Minchinhampton is a delightful, small market town made up of pretty stone cottages, many dating back to the 17th century. There is a weekly country market and a good choice of cafes, and breath-taking panoramic views of the Stroud Valleys from Minchinhampton Common, which is managed by the National Trust with freely roaming horses and cattle. Every year, the famous Giffords Circus takes up residence in Minchinhampton as part of its annual summer tour of the Cotswolds. In Stroud, you will find a wide-ranging mix of cafes and shops and one of the best Farmers’ Markets in the country. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Five Valleys, the town is nestled in a backdrop of dramatic Cotswold countryside. Most of the shops are owned by independent proprietors where you will find something for everyone from fresh bread and cakes to specialist wines, fine quality meats and cheese. Stroud thrived on its woollen mills in the Industrial Revolution but is now the centre for the creative industries with writers and artists and the host of numerous festivals throughout the year. Nearby Tetbury and Nailsworth have a good range of everyday shops and an excellent range of specialist boutiques and delicatessens. Cirencester, Bath, Bristol, Swindon, Cheltenham and Gloucester are the main regional centres and are all within daily commuting distance. Gloucestershire is renowned for its excellent selection of schools. Local private schools include Beaudesert Park, Kings School, Wycliffe College, Cheltenham College, Cheltenham Ladies College and Westonbirt. Additionally, there are a number of local state schools including three highly regarded Grammar Schools, Stroud High and Marling School in Stroud, and Pate’s Grammar School in Cheltenham.