Welcome to Cirencester’s Hidden History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour, where a journey through time awaits! Nestled in the heart of the captivating Cotswolds, this picturesque town holds secrets that are just waiting to be discovered.
With the help of an informative audio guide, crafted by the esteemed Blue Badge Tourist Guide, Owen Bowles, visitors will embark on an adventure like no other. From the towering Bathurst Estates Great Yew Hedge to the ancient abbey gatehouse, this tour promises to unveil the rich heritage that Cirencester holds.
Prepare to be captivated by intriguing tales of Danish kings, uncover the origins of commonly used phrases, and explore remarkable sites like the Corinium Museum and St John Baptist Church.
Whether completing the tour in 90 minutes or at your own pace, get ready to uncover Cirencester’s hidden gems and leave with a newfound appreciation for its extraordinary past.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Self-Guided Tours In Cirencester.
Good To Know
- The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- The duration of the activity is 1.5 hours and can be completed at your own pace.
- The tour includes a walking tour around Cirencester, the Capital of the Cotswolds, visiting various sites such as the Corinium Museum, St John Baptist Church, and the merchants’ houses.
- Participants will learn about Cirencester’s history as a center of the Cotswold wool trade and discover interesting facts about the town’s past, including the use of flaming sparrows to capture the town by a Danish king.
Duration and Flexibility
The duration and flexibility of the self-guided audio tour in Cirencester can be easily tailored to each individual’s preferences by using the VoiceMap app.
With a flexible schedule and a tour length of 1.5 hours, adventurers can embark on this journey at their own pace. Whether they want to complete the tour in 90 minutes or take their time exploring the various sites, this audio tour allows for unlimited use before and after the booking date.
The tour takes visitors on a walking adventure around Cirencester, the Capital of the Cotswolds, where they can discover fascinating facts about its history as a center of the Cotswold wool trade. From visiting the Corinium Museum to exploring the merchants’ houses, this self-guided audio tour offers an engaging and informative experience for all.
Like guided experiences? More Cirencester tours with local guides
Historical Highlights
One of the historical highlights of Cirencester’s self-guided audio tour is the Magnificent South Porch of St John the Baptist Church. This architectural masterpiece showcases the rich history of the town and is of great historical and cultural significance.
As visitors enter the porch, they’re greeted by intricate carvings and stunning stone arches, transporting them back in time. The audio guide provides fascinating insights into the church’s role in the community throughout the centuries, from its construction in the 12th century to its importance as a place of worship and gathering.
Exploring the South Porch allows visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into its design, while also learning about the historical events and figures that shaped Cirencester. It’s a truly immersive experience that highlights the town’s unique heritage.
Noteworthy Sites to Visit
What are some of the noteworthy sites to visit on Cirencester’s self-guided audio tour that showcase the town’s hidden history? Cirencester is home to several sites of historical significance and architectural marvels that offer a glimpse into the town’s rich past. Here are three notable sites to explore:
| Site | Historical Significance | Architectural Marvel |
|---|---|---|
| St John Baptist Church | Dating back to the 12th century, this church is | The magnificent South Porch is a striking |
| known for its historical connections to Anne | example of medieval architecture. | |
| Boleyn and the chalice believed to be her last | ||
| possession before execution. | ||
| Corinium Museum | The museum houses an extensive collection of | The building itself is a blend of modern and |
| Roman artifacts, showcasing Cirencester’s | traditional architecture, creating a unique | |
| importance as a Roman town. | and captivating aesthetic. | |
| Abbey Gardens Park | Once the site of an Augustinian Abbey, this | The picturesque lake and the surrounding |
| park offers a tranquil setting for a leisurely | gardens provide a serene atmosphere and a | |
| stroll, with remnants of the abbey’s gatehouse | beautiful backdrop for a relaxing walk. |
These sites not only offer a glimpse into the town’s hidden history but also showcase the architectural brilliance of their respective eras. Exploring these sites on the self-guided audio tour will undoubtedly be an adventurous and informative experience.
Intriguing Stories and Origins
Exploring Cirencester’s hidden history on the self-guided audio tour reveals fascinating stories and origins that intrigue visitors. The tour provides an immersive experience, taking you on a journey through time as you uncover the secrets of this ancient town.
Here are some of the intriguing stories and origins you’ll discover:
The Cotswold wool trade: Learn about Cirencester’s history as a center of the Cotswold wool trade and how it shaped the town’s prosperity.
Flaming sparrows and Danish kings: Discover the interesting tale of a Danish king using flaming sparrows to capture the town and the lasting impact it had on Cirencester.
