Attractions and Places To See around Cricklade - Top 20

Cricklade boasts a rich history. You can visit the impressive Cirencester Amphitheatre, a significant Roman earthwork that once held 8,000 spectators. Within Cricklade itself, explore the medieval St Sampson's Church, dating back to Saxon times, and St Mary's Church with its Norman elements. The town's Heritage Trail features sites like the Priory of St John the Baptist and the Queen Victoria Jubilee Clock. Don't miss Castle Eaton Village, which offers historical buildings along the River Thames.

Absolutely. Cricklade is surrounded by beautiful natural areas. The North Meadow National Nature Reserve is internationally important for its wild snakeshead fritillaries, which bloom spectacularly in late spring. West of Cricklade, the Lower Moor Wiltshire Wildlife Trust offers diverse landscapes with lakes, woodlands, and meadows. You can also explore Blakehill Nature Reserve and Dance Common. The River Thames, starting near Cricklade, provides excellent walking opportunities along the Thames Path. Additionally, the vast Cotswold Water Park, with over 150 lakes, is perfect for nature lovers.

Cricklade is a great base for cycling. You can enjoy the NCN Route 45: South Cerney to Cricklade, a lovely, leafy, and level cycle way on an old railway line, offering scenic views of lakes. For more options, explore the various routes listed in the komoot guides for cycling, gravel biking, and MTB trails around Cricklade. These include routes like the 'Cotswold Water Park loop' and 'Lake 26 loop from Cricklade'. You can find detailed routes and maps in the Cycling around Cricklade guide.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Cirencester Amphitheatre is a fascinating historical site for all ages. The Lake at Cotswold Water Park offers a wide range of activities, from peaceful walks and birdwatching to various watersports. For a unique experience, the Swindon and Cricklade Railway, run by volunteers, offers train rides on open days. Many of the nature reserves also provide easy walking paths suitable for families.

The best time to visit Cricklade largely depends on your interests. For a spectacular display of wild snakeshead fritillaries at North Meadow National Nature Reserve, late April to May is ideal. Summer offers pleasant weather for exploring the Cotswold Water Park and enjoying outdoor activities. The historical sites and town walks are enjoyable year-round, though spring and autumn provide milder temperatures and beautiful scenery.

Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of history and nature. The Cirencester Amphitheatre is praised for its atmospheric feel. Cyclists love the scenic and level NCN Route 45, especially for its lake views. The extensive Cotswold Water Park is appreciated for its vastness and diverse wildlife. The charm of villages like Castle Eaton and the welcoming atmosphere of local cafes like Jennie's Kitchen also receive positive feedback.

Beyond its historical landmarks, Cricklade offers unique cultural insights. The Cricklade Museum houses over 12,000 items, detailing the town's history from Roman times to the present, including its royal mint period. You can also follow the Cricklade Heritage Trail, which features interpretation panels around town. The Cricklade Court Leet, one of the few remaining manorial courts in the UK, continues to play a role in managing the town's common lands, offering a glimpse into ancient local governance.

Cricklade and its surrounding villages offer several options. Jennie's Kitchen at Wheatley's Barn Farm is a popular spot for breakfast and coffee, known for being cyclist-friendly. In Castle Eaton Village, the Red Lion pub claims to be the first pub on the Thames from its source and offers food. Cricklade High Street also features various establishments where you can find refreshments.

Many of the natural areas around Cricklade are suitable for dog walking. The North Meadow National Nature Reserve, Lower Moor Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, Blakehill Nature Reserve, and Dance Common all offer open spaces and trails. The Thames Path, which passes through Cricklade, is also a great option for walks with your dog. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially in nature reserves where wildlife may be present, and check for any specific local restrictions.

Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring the smaller nature sites like Dance Common, managed by local volunteers, for a quieter experience. The Cricklade Heritage Trail itself can reveal hidden architectural details and historical anecdotes often overlooked. For a unique local insight, look for the Saxons Rest, a mosaic commemorating Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, which adds a modern touch to the town's ancient heritage.

The area around Cricklade is excellent for various outdoor activities. Cycling is very popular, with dedicated routes like the NCN Route 45 and numerous options for gravel biking and mountain biking, especially around the Cotswold Water Park. Walking and hiking are also prominent, with the Thames Path offering scenic riverside strolls and the many nature reserves providing diverse trails. Watersports are a major draw at the Cotswold Water Park.