What Is Living In Gloucester Like? A Guide To Gloucester

On the River Severn between the Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean is Gloucester. The population of Gloucester at the time of the 2021 Official Census was 132,564. According to Varbes forecast, the population is now estimated to be approximately 133,163, based on the same census data. It’s about 7 miles from Cheltenham, 33 miles from Bristol, and 17 miles east of the Welsh border.

This port city blends medieval architecture with the digital world in Gloucester’s growing financial sector. Having both Romanesque and Gothic architecture, Gloucester Cathedral is the burial place of King Edward II. The city is rich in history and offers access to some of the most beautiful places in England.

Brief History of Gloucester

Originally known as the Roman settlement Glevum from the 1st to the 5th centuries AD. After the Romans, it expanded under Anglo-Saxon rule, becoming the capital of Mercia in 618 AD. Around 679 AD, King Osric of the Hwicce founded a small monastic community and abbey.

In 1089, William the Conqueror appointed Norman Abbot Serlo, who began building a great Norman Church, and the foundations and crypt still survive today. Construction and renovations continued over the centuries, and by the mid-14th century, royal masons introduced the Perpendicular style, further evolving the architecture of what would later be Gloucester Cathedral.

In 1155, Henry II’s charter granted Gloucester royal importance, which allowed Gloucester to thrive, developing a tanning industry, bell founding, and cloth trade, attracting skilled artisans and traders.

The Industrial Revolution then transformed Gloucester into an industrial hub, with heavy industries such as railway rolling stock, aircraft, and timber mills emerging. By 1827, Gloucester’s historic docks opened, which today serve leisure purposes and host events like the Tall Ships Festival.

Is Gloucester a Good Place to Live?

Overall, yes, Gloucester is considered a generally good place to live. Combining affordable housing, rich history, cultural diversity, and access to beautiful countryside. With lower property prices, historic sites like the cathedral, scenic surroundings near the Cotswolds and Forest of Dean, regeneration projects, and strong transport links. The area is family-friendly with reputable schools.

The city has a more relaxed lifestyle compared to larger urban centres, which may not appeal to everyone. Overall, Gloucester suits those seeking a balance of urban amenities, historic charm, nature, and affordability.

How Safe is Gloucester?

Gloucester, a historic city with a mix of heritage and modern living, continues to draw residents, visitors, and investors alike. The overall crime rate in the city of Gloucester is 147 crimes per 1000. For the wider Gloucester area, it is approximately 95 crimes per 1000 and is considered the most dangerous area in Gloucestershire.*

The most common crimes in Gloucester are Violence and Sexual Offences, Anti-Social Behaviour, and shoplifting.

Like many city areas, Gloucester experiences a higher crime rate. There is a suggestion that is being attributed to youth being drawn into ‘roadlife’, gang-related violence, and other issues that cities face. Drug usage also contributes to the overall crime volume. To combat crime, Gloucester Police are implementing a Gloucestershire Police and Crime Plan to combat crime. It aims to strengthen the force, address crime at its source, support victims, and more. Meanwhile, locals are encouraged to provide feedback through the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Trust and Confidence survey, which can influence future police actions.

*Crime statistics vary due to factors such as boundaries, types of crime, and timeframes. Some datasets focus on major crimes, while others include minor offences or traffic-related issues.

Updating Home Your Security

Are you worried about your home security? You can upgrade your home security with simple measures yourself, but for the best protection, it’s always advisable to use a professional locksmith. At Keytek®, our fully trained and accredited locksmiths in Gloucester provide a free home security check with every call-out. Just ask your locksmith for additional security advice, and we’ll be happy to help.

Gloucester Weather

With shorter summers and long windy winters, Gloucester has an overall comfortable forecast all year around. With temperatures varying from 2°C to 22°C, it rarely dips below -3°C or rise above 27°C, creating a cool and comfortable climate.

