Cirencester Amphitheatre
Explore the impressive earthwork remains of one of Britain's largest Roman amphitheatres, nestled in a tranquil woodland setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Cirencester Amphitheatre
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the impressive earthwork remains of one of Britain's largest Roman amphitheatres, nestled in a tranquil woodland setting.
"A lovely hidden gem with good signage and amazing ruins covered in grass."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the banks and woodland paths. [^Review]
🌳 Explore the Woodlands
Don't just see the amphitheatre; wander through the surrounding trees for a complete, peaceful experience. [^Review]
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Amphitheatre
Central arena and seating banks
Stand where thousands once cheered! Imagine the scale of this massive Roman entertainment venue.
Woodland Walk
Surrounding grounds
Enjoy a serene stroll through the trees, with the ancient amphitheatre as your backdrop.
The Monument
Off to the right, down steps
Discover a smaller, intriguing historical marker accessible via a charming wooden bridge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Roman Past
+1Hidden Gem Discovery
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the banks and woodland paths. [^Review]
🌳 Explore the Woodlands
Don't just see the amphitheatre; wander through the surrounding trees for a complete, peaceful experience. [^Review]
🚗 Parking Advice
Street parking is available, but can be limited. Look for free street parking options nearby. [^Review]
🏛️ Imagine the Stones
While the original stones are gone, visualize the grandeur of the seating to appreciate its scale. [^Review]
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the banks and woodland paths. [^Review]
🌳 Explore the Woodlands
Don't just see the amphitheatre; wander through the surrounding trees for a complete, peaceful experience. [^Review]
🚗 Parking Advice
Street parking is available, but can be limited. Look for free street parking options nearby. [^Review]
🏛️ Imagine the Stones
While the original stones are gone, visualize the grandeur of the seating to appreciate its scale. [^Review]
🗺️ Good Signage
The site is well-signposted, making it easy to navigate and understand its historical significance. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Cirencester Amphitheatre as a well-preserved historical site and a lovely woodland walk. Many appreciate its scale and the opportunity to connect with Roman history, noting it as a 'hidden gem.' Some express disappointment that the original stones are no longer visible, but overall, the free access and peaceful atmosphere are highly valued.
"I was staying at the Travelodge and came to see the most excellent Corinium Museum and the Amphitheatre. Google said there was free parking but doesn’t say it was on the street. It was an interesting experience to stand in the middle area and climb the banks where so much has happened in Roman occupation. There is also a pretty woodland walk as well. Also saw the Monument which is off to the right, down steps and over a little wooden bridge."
Andrew T “Andrew's Adventures”
"Lovely hidden gem, with good signage, footpaths, seating, and a small, free car park. Lots of trees and birdsong, Amazing ruins covered in grass, but it's a shame you can't see the stones"
Sarah Littleboy
"Well preserved remains of largest Roman amphitheatre in UK. We worth a visit if in the area."
Martin Goodman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cirencester Amphitheatre is located on the outskirts of Cirencester town. It's accessible by car, with street parking available nearby. [^Review] For those arriving by public transport, Cirencester has a bus station, and the amphitheatre is a walk from the town center.
Yes, there is a small, free car park available on-site. [^Review] Alternatively, street parking can be found in the surrounding residential areas, though it may be limited. [^Review]
While Cirencester has a bus station, the amphitheatre is a bit of a walk from the town center. It's best combined with a car or a longer walk if you're relying on public transport.
The site is generally well-signposted, making it relatively easy to locate once you are in the vicinity. [^Review]
Many visitors arrive by car and utilize the nearby street parking. [^Review] If you're exploring Cirencester, it's also a pleasant walk through the town and into the surrounding woodlands.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Cirencester Amphitheatre is free. It's an open-air historical site that anyone can visit. [^Review]
As an outdoor historical site, the amphitheatre is generally accessible at all reasonable daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times. [^Review]
There is no admission fee to visit the Cirencester Amphitheatre. It's a public space for exploration and historical appreciation. [^Review]
Yes, the amphitheatre is accessible year-round. However, visiting during drier months will make exploring the grounds more comfortable. [^Review]
As a historical monument, visitors are asked to be respectful of the site. Stick to marked paths and avoid damaging the earthworks. [^Review]
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the impressive earthwork remains of one of Britain's largest Roman amphitheatres, capable of holding up to 8,000 spectators.
The amphitheatre is well-preserved as earthworks, though the original stone seating is no longer present. [^Review] Visitors can still clearly see the scale and structure of the ancient venue. [^Review]
It was one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in Britain, designed to hold approximately 8,000 spectators.
The site offers good signage, footpaths, and seating. [^Review] While there are no extensive facilities like visitor centers, it's designed for comfortable exploration. [^Review]
This amphitheatre was a venue for public spectacles and entertainment during the Roman occupation of Britain.
🎫 🌳 Nature & Activities
Yes, the amphitheatre is surrounded by lovely woodland, offering pleasant walking trails. [^Review] It's a great place for a peaceful stroll amidst nature. [^Review]
The woodland setting makes it a potential spot for birdwatching, with plenty of trees and natural habitats. [^Review]
While there are no designated picnic areas, the grassy banks and surrounding woodlands offer opportunities for a picnic, provided you are respectful of the site. [^Review]
The Corinium Museum in Cirencester offers a deeper dive into Roman history. [^Review] The town itself has charming streets and shops, and the wider Cotswolds region is full of picturesque villages. +1
The scale of the earthworks and the surrounding natural beauty make it a picturesque location.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
+1 While the original stones are gone, the well-preserved earthworks allow for a detailed study of Roman construction and entertainment venues. [^Review] Consider visiting the nearby Corinium Museum for a comprehensive understanding of the Roman town of Corinium. [^Review] The site provides a tangible link to the past, allowing you to walk the same ground as ancient Britons and Romans. [^Review]🌳 Nature Lovers & Walkers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Roman Legacy of Corinium
+1 This vast arena was a hub for public entertainment, likely hosting gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and other spectacles that were popular in Roman society. The sheer scale of the earthworks today gives a powerful sense of the importance of Corinium (modern Cirencester) as a major Roman town. [^Review]While the original stone seating and structures have long since disappeared, the impressive earthwork banks remain remarkably intact. [^Review] This allows visitors to clearly visualize the tiered seating and the central arena. The site's location within a woodland setting adds to its atmosphere, offering a peaceful contrast to its potentially boisterous past. [^Review] It's a testament to Roman engineering and their impact on the British landscape.
Visiting the amphitheatre offers a tangible connection to this ancient history. It’s a place where you can stand and imagine the crowds, the events, and the daily life of Roman Cirencester. [^Review] The surrounding woodlands also provide a beautiful natural environment for exploration, making it a well-rounded historical and recreational site. [^Review]
Exploring the Amphitheatre Grounds
Beyond the immediate amphitheatre structure, the site is enveloped by woodland. [^Review] This provides a serene backdrop and opportunities for leisurely walks. Birdsong often fills the air, and the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees creates a tranquil atmosphere. [^Review] Keep an eye out for 'The Monument,' a smaller historical marker located off to the right, accessible via a charming wooden bridge, adding another layer of discovery to your visit. [^Review]
Practical considerations for exploring include wearing comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven. [^Review] While there isn't extensive signage detailing every aspect of the history, the site is generally well-marked, guiding you through the main areas. [^Review] The combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes for a rewarding visit. [^Review]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit