Set among the Cotswold hills, Cirencester is a town that with a vibrant, modern way of life. Often called the “Capital of the Cotswolds,” it’s a place where thriving markets and green open spaces come together to create a truly enviable lifestyle. If you’re searching for property to rent in Cirencester, here’s why this beautiful market town could be exactly what you’ve been looking for.
Why Cirencester is a Great Place to Live
About Cirencester
Cirencester’s story stretches back to its days as one of Roman Britain’s most important towns. You can still see the influence of its past in landmarks like the Roman amphitheatre on the edge of town and the remarkable collections at the Corinium Museum. And history here is woven into everyday life, from the medieval market square to the honey-stone buildings that now house independent shops, artisan cafés, and local businesses.
A Market Town at Heart
Cirencester’s market tradition is still alive and thriving, with a twice weekly market featuring stalls selling everything from seasonal produce to handcrafted gifts. Saturdays bring a bustling Farmers’ Market, where the aroma of fresh bread, locally made cheeses, and artisan street food fills the air. It’s the perfect place to mingle, sample local delicacies, and get a feel for the area and its community.
A Glimpse into the History of Cirencester
Cirencester’s history surrounds you as you wander through its streets. Possibly once known as Corinium by the Romans, Cirencester was the second-largest town in Roman Britain. The Corinium Museum houses a remarkable collection of Roman artifacts found in and around the local area. The town’s medieval architecture, including the impressive Church of St. John the Baptist, adds to its timeless appeal.
A Welcoming Community
Life in Cirencester is as much about people as it is about place. The Barn Theatre stages professional productions all year round, New Brewery Arts offers workshops and exhibitions, and sports clubs cater for everyone from rugby fans to runners. There’s even a weekly Park Run where all abilities are welcome. Join a book group, gardening club, or simply while away an afternoon in one of the town’s many independent cafés.
Family-Friendly Living
For families thinking about making the move, Cirencester offers excellent schooling options, including Deer Park School and the highly regarded Cirencester College. Safe neighbourhoods, active youth sports, and plenty of green open space make it a wonderful place to bring up children.
Green Spaces and Fresh Air
One of Cirencesters most treasured features is its access to nature. Cirencester Park, with its tree-lined avenues and sweeping lawns, is ideal for morning runs, family walks, or relaxed weekend picnics. A short drive away, the Cotswold Water Park offers a playground for water sports lovers, cyclists, walkers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re active or simply enjoy soaking up the scenery, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the great outdoors here.
Great Commuter Links
Despite its rural setting, Cirencester is well connected. Kemble train station offers direct services to London, while the A417 links you quickly to the M4 for routes to the capital and the M5 for travel north. Cheltenham, Swindon, and Oxford are all within easy reach for shopping, work, or days out.
Places to eat and drink in Cirencester
Cirencester is home to a diverse range of restaurants and pubs, catering to all tastes.
For those craving pizza, Amore Mio serves up a mouth-watering, hand-tossed sourdough pizza, washed down with a glass of Italian wine. If Spanish cuisine is more your scene then tuck into tapas from husband and wife owners Brett and Silvia at Tierra and Mar.
Cirencester’s local farmers’ market, held every second and fourth Saturday of the month, is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. It showcases the best in locally produced goods, from fresh vegetables and cheeses to artisanal bread and pastries.
In the evening, Encore offers refined dining with creative, locally inspired dishes, and the historic Fleece Hotel serves hearty meals in a charming setting – a beautiful 17th-century coaching inn offering delicious British cuisine in a cosy setting.
And if market day has you calling for coffee, we recommend Jacks on Black Jack Street no less. It serves up brunch and lunch with the most delicious coffee (other drinks are also available).
Favourite shops in Cirencester
Cirencester is packed with independent shops and an exciting food scene, making it a delight for residents and visitors alike. Food lovers can enjoy authentic Spanish flavours at wonderful tapas restaurant La Bobina, while Jesse Smith’s brings traditional butchery and high-quality meats to the table. For artisan breads, pastries, and coffee, KNEAD Bakery is a must-visit, now also open at the Cotswolds Designer Outlet.