Gloucester is among the drier regions of England, receiving approximately 783 mm of rain annually. For context, Gloucester’s annual rainfall is lower than the UK average(1,386mm), highlighting its relatively dry climate. Within Gloucestershire, subtle microclimates add variety, particularly across the higher elevations of the Cotswolds.

House & Rental Prices: Gloucester 2025

Rental Prices:

As of July 2025, the average monthly private rent in Gloucester was £1,036, a 11.3% increase from the previous year: £930 in July 2024.

Average rents by property type were:

• One-bedroom: £691
• Two-bedroom: £902
• Three-bedroom: £1,123
• Four-bedroom: £1,547

For specific types, flats and maisonettes averaged £790, terraced properties £1,041, semi-detached properties £1,128, and detached properties £1,457.

Buyer Prices:

In June 2025, the provisional average house price in Gloucester was £225,000, increasing by from June 2024 being £225,000 with a 0.1% change. June 2025 saw semidetached house prices stay round the same over the year, whilst the average price for flats decreased by 3.5%

Average prices for property types were detached £392,000, semi-detached £262,000, terraced £197,000, and flats/maisonettes £127,000.

All figures and average prices taken from ONS

Recommended Places to Live in Gloucester

Brockworth

Best for: families, young professionals, and retirees

Property types: Detached, Semi-detached, terraced and new developments

Located near the city, Brockworth is a village and civil parish, known for its stunning countryside on the edge of the Cotswolds. It offers a rural charm with access to Gloucester and Cheltenham.  Historically, it was a hub for aircraft manufacturing and is now home to the famous annual Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake.

• Good range of amenities and local businesses, and essential services such as a surgery and dentist.
• Strong transport links, close to the M5 allowing commute to Bristol and Birmingham. There is also inner-city links and a bus services connecting you to the city centre.
• Strong sense of a pro-active community, particularly in newer developments with neighbours helping each other; modernization within the area and attracting new residents
• Access to Ofsted rated ‘outstanding’ primary schools and highly rated secondary schools.

Churchdown

Best for:  families, professionals, retirees or those wanting a quitter lifestyle.

Property types: Detached, semi-detached, larger family homes, town houses and period properties.

This large semi-rural village is approximately 5 miles from Cheltenham and 4 miles from Gloucester. With a stunning view of Chosen Hill with the St. Bartholomew’s Church at its peak, the hill dates to an Iron Age Fort and pre-Christian temple. Churchdown offers a peaceful lifestyle with connections to the country and good schools.

• Located between Gloucester and Cheltenham, it offers easy access to both towns and their respective amenities. It has good road connections, including the M5 via the A40, and is served by major train stations offering routes to several cities.
• It is appreciated for its green spaces and provides a semi-rural lifestyle with plenty of walking routs and panoramic views.
• Locals and residents find the village welcoming, with a vibrant high street with plenty of annuities and local pubs
• One of the safest small towns in Gloucester with a significantly lower crime rate of 35 crimes per 1000, which is 40% lower than the Gloucester average.

Hucclecote

Best for: young adults, students, families and retirees

Property types: bungalows, detached houses, semi-detached houses, and terraced homes

Located on the historic Ermin Way, between Barnwood and Brockworth, this historic village is known for is community feel, natural spaces and local amenities. During WWII, the village helped in the production of a large number of aircraft on Hucclecote Airfield.

• It sits close to Gloucester and Cheltenham with easy access to Junction 11a of the M% for easy travel and commutes
• With some persevered historic sites, it still holds historic charm from its past as a village.
• A welcoming environment with a strong sense of community, with a family friendly atmosphere, there are excellent primary schools and plenty of areas to walk your dog
• Nestled between the vibrant city and the countryside, Hucclecote offers residents the best of both worlds: access to urban amenities, peaceful green spaces, and the stunning Cotswolds. This prime location ensures a balanced lifestyle, blending convenience with natural beauty.

