Tewkesbury

Located in the heart of the English countryside, Tewkesbury offers the charms of a typical Cotswold town together with a strong sense of its dramatic history and Medieval heritage. Having developed around the magnificent Abbey, which dates from the twelfth century, today Tewkesbury remains mostly unchanged as its situation between the Severn and Avon rivers has prevented any dramatic expansion. It is still a bustling, friendly, market town with plenty to see and do, and a popular place for visitors wishing to sample its artistic and gastronomic delights. Providing history, culture, and surrounded by beautiful countryside, Tewkesbury is also a picturesque base from which to explore the rest of the Cotswolds, such as the nearby towns of Cheltenham and Gloucester as well as the smaller villages nearby where traditional English life seems to have remained unchanged for generations.

Attractions

With its awe- inspiring architecture, the impressive Abbey presides over the town and is the main drawing point for tourists visiting the area. Frequent tours give an insight into Tewkesbury’s colourful past and lead visitors around the site of one of the bloodiest and decisive battles in English history. In Tewkesbury’s centre, the Town Museum and John Moore Museum shed more light on the area’s history and culture, while just a short wander around the town gives a strong sense of the past with many buildings dating back to the Medieval period. Tewkesbury comes to life on market days, and especially during the many festivals which are held throughout the year celebrating the area’s heritage, one even re-enacting the battle of Tewkesbury.

Sudeley Castle, situated a few miles’ drive from Tewkesbury, is well worth a visit not only for its place in English history and folklore, but more recently its grounds have functioned as an exhibition space for contemporary art, much produced by world-famous artists working in studios nearby.

The numerous hill walks and cycle rides around Tewkesbury make it a great starting point for anyone wishing to explore the beautiful countryside, while in the summer months a gentle boat trip down the river is a popular activity. The abundance of riding stables and golf courses mean that Tewkesbury has something for anyone wishing to enjoy the great outdoors.

Shopping

Tewkesbury is a fantastic place to pick up exclusive gifts, with a wide range of speciality shops selling antiques, local arts and crafts and fine foods catering to the finer end of the market. In surrounding villages, visitors can visit workshops where pottery, silks and other traditionally-produced crafts can be bought direct from the artists.

Nightlife and Eating Out

In recent years Tewkesbury has become famous for its ‘gastropub’ cuisine, and it remains one of the best places to sample the best of modern British cooking together with traditional English ales and fine wines from around the world. The town is also dotted with coffee shops and tea rooms offering cosy afternoon teas and homemade cakes, and even has a range of oriental restaurants providing something to cater to every taste. For evening entertainment, head to the Roses Theatre which has a varied programme of live music, ballet, opera and drama.

Tourist Information

Tewkesbury Tourist Information Centre64 Barton StreetTewkesburyGloucestershireGL20 5PX

Ph: +44 (0) 1684 292 901Fax: +44 (0) 1684 292 277

Airport

Tewkesbury is less than two hours’ drive from London, where visitors can catch both domestic and international flights.