• Brewary Arts Situated in a converted Victorian brewery in the heart of Cirencester town centre, Brewery Arts is the Cotswold’s unique crafts and arts centre

• Bingham Library. Bingham Library is run by the Gloucestershire County Council.

• Art Galleries. Cirencester is fortunate to have a number of excellent art galleries catering for a wide range of tastes and budgets. Visit the Directory page for contact details

Find out what's coming up by visiting the Events page.Click here