The Fleece at Cirencester

The Fleece at Cirencester – The Fleece at Cirencester

Overview

Perfectly positioned in the heart of Cirencester, the historic capital of the Cotswolds, The Fleece at Cirencester brings centuries of coaching inn character to the modern traveller seeking a gourmet country break. Just steps from the thriving market place and Roman heritage sites, this Grade II listed inn blends the timeless atmosphere of exposed beams and flagstone floors with lively dining and stylish rooms. It’s an ideal base for food lovers and Cotswolds explorers—whether you’re plotting slow rambles to quintessential villages or sinking into a fireside armchair with a good bottle and hearty local fare.

Eat

Dining at The Fleece at Cirencester celebrates everything honest, local and unpretentious about this corner of Gloucestershire. The kitchen team turns out classic British comfort food from scratch, with an emphasis on robust flavours and seasonal Cotswold produce. Expect generous pub staples—think beer-battered fish, pies filled with slow-cooked meats, and Sunday roasts served with all the trimmings—plus moreish desserts and well-kept ales.

The main restaurant, with original timber beams and vibrant local artwork, offers a relaxed setting for both casual lunches and candlelit suppers. Provenance is central: the team works with trusted regional suppliers to source prime beef, quality sausages, and farm-fresh vegetables, reflecting a strong sense of local connection. Service is warm but unstuffy, making it just as suited for post-walk feasts as for special celebrations.

Sleep

The Fleece at Cirencester features a collection of individually styled bedrooms, each thoughtfully modernised while keeping original features like exposed stone and sash windows. You'll find plush beds, elegant country décor in a palette of soft blues and greys, and all the comforts for a restful night—luxury toiletries, excellent showers and good-sized desks for planning the next day’s wanderings. Some rooms overlook the bustling market square, while others offer quiet corners for serenity seekers. It’s a perfect choice for solo guests, couples after a romantic escape, or families making the most of Cirencester’s central location.

Retreat

While The Fleece offers an atmospheric pub bar and buzzing restaurant, the real draw is its doorstep access to the Cotswolds’ rolling scenery and historic villages. Start your day with a proper breakfast before setting out to explore the independent boutiques and ancient abbey of Cirencester, less than a 2-minute stroll from the door. The wild landscapes of Cirencester Park and the stately charm of Bibury’s stone cottages are only a short drive away, making this a prime launchpad for one- or two-night Cotswold breaks.

By car, Cirencester sits conveniently off the A419 between Cheltenham and Swindon, while trains from London Paddington arrive at Kemble (around 4 miles/10 minutes by taxi). After a day’s exploring, guests can relax with a pint in the dog-friendly bar or retire early to the calm of their room—ready for another taste of Cotswold life the next day.