Shared Ownership homes in Gloucestershire
The South West county of Gloucestershire forms the southern-most portion of England’s border with Wales, alongside sharing boundaries with Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Somerset, and the city and county of Bristol. From Gloucester to Bishops Cleeve, there’s plenty of variety to be found when buying a new home in Gloucestershire.
Living in Gloucestershire, there’ll always be something to do. Take a hike through the idyllic Cotswolds, visit the National Arboretum, lose yourself in the Forest of Dean, or enjoy an exciting visit to the thriving communities in Gloucester and Cheltenham. There’s something for everyone.
Things to see and do
Living in Gloucestershire offers a wealth of activities and attractions, blending historic charm with natural beauty. You can explore iconic sites like Gloucester Cathedral, Sudeley Castle, and Tewkesbury Abbey, each showcasing stunning architecture and rich history. The region's natural landscapes, including the picturesque Cotswolds and the ancient Forest of Dean, provide ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and scenic walks. The Cotswold Water Park adds to the outdoor appeal with its variety of water activities and nature reserves.
Cultural experiences abound with visits to The Wilson in Cheltenham, the Nature in Art Museum, and the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway. Festivals such as the Cheltenham Literature Festival and the Gloucester Tall Ships Festival offer vibrant community events. For family outings, the Cotswold Farm Park and Slimbridge Wetland Centre are perfect destinations. Shopping and dining in Cirencester, Gloucester Quays, and Cheltenham, along with sports events at Cheltenham Racecourse and Kingsholm Stadium, ensure there's always something exciting to do in Gloucestershire.
Education
Education in Gloucestershire is well-regarded, offering a variety of options for families and individuals. The county is home to numerous highly-rated primary and secondary schools, both state-funded and independent. Notable institutions include The Crypt School and Pate’s Grammar School, which are recognized for their academic excellence and comprehensive extracurricular programs. Additionally, several schools in the area have strong focuses on arts, sports, and vocational training, ensuring a well-rounded education for students.
For higher education, the University of Gloucestershire provides a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across multiple campuses in Cheltenham and Gloucester. The Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester, one of the oldest agricultural colleges in the English-speaking world, offers specialized degrees in agriculture, business, and the environment. Further education colleges such as Gloucestershire College provide vocational courses, apprenticeships, and adult learning opportunities, catering to diverse educational needs and supporting lifelong learning in the community.
Transport
Gloucestershire boasts a well-connected transport network, facilitating easy travel within the county and to surrounding areas. The M5 motorway runs through the region, providing efficient north-south road links to cities like Birmingham and Bristol. Additionally, the A40 and A46 roads offer convenient east-west routes, connecting Gloucestershire to Oxford, Cheltenham, and Bath.
Public transportation is robust, with regular train services from key stations such as Gloucester, Cheltenham Spa, and Stroud. These stations offer direct routes to major cities including London, Birmingham, Bristol, and Cardiff. Bus services are also comprehensive, covering urban centers and rural areas, ensuring accessibility for all residents. For those traveling further afield, Gloucestershire Airport in Staverton offers regional flights and is complemented by the proximity of larger international airports like Bristol and Birmingham, both easily reachable by road and rail.
Overall, Gloucestershire’s transport links provide a blend of efficiency and convenience, supporting both daily commuting and leisure travel.