Best views in Gloucestershire: 10 stunning viewpoints
April 11, 2025
Gloucestershire, nestled in the heart of the picturesque Cotswolds hills, is a region that revels in its natural beauty and diverse landscapes. From green, gentle hills to majestic valleys and historic towns, this place offers countless opportunities to enjoy breathtaking views. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through 10 of the region's most beautiful vantage points that will delight nature lovers and landscape photography enthusiasts alike. Each of these places has its own unique history and character, offering unforgettable experiences and panoramas that will stay in your memory for a long time. Get ready to discover the hidden gems of Gloucestershire that will make you fall in love with this remarkable corner of England.
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Peaks overlooking the Cotswolds
Start our journey from one of the most impressive viewpoints in the region - Coaley Peak. This site, located 218 meters above sea level, offers breathtaking views of the Bristol Channel and the vast Gloucestershire countryside. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views that extend all the way to the rocky hills of Wales. Coaley Peak is not only a vantage point, but also a place steeped in history - there are the remains of a Neolithic Age settlement. It's the perfect place for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll among the wildlife.
Another remarkable site is Drakestone Viewpoint, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Cotswolds hills. From here you can spot the landmark Tyndale Monument and the picturesque valleys. This place is especially recommended for photography enthusiasts - at sunset the views here are truly magical.
Not to be missed is the National Trust - Dover's Hill, which is part of the famous Cotswold Way. This vantage point, 230 meters above sea level, offers sweeping views of the Vale of Evesham and surrounding villages. Dover's Hill is also a place steeped in history - it's where the famous Cotswold Olympics are held, a tradition dating back to the 17th century. The site is accessible all year round and offers free parking, making it ideal for families with children.
Comparing the three sites, it's worth noting that Coaley Peak offers the most sweeping views, extending all the way to Wales, making it ideal for those looking for a truly distant perspective. Drakestone Viewpoint, on the other hand, is less well-known, meaning you can enjoy the tranquility and fewer tourists here. National Trust - Dover's Hill stands out for its rich history and accessibility, making it a great choice for families with children or those with limited mobility. All of these sites offer free admission, which is an added bonus for those planning a budget trip.
Picturesque valleys and woodland panoramas
When moving on to more fascinating viewpoints, it's impossible to miss Blaize Bailey Viewpoint. This spot offers incredible views of a bend in the River Severn, forming a distinctive horseshoe shape. From here you can enjoy panoramic views of Gloucester and the Cotswold hills. Blaize Bailey is a true photographer's paradise, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the light paints the landscape with warm colors.
Another point of interest is Devil's Chimney, located on Leckhampton Hill. This unusual rock formation is not only an attraction in itself, but also provides an excellent vantage point. From here you can enjoy panoramic views of Cheltenham and the surrounding Cotswolds countryside. Devil's Chimney is a place that delights both geology lovers and amateurs of beautiful views.
Not to be missed is New Fancy View Point, which is a real gem of the Forest of Dean. This viewpoint, created on a former mine dump, offers a 360-degree panorama of the forest and surrounding hills. This place is especially recommended for nature lovers - rare bird species, including hawks, can be observed from the viewing platform.
Wotton Hill is another place that impresses with its views. Located near the picturesque town of Wotton-under-Edge, it offers panoramic views of the Severn Valley and the surrounding hills. It's the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the scenery that changes with the seasons.
When comparing these sites, it's worth noting their diversity. Blaize Bailey Viewpoint offers the best views of the Severn River and is relatively easy to access. Devil's Chimney features a unique rock formation and is ideal for those who like to combine admiring the views with a short climb. New Fancy View Point is most friendly to those with limited mobility, offering easy access to the viewing platform. Wotton Hill, on the other hand, offers the most varied walking routes.
In terms of amenities, New Fancy View Point has parking and restrooms, making it most comfortable for families with children. Devil's Chimney and Wotton Hill require a bit more effort to reach the viewpoints, but compensate for this with tranquility and fewer tourists. All of these places are accessible free of charge, which is an added bonus for those planning a budget trip.
City panoramas and rural landscapes
To conclude our tour of Gloucestershire's most beautiful sights, look out for places that combine elements of nature and culture. One such place is the Summit of Robinswood Hill, located on the outskirts of Gloucester. This vantage point offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside, including the Severn Valley and the Forest of Dean hills. It's an ideal spot for those who want to combine a nature walk with admiring the urban landscape.
Another remarkable place is Crickley Hill Country Park, located on the edge of the Cotswolds hills. This country park offers not only breathtaking views, but also an abundance of flora and fauna. From the vantage point you can enjoy a sweeping panorama of the Severn Valley and the Malvern Hills. This place is ideal for families - in addition to walking trails, there is also a café and a playground for children.
The last but equally fascinating spot on our list is Sharpness Viewpoint and Picnic Site. This site offers unique views of the Gloucester-Sharpness Canal and the Severn River estuary. From here you can watch ship traffic and admire the Severn bridges in the distance. This is the perfect place for a family picnic overlooking the water.
When comparing the three sites, it's worth noting their diversity and accessibility. The Summit of Robinswood Hill offers the most expansive view of the city of Gloucester and the surrounding area, but requires a bit more effort to reach the top. Crickley Hill Country Park is the most family-friendly, offering the most amenities, including a café and restrooms. Sharpness Viewpoint and Picnic Site features a unique view of the canal and estuary, making it ideal for industrial and marine photography enthusiasts.
In terms of accessibility, Crickley Hill Country Park is the most accommodating for those with limited mobility, offering paved paths and parking close to the viewpoint. Summit of Robinswood Hill requires a bit more effort, but offers the most rewarding views once you reach the top. Sharpness Viewpoint and Picnic Site is easily accessible, but can be windy due to its proximity to water.
It's worth noting that all of these sites offer free admission, which is a big plus for those planning a budget trip. Crickley Hill Country Park only charges a parking fee (£2 for all day, as of 2023), but offers the most amenities in return.
All in all, each of these places has its own unique character and offers unforgettable views of Gloucestershire's diverse landscapes. Whether you prefer urban panoramas, rural landscapes or industrial vistas, you'll find a viewpoint perfect for you in Gloucestershire. These 10 stunning sites are just the tip of the iceberg of what this beautiful region of England has to offer.
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