The market town of Minchinhampton is a hidden gem in the Cotswolds, with its pretty cottages, country market and ‘breathtaking’ views making it a must-visit for those exploring the area
The Cotswolds, renowned for its charm, is home to a lesser-known gem that you might not have considered visiting but is definitely worth exploring.
Tucked away on the edge of Stroud and Nailsworth, just south of the Cotswolds, lies the small yet delightful market town of Minchinhampton. Much like its neighbours, this charming town boasts an array of picturesque cottages and buildings that seem straight out of a storybook.
History
The architecture of Minchinhampton tells a tale of times gone by, with many buildings dating back to the 17th century and the mediaeval wool trade. Interestingly, much of the town’s history is steeped in beer, specifically, West Country Ales.
Several of the town’s notable pubs proudly display a plaque reading ‘West Country Ales – Best in the West – 1760’, a nod to their connection with the Stroud Brewery. These plaques can be spotted outside establishments such as The Crown and the Market Place, as well as other pubs that have since shut up shop, reports the Express.
Views
What draws visitors to Minchinhampton from all corners of the globe are the awe-inspiring views of the Stroud Valleys surrounding the Common. The vistas are wide-ranging and often described as ‘breathtaking’, with the west side offering views over the Severn estuary into Wales and the east overlooking the Golden Valley and the rest of the Cotswolds.
The area is recognised as a significant archaeological landscape, meticulously managed under the National Trust. When motoring across the common, visitors should keep their eyes peeled for cows, and they can also anticipate spotting free-roaming horses, rare orchids, and stunning butterflies.
Market
One of Minchinhampton’s key attractions is its wholesome weekly country market, complemented by an excellent array of local cafes and farm shops. The market hall, a quaint 17th-century building adored by locals, serves the community from the town centre.
Minchinhampton Market operates every Wednesday from 8.30am to 11.30am, according to a local events forum. Here, you’ll discover stalls selling cakes, plants, preserves, and seasonal fruit and vegetables, along with a broad selection of glassware, pottery and other crafts.
Thanks to its idyllic setting, the town served as the backdrop for a BBC TV adaptation of J. K. Rowling’s Casual Vacancy. Much like its Cotswolds counterparts, plenty of filming took place in and around the town.
Other activities in Minchinhampton include numerous walking routes, horse-riding, golfing and even paragliding from the common for the more adventurous. The town famously hosts an annual circus known as Giffords Circus throughout the summer, so for those seeking a unique experience, it might be worth visiting during this time of year.