Why visit Cirencester?
A sort of, capital of the Cotswolds kinda place. Classed as a market town with a population of around 19,000, it harbours all the connotations that come with the idyllic scenes of ‘The Cotswolds’. Plenty of fresh air, adorable cafes hidden down secret alleys and traditional country pubs. I’ve lived here on and off since I was 18, in between uni/ jobs, etc. It’s always been a great escape from whichever busy city I was living in at the time. A place of calm, but also enough interest for a city gal like myself, to not get too bored. I’ve listed 5 reasons to visit Cirencester, and schedule in a day trip!
1. So. Much. Vintage!
It hurts…my bank balance. (But not as much as new clothes used to)
Adding to the ‘oldie worldie’ charm of this town, are the plethora of vintage outlets. From weekly antique fairs at Corn Hall, to vintage clothes and book shops, there’s something for everyone to find!
If you love labels especially, Cirencester is the town for you. The vintage shops are full to the brim with designer bargains, such as Stella McCartney and beyond. I’ve listed my 3 favourite places below, however, my money-saving tip is to hit up the charity shops too, as there are still great finds to be had! For charity shop recommendations head over to my last post, here. I think in the near future, I’ll write a separate post dedicated to Cirencester’s charity shops.
Ava & Iva
Ava & Iva is by far my favourite vintage shop, perhaps ever. The owner travels all over carefully selecting her pieces, as well as working with private clients to ensure only the best garments make it to her shop. Last time I visited, I ended up coming out with a beautiful pair of pink 1950’s satin shoes.
“The material, tailoring, and workmanship, evident in vintage pieces ensure these garments last beyond our own lives. Vintage investment pieces can be worn with your contemporary wardrobe and give you that unique individual style.”
Ava & Iva.com
Encore – Designer Clothes Agency
I mentioned this one over in my ‘7 easy ways to dress sustainably’ post. Another champion in sustainable fashion choices. This store is great for anyone who’s still a bit squeamish about saying ‘No to new’ and completely shifting to second-hand clothes. Some items will be true vintage while others could be from last season – Think classic Chanel bags and Burberry trenches mixed with Zara. The store is beautifully merchandised to look contemporary and minimal. They also offer online browsing, through their Instagram. I’d suggest buying ASAP, as their stock clears quickly!
Cirencester Antique Centre
At first glance, it looks like a small shack of antique clocks and memorabilia. On closer inspection, and indeed when walking in, this little shop opens up into a three-story vintage department store. Providing you with all things vintage and retro from genuine 19th-century paintings and books to 1930’s children’s toys and furniture. A real treasure trove to dive into!
2. Dive into the cafe culture
My dissertation year of studying in kooky 24/7 hr cafes serving angel cake on tap, really pushed me over some edge, when it comes to the amount of time I seem to dedicate to cafe hunting. Why should I settle for the boring Costa’s and Starbucks’s of this world when there is so much more beauty out there. Do them all I say – Also independent cafe’s tend to pay their taxes. All the shade intended, think local*
There’s ‘a latte’ cafe choices (excuse the cheesy pun) when visiting Cirencester, it’s hard to decide on just one. Below, I’ve made it easy by picking my top 3!
Luxe Cafe
Millennial paradise has indeed landed in this silver fox town of Cirencester. Fuschia pink armchairs, succulents, and pink neon lights. Yes, of course, they offer ALL vegan delights and a whole colour spectrum of Lattes. Traditionally, I’m a straight black coffee kinda girl, but for yellow turmeric Latte’s I make exceptions.
Cafe Mosaic
Humble and charming, serving the best Lemon Meringue I’ve ever had to be quite frank. Many a day, I’ve walked into town just for that sweet dessert. Coffees good too. This place is great for outdoor seating, nestled in the back street of the wool market, by The Fleece pub.
Jack’s
Updated interior, more than a few times if my memory serves me correctly. This is a good in-between of the two cafes listed above. Lots of outdoor seating, cleverly sheltered from the rain. Whilst indoor seating takes a cosy turn with plush sofa booths, great for groups of friends. Serving a delicious assortment of traditional home-baked cakes and brownies – The type Mary Berry would be proud of. This is a home away from home, kind of cafe. A good one for the winter season coming up!
3. Explore the enchanting side streets
Cirencester has lots to offer in terms of aesthetics. Cute pastel buildings line the centre surrounding the recently renovated cathedral. Get lost in the hidden side streets sprawled in all directions. Over the years much has changed in the town, it seems each year new independent shops open while other more commercial ones close. Which, as a supporter of independent businesses, I think is a positive thing in the long run. Although you’ll notice Cirencester has an outrages amount of barbershops…
4. Stroll through the park
Cirencester has two noteworthy parks to visit; St Michaels park and the Bathurst estate & Cirencester park. Both ideal for a walk in the fresh Autumn air.
5. Browse the weekend markets
Every weekend, the outdoor charter market, amongst other artisanal markets in rotation, comes to town selling all kinds of merchandise. A few weekends ago, it happened to be the French market. It’s particularly great for buying fruit and veg in bulk if you live close by. Coming up to Christmas, of course, it will be transformed into a traditional Christmas market. There’s always such a buzz at the weekends, of people stocking up on home-baked bread and hand made crafts.
Plan your visit!
These are only 5 activities I would recommend, of course, there’s many more! Some great restaurants too, as well as the infamous Cotswold lakes. If you’re thinking of visiting Cirencester, then I’d strongly recommend you make an active day of it and visit any of the surrounding villages or historical buildings too.
Where’s your favourite place in the Cotswolds? Let me know in the comments below 🙂
