Greyfriars: The Ruined Franciscan Friary of Gloucester
Explore the evocative ruins of Gloucester’s 13th-century Franciscan friary, a tranquil medieval landmark steeped in history and architectural beauty.
Greyfriars in Gloucester is the evocative ruin of a Franciscan friary founded around 1231. The site features the remains of its 16th-century church, a blend of medieval architecture and later adaptations. Once a thriving religious community, the friary was dissolved in the 16th century and later repurposed. Today, Greyfriars offers a tranquil historic atmosphere amid the city, with its elegant arches and stonework telling stories of centuries past.
A brief summary to Greyfriars
- Greyfriars, Gloucester, GL1 2TG, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the ruins and read the informative boards that explain the site’s history.
- Combine your visit with nearby historic sites like Blackfriars Priory for a broader understanding of Gloucester’s monastic heritage.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the site is outdoors with uneven surfaces and some grassy areas.
- Bring a camera to capture the atmospheric stone arches and the contrast between medieval ruins and modern Gloucester.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take Gloucester’s local bus services from the city center to stops near Eastgate Shopping Centre, a 5–10 minute walk from Greyfriars. Services run frequently during the day, with single fares around £2-£3. Note that buses may be less frequent on weekends and evenings.
-
Train and Walk
From Gloucester Railway Station, it is a 20-minute walk to Greyfriars through the city center. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most walkers. Train services connect Gloucester with major cities like Bristol and Birmingham, with fares varying by origin.
-
Car
Driving to Greyfriars is possible with parking options at nearby city center car parks such as Eastgate or Kings Walk. Parking fees typically range from £1.50 to £3 per hour. Note that city center traffic and parking availability may vary, especially during peak hours.
Greyfriars location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Greyfriars
Origins and Medieval Foundations
Greyfriars was established circa 1231 as a Franciscan friary on land granted by Lord Berkeley within Gloucester's Roman city walls. The friars, known for their grey habits, built a substantial complex including a church, cloisters, and other buildings. The original church was rebuilt around 1519, reflecting the friary's growth and importance. Over the centuries, the friary expanded, with its estate reaching the edges of what are now Brunswick Road and Parliament Street. The north area served as a monastic cemetery, emphasizing its role as a spiritual center.The Dissolution and Changing Uses
Following the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the late 1530s, Greyfriars was seized by the Crown. Most buildings were demolished except the church, which survived as a ruin. The church's nave and north aisle remain today, though damaged by fire around World War II and earlier conflicts. The site was repurposed over time, including use as a brewery and headquarters during the 1643 Siege of Gloucester. Later, Georgian and 19th-century developments incorporated parts of the friary land, blending old and new structures.Architectural Character and Ruinous Beauty
Today, Greyfriars stands as a haunting shell of its former self. The surviving arches and stonework evoke the Gothic style of the late medieval period, with the nave and north aisle still discernible. The ruins convey a sense of tranquil melancholy amid the bustling city center. Nearby, features like Addison's Folly—a tower built from recycled friary stone—add layers to the site's architectural narrative. Informative boards on-site help visitors appreciate the historical context and architectural evolution.Historical Significance and Local Context
Greyfriars played a significant role in Gloucester’s religious and social history. As a Franciscan friary, it was part of a network of mendicant orders active in medieval England. The site witnessed turbulent times, including damage during the English Civil War and transformations through urban development. Its survival as a ruin offers a tangible link to Gloucester’s medieval past and the city's evolving identity. The peaceful atmosphere around the ruins contrasts with the dense urban surroundings, fostering reflection and a sense of place.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Greyfriars can explore the evocative ruins free of charge during daylight hours. The site’s open-air setting invites quiet contemplation amid the remains of arches and walls. Although the ruins are not fully restored, their raw state adds to the authenticity of the experience. The proximity to Gloucester’s shopping center and other historic sites makes Greyfriars a compelling stop for those interested in medieval heritage and urban history. The site is noted for its tranquil ambience and its subtle integration into the modern city fabric.Conservation and Legacy
Greyfriars is a Grade I listed heritage site, recognized for its architectural and historical importance. Conservation efforts focus on preserving the ruins as a monument to Gloucester’s medieval ecclesiastical heritage. The site’s layered history—from religious institution to ruin to urban landmark—reflects broader themes of change, resilience, and memory. Greyfriars continues to inspire local residents and visitors alike, offering a poignant reminder of the city’s rich past and the enduring presence of history in everyday life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eastgate viewing chamber
0.2 km
Discover Gloucester’s ancient Roman and medieval city defenses through a unique underground viewing chamber beneath Eastgate Street.
