Steve's World Blog Information and articles on cities, towns and villages around the world.

Originally a Roman fortified city guarding the routes into nearby Wales, when it was known as Colonia Glevum, Gloucester, now the county town of Gloucestershire, was later a market town receiving its first charter from King Henry II in 1155. Its early cathedral built in the Norman to Perpendicular style, has the tomb of the murdered King Edward II, and an interesting 14^th century stained glass window in the east wing. Still boasting many medieval and Tudor half-timbered buildings, Gloucester is a fascinating place to visit at any time of year. The timbered Parliament House, dates from the 15^th century, other places of interest to visit include the City Museum, in Brunswick Place, ideal for spending an hour or two when the weather is inclement, and the cross of the martyred Bishop Hooper in The Close. Gloucester has a population of 123,205 and is located thirty two miles from Bristol. Gloucester Map.