10 Best Things To Do In & Around Cirencester In Autumn 2026

If you’re craving a true taste of autumn in the heart of the Cotswolds, read on to discover my ultimate list of the best things to do and see this September onwards. From cosy coffee shops to beautiful walks on crunchy leaves, discover my autumnal favourites.

1. Stroll in Bathurst Estate

The true gem of cirencester is the Bathurst Estate, and that’s no different in autumn. The historic grounds are still owned and managed by the Bathurst family and set across 13,000 acres of parkland, farmland and woodland in the heart of Cirencester.

From September, seize the chance to wander the sprawling paths as the leaves change colour, casting a beautiful orange and red glow. You could easily spend hours here but even if you’re short on time I’d recommend strolling up the main central walkway from the centre of town called Broad Rise. If you’re looking for a caffeine or snack fix along the way there’s also an old airstream selling coffee in the park and Roots + Seeds café for sweet treats and lunches.

The best part is… exploring the Bathurst Estate is completely free! Just be sure to check current opening hours before your visit.

2. Explore Westonbirt Arboretum

For more dazzling autumnal displays, Westonbirt Arboretum is the ultimate choice. Just a short drive from Cirencester, it’s home to 2,500 different tree species from around the globe and the autumn colours are just incredible. To make it a full day out, grab lunch at the restaurant, walk the treetop walkway and take your time wandering the collections.

At certain times of year pre-booking is essential, so just be sure to look on their website before you turn up.

3. Pick pumpkins, blackberries and apples

Now would it even be autumn without picking your own fruit and pumpkins!? Blackberries you’ll find in most hedgerows for free so just grab a bucket and collect your own as you walk. For pumpkins and apples, head to farms like Hayles Fruit Farm north of Cirencester to get your harvest fill.

4. Go antique shopping

Another activity that’s great whatever the weather is shopping – antique shopping to be precise. Cirencester has a number of lovely antique shop selling jewellery, books, glassware and lots lots more. Why not grab a coffee and take your time hunting through treasures.

5. Visit the weekly markets

Cirencester really does live up to it’s market town status with stalls pitching up every Monday, Friday and Saturday. On each day you’ll find slightly different sellers, from food and drink to crafts and plants (learn more here). But whatever the day you visit, it’s always fun to look at the different stands and buy souvenirs or snacks for the way home.

6. Get lost in a good film

If the weather isn’t playing ball and the true autumn rain has set in, there’s no better place to be than the cinema. The lovely local Barn Theatre also doubles as a quaint cinema offering regular showings of new blockbusters and old favourites on weekends.

Grab some snacks and drinks at the bar before settling into a great story.

7. Go pottery painting

Again, if you’re looking for activities that are fun whatever the weather, pottery painting is a perfect choice. Pick A Pot & Paint, set in the eaves of a converted classic Cotswold house offers you the chance to choose ready-made pottery from egg cups and mugs to Christmas decorations and then get creative with your design.

I’ve been here with groups of friends but it would also be ideal for children, families or couples. Just be sure to book ahead as it’s popular!

8. Sip coffee in cosy cafés

After all that exploring, you’ll be in need of a caffeine hit. Luckily for you, Cirencester and the surrounding towns and villages are packed with incredible coffee shops. Simply stroll around and take your pick or find my full list of the top 10 coffee shops to visit here.

9. Explore the Cotswold Water Park

For more outdoor exploration, the Cotswold Water Park is a beautiful spot. Just 10 minutes from Cirencester, you’ll find and incredible 180 lakes with coffee shops, restaurants and lots of paths for cycling or walking. Stretch your legs and look out for water birds in the wetlands.

If you’re feeling brave, you can also swim and paddle board here – but might be worth checking the water temperature first!

10. Taste the best food at local restaurants

Lastly, if you’re headed to Cirencester for the weekend or in need of a tasty meal after a day of exploring, you’ll find lots of delicious restaurants to try for brunch, lunch or dinner. To find the best spots, take a look at my list of tried and tested favourites serving everything from top-notch pub food to fragrant Thai and comforting Italian.

There we have it, my top 10 things to do in Cirencester as autumn approaches. It’s a beautiful place all year-round but with the changing colour of the leaves and the range of cosy cafés and restaurants, autumn might just be the best time to visit.

Let me know in the comments if you try any of these things or if you have any questions!

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