Berkeley

Civil Parish in Gloucestershire Stroud

England

Berkeley

Berkeley is a civil parish located in the county of Gloucestershire, in the southwest of England. It is situated on the eastern bank of the River Severn, about 10 miles south of the city of Gloucester. The parish covers an area of approximately 6 square miles.

The area is known for its rich history, with Berkeley Castle being a prominent landmark. The castle, which dates back to the 11th century, is one of the oldest inhabited castles in England. It has witnessed significant historical events, including the imprisonment of King Edward II in the 14th century.

Berkeley is a picturesque town with a charming rural landscape. It is surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful countryside, making it popular among nature enthusiasts and hikers. The town itself has a mix of architectural styles, ranging from medieval timber-framed buildings to Georgian and Victorian houses.

The local economy is diverse, with agriculture, tourism, and light industry playing important roles. The town has a range of amenities, including shops, pubs, and restaurants, catering to both residents and visitors.

Berkeley is well-connected by road, with the A38 passing through the town, providing easy access to nearby cities and towns. The nearest railway station is in nearby Cam and Dursley, which connects to Bristol and Gloucester.

Overall, Berkeley offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and a thriving community, making it an attractive place to live or visit.

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Berkeley Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.695092/-2.458065 or Grid Reference ST6899. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

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

Berkeley Church

The detached bell-tower dates from 1753AD. The church is dedicated to St Mary the Virgin.

mym

Berkeley Castle

Entrance to Berkeley Castle

chestertouristcom

Berkeley Castle from the gardens

The scene remains unchanged over many years

Jack Hill

Vale of Berkeley

Looking south-west across the Vale of Berkeley from the top of Berkeley Church tower. The white pillars on the RH horizon are the supports of the Severn Bridge and the white mass on the far right is Oldbury nuclear power station. Once part of the Severn flood plain, now prime farming and hunting country.

David Exworth