The ancient market town of Northleach stands at a crossroads on the Roman Fosse Way, in an area of outstanding beauty.
Northleach grew to prosperity in the Middle Ages when it was celebrated throughout Europe as a major centre of the Cotswolds wool trade.
In the High Street the medieval property boundaries (or burgage plots) can still be traced from the town's foundation in the 13th century.
The compact unspoilt town centre has changed little since 1500. Some Tudor timber-framed buildings have survived, especially around the Market Place, but the town is predominately built of mellow Cotswold stone.
It's magnificent wool church of St Peter and St Paul is an example of Cotswolds Perpendicular. Dating from the 15th century, the church boasts some of the best wool merchants brasses in England.
Northleach is noted for having a workhouse at one end of the town and a prison at the other.
The House of Correction, built in the 18th century, now houses the Cotswolds Heritage Centre illustrating rural life in the area.
At the centre of the town is Keith Harding's World of Mechanical Music, a museum featuring self-playing musical instruments and automata.
Close by at nearby Yanworth is the Chedworth Roman Villa, one of the largest Romano-British villas in England.
Chedworth Roman Villa Yanworth, Northleach GL54 3LJ
The remains of a roman villa with some good mosaics. Chedworth Roman Villa information
Lodge Park and Sherborne Estate Aldsworth, Northleach GL54 3PP
A deer course and park to wander in. Lodge Park and Sherborne Estate information
Keith Harding's World of Mechanical Music The Oak House, High Street, Northleach GL54 3ET
A very interesting, and entertaining, museum. Keith Harding's World of Mechanical Music information
Towns Near Northleach To Visit - straight line distance:
Bourton-on-the-Water (5.05 miles) Stow-on-the-Wold (8.46 miles) Burford (8.64 miles) Cirencester (9.63 miles)
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