Abbey Home Farm, just outside Cirencester, is a haven for organic produce enthusiasts. This working organic farm offers a farm shop where residents can purchase fresh, locally sourced fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. The emphasis on sustainable and ethical practices adds to the appeal of shopping locally.
If you’re in the mood for a little retail therapy, Law & Co. is a boutique brimming with stylish finds, and Ballamys Emporium offers unique gifts and crafts that make perfect keepsakes or presents.
Find all of these Cirencester businesses in a reel over on our Instagram.
Events and Activities near Cirencester
Cirencester hosts a range of events and activities throughout the year, ensuring there is always something to do.
The Cirencester Park Polo Club, founded in 1890, is one of the oldest polo clubs in the UK. Here you can enjoy thrilling matches set against the backdrop of the stunning Cirencester Park.
The Barn Theatre is a 200 seater, state-of-the-art theatre producing a range of top-class performances throughout the year. The theatre company believe in theatre for all and support a vibrant performing arts education programme.
Cirencester is also surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty. The Cotswold Water Park, just a short drive away, offers opportunities for water sports, cycling, and picnicking. The area is crisscrossed with walking and cycling trails, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Places to stay in Cirencester
If you’re in search of a short-term rental or a long-term rental in the Cotswolds, The Cotswold Letting Agency is the perfect partner for finding properties to rent in Cirencester! Cirencester enjoys a strategic location in the heart of the Cotswolds, making it a great base for easy access to the entire Cotswolds region. When it comes to Cotswold cottage rentals our team know just how important location can be.
Properties to Rent in Cirencester
If you’re ready to make the move, The Cotswold Letting Agency has a selection of homes within easy travel time of Cirencester:
- Rowan Cottage, Lechlade-on-Thames – A beautifully finished three-bedroom Cotswold stone home offering over 1,500 sq ft of living space, a detached garage, and a prime position in a thriving riverside market town.
- 2 Marston Hill, Meysey Hampton – A fully furnished five-bedroom, three-bathroom semi-detached cottage with generous social spaces, a well-kept garden, and private parking — perfect for a large family or those who love to entertain.
- Home Farm, Down Ampney – A stunning six-bedroom Cotswold stone house with a separate one-bedroom annexe, surrounded by beautiful gardens and set in an idyllic rural location.
- The Coach House, Somerford Keynes – A stylishly converted period property with flexible living space, original features, and a garden, ideal for a few months’ stay in the area.
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- Arlington Farmhouse, Bibury – A hidden gem in one of the Cotswolds’ most photographed villages, offering classic countryside charm and generous accommodation.
- College Dene, Northleach – A Grade II listed stone-built home with a private courtyard, oak flooring, and easy access to local shops and scenic walks.
- Oak View House – An exceptional four-bedroom family home with generous living spaces, a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, and a peaceful setting.
- Broadway Apartment – perfectly placed for enjoying the town’s shops, markets, and restaurants.
- Painswick Apartment – A contemporary property on Carpenters Lane offering modern comfort in a prime position.
We pride ourselves on the quality of service we offer to both property owners and tenants. And we believe we differ from typical estate agents in the Cotswolds as our extensive experience is focused solely on the rentals market.
Why choose a property to let in Cirencester?
Cirencester strikes the balance between being steeped in history yet buzzing with activity and has an abundance of stylish Cotswold rental homes and beautiful Cotswold cottages to rent.
Our team have worked hard over the years to build a reliable network of connections along with a black book of tradespeople that we regularly recommend to both tenants and owners. Whether you come to us for a rental property in Cirencester to call home or with a property for us to market and rent on your behalf, no one is better connected when it comes to the Cotswold short-let and long-let market.
Get in touch for property to rent in Cirencester on 01993 684572 or drop us an email at hello@cotswoldlettingagency.com to begin your move, long or short, to the Cotswolds!
