Gloucester Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Gloucester Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Gloucester packs in serious history alongside modern attractions. The 11th-century cathedral (GL1 2LX, open 10am-5pm) dominates the skyline and scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. Its cloisters featured in three Harry Potter films - I spotted several visitors with wands when I last visited!

The Victorian Gloucester Docks area has been brilliantly redeveloped. The National Waterways Museum (GL1 2EH, 10am-4pm, 4/5 TripAdvisor) tells the story of Britain's canal network. Next door, Gloucester Quays outlet shopping centre offers discounted brands if you need retail therapy after your museum visit.

Nature lovers should head to Slimbridge Wetland Centre (GL2 7BT, 9:30am-5pm, 4.5/5 TripAdvisor), about 12 miles from Gloucester. We recommend bringing binoculars - you'll see thousands of birds including rare species. Their flamingo flock is particularly impressive.

For rainy days, The Museum of Gloucester (GL1 1HP, 10am-5pm, 4/5 TripAdvisor) houses Roman artifacts and dinosaur bones. Kids love the interactive exhibits and it's free entry!

Pet Friendly

Gloucester works brilliantly for dog holidays. The surrounding countryside offers endless walking opportunities and many cottages with hot tubs accept pets - just check if there's an extra charge before booking.

Robinswood Hill Country Park (GL4 6SN) has 250 acres of open space with marked trails and spectacular views across to Wales. Dogs can run off-lead in most areas. We found the café at the visitor centre welcomes dogs with water bowls provided.

For dog-friendly dining, The Fountain Inn (GL1 2NW) is a 14th-century pub with a large beer garden where dogs get treats from the bar. The Gloucester Old Spot (GL2 9PB) is another great option with excellent Sunday roasts and dog water stations.

Most sections of the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal towpath welcome dogs, providing a flat 16-mile route for easy walking. Pack some poo bags though - facilities are limited along some stretches!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Gloucester

Gloucester Cathedral (GL1 2LX) isn't just another church - it's an architectural masterpiece spanning 1,300 years. The fan-vaulted cloisters are breathtaking and featured as Hogwarts corridors in the Harry Potter films. Climb the 269 steps to the tower (£8) for incredible views. One visitor wrote: "The guided tour brought history to life - worth every penny." After exploring, return to your cottage for a relaxing evening in the hot tub.

Gloucester Docks is Britain's most inland port, packed with Victorian warehouses now housing museums, shops and restaurants. The Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum (GL1 2HE, 10am-5pm) tells the story of local regiments with interactive displays. The monthly Orchard Street Market brings local food producers, crafters and vintage sellers together. A TripAdvisor reviewer noted: "The mix of history and modern amenities makes this area special."

Painswick Rococo Garden (GL6 6TH, 10am-5pm) sits just outside Gloucester and represents England's only surviving complete rococo garden. Created in the 1740s as a flamboyant pleasure garden, it's filled with follies, viewpoints and seasonal planting. The snowdrop display in February is spectacular. A visitor commented: "Like stepping into another world - quirky buildings and beautiful planting."

Is Gloucester good for families with young children?

Absolutely! The Warehouse Climbing Centre offers kids' sessions, Funky Warehouse has trampolines and soft play and Gloucester Ski Centre has a dry slope suitable for beginners. Many cottages provide games and DVDs for evening entertainment after a day out.

What's the best time to visit Gloucester?

Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer brings events like the Gloucester Tall Ships Festival (usually June) and Gloucester Quays Food Festival (July). Winter sees the cathedral beautifully lit for Christmas services.

Can I get around Gloucester without a car?

The city centre is compact and walkable. Buses connect major attractions and taxis are readily available. However, to explore the Cotswolds and Forest of Dean properly, a car is recommended.

Are there good restaurants in Gloucester?

Yes! Try Greek on the Docks for Mediterranean food, Settebello for authentic Italian, or The Wharf House for upscale British cuisine. For something different, The Tiger's Eye serves exotic meats like zebra and kangaroo.

What's the cheese rolling event about?

Each Spring Bank Holiday, competitors chase a 9lb Double Gloucester cheese down Cooper's Hill (a 1:2 gradient slope). It's spectacularly dangerous but draws thousands of spectators. The winner keeps the cheese!

Is Gloucester expensive to visit?

It's generally more affordable than nearby Cheltenham or Cotswold villages. Many attractions like the Cathedral (donations welcome) and Museum of Gloucester are free or low-cost. Self-catering in a cottage with a hot tub helps manage food costs too.

1. Visit Gloucester Official Tourism Site
2. Gloucester Cathedral Website
3. Gloucester and Sharpness Canal Guide
4. Gloucester Quays Shopping and Events