My day in Nailsworth begins with an almond croissant from Happy Cinnamon bakery and eating it in Mortimer Gardens while looking at the art. Then a visit to the Yellow Lighted bookshop to browse and buy and chat to the owners. At the end of the day, I like to head to Williams Foodhall to pick up something to eat while watching the sun set from Nailsworth Hill (Tonia Collett, Deputy Chair)
Things to do in Nailsworth
Looking for the perfect autumn day out in the Cotswolds? The vibrant town of Nailsworth is full of charm, creativity and interesting shops – ideal for a relaxed day trip or a cosy weekend break. Nestled among wooded valleys and honeyed stone cottages, it’s a place where heritage, art and good food meet. We asked our volunteers to share what they do in their town and have compiled a list of favourites.
Begin your visit, of course, at the museum – the heart of our cultural community. After exploring its inspiring exhibitions, step out into the crisp autumn air and discover the places our volunteers love most.
- Baked by Beth for vegan and gluten free plant based cakes
- Charity Shops – especially Emmaus Haberdashery selling vintage patterns, buttons and other sewing paraphernalia
- Country Quality Meat for local venison
- Domestic Science — a treasure chest of kitchenware, homewares, and soft furnishings
- form.gallery for original artworks from contemporary artists
- Halls Bakery for its sausage baps
- Mortimer Gardens – the Art Garden, Textile Heritage Trail and the Artisan Market on the second Saturday of the month
- This House for inspiring exhibitions
- Vinotopia for the wine connoisseur, where the team will help find the perfect pairing
- Vintologist is packed with funky 1970s fashion and design pieces
The surrounding areas are ideal for walking. A favourite the Nailsworth Branch Line walk, a gentle route that follows the old railway line, along which we see hints of the town’s industrial past. The starting point is the car park at Egypt Mill.
To make the most of your visit, stay overnight at Diana’s Airbnb, a warm and stylish retreat just a short walk from the town centre. With its cosy interiors and thoughtful touches, it’s the perfect base for exploring the wider Cotswolds.
Do you have a recommendation? Drop us a line, preferably with a photograph, and we’ll add it to this page!
