Attractions and Places To See around Kempsford - Top 20

Kempsford offers several historical sites. The prominent St. Mary's Church, with parts dating back to the 12th century, features a Perpendicular tower gifted by John of Gaunt and a unique horseshoe artifact. You can also explore the elegant 17th-18th century Kempsford Manor and its gardens, or visit The George Public House, built by Arkell's Brewery founder John Arkell in 1861. Further afield, St Mary's Church, Bibury is a Grade I-listed Anglo-Saxon church with a long history, and St John the Baptist Church, Inglesham, largely unchanged since medieval times, showcases over 1,000 years of religious history.

Yes, Kempsford is rich in natural beauty. It's situated on the River Thames, and nearby you'll find Whelford Meadow, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) known for rare plants. The Whelford Pools, part of the Cotswold Water Park SSSI, are managed as a nature reserve by the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. The historic Battlefield Meadow, believed to be a Saxon battle site, also provides open green space.

While the Thames Path doesn't run directly through Kempsford, you can access it at Castle Eaton, about a 20-minute walk away. For dedicated walking routes, komoot offers several options, including easy hikes around Kempsford like the 'Ha'penny Bridge and Toll House loop from Lechlade' or the 'View of Fairford Mill loop from Fairford'. For more challenging walks, explore the hiking guide for Kempsford, which includes routes like the 'Arlington Row, Bibury – River Coln Riverside Walk loop'.

Absolutely. Kempsford is a great base for cycling. The NCN Route 45: South Cerney to Cricklade is a popular cycle way that follows an old railway line, offering a level and scenic route with views of the lakes. For more road cycling adventures, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Kempsford guide, which features routes like the 'Bibury Bridge – Arlington Row, Bibury loop from Fairford'.

Yes, there are several family-friendly options. The picturesque village of Bibury, home to Arlington Row, is often cited as one of the most beautiful villages in the UK and is enjoyable for all ages. The Cotswold Water Park, with its Whelford Pools nature reserve, offers opportunities for nature exploration. Additionally, many of the easy walking and cycling routes are suitable for families.

Yes, the area is welcoming to dogs. Many outdoor trails and natural areas are suitable for walks with your dog. For a dog-friendly dining option, Blake's Kitchen at the Old Carpenters' Yard is a popular cafe with a large outside seating area that welcomes dogs.

In Kempsford itself, The George Public House is a traditional country pub with historical ties to Arkell's Brewery. For a cafe experience, Blake's Kitchen at the Old Carpenters' Yard, located near the Coleshill Estate, is a popular spot known for its cakes, savory foods, and cinnamon buns, offering both indoor and outdoor seating.

St. Mary's Church in Kempsford is a significant historical landmark. Its oldest parts date back to the 12th century, and it features a striking Perpendicular tower, a gift from John of Gaunt. The interior boasts a colorfully painted tower ceiling that records important medieval families and their connections to the village. A unique artifact is a horseshoe, reportedly thrown by the Earl of Lancaster's horse, nailed to the church door. It's a Grade I listed building and a testament to the village's rich past.

Arlington Row, Bibury is a nationally notable architectural conservation area consisting of picturesque 17th-century weavers' cottages overlooking the River Coln. It's often cited as one of the most beautiful villages in the UK and is a major destination for tourists visiting the traditional rural villages of the Cotswolds, known for its idyllic beauty and quintessential British charm.

The Cotswold Water Park is a vast area of lakes and wetlands, and parts of it, such as the Whelford Pools SSSI, are accessible from Kempsford. These pools are managed as a nature reserve by the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, offering opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the natural environment. The park is a significant natural feature in the region, providing diverse habitats and recreational activities.

Beyond the well-known attractions, you might find interest in the historical significance of the now-extinct Thames & Severn Canal, where Kempsford was a significant stop. The Wharf House, built in the 1780s, still stands as a reminder of this era. Additionally, the Battlefield Meadow, where a Saxon battle is believed to have taken place around 800 AD, offers a unique historical perspective in a natural setting.

Kempsford and the surrounding Cotswolds offer charm throughout the year. Spring and summer (April to September) are ideal for enjoying the gardens of Kempsford Manor, walking the trails, and experiencing the natural beauty of the River Thames and meadows in full bloom. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter offers a quieter, more serene experience of the historical sites and cozy pubs.