Voted the best place to live in the UK by The Sunday Times in 2021, the market town of Stroud has a rich industrial heritage and the many textile mills central to its thriving wool industry can still be seen dotted along the valleys todays.

The central canal network built in the 19^th Century to support Stroud’s wool industry is currently being restored as part of a multi-million pound lottery funded project, together with the building of exciting new leisure facilities. Adding to Stroud’s rich industrial history is the quaint railway station designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Well-known for its steep streets, this ‘edgy’ little market town referenced by Jasper Conran as the ‘Covent Garden’ of the Cotswolds, seamlessly combines rural tradition with urban chic and a unique bohemian vibe.

Home to numerous independent retailers and organic coffee shops, the town attracts crowds from miles around to visit its award-winning Saturday Farmers Market. A mecca for foodies, the Farmers Market offers a full array of local produce and is everyone’s favourite top for what to do in Stroud.

Places to Stay

The pretty villages surrounding Stroud offer a host of boutique hotels and pubs in which to stay, many within a 5 minute drive from Stroud.

Woodchester Valley Vineyard

We need to declare something of a vested interest in this one as Woodchester Valley Vineyard is owned by Fiona Shiner, sister to Murrays’ directors, Richard and James Murray.  Just over two miles from Stroud, the family-owned vineyard not only produces award winning wine (winning a ‘Master’ medal in 2023 at the Global Sauvignon Bland Masters awards) but also offers top-end stylish accommodation. With three vineyard barns, The Retreat Farmhouse and Woodchester Valley House, this stunning accommodation caters for solo travellers or groups of up to 12. With stunning views across the valley and the vineyard, the setting is second to none. You can of course also enjoy a glass or two of award-winning wine during your stay.

Places to Play

Stroud is well-known as an arts centre and not surprisingly hosts its own theatre, The Cotswold Playhouse, which Murrays’ proudly sponsors. Located at the top of the town, this fabulous local playhouse puts on numerous productions every year, all to an exceptionally high standard.

The Subscription Rooms on George Street offers an extensive repertoire of concerts, plays and dance performances. The 450 seater ballroom is a landmark neoclassical monument built in 1833 and located in the centre of Stroud and also plays host to Stroud’s tourist information centre. What’s more, the Beatles performed here in 1962!

A walk along Stroud’s canal path is always a treat and one that’s only likely to improve with the current restoration project or a trip to Stroud’s own brewery in Brimscombe to take in a tour and tasting or attend one of their Friday night pizza and live music events.

It goes without saying that no trip to Stroud would ever be complete without a vineyard tour at Woodchester Valley Vineyard or a visit to one of the vineyard’s infamous ‘Fizz and Chips’ nights.

Eat

The Corner House

Located on London Road in the heart of Stroud and just over the road from our Stroud office, this is the perfect venue for a spot of lunch or dinner when out and about house hunting or exploring the area. Claiming to serve the best espresso martini in Stroud, The Corner House owned by Antonio and Rochelle, prides itself on using the finest seasonal ingredients, reflected in its ever changing menu.

Sorrento

Located in the heart of Stroud, close to the mainline train station, Sorrento offers traditional Italian fayre including pizza and pasta, together with fine steaks, all washed down with a fabulous atmosphere.

Artisan Street food at Five Valleys Night Market

With a vibrant night market every Friday at Stroud’s new shopping experience, the Five Valleys, you will be utterly spoiled for choice with a whopping 21 different eateries to choose from, from sushi to Gloucester Old Spot hot dogs.

Shop

Five Valleys Shopping Centre

This boutique shopping centre has undergone a dramatic transformation over the last five years and now offers a wonderful retail and leisure complex in the heart of Stroud. The centre now has a fabulous ‘Borough Market’ style interior comprising an eclectic mix of local artisan traders.

Award winning Saturday Farmers Market

This one’s an absolute must and only a visit will ever do the Saturday Farmers Market justice. Located in the Cornhill Market and overflowing to the surrounding streets, Stroud’s fabulous market has featured in the Sunday Telegraph, The Observer, The Independent and The Guardian, to name but a few. Featuring THE most delicious produce from the surrounding villages, browse and taste your way around an array of stalls. You’ll not be disappointed!

Made in Stroud

Supporting over 200 local artisans and makers, the Made In Stroud Shop offers an independent shopping experience designed with community and planet in mind. Located just around the corner from our Stroud office, this is the ideal one stop shop for gifts and special treats.