Visit Cotswolds Online
6.8 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds, where rolling hills, historic villages, and breathtaking landscapes await every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust
6.9 km
Explore the rich ecclesiastical heritage of Gloucestershire through its historic churches, showcasing stunning architecture and engaging community initiatives.
The Bee Shelter, Hartpury
7.3 km
Discover Hartpury’s unique 19th-century Bee Shelter, a stunning stone monument celebrating Gloucestershire’s rich beekeeping heritage and Victorian craftsmanship.
Haresfield Topograph
10.0 km
A three-dimensional map landmark on the Cotswold escarpment with panoramic views toward Wales.
Sim's Clock
13.4 km
Historic Sim's Clock stands as a timeless symbol in Stroud’s vibrant George Street, blending heritage with community spirit.
May Hill
13.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of May Hill, a mountain peak in Longhope offering stunning views, hiking trails, and a serene escape into nature.
Visit The Cotswolds
14.3 km
Discover the charm of the Cotswolds, a stunning region filled with picturesque villages, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history.
Walk The Cotswolds
14.3 km
Explore the Cotswolds' breathtaking landscapes and charming villages with Walk The Cotswolds, your gateway to England's picturesque countryside adventures.
The Garden at Miserden
14.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of The Garden at Miserden, a stunning oasis in the Cotswolds perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.
Tewkesbury Abbey
15.2 km
Explore Tewkesbury Abbey, a stunning medieval masterpiece rich in history and breathtaking architecture, nestled in the heart of Tewkesbury.
World Walks (inc. Cotswold Journeys, British & Irish Walks)
16.6 km
Explore the captivating beauty of the Cotswolds with World Walks, your gateway to unforgettable guided walking tours across Britain and Ireland.
Cotswold Journeys
16.7 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds on expertly crafted walking tours with seamless logistics and charming local stays.
Woodchester Mansion Trust
17.1 km
Explore the intriguing Woodchester Mansion, a historical gem showcasing Victorian architecture and enchanting landscapes in the heart of Gloucestershire.
Nympsfield Long Barrow
17.4 km
Explore Nympsfield Long Barrow: A serene Neolithic burial site in the Cotswolds, rich in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Eastgate Shopping Centre
0.1 km
A vibrant indoor shopping and community hub in Gloucester’s city centre, blending unique shops, local market charm, and welcoming amenities.
Robert Raikes's House
0.1 km
Step into history at Robert Raikes's House, a beautifully restored 16th-century merchant’s home turned charming pub in the heart of Gloucester.
Museum Of Gloucester
0.1 km
Explore Gloucester’s rich Roman heritage, Victorian charm, and vibrant community spirit at the Museum of Gloucester.
Blackfriars Priory
0.2 km
Explore one of England’s finest medieval Dominican priories, blending rich history, stunning timber architecture, and vibrant modern events in Gloucester.
Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
0.3 km
Explore over 300 years of Gloucestershire military heritage through immersive exhibits and personal stories at Gloucester’s historic Docks museum.
Gloucester Antiques Centre
0.3 km
Explore three floors of antiques and collectibles in Gloucester’s historic Old Judges House, featuring over 40 specialist dealers and a vast range of treasures.
Cathedral Quarter Gloucester
0.3 km
Explore Gloucester’s historic Cathedral Quarter, where ancient streets meet vibrant culture and timeless heritage.
Gloucestershire Arts & Crafts Centre
0.3 km
Discover handmade treasures and creative workshops in the heart of Gloucester, where local artists showcase their craft in a welcoming city-centre space.
Gloucester Docks
0.3 km
Explore Gloucester Docks, a vibrant Victorian waterfront blending rich maritime history, museums, shopping, dining, and scenic canal views.
The House Of The Tailor Of Gloucester
0.3 km
Step into Beatrix Potter’s enchanting world at the House of The Tailor of Gloucester, where story and history come alive in a charming museum and shop.
