Greetings, fellow travellers and enthusiasts of all things beautiful and historic.
I’m delighted to take you on a journey through my beloved hometown of
Tetbury. Nestled in the picturesque Cotswolds, this charming market town is a
treasure trove of history, antiques, and quintessential English charm. As
someone who was born and raised in Tetbury, with family still residing here, I
might be a tad biased, but I assure you, Tetbury’s allure is widely acknowledged
by many.
I’m delighted to take you on a journey through my beloved hometown of
Tetbury. Nestled in the picturesque Cotswolds, this charming market town is a
treasure trove of history, antiques, and quintessential English charm. As
someone who was born and raised in Tetbury, with family still residing here, I
might be a tad biased, but I assure you, Tetbury’s allure is widely acknowledged
by many.
A Bit of History
Tetbury’s rich history dates back to medieval times when it was a bustling wool
and yarn market. Today, the town’s historical tapestry is woven into its very
fabric, from the iconic Market Hall to the ancient Chipping Steps. The Market
Hall, built in 1655, stands proudly in the town centre. This beautifully restored
pillared building, with its cupola added for Queen Victoria’s Jubilee, has served as
a marketplace, fire station, and gaol over the centuries. It’s a perfect spot to
start your exploration.
Across from the Market Hall, you’ll find the Snooty Fox, a hotel that once was an
Elizabethan inn. The town is peppered with such historic gems, including the
15th-century Porch House on Long Street and the Victorian Tetbury Police
Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of policing.
Tetbury Antiques: Our Favourite Shops
Tetbury is synonymous with antiques. The town boasts a plethora of antique
shops that have garnered praise from all corners, including a nod from Vogue.
Here are a few must-visit spots:
Lorfords is perhaps the most renowned antique dealer in Tetbury. Their
showroom is a visual delight, showcasing a wide array of antiques and bespoke
pieces made right here in the Cotswolds. Their in-house upholsterers and
restorers ensure that each item is tailored to perfection.
Long Street Antiques is an antique lover’s paradise, set over three floors of a
Georgian house. Wandering through its endless rooms, you’ll discover a myriad
of hidden treasures. Even if you’re not in the market for antiques, the experience
of exploring this shop is itself rewarding.
Amy Perry Antiques captivates with its beautifully curated window displays
and an exquisite collection of items. It’s impossible to walk past without pausing
to admire the elegance of her selections.
Josephine Ryan Antiques offers a unique shopping experience in a
magnificent Georgian house. The shop feels more like a home, with its rooms
furnished as though a family from another era might return any moment. Each
piece is thoughtfully placed, encouraging visitors to linger and imagine these
antiques in their own homes.
Brownrigg is a testament to the blending of styles and periods. Founded by
Jorge Perez-Martin and David Gibson, the shop features an eclectic mix of items
from the 17th to the 20th centuries. The diversity of their collection, from a
1960s French coffee table to an 18th-century Italian commode, reflects an
English design sensibility with a Spanish flair.
Iconic Landmarks
One cannot talk about Tetbury without mentioning St Mary the Virgin Church. Its
spire, visible from miles around, is a landmark of the town. The church, a blend
of Georgian Gothic restoration on a medieval foundation, houses early medieval
tomb fragments and effigies of Elizabethan nobles and wool merchants.
The Feoffees and The Chipping Steps
The story of the Feoffees, dating back to 1623, is a fascinating chapter in
Tetbury’s history. The Berkeley’s, then lords of the manor, offered the lordship
and the borough to the townspeople. This move allowed the residents to
establish an independent local government, a rare privilege at the time.
A short walk from the Market Hall brings you to the Chipping Steps, one of the
oldest parts of Tetbury. This cobbled lane with old weavers’ cottages is a
nostalgic journey back to medieval times.
The Woolsack Race
Every May, Tetbury hosts the annual Woolsack Race, a nod to its wool-trading
past. This quirky event sees competitors racing up the steep Gumstool Hill
carrying heavy woolsacks, it’s not for the faint-hearted. It’s a sight to behold and
a testament to the town’s vibrant community spirit.
Tetbury is more than just a picturesque town; it’s a living museum where history,
culture, and community converge. Whether you’re an antiques aficionado, a
history buff, or simply someone who appreciates beauty, Tetbury promises an
unforgettable experience. Come and immerse yourself in the charm of this
enchanting market town. I guarantee you’ll leave with memories to cherish and
perhaps a few treasures from our beloved antique shops.
The Best Places to Visit Near Tetbury
Highgrove Gardens: Explore the beautiful grounds of King Charles’ beloved
country home.
Chavenage House: Explore this fabulous Tudor manor house with so many
stories to tell.
Berkeley Castle: Meet the Berkeley family and learn their extraordinary history.
Westonbirt Arboretum: Amble through the wonderful collections of trees from
around the world at the National Arboretum
Where to Stay
Calcot Manor – Stylish rooms, a sublime spa and top-notch dining, set within
220 acres of rewilded Cotswolds countryside https://calcot.co/
220 acres of rewilded Cotswolds countryside https://calcot.co/
Whatley Manor – A beautiful country house steeped in tradition, offering
The Manor House – You’ll feel the magic of The Manor House before you even
arrive. Feel the tingle of its magnetic energy on the long and winding drive that
leads up to the idyllic 14th-century retreat, nestled in the picturesque Cotswolds
village of Castle Combe in Wiltshire. https://www.exclusive.co.uk/the-manor-
house/
arrive. Feel the tingle of its magnetic energy on the long and winding drive that
leads up to the idyllic 14th-century retreat, nestled in the picturesque Cotswolds
village of Castle Combe in Wiltshire. https://www.exclusive.co.uk/the-manor-
house/
Thornbury Castle – Pass through the gateway and find, beyond those striking
stone walls, a true escape from the everyday. Experience a luxurious Relais & Châteaux
retreat and majestic castle hotel, channelling 1520s grandeur and modern splendour.