About

Tetbury is a Cotswold town of great architectural interest. It remains substantially the same as it was in the 16th and 17th centuries when it reached the height of its prosperity as a wool town.

The picturesque Market House in the town centre of Tetbury is an immediate reminder of the history of the town. Built in 1655 and supported on three rows of bulging stone pillars, it was designed for the sale of wool and yarn. These days the small marketplace is still the focal point of Tetbury, hosting farmers markets and other events. A walk down the old Chipping Steps and round into Gumstool Hill will reveal another part of Tetbury's history, with 17th century weaver's cottages.


Tetbury is well situated as a centre for touring the Cotswolds, as it is 10 miles from Cirencester, 5 miles from Malmesbury and gives easy access to Bath by car or bus. Buildings of note include the beautiful Elizabethan house at Chavenage, Rodmarton Manor, the Norman castle at Beverston, Highgrove House the home of the Prince of Wales and Gatcombe Park the home of the Princess Royal (please note Beverston and the royal residences are not open to the public). In the town is the excellent free Tetbury Police Museum, open from 9-3 weekdays and housing a large range of historic photographs and police bygone memorabilia. Take time to explore the beautiful St. Mary’s Parish Church built in the gothic revival style.


Tetbury is also well known for its wonderful range of antique shops, attracting many visitors every year. You can easily spend a day or more browsing the collection of shops, then stopping for afternoon tea.


With Highgrove House nearby, Tetbury offers produce from the Royal estate at the Highgrove Shop. Stocking organic foods & home and garden items, the shop is very popular, so get there early!


One of the Cotswolds’ most unusual events is the Tetbury Woolsack Races. Thought to originate in the 17th Century, the races involve running up a hill carrying a 60lb (for men) or 35lb (for women) woolsack. The route is 240 yards, and the hill has a 1 in 4 gradient. The event raises money for local causes and features in the Guinness Book of Records.


Nearby Westonbirt is home to the National Arboretum - famous in the autumn, but actually a terrific year-round attraction. Walking trails, events for children and a programme of summer concerts make Westonbirt a must see attraction