Discover Fairford: Stained Glass, the River Coln and Walking Routes

Fairford combines impressive church art, history and walking routes along the River Coln with a special event taking place in summer 2027. Those planning a trip to Fairford can therefore choose between cultural discoveries, short walks and a major three-day event. A holiday cottage in Fairford is particularly suitable for planning a trip where you can set your own daily rhythm and combine different interests.

Discover church art and local history

St Mary’s Church dates from around 1497. Its complete collection of late medieval stained-glass windows is particularly noteworthy, as it is considered the only complete collection of its kind in a parish church in the country. The church is open to visitors daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in summer and daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in winter. This makes it easy to plan a visit as a cultural highlight in its own right.

Fairford’s history can also be seen in several different places. The original ford was an ancient crossing point over the River Coln before the town bridge was built in the 13th century. Fairford Mill has existed since the Middle Ages and is mentioned in the Domesday Book. Keble House was the birthplace of John Keble. On the market square, The Bull, a former inn, recalls a historic coach route; its former function should be understood as part of the town’s history.

Walks along the River Coln and routes to Cotswold Water Park

Fairford offers local footpaths and walking routes along the River Coln. Some riverside and lakeside walks lead to Cotswold Water Park. If you are looking for a manageable circuit through the town, you can consider the Fairford Town Walk: the route is about 2 miles long. Walking guides are available from the Information Point at Fairford Community Centre. This allows you to decide on site whether you would rather plan a circuit through Fairford or a walk towards the surrounding water landscape.

These different walking options are also relevant when choosing accommodation. Travellers interested in local history can structure their days around St Mary’s Church, Keble House and other historic points of interest. Those who prefer spending time outdoors can focus on the River Coln, the Town Walk or the routes to Cotswold Water Park. A holiday cottage or holiday home in Fairford provides a flexible base for this, without limiting the trip to just one type of experience.

A special event in July 2027

The Royal International Air Tattoo will take place at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire from 16 to 18 July 2027. The event lasts three days and is an important date for anyone wishing to plan their trip specifically around it. When searching for a holiday cottage in Fairford, you should therefore factor this period into your plans early. At other times of year, the church art, local history and walking routes take centre stage, without any event programme being required.

Getting there and other destinations

Fairford can be reached via the A417. The nearest railway station is in Kemble; from there, bus or taxi connections to Fairford are available. This may play a role in your choice of accommodation and travel planning, particularly if you do not want to travel by car.

For further travel planning, you can also explore Cheltenham, Upper Slaughter, Somerford Keynes, Flaxley, Westbury-on-Severn, Bream, Dymock and Newland.

For the main travel overview: Gloucestershire.