Longlevens

Best for: families, professionals and retirees

Property types: semi-detached houses, detached houses, terraced houses, flats and apartments

Originally developed from farmland for an orchard and market gardening in 1880, the area saw significant housing growth beginning in the 1930s and continuing in later decades. Today, this residential suburb offers a relaxed atmosphere and features two landmarks: the Holy Trinity Church and Oxstalls Campus for the University of Gloucestershire.

• Offers a quiet residential lifestyle with a friendly and vibrant community. With many locals saying it was a comfortable place to grow up.
• The range of ‘Outstanding’ rated schools is great for families, with top grammar schools like Pate’s and Stroud High. There is also access to well-regarded primary and special schools need schools.
• Strong transport links with the M5 and A40 easily accessible, with access to Gloucester and Cheltenham Spa train station. This gives commuters services into major cities like Bristol, London and Cardiff.
• Residents have convenient access to essential services, supermarkets, and smaller specialty shops. Inviting restaurants are nearby, a mix of amenities and local products.

Quedgeley

Best for: families, couples, working professional

Property types: semi-detached, detached and terraced

Situated on the banks of the River Severn, Quedgeley officially became a town in 2017 and lies three miles from Gloucester city centre. Steeped in Roman history, it has evolved into a thriving community, with a significant part of its recent growth centred on Kingsway Village, a former RAF base. Today, Quedgeley offers a modern array of amenities, and residents and visitors alike benefit from a spacious retail park, providing a variety of shops and services.

• A calm and welcoming atmosphere for those seeking a quieter life without sacrificing convenience. An abundance of green open spaces provides leisurely walks, outdoor recreation, or simply unwinding in natural surroundings. Its riverside setting along the Severn makes it an appealing retreat from the busier urban areas.
• A good selection of schools, active community groups, and family-focused amenities, such as playgrounds, sports fields, and a modern community centre. Regular local events and activities bring neighbours together for a fulfilling community.
• Quedgeley is a short drive or bus ride from the city centre, with the beauty of the Cotswolds on the doorstep, offering endless opportunities for country walks, weekend getaways, and exploring charming market towns. Ideal for those who want the best of both city and countryside living.
• As a growing suburban area, Quedgeley offers a diverse range of housing to suit different lifestyles and budgets. From modern apartments and starter homes to spacious detached properties and traditional family houses.

Cost of Living in Gloucester

Glasgow is an affordable city; a one-bedroom flat in the city centre costs around £790 per month. For groceries and utilities*, you can expect to spend about £363 each month.**

A ‘MegaRider Xtra’, a bus ticket that allows unlimited bus travel on all busses will start at £68 a month for Stagecoach buses within: Gloucester, extending to Down Hatherley Lane, Chosen Hill School, Brockworth (A417), Brookthorpe, Quedgeley, Highnam and Sandhurst.

A seasonal train ticket from Gloucester to Birmingham (New Street, Moor Street or Snow Hill) will start from £516.

A single adult living alone can anticipate monthly expenses ranging from £1,141 to £1,862, which includes a chain gym membership (£14.99) and social activities (2 date nights a month – £178). However, these costs can vary based on individual lifestyle choices and spending habits.

Student Costs in Gloucester

A student bus pass will vary in price, for example, an Autumn Term ticket is from 1^st September 2025 to 19^th  December 2025 and start at £165.  While a Gloucester Academic Year 25/26 StudentRider will last from 1^st September 2025 to 22^nd July 2026 and start at £495.

For students, the situation is slightly different. Student accommodation often includes bills and utilities, based on Shaftesbury Hall Student Accommodation start from around £486.40 per month. Based on the figures above, without the utilities cost or Wi-Fi, rent, food, phone bill, leisure activities, a social life and a one-off payment on a student academic bus pass, will cost £1,334 per month.

Note for students there are often discounts available and listed above are estimated costs. It will differ based on lifestyle and budget. For advice on budgeting at university, the University of Gloucester does have a guide and weekly break down of predicted costs.

*Utilities: Basic ((Electricity, Heating, Water, ETC) £172.55), Mobile contract (£13.93) and internet (£31.66)

**Based on estimated data and non-smoking groceries for £36.44 weekly shop or £145.76 a month. – these numbers are estimates and will differ depending on lifestyle and your budget.

