History of The Cotswolds

Even before the Romans the Cotswolds has been densely populated and this can be witnessed in the unnatural formation of the landscape. The land has been moulded by it's inhabitants and the evidence lies there to be seen. From archaeological sites to Cathedrals, 4000 years of history.

The Cotswolds are home to 70 or so long barrows (2500BC), these are ancient tombs in the shape of small hills. Many of the long barrows have had trees planted upon them by the Victorians in a hope to break down the soil, flatten the barrow and hide the tomb.

 Right: Nympsfield Long Barrow South of Frocester, Gloucestershire (B4066)

The majority of barrows in this area lie from east to west as does this one which is 27 meters long. The tomb was found to contain 23 bodies, pottery and tools.

LinkTo: Historic Cotswold sites..LinkTo: Cotswold Tourism
LinkTo: Cotswold history...........LinkTo: Cotswold folklore
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One of the largest historic constructions in the Cotswolds is Gloucester Cathedral, which can be seen from miles around the city of Gloucester.

The site upon which the Cathedral stands was formerly an Abbey. In 1216 the Abbey was the location for the first coronation of King Henry III and in 1237 the burial place of King Edward II.

In 1540 the monastery was dissolved by King Henry VIII. A year later King Henry VIII established Gloucester Cathedral as part of the Church of England.

In the year 2000, Gloucester Cathedral celebrated 900 years of consecrated worship.

   
Gloucester Cathedral