If you want an authentic Cotswold life — markets, shops, parks, cafés and a smattering of culture to elevate it above the weekender 4WD norm, along with pretty houses, Barbours and dogs — then home in on Cirencester. This ancient market town offers modern comforts and a stellar community spirit. The volunteers who run the heated open-air swimming pool were recognised last year with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
The town burns off energy at rugby, cricket, football and netball clubs and there’s a sociable Parkrun in the grounds of the Royal Agricultural University, where the picturesque 5k is followed by a friendly coffee in the university café. Cirencester Park, the 3,000-acre back garden of the Bathurst family, is one of the loveliest places