Studying in Gloucester

University of Gloucester 

Ranks: 72^nd  – University League Tables 2026

Top courses: Ranks top 10 in Physiotherapy

The University of Gloucestershire, founded in 1834, is a local government and Anglican Church educational initiative. Its history includes the Cheltenham Mechanics’ Institute and the Cheltenham Training College. The university was created in 1990 through mergers and reforms and now spans three campuses and a specialist Centre for Fashion, Art, and Photography. It was granted full university status in October 2001.

Student Things to Do

PUTTPUTT Social

In the heart of King’s Walk Shopping Centre, PUTTPUTT social mini golf is fun for everyone. Pan-Asian–themed crazy golf collides with delicious Asian street food, served up by a team of super-friendly staff.

• Great drinks on offer, amazing student deals, and a lively atmosphere.
• Ideal place for pre-drinks, a birthday, or a night out with friends.
• It’s reasonably priced with tickets starting at £11 for off-peak times.

Outdoor Cinema

Outdoor cinema, is an open-air event with a fully immersive and unforgettable way to enjoy your favourite movies. Watch a film beneath the night sky or even in the sunshine, surrounded by people who are there for the same reason: to relax, sing, dance, and soak up the atmosphere.

• A great night out with friends
• Ideal for a picnic and a few drinks
• A night of great atmosphere, laughter, and entertainment.

H.M. Prison Gloucester Events

Gloucester Prison, a historic site with a rich history was a castle until 1791, before becoming an execution site in the 1820s. It was later renamed Gloucester County Prison in the mid-19th century and later closed 2013 due to costs and overcrowding. Today, it offers unique experiences like zombie adventures, ghost hunting, hide-and-seek, and filming projects.

• Operated by CrackingDay Ltd, the team creates fun and original content to keep these historic sites alive.
• HMP Gloucester promises unforgettable memories for those seeking adrenaline, history exploration, or a unique experience.

Gloucester Quays

As the South West’s premier designer outlet and lifestyle destination, Gloucester Quays offers up to 70% off stylish fashion, accessories, and homeware across more than 50 high-street and top-brand outlet stores.

• Plenty of shops and restaurants to choose from, a state-of-the-art 10-screen Cineworld, a gym, and monthly food and craft markets.
• Outdoor events, unique markets, and experience days.
• Exclusive student weeks offers for discounts at the Quay to stretch money further.

Best Student Nightlife

• Café René, part pub and part live music venue, this award-winning pub in the city centre has been open since 2003. Hosting live music with regular bands, artists, and DJs of all genres.
• Butlers #Bar103, in the Eastgate Quarter, offers student nights on Wednesday and Thursday, followed by bigger events on Friday and Saturday. With a light-up floor makes it an ideal spot to start the weekend
• Fever Whether you want a laid-back night out or the full clubbing experience, Fever has everything. Private booths to two rooms playing different music all night long.

Commute and Connections

Car

The main motorway in and out of Gloucester is the M5, connecting Gloucester to Bristol, Birmingham, Exeter, and other major UK cities. There are two main A-roads that pass-through Gloucester, the A38 and the A40. The A38 is a key route from Gloucester that connects the city to Bristol, Worcester, and other cities and towns, running parallel to the M5 for most of its length, providing high-speed travel. Alternatively, the A40 provides connections to Oxford and London as well as other roads running along the south-west into Wales.

Walking & Cycling

Gloucester has a growing network for cycling and walking, including the Gloucestershire Cycle Spine, a 26-mile corridor linking Stroud to Bishop’s Cleeve via Gloucester and Cheltenham. The network encourages sustainable journeys between homes, workplaces, transport hubs, and leisure destinations. It connects to key locations like the Docks and the Transport Hub.

Further Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIPs) are being implemented to extend the connectivity across the county of Gloucestershire. The B4063 Cycleway connects Gloucester and Cheltenham, making journeys safer, faster, and more attractive. Quiet Ways offer high-quality, low-traffic access for cyclists and pedestrians.

