Fairford, Gloucestershire
Location
Fairford sits on a scenic stretch of the River Coln in Gloucestershire, around five miles west of Lechlade-on-Thames and three miles south of Coln St Aldwyns.
Fairford is easily accessible via car and train; There is a direct train service from London Paddington to Kemble Station, around 20 minutes from the town via taxi. Many local taxi services are available to transport you from Fairford around the Cotswolds.
History
The town expanded throughout 14th and 15th centuries as a popular coaching stop from London to Wales. With increasing numbers of passing travellers, the Fairford grew as a traditional market town through the wool trade boom.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, the population of Fairford expanded to house an increasing number of tradesman and agricultural labourers to support the growing economy. Fairford was part of the infamous 1830-1831 swing riots, where agricultural workers protested against their harsh working conditions.
In the early 20th century Fairford became home to the RAF Fairford joint British-American base, famous for hosting the annual Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) event.
Walk around the village with us…
Fairford is a perfect base for exploring the Cotswolds, with convenient proximity to charming towns and villages such as Bibury, Southrop, Lechlade, Burford, Cirencester, and more.
For foodies, Fairford’s location offers easy access to some of the most popular pubs in the Cotswolds, including The Swan at Southrop, The Crown at Ampney Brook, and The Double Red Duke.
Many of our favourite activities in the Cotswolds are within 20 minutes:
River Coln walk - starting in Fairford
Lakes by Yoo - 5 mins
Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens - 15 mins
Arlington Row, Bibury - 15 mins
Cotswold eBikes - 15 mins
Cotswold Water Park - 20 mins
Buscot Park - 20 mins
Fairford itself has all the amenities needed as part of your getaway. There is a regular traditional market every week, a continental market bi-annually and a popular Christmas market in early-December. The town has a traditional pub (The Bull), a vibrant Italian restaurant (Colosseo) and a range of local supermarkets/convenience stores.
St Mary’s Church in Fairford dates back to 1497, and is famously home to the only complete set of late medieval glass in a parish church in the country. The church lies just off the high street and is easily accessible when visiting the town.
The church is visited by thousands of tourists all year round and guided tours are offered by the parish upon request.
Where to stay in Fairford
Bank House
Nestled in the heart of Fairford High Street, Bank House is an ideal base for visiting the area. Originally home to Capital & Counties Bank in the 1800s, Bank House has been transformed throughout as a luxury getaway. The converted bank features large bedrooms, a cocktail and board game room, and private cinema room, all within a grand townhouse. Read more here.
Please send all booking enquiries to oliver@handpicked-escapes.com
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