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Activity Cotswolds, England

How Ancient Gloucester Helped Change the World Audio Guided Tour

5.0 (one review) 2 hours – 2 h 20 min Free cancellation Private tour
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

How Ancient Gloucester Helped Change the World Audio Guided Tour

About this activity

Discover Gloucester’s remarkable past on this self-guided walking tour, tracing the city’s journey from Roman origins to medieval triumphs and beyond. Begin at the Cross, the heart of Roman Gloucester, and explore key landmarks like the Crypt School, Blackfriars Priory, and the Cathedral Quarter. Along the way, hear stories of Viking raids, civil war sieges, and Gloucester’s role in shaping British history. You’ll walk in the footsteps of literary legends and historical figures like Dick Whittington and Aethelflaed. This 120-minute tour offers a deep dive into Gloucester’s resilience, religious upheaval, and the iconic locations that make the city a living testament to over 2,000 years of history.

Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Audio Guides Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours New Product Short term availability

At a glance

Duration
2 hours – 2 h 20 min
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Your group only
People per booking
1–15
Audio guide
English
Written guide
English
Operated by
VoiceMap Audio Tours

Ages: Adults (6–99 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Audio and written guide (English)
  • Included: Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
  • Included: The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
  • Included: Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
  • Included: Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
  • Included: Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Not included

  • Not included: Smartphone and headphones
  • Not included: Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Itinerary

  1. Stop 1

    Passing by

    Pass by the Roman heart of the city, where Gloucester's four main streets converge. This ancient intersection serves as a gateway into the city's layered history.

  2. Stop 2

    Passing by

    Walk past this bronze figure commemorating Emperor Nerva, who granted Gloucester its first colonial status in AD 97. Learn about the city's imperial beginnings under Roman rule.

  3. St Mary de Crypt Church

    Passing by

    Pass this stunning medieval church, where many of Gloucester’s most famous figures were baptized. Its intricate design and rich history make it a cultural landmark.

  4. Stop 4

    Passing by

    Marvel at the remnants of this 13th-century friary. Though mostly in ruins today, it offers a glimpse into the grandeur of medieval Gloucester.

  5. Stop 5

    Passing by

    See this lesser-known historic tower and discover its significance in Gloucester's defensive medieval architecture, guarding the ancient city walls.

  6. Candle Sculpture - The Rusty Needle

    Passing by

    Spot this modern landmark sculpture symbolizing Gloucester's resilience and creativity through time.

  7. Gloucester Docks

    Passing by

    Pass by the bustling Gloucester Docks, which played a crucial role in the city's industrial heritage. Learn about its transformation into a vibrant cultural and residential area.

  8. Stop 8

    Passing by

    Pass this stunning Dominican priory, now one of the most well-preserved friaries in Britain. Hear tales of its religious past and how it has survived through the ages.

  9. Stop 9

    Passing by

    Pass this unique galleried inn, a medieval coaching house rumored to have hosted Shakespeare. Discover its historical significance in Gloucester’s cultural life.

  10. The House of The Tailor of Gloucester

    Passing by

    Spot this charming 15th-century building, linked to Beatrix Potter’s famous children’s story. It’s a delightful tribute to the city’s literary contributions.

  11. Gloucester Cathedral

    Passing by

    End the tour outside this iconic cathedral, famous for its intricate Gothic architecture and film appearances, including "Harry Potter." Its majestic facade is a testament to Gloucester’s religious and architectural history.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

  • The tour starts at St. Michaels Tower & Gloucester Civic Trust Heritage Centre.

End point

  • The tour starts at St. Michaels Tower & Gloucester Civic Trust Heritage Centre.

Using your ticket

VOICEMAP CODE

───

Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour. 

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

3. Create an account

4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE

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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT

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For technical support and other queries, please email [email protected]

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%

Good to know

  • Service animals allowed

  • Public transportation options are available nearby

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Traveller ratings

5.0 out of 5 · one review
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How Ancient Gloucester Helped Change the World Audio Guided Tour

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