Gloucester Cathedral
0.4 km
Explore Gloucester Cathedral’s 1,300 years of history, stunning architecture, royal tombs, and iconic cloisters in the heart of Gloucester.
Folk of Gloucester
0.5 km
Step into Gloucester’s living history at The Folk, a vibrant Tudor museum and community hub celebrating local heritage and culture.
National Waterways Museum Gloucester
0.5 km
Explore 200 years of Britain's waterways heritage with historic vessels, hands-on exhibits, and canal cruises at Gloucester Docks.
St Oswald's Priory
0.6 km
Explore Gloucester’s oldest surviving Saxon monument, where royal history and medieval ruins tell tales of faith and power.
Gloucestershire Revealed
0.7 km
Discover Gloucestershire’s rich heritage through archives, exhibitions, and family history at the Gloucestershire Heritage Hub in Gloucester.
Essential places to dine
Topoly's
0.1 km
Authentic family-run Italian dining in the heart of Gloucester, serving fresh homemade dishes since 1990 in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Aroma
0.1 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with impeccable hospitality in the heart of Gloucester’s historic Southgate Street.
Tiger's Eye Restaurant
0.1 km
Historic Gloucester’s Tiger's Eye offers interactive Pan-Asian fusion dining with hot rock grilling and a vibrant cocktail bar atmosphere.
The March Hare
0.3 km
A cozy tearoom in Gloucester’s historic Oxbode offering fresh local fare and friendly service from morning to afternoon.
The Tall Ship
0.3 km
Historic Grade II listed pub in Gloucester Docks offering excellent British food, great beer, live music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Comfy Pew Cafe Bistro
0.4 km
Cozy, friendly café in Gloucester offering delicious breakfast and lunch with gluten-free and vegan options near the cathedral.
Settebello Trattoria
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with panoramic dockside views at Gloucester’s beloved Settebello Trattoria.
Bangkok Canteen Gloucester
0.4 km
Gloucester’s premier gluten-free Thai restaurant blending authentic flavors with sustainable, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy city-center setting.
Greek on the Docks
0.4 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and vibrant Mediterranean flavors with stunning waterfront views in the heart of Gloucester Docks.
The Barge
0.4 km
A cozy family-run spot in Gloucester Docks serving hearty English classics with a welcoming bring-your-own-drinks policy.
Sebz
0.5 km
Authentic Mediterranean tapas and vibrant wine bar in Gloucester’s historic Northgate Street, blending fresh flavors with a lively atmosphere.
Bill's Gloucester Quays Restaurant
0.5 km
A relaxed, modern British restaurant at Gloucester Quays, perfect for a post-shopping meal or casual catch-up with friends and family.
Côte Gloucester
0.5 km
Modern French brasserie offering refined cuisine and warm service in Gloucester Quays, now closed but fondly remembered.
Nepalese Chef
0.7 km
Experience authentic Nepalese and Asian fusion cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu in the heart of Gloucester.
The Lock Keepers
2.0 km
A serene riverside restaurant and hotel near Gloucester, offering seasonal dishes, warm service, and cozy accommodation in a charming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
King's Walk
0.2 km
Gloucester’s central shopping destination featuring popular high street brands and convenient dining in a lively city centre setting.
Pilgrims Gloucester
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and a cosy, atmospheric shopping experience in the heart of historic Gloucester.
L&S Lifestyle
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds in a cozy boutique setting at L&S Lifestyle, Gloucester’s charming gift shop on College Street.
Upstairs Downstairs
0.5 km
Discover Gloucester’s charming antique shop with unique collectibles and a cozy tearoom serving homemade treats.
Chez Rose
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and shabby chic treasures in a warm, welcoming boutique nestled in Gloucester’s historic Westgate Street.
Gift Company
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homeware at The Gift Company, nestled in the vibrant Gloucester Quays outlet by the historic docks.
Gloucester Quays
0.6 km
Discover designer bargains and festive charm at Gloucester Quays, a lively waterfront outlet set within historic docks.
Westgate Retail Park
0.8 km
Convenient shopping with free parking and a variety of homeware stores in the heart of Gloucester’s Westgate Street.
Cotswold Creates
5.6 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and handcrafted treasures that capture the heart of the Cotswolds in Gloucester’s welcoming Cotswold Creates.
Willow Hilson Vintage
11.4 km
Authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to 1960s in a charming Cheltenham boutique with artistic flair and photography studio.
