Reasons to Choose Gloucestershire for Your Next Chapter
Breathtaking natural surroundings
Few places in the UK can rival the natural splendour of Gloucestershire. From the honey-coloured stone villages of the Cotswolds to the lush greenery of the Forest of the Dean, the county’s landscapes are varied and beautiful.
If you’re looking to connect with nature or simply enjoy the serenity of wide-open spaces, Gloucestershire might be the perfect place. Imagine a morning walk along the Cotswold Way, a trail that winds through rolling hills and picturesque countryside.
The beautiful natural environment offers a chance to reset, find clarity, and embrace a slower pace of life.
The picturesque village of Bibury offers several beautiful walks. You can take in Arlington Row and the River Coln (which runs to the north of Brockhampton from the River Thames) with woodland trails and plenty of scenic views.
The medieval town of Winchcombe makes for another scenic walk with some climbs and views from the hilltops.
Meanwhile, Bourton-on-the-Water is full of more beauty with stone cottages and River Windrush.
A county brimming with innovation
Gloucestershire is rather unique in offering tranquil natural surroundings while also being home to forward-thinking businesses.
Cheltenham is at the forefront of the UK’s cyber industry, including the GCHQ headquarters, and a growing number of tech startups. The Golden Valley project near GCHQ is set for further development.
Recently, Fasthosts decided to move its headquarters and hundreds of staff to the £107m Forum development in Gloucester.
The development director at Reef Group, who are working with Gloucester City Council on the project, has said it is aimed at attracting “fast-growth, innovative technology companies”.
Gloucestershire’s entrepreneurial ecosystem includes many co-working spaces, incubators, and networking events that foster collaboration and growth.
The mix of creative energy and business opportunity makes Gloucestershire an exciting place if you’re looking for a new venture.
Diverse housing options
Part of starting afresh is finding the perfect home, and Gloucestershire’s housing market offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a quaint cottage in a peaceful village, a modern apartment in a bustling town, or a spacious family home with room to grow, there are options out there. Solicitors in Cheltenham can offer expert advice and guidance on property law.
What sets Gloucestershire apart is its relative affordability compared to nearby regions like London and Oxfordshire.
The county’s transport links via road and rail mean you can stay connected to loved ones or professional commitments elsewhere.
According to a 2023 study, Gloucester was “the fifth cheapest city in the UK to raise a family”, reported Gloucestershire Live.
The Gloucestershire City Council advises that those who are unable to afford a home on the open market can find out about affordable home ownership at helptobuy.org.uk. People can also contact the local Help to Buy agent at helptobuysouth.co.uk.
Education and learning opportunities
For families or individuals prioritising education, Gloucestershire offers exceptional opportunities.
The county is home to highly regarded schools, such as Pate’s Grammar School and Cheltenham Ladies’ College, as well as a range of well-performing state and independent schools.
Meanwhile, the University of Gloucestershire and the Royal Agricultural University offer a variety of courses, making Gloucestershire an excellent choice for families and individuals alike.
Community spirit and culture
Starting over can be daunting, but Gloucestershire’s strong sense of community makes it easier to settle in.
The warm welcome of residents and countless clubs, societies, and volunteer groups makes meeting like-minded people easier.
There’s the chance to forge meaningful connections, whether at a village fête or book club, or through volunteering at a local charity.
Another way to meet people is by attending one of the county’s many cultural festivals.
Cheltenham is particularly brimming with festivals, with annual celebrations of literature, music, jazz, and science.
There’s currently an open call for people and organisations to take part in the 2025 science festival. The festival is looking for those interested in bringing a show, workshop, or panel event.
270 Climbing Park aims to build the country’s most complete climbing facility, and unveiled its £7m bouldering centre in early December 2024.
There’s a vast collection of bouldering surfaces and climbing walls, including a Fun Walls climbing area for children and beginners.
As well as being a fun activity, climbing offers several impressive health benefits, including improved strength and endurance, calorie burning, and greater bone density, flexibility, and mobility.
On another active note, Sandford Parks Lido hosts a Christmas Day Swim each year for those who enjoy a “refreshing” dip in December.
Sandford Parks Lido is a not for profit charitable trust set in beautiful surroundings of grass and trees.
The parks also offer yoga classes and sauna sessions (as well as a warm café, which might be appreciated after the swim).
