What images does this city conjure up for you? You will be amazed at how many great things are going on in Gloucestershire. With lots to see and do and places to lie ranging from dockside apartments, new build estates and Residential Park Homes such as those available at http://www.parkhomelife.com/ – it’s not as sleepy as you think!
Dick Whittington
Arguably the most famous mayor of London, although a gentleman by the name of Boris might disagree. The BBC tell the tale of the real Richard Whittington, born in the county and apparently there’s no evidence that he ever had a cat.
2. Simon Pegg
If you’ve watched any films in the past decade, you’ve probably heard of Simon Pegg. Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz and Run Fatboy Run to name but a few. But did you know he came from Brockworth?
3. Ebeneezer Scrooge
Believe it or not, this fictional character was inspired by a real man from the town. Dickens drew on his experience of miserly Jemmy Wood when coming up the Christmas Carol main character.
4. Floods
Gloucestershire is a place that is capable of turning adversity to triumph. According to the Telegraph, the county’s roads were damaged to such an extent that there was total bill of £15.4 million worth of damage to the roads alone.
5. Bores
No, not that kind of bore. The Severn bore is an incredible natural phenomenon that is seen when the tide is forced down an increasingly narrowing river Severn, creating an enormous wave. The wave is best seen just outside of the town, where people surf it, kayak on it and run alongside to race it.
6. Cheese rolling
You may have heard of the cheese rolling competition, it has gained global infamy in past years. In fact, it was officially banned in 2010 but since then it has been done unofficially, with people throwing themselves down a large hill chasing a giant cheese and others flocking to watch.
7. Double Gloucester
Talking of cheese, this essential component of any cheeseboard of course originated in its namesake city. It was one of the first cheeses in the area to be made from cow’s milk, with sheep’s having previously been preferred.
8. Sparkling wine
You thought that originated in the Champagne region of France didn’t you? You’re not the only one. But the first sparkling wine was created by townsman Christopher Merrett. 20 years later a certain Dom Pierre Perignon claimed the process as his own.
9. A crowned King
Henry III wasn’t originally from the city, but his coronation took place there. He remained a loyal patron and provided cash and timber to build significant buildings in the city.
10. Jet engines
The city’s Rover factory was the location of Frank Whittle’s innovative project to develop the first ever jet engine. It was of course a success and the world would be a very different place now without it.
