Cirencester is famous for its Roman history, so a visit to the Corinium Museum is recommended if you have an interest in this field. Cirencester is within easy reach of Cheltenham, Gloucester, Swindon and Oxford. You will find the world famous Westonbirt Arboretum near Tetbury, Cotswold Country Park and Beach (was Keynes Country Park) in the Costwold Water Park, and Cotswold Wildlife Park in Burford. Some nearby places of interest are detailed below.

The Abbey Grounds

The grounds contain the site of St Mary's Abbey which was consecrated in 1176 in the presence of Henry II, remaining until the Dissolution in 1539 when the Abbey was completely demolished. The only remaining building of this period is the Norman Arch situated at the north-eastern corner of the grounds. A plaque was designed and installed by the Civic Society on the balustrade and portrays the site of the Abbey which is outlined with paving. The grounds, lake, wildfowl, trees and greenery for man impressive pastoral centrepiece, inviting restful contemplation of the general town scene. A portion of the ancient Roman Wall is also situated in the grounds. Its history and layout are discussed in the booklet The Corinium Trail - a guide to the surviving remains of the Roman town - available from the Corinium Museum, Tourist Information Centre and the local bookshop. Text taken from "Cirencester - The Official Town Guide" by kind permission of the Town Clerk

Cirencester Lock-Up

The Cirencester Lock-Up is found in the grounds of the Cotswold District Council offices in Trinity Road. The Lock Up has been restored and is now open to the public. It consists of a small two-cell building built in the 19th century and was used to hold criminals in the days before the police force was established. It was moved to it's present position, stone by stone, in 1837 to form part of the new town workhouse opened in that year. Access to the building is free of charge and a key is obtainable during normal office hours at the Trinity Road reception or the Corinium Museum.

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