Cirencester (“Sirensester”) is considered the “capital” of the Cotswolds, although the population is just around 20,000.  Like the other quaint hamlets of the Cotswolds, homes are made of yellow limestone (called Cotswold Stone) and topped with thatch roofs or jagged slate. 

Housing regulations in the Cotswolds are strict.  When a roof needs to be replaced, Cotswold stone slate must be used.  There are only two suppliers of this stone, so the owners run it like a cartel—the stone is very expensive, thanks to their collusion.

Our home base in the Cotswolds was right in the center of town at The Fleece, Cirencester, a charming inn made up of three historical buildings they have linked together.  Walk inside, and the rooms of the bars and restaurant on the main level are like a jigsaw puzzle!  The upstairs rooms are a similar configuration and branch off from one wing to another through a series of doors.  It was very cozy and charming!

(For all photos, click on the image for a full screen view.)

The location was excellent; everything was so close.  The Church of St. John the Baptist, just up the street, was our first stop on Marc’s walking tour, and it was gorgeous!  The oldest part of this medieval church was built in 1170.

The following are photos I shot during our walking tour and free time:

Next up: UNITED KINDGOM #17: CRUISING AROUND THE COTSWOLDS