Great British Boutique
11.8 km
Discover unique gifts and quirky homeware in Cheltenham’s welcoming Great British Boutique, where friendly service meets charming finds.
Emporium
11.8 km
Discover unique gifts and a warm welcome at Emporium, Cheltenham’s charming family-run gift shop on Bath Road.
Vinegar Hill
12.2 km
Discover Cheltenham’s family-run boutique blending stylish homewares, fashion, and unique gifts in a warm, inviting setting since 1997.
Adana Collective Antiques
12.4 km
Discover timeless treasures and beautiful antiques at Adana Collective, a curated gem in Stroud’s vibrant Salmon Springs Trading Estate.
Moonflower Too
13.3 km
A vibrant gift shop in Stroud’s historic High Street, blending unique homewares with local charm and ethical brands.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Café René
0.1 km
A lively Gloucester pub and restaurant blending historic charm, award-winning food, and vibrant live music in the city centre.
Our House Bar
0.2 km
A vibrant cocktail and wine bar in Gloucester Docks offering curated drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
The Drunken Duck
0.3 km
A vibrant Gloucester pub blending unique space, exceptional beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy.
The Sword Inn Gloucester
0.3 km
Historic Gloucester pub blending tradition, community spirit, and lively sports in a welcoming city centre setting.
The Fountain Inn
0.3 km
Charming Grade II listed pub in Gloucester’s city centre offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a cozy historic atmosphere with garden and function rooms.
Elbien Soe Bar
0.3 km
Discover Gloucester’s vibrant grill and bar scene at Elbien Soe Bar, where flavorful dishes meet a lively, welcoming atmosphere 24/7.
The Turks Head Inn
0.3 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Gloucester’s heart, famed for its excellent cask ales and friendly local atmosphere.
The Abbey
0.4 km
A vibrant Gloucester bar famed for its bottomless brunch, friendly service, and lively social atmosphere in the city centre.
TANK
0.5 km
Discover Gloucester’s premier craft beer bar with a lively atmosphere, local brews, stonebaked pizzas, and a welcoming beer garden in the historic docks.
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Gloucester Quays
0.6 km
A vibrant gastropub and microbrewery at Gloucester Quays offering craft beers, hearty meals, and waterfront views in a lively, modern setting.
The Pelican Inn (Wye Valley)
0.6 km
Historic Gloucester pub famed for award-winning real ales, lively events, and a warm, authentic British atmosphere.
Devoted Deluxe - Mobile Bar Hire
0.6 km
Elegant mobile bar hire in Gloucester delivering bespoke cocktails and personalized service for every special occasion.
One Eyed Jacks
0.7 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Gloucester blending classic charm with lively entertainment and friendly atmosphere.
Deans Walk Inn
0.7 km
Experience Gloucester’s warmest welcome with local ales, hearty meals, and a lively atmosphere at Deans Walk Inn.
The Heritage
0.8 km
A welcoming Gloucester bar blending rugby spirit with cozy charm and a diverse drink selection for locals and fans alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Jax Nightclub Gloucester
0.2 km
Energetic nightclub in Gloucester offering diverse music, two dance floors, and a welcoming atmosphere for late-night fun.
Bar Fever Gloucester
0.3 km
Experience Gloucester’s vibrant nightlife at Bar Fever, a trendy nightclub with dynamic music, stylish interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
ATIK Gloucester
0.5 km
Gloucester’s largest nightclub, ATIK pulses with vibrant music, student nights, and an energetic party atmosphere until the early hours.
Under the Prom
12.1 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
Thirteen Degrees
12.1 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
12.1 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.
Popworld - Cheltenham
12.2 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
12.2 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
The 21 Club
12.3 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Coco
12.4 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
2 PIGS
12.4 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
Trio Nightclub
13.4 km
Experience Stroud’s vibrant nightlife at Trio Nightclub, where music, dancing, and energetic vibes light up weekend nights.
Capones
21.5 km
Historic nightclub in Dursley with legendary ties to Al Capone, offering vibrant weekend nightlife and pulsating music.
ReVA Nightclub
25.2 km
Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
The Club, Monmouth
32.6 km
Discover the heart of Monmouth's pub culture at The Club, where great food, drinks, and sports come together for an unforgettable experience.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
