How Ancient Gloucester Helped Change the World Audio Guided Tour

Cotswolds , England

How Ancient Gloucester Helped Change the World Audio Guided Tour

Active

2h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Gloucester’s remarkable past on this self-guided walking tour, tracing the city’s journey from Roman origins to medieval triumphs and beyond. Begin at the Cross, the heart of Roman Gloucester, and explore key landmarks like the Crypt School, Blackfriars Priory, and the Cathedral Quarter. Along the way, hear stories of Viking raids, civil war sieges, and Gloucester’s role in shaping British history. You’ll walk in the footsteps of literary legends and historical figures like Dick Whittington and Aethelflaed. This 120-minute tour offers a deep dive into Gloucester’s resilience, religious upheaval, and the iconic locations that make the city a living testament to over 2,000 years of history.

Available options

How Ancient Gloucester Helped Change the World Audio Guided Tour

What's included

Audio and written guide (English)

Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it

The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Pass by the Roman heart of the city, where Gloucester's four main streets converge. This ancient intersection serves as a gateway into the city's layered history.

Walk past this bronze figure commemorating Emperor Nerva, who granted Gloucester its first colonial status in AD 97. Learn about the city's imperial beginnings under Roman rule.

Pass this stunning medieval church, where many of Gloucester’s most famous figures were baptized. Its intricate design and rich history make it a cultural landmark.

Marvel at the remnants of this 13th-century friary. Though mostly in ruins today, it offers a glimpse into the grandeur of medieval Gloucester.

See this lesser-known historic tower and discover its significance in Gloucester's defensive medieval architecture, guarding the ancient city walls.

Spot this modern landmark sculpture symbolizing Gloucester's resilience and creativity through time.

Pass by the bustling Gloucester Docks, which played a crucial role in the city's industrial heritage. Learn about its transformation into a vibrant cultural and residential area.

Pass this stunning Dominican priory, now one of the most well-preserved friaries in Britain. Hear tales of its religious past and how it has survived through the ages.

Pass this unique galleried inn, a medieval coaching house rumored to have hosted Shakespeare. Discover its historical significance in Gloucester’s cultural life.

Spot this charming 15th-century building, linked to Beatrix Potter’s famous children’s story. It’s a delightful tribute to the city’s literary contributions.

Stop 11 Pass by

End the tour outside this iconic cathedral, famous for its intricate Gothic architecture and film appearances, including "Harry Potter." Its majestic facade is a testament to Gloucester’s religious and architectural history.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour starts at St. Michaels Tower & Gloucester Civic Trust Heritage Centre.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE 
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE 
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is a picturesque area in south-central England known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and historic landmarks. This region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a quintessential English countryside experience with its honey-colored stone cottages, ancient churches, and scenic walking trails.

Top Attractions

Bibury

Bibury is one of the most picturesque villages in the Cotswolds, known for its charming cottages, traditional stone bridges, and the iconic Arlington Row, a row of ancient cottages dating back to the 17th century.

Village 2-3 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Bourton-on-the-Water

Known as the 'Venice of the Cotswolds' due to its charming bridges and tranquil riverside walks, Bourton-on-the-Water is a must-visit destination with its picturesque scenery, boutique shops, and family-friendly attractions.

Village 3-4 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Castle Combe

Castle Combe is often considered one of the prettiest villages in England, with its honey-colored stone cottages, historic manor houses, and a charming village green. It has been featured in numerous films and TV shows.

Village 2-3 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens

A fantastic day out for families and animal lovers, the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens is home to over 260 species of animals, including giraffes, zebras, and lemurs, as well as beautifully landscaped gardens.

Park 4-5 hours Moderate (entry fees apply)

Sudeley Castle

Sudeley Castle is a stunning medieval castle with a rich history, beautiful gardens, and connections to historical figures such as Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. The castle is open to the public for tours and events.

Historical 3-4 hours Moderate (entry fees apply)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cotswold Lamb

Tender and flavorful, Cotswold lamb is a local specialty, often served with seasonal vegetables and a rich gravy.

Main Course Contains meat

Cheltenham Pork Pie

A savory pork pie with a rich, spiced filling and a crisp pastry crust, a local delicacy from Cheltenham.

Snack Contains meat and gluten

Cotswold Cheese

The Cotswolds is known for its artisanal cheeses, including Double Gloucester and Cotswold Gold, often served with local bread and chutney.

Snack/Dessert Dairy product

Scones with Clotted Cream and Jam

A classic English treat, scones are served with clotted cream and jam, a must-try for any visitor.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Cycling Horseback riding Afternoon tea Spa treatments Scenic walks Visiting historic sites Attending festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside.

15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F) 59°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) or BST (British Summer Time, GMT+1)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

The Cotswolds is a generally safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and guides

Getting there

By air

Birmingham Airport • 60 miles (97 km)
Bristol Airport • 45 miles (72 km)

By train

Moreton-in-Marsh Station, Cheltenham Spa Station

By bus

Birmingham Coach Station, Bristol Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around, with frequent services between towns and some rural areas. However, services can be limited in the evenings and on Sundays.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cheltenham Stow-on-the-Wold Broadway

Day trips

Bath

30 miles (48 km) • Full day

Bath is a historic city known for its Roman-built baths and Georgian architecture. It offers a rich cultural experience with its museums, galleries, and thermal spas.

Oxford

40 miles (64 km) • Full day

Oxford is a historic university city with a rich academic heritage, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. It offers a variety of museums, libraries, and historic colleges to explore.

Stratford-upon-Avon

50 miles (80 km) • Full day

Stratford-upon-Avon is the birthplace of William Shakespeare and offers a rich literary heritage, historic sites, and beautiful riverside walks. It is home to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and several historic homes associated with the playwright.

Festivals

Cheltenham Literature Festival • October Cotswold Olimpicks • July Broadway Arts Festival • September

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather
Explore the countryside by foot or bike to discover hidden gems and scenic landscapes
Try local specialties, such as Cotswold lamb, Double Gloucester cheese, and real ales
Stay in a traditional pub or inn for an authentic experience and a chance to mingle with locals
Visit historic sites and attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds