The “capital” of the Cotswold is Cirencester, but a Prince lives and runs a business store in Tetbury. Cirencester is the biggest town in the Cotswolds area and