Bus

Gloucester offers a variety of public transport and bus services for commuting, personal, and leisurely travel. Stagecoach runs the majority of local bus services, connecting Gloucester with Cheltenham and Forest of Dean destinations. The National Express operates from the Transport Hub and provides direct links to major cities across the UK. Community Connections is a charity offering a pre-booking service for the elderly, those living with disabilities, and those unable to use standard public transport. The Robin is a flexible booking service that covers the rural areas of Gloucestershire.

Train

Gloucester Railway Station is a short walk from the city centre, providing direct routes to major cities: London Paddington (approx. 2 hours), Brimingham New Street (approx. 1 hour), Bristol Temple Meads (approx. 1 hour) and Cardiff Central (approx. 1 hour).

Operated by both Great Western Railway (GWR) and CrossCountry who each have their own maps for connecting rail services.

Working in Gloucester

Offering affordable housing compared to areas like Cheltenham and the Cotswolds, it has a keen sense of community with a growing number of sectors and urban regeneration projects. However, there is a more limited job market compared to that of major cities and slightly lower wages. This often means you might need to commute for better opportunities, depending on your work.

Urban at its core, Gloucester remains connected to the farming industry. Dairy, fruit growing, wine production, and other agricultural activities supply high-quality produce, from artisan cheeses to cider. Agribusiness thrives, benefiting from a blend of traditional farming and access to urban markets.

Gloucester has several growing and established sectors, including Aerospace and Advanced Manufacturing, which is home to some of the UK’s key aerospace industries. The University of Gloucester and nearby schools and colleges make it ideal for those in education. Healthcare is another major employer, with Gloucestershire Royal Hospital serving the region. Gloucester’s digital and creative sectors are also rising, especially in digital marketing, media production, and software development.

The UK Careers Fair provides comprehensive information on various industries in Gloucester as well as those within easy commuting distance.

Gloucester Landmarks

Planning a trip to Gloucester? With historic cathedral and charming woodland, the city blends heritage, culture and natural beauty. From ancient forests to medieval architecture, here are some of the best landmarks to visit in and around Gloucester, plus some local favourites.

History and Culture

Gloucester Cathedral

At the heart of the city stands Gloucester Cathedral, built on the foundations of an abbey dating back to 1089. It has since grown into a magnificent example of Gothic architecture and the final resting place of King Edward II.

History:

• Built from the foundations of the Abbey, the Gothic style gradually transformed the choir and cloisters
• The Great East Window, completed in 1350, was once the largest window in the world.
• The central tower was added during the late 15th century.
• Inside, two 1420-dated bells and Great Peter, Britain’s largest medieval bell, hang. The current clock was installed in 1898.
• After Henry VIII’s dissolution, the cathedral continued to evolve while preserving its historic grandeur.

Just outside, the Cathedral Green is a must, perfect for a break, a picnic, or a stroll around the outer walls, where small ecclesiastical buildings reveal more of the site’s long history.

Continuing your visit, entry is free; however, you can make donations or pay for a tour or special experiences, which allow you to explore further. Regardless, the Cathedral offers breathtaking views of the city and hosts seasonal events.

National Waterways Museum

Down at the Gloucester Dock, the National Waterways Museum brings Britain’s canal and river history to life. The Grade II-listed, Victorian, Llanthony Warehouse was built in 1873 and was later repurposed for the museum after renovation in 1988.

About:

• Inside, interactive exhibits tell the story of over 200 years of river and canal life.
• Visitors can explore the National Historic Fleet of canal, river, and steam-powered vessels, and how canal-yard repairs are carried out with a steam crane and heavy oil engine.
• Learn about working boats, ship yard repairs, and meet the Queen Boadicea II, a boat that played a role in rescuing troops during Dunkirk in World War II
• Old films, hands-on displays, and detailed models make it engaging for adults and children alike.

