Vale of Berkeley

Valley in Gloucestershire Stroud

England

Vale of Berkeley

Grubby direction sign 1 mile from Blanchworth Pointing towards a minor road, the sign facing the A38 in Gloucestershire
is 1 mile from Blanchworth, 2½ from Stinchcombe, 3 from North Nibley. — Grubby direction sign 1 mile from Blanchworth Credit: Jaggery

Vale of Berkeley, situated in the county of Gloucestershire in England, is a picturesque valley that has captivated visitors for centuries. Nestled between the Cotswold Hills and the River Severn, this stunning landscape offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and rural charm.

The valley is dominated by the Berkeley Castle, an iconic medieval fortress that has stood for over 900 years. The castle, which is one of the oldest inhabited buildings in England, offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and is a popular tourist attraction. Its grand architecture, beautiful gardens, and intriguing exhibits draw visitors from far and wide.

The surroundings of Vale of Berkeley are renowned for their scenic beauty. Rolling hills, lush green meadows, and picturesque villages create a tranquil and idyllic atmosphere. The area is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.

The nearby River Severn, one of England's longest rivers, adds to the valley's allure. Its meandering course not only provides a stunning backdrop but also offers opportunities for boating and fishing.

The Vale of Berkeley is also known for its agricultural heritage. The fertile soil supports a variety of farming activities, including dairy farming, crop cultivation, and livestock rearing. The presence of traditional farms and farm shops adds to the region's rural charm and provides visitors with a chance to sample locally produced food and drink.

Overall, the Vale of Berkeley in Gloucestershire is a captivating destination that seamlessly combines natural beauty, historical significance, and rural tranquility. Whether exploring the ancient castle, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing oneself in the region's agricultural heritage, visitors to the valley are sure to be enchanted by its timeless allure.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Vale of Berkeley Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.694873/-2.4540298 or Grid Reference ST6899. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Grubby direction sign 1 mile from Blanchworth

Pointing towards a minor road, the sign facing the A38 in Gloucestershire is 1 mile from Blanchworth, 2½ from Stinchcombe, 3 from North Nibley.

Jaggery

Typo on a temporary sign in rural Gloucestershire

Temporary signs across a minor road face the A38 in October 2023. NURSARY is a typo for NURSERY

Jaggery

Berkeley Castle

View of the castle from the garden. Berkeley Castle was built in 1153 by the Berkeley family who are the present owners. They have resided here for over 800 years. Overlooking the River Severn and the border with Wales, the castle was built as a defence against the Welsh.

Sarah Smith

Berkeley Castle - The Inner Bailey

The courtyard is entered by the Bailey Gate just visible. The architecture above the gate is influenced by that of Venice. On the right is the Norman Keep built just after 1154 on the site of the original Norman motte. It was in here that Edward II was imprisoned and murdered.

Sarah Smith

Berkeley Castle - game larder

This is where the game shot on the estate and meat were stored in the open air.

Sarah Smith

Berkeley Castle - terraced garden

The battlements of the castle have been formed into part of the garden.

Sarah Smith

Berkeley Castle - the Bailey Gate

Entrance into the Inner Bailey is through this gate which used to have a portcullis. One can see the slit in the arch where it would have been. The Bailey Gate was built in the 14C.

Sarah Smith

St Mary's Church Berkeley - Berkeley tomb

This is the tomb of Thomas the 8th Lord Berkeley (died 1361) and his second wife Katherine. Thomas was one of two custodians of Edward II when he was imprisoned at Berkeley Castle. While he was absent from the Castle the King was murdered. Thomas was summoned in front of a jury for the murder but was acquitted.

Sarah Smith

St Mary's Church Berkeley - Memorial

On the south wall of the church is a memorial to Dr Edward Jenner, who became famous for his spread of vaccination against smallpox, although the less well-known Benjamin Jesty, a farmer of Yetminster, Dorset, was experimenting with his smallpox vaccinating about 20 years earlier ST5910 : Benjamin Jesty blue plaque, Yetminster and SY9777 : The grave of Benjamin Jesty - Worth Matravers.

Sarah Smith

Pool in gardens at Berkeley Castle

Formerly this was a swimming pool in the Italianate style gardens of Berkeley Castle created for the 8th Earl of Berkeley in the early 20th century. These days it is an ornate feature of the gardens which you certainly wouldn't want to swim in.

Philip Halling

Berkeley Castle

Berkeley Castle reflected in the former swimming pool in the gardens.

Philip Halling

Berkeley Castle reflected in a garden pool

Berkeley Castle reflected in the former swimming pool in the gardens.

Philip Halling

Berkeley Castle

Berkeley Castle has been inhabited for around 900 years by the Berkeley family. King Edward II was held imprisoned in the castle where he was also murdered in 1327.

Philip Halling

Old Milestone by B4066, Berkeley Heath

The Milestone is located in front of Field View on verge on the South of the road. Parish of Berkeley (Stroud District). Carved stone post, erected by the Berkley & Dursley (Division) turnpike trust in the 19C Century, Minor chips on edges. An earlier photograph can be found here: Link Inscription reads:- TO / (BERKELEY) / 1 / MILE Milestone Society National ID: GL_BKDY01

Roadside Relics