Berkeley | Historic Castle Town
Berkeley is a historic market town in Gloucestershire, located between the River Severn and the edge of the Cotswolds. Steeped in centuries of history, the town is best known for Berkeley Castle — a remarkably well-preserved medieval fortress that has remained in the Berkeley family for over 850 years. The castle is famously linked to the imprisonment and mysterious death of King Edward II.
Berkeley also holds international scientific significance as the birthplace of Dr Edward Jenner, the pioneer of the smallpox vaccine. His former home now operates as the Jenner Museum, attracting visitors keen to learn about one of medicine’s most important breakthroughs.
The town grew as a centre of agriculture and cattle trading, its prosperity aided by the fertile Severn Vale and access to key trading routes along the River Severn. Once home to a thriving cloth-making industry, Berkeley retains much of its historic charm, with Georgian and medieval buildings lining its quiet streets.
Today, Berkeley offers a blend of heritage, countryside, and nearby attractions such as the Cattle Country Farm Park and Slimbridge Wetland Centre, making it a great base for those looking to explore this unique corner of Gloucestershire.