The cafe and gift shop are delightful, whilst outside, the restored warehouses and docks offer more to explore, from shops to restaurants. It is a perfect spot to soak up Gloucester’s maritime past.

Museum of Gloucester

Established in 1859, The Museum of Gloucester has evolved from an Art School to its current home, the former Prince Memorial Hall. In 2022, the museum received funding to upgrade and repair its Grade II listed building. It now houses a collection that spans millions of years.

Unique exhibits:

• Dinosaur fossils
• Roman artifacts – tomb stones and original roman wall
• A 1st/2nd century Birdlip Mirror
• The earliest surviving, complete Tabula Game Set: a predecessor of backgammon.
• Younger visitors can bring history to life in a Roman Kitchen Playhouse and other interactive exhibits.

Down below, under the museum, guided tours reveal Roman and Medieval remains as well as other seasonal events and much more, offering an up-close experience with Gloucester’s past.

A cafe, a gift shop selling fossils and minerals, and temporary exhibitions throughout the year. The Museum of Gloucester makes history fun and accessible.

Wildlife and Nature

Robinswood Hill

Robinswood Hill is one of Gloucestershire’s best-kept secrets: a tranquil 100-hectare (250-acre) park just outside Gloucester. Rising 198 meters (651 ft) above sea level, Robinswood Hill rewards walkers with sweeping views of the Severn Vale, the Cotswolds, and the Forest of Dean.

History:

• Rocks yielding ammonites, belemnites, and other marine fossils dating back 200 million years to the Triassic and Jurassic periods.
• From the 13th century, the hill supplied water to Gloucester Abbey
• Victorian reservoirs ensured the growing city’s water supply
• Today, the Gloucester Wildlife Trust manages the park, keeping its wildlife habitats thriving.

Wildlife:

• Wildlife enthusiasts can spot everything from rabbits to foxes and rare cattle
• Sightings of green woodpeckers and, during winter, long-eared owls.
• It is dog-friendly and hosts events for all ages throughout the year.

Families will enjoy the play areas, picnic spots, and barbecue facilities, with marked walking trails. A visitor centre offers refreshments and other amenities, the park’s atmosphere is welcoming to all Robinswood Hill makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors at your own pace.

The Forest of Dean

Designated as the UK’s first National Forest Park in 1938, The Forest of Dean spans 110 kilometres (68 miles). 40 miles outside of Gloucester, stretching across western Gloucestershire between the Rivers Wye and Severn, this vast forest has been home to hunters, miners, and woodland creatures for thousands of years.

History:

• Romans – mined iron ore and coal
• Normans – declared it a royal hunting ground
• Tudor Period – oak trees were used to build ships for the English Navy
• Victorian Period – it was an industrial hub for coal and iron
• Northan United Colliery – closed 1965 a stopped deep mining

Wildlife:

• A significant wild boar, varied deer population and bats
• Look for Goshawks and Peregrine Falcons, Kingfishers can be spotted at the river
• Newly introduced species like pine martens, beavers, and Exmoor ponies, through conservation methods.
• With over thirty species of butterfly
• The opportunity to see Firecrests and the red listed Hawfinch.

For visitors, the forest mixes art with walking trails, cycling routes, and the Sculpture Trail. With an adventure playground, cosy pubs, farm shops, and Cafes available, it is the perfect countryside trip.

Filming Locations in Gloucester

Gloucester has been a favourite background of film and television shows for decades, with many of its most iconic landmarks. Here are some of Gloucester’s iconic landmarks and what was shot there.

• Gloucester Cathedral – Doctor Who (2018 & 2020), Harry Potter (2001, 2002, 2009), Mary Queen of Scots, Sherlock (2015), Spanish Princess (2020), The Hollow Crown (2012 & 2015)
• Gloucester Docks – Alice Though the Looking Glass (2016), Outlaw (2007)
• Forest Dean – Arthur & Merlin (2015), Merlin (2008), Star Wars Ep VII: The Force Awakens, The Huntsman: Winter’s War (2016)