Origins of terms: Find out the origins of terms like ‘daylight robbery’ and ‘teetotallers’ and how they’re connected to the town’s history.
With these captivating stories and origins, the self-guided audio tour offers an engaging and informative experience that will leave you with a deeper understanding of Cirencester’s hidden history.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyWhat to Expect on the Tour
Visitors can expect a captivating journey through time as they embark on the self-guided audio tour of Cirencester’s hidden history. This tour offers a fascinating exploration of the town’s rich past, providing insights into its Roman roots, medieval heritage, and more.
The tour lasts for approximately 1.5 hours, allowing participants to enjoy the historical wonders at their own pace. The meeting point is at 26 Market Pl, Cirencester GL7 2NY, specifically at the street entrance to the Corn Hall located on the south side of Cirencester Marketplace.
From this starting point, adventurers will uncover the magnificent South Porch of St John the Baptist Church, Anne Boleyn’s silver gilt chalice, the Bathurst Estates Great Yew Hedge, and other notable sites.
It promises to be a thrilling and educational experience for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Inclusions and Requirements
The audio tour includes a lifetime access to the tour in English and can be completed at your own pace. It provides the convenience of a self-guided tour, allowing you to explore the hidden history of Cirencester at your leisure.
With the voice guidance provided by the audio guide, you won’t miss out on any important information or fascinating stories. The importance of audio guides can’t be overstated, as they offer a unique and immersive way to learn about the city’s past.
By choosing a self-guided tour, you have the freedom to pause, rewind, or replay the audio as many times as you like, ensuring that you absorb all the intriguing details.
Participant Selection and Date Availability
When selecting participants and checking date availability for the Cirencester self-guided audio tour, you can easily plan your visit to uncover the hidden history of the city. Whether you’re traveling alone or with a group, this tour is suitable for participants of all ages and interests.
To ensure availability, it’s recommended to book your preferred date in advance. The tour is available throughout the year, allowing you to explore Cirencester at a time that suits you best.
With the convenience of the VoiceMap app, you can embark on this adventure whenever you’re ready. So, gather your friends, family, or even go solo on this captivating journey through the streets of Cirencester.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover the secrets and fascinating tales that await you on this self-guided audio tour.
Meeting Point and Directions
The meeting point for the Cirencester self-guided audio tour is conveniently located at the street entrance to the Corn Hall on the south side of Cirencester Marketplace, providing participants with easy access to embark on their historical journey.
From there, the adventure begins as participants follow the directions provided by the audio guide. The tour takes them through various sites such as the Corinium Museum, St John Baptist Church, and the merchants’ houses, each with its own unique history waiting to be discovered.
As they explore, you will learn about Cirencester’s past as a center of the Cotswold wool trade and uncover fascinating stories, like the Danish king who used flaming sparrows to capture the town.
The tour concludes with a relaxing stroll beside the lake in Abbey Gardens Park, a perfect way to reflect on the hidden history of Cirencester.
Common Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Self-Guided Audio Tour of Cirencester?
There are no age restrictions for the self-guided audio tour of Cirencester. The tour duration is 1.5 hours, allowing participants of all ages to explore the hidden history at their own pace.
Can I Bring My Pet With Me on the Tour?
Yes, pets are welcome on the tour. There is a pet-friendly policy in place that allows visitors to bring their furry companions along to explore the hidden history of Cirencester.
Is the Audio Guide Available in Languages Other Than English?
The audio guide for the self-guided audio tour, ‘Cirencester’s Hidden History,’ is currently available only in English. There are no multilingual options or language availability mentioned for this particular tour.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Tour Route?
Restroom facilities are available along the tour route for convenience. Plus, the audio tour offers accessibility options for a comfortable and inclusive experience. Explore Cirencester’s hidden history while ensuring your comfort and accessibility needs are met.
Can I Bring My Own Headphones or Do I Need to Use the Ones Provided?
Yes, you can bring your own headphones or use the rental headphones provided. This allows you to fully learn about the self-guided audio tour and enjoy the hidden history of Cirencester.
The Sum Up
Set out on a captivating journey through time with Cirencester’s self-guided audio tour.
From the impressive Bathurst Estates Great Yew Hedge to the ancient abbey gatehouse, this tour uncovers the hidden history of this picturesque town.
Discover fascinating tales of Danish kings, unravel the origins of common phrases, and explore notable sites like the Corinium Museum and St John Baptist Church.
Whether completing the tour in 90 minutes or at your own pace, you’re guaranteed to leave with a deeper appreciation for Cirencester’s enchanting past.
You can check if your dates are available here: