UK Area Guides: South West England

Gloucestershire Area Guide

Gloucestershire
South West England, UAE
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An idyllic blend of historic towns, rolling countryside, and top-class educational institutions, Gloucestershire is often on the radar of families looking to relocate.

Living in Gloucestershire: An Overview

Nestled in England's South West, Gloucestershire combines the best of both worlds. From the picturesque Cotswold hills to the meandering River Severn, the county boasts a wealth of natural beauty. The thriving towns and villages, steeped in history, offer a diverse range of amenities to residents.

Pros of Living in Gloucestershire:

Landscape & Natural Beauty: From the iconic Cotswolds to the Forest of Dean, there's no shortage of scenic spots.

Rich History: Historical landmarks like Gloucester Cathedral, Tewkesbury Abbey, and numerous stately homes provide cultural enrichment.

Education: With some of the top independent schools in the UK, families value the county for its education standards. (See below).

Connectivity: Strategically located with good transport links, including the M5 motorway and direct trains to London.

Community Life: With numerous festivals, markets, and local events, there's a vibrant community feel.

Economic Opportunities: A mix of traditional industries and emerging sectors offer varied job opportunities.

Cons of Living in Gloucestershire:

Weather: Typically British, the weather can be unpredictable.

Cost: Some areas, especially in the Cotswolds, can be quite pricey in terms of real estate.

Tourism: Some towns become very crowded, especially during peak seasons.

Public Transport: While major towns are well-connected, more rural areas can lack frequent public transport services.

Top Gloucestershire Independent Schools (with fees):

Cheltenham Ladies' College: Renowned for its academic prowess, this girls' school has fees averaging £38,000 for boarding. The best all girls school in the country?

Cheltenham College: A co-ed boarding school with a long-standing reputation, fees average around £37,500.

Dean Close School: Located in Cheltenham, this co-ed school has fees of approximately £30,000 for boarders.

Wycliffe Senior: Located in Stonehouse, this co-ed institution has fees around £33,000 for boarding students.

King's School, Gloucester: Founded in 1541, it's one of the oldest schools, with day fees averaging £15,000.

The Crypt School: Although predominantly state-funded, it has an independent status with a rich history. Fees are lower, around £4,500 for certain extra programs.

Westonbirt School: Located near Tetbury, this girls' school has fees averaging £29,000 for boarders.

Rendcomb College: Located amidst Cotswold scenery, this co-ed school charges around £28,000 for boarding.

St Edward’s School, Cheltenham: A co-ed day and boarding school, fees are approximately £25,000 for boarders.

Bredon School: With a focus on holistic learning, boarding fees average £29,000.

Wotton House International School: This small school in the English countryside takes an international approach to secondary education by offering an alternative to GCSEs...

Note: The fees mentioned are approximate annual figures and can change. Always check the school's official website for exact figures.

Best Areas to Live in Gloucestershire:

Cheltenham: Known for its regency architecture, festivals, and horse racing, it's a hub of culture and commerce.

Gloucester: The county's capital, it boasts a rich history and offers a blend of modern amenities with old-world charm.

Cirencester: Often termed the "Capital of the Cotswolds", it offers a quintessentially English lifestyle.

Stroud: Known for its bohemian vibe and weekly farmers’ market, it's popular among artists and nature lovers.

Tewkesbury: A historic town where the rivers Avon and Severn meet, it's renowned for its abbey and medieval character.

Bourton-on-the-Water: One of the most picturesque Cotswold villages, it's a top choice for those wanting a peaceful setting.

Tetbury: Another gem in the Cotswolds, it's known for its antique shops and close proximity to the royal residence of Highgrove.

Our view

Gloucestershire is a county that can cater to diverse tastes. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or someone looking for an excellent educational foundation for your children, Gloucestershire has something to offer. Its unique blend of rustic charm with modern conveniences makes it a sought-after location for many. Before making a move, however, it’s advisable to visit and spend some time in the county to truly get a feel for its distinctive character.

Gloucestershire Ratings

Schools

4.5

Entertainment

3.5

Family Friendly

4.5

Transport Links

4

Gloucestershire Pros & Cons

Pros

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Great independent schools
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The wonder of the Cotswolds
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A fairly robust regional economy
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Rich in history

Cons

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Can be a pricey area to live, especially in the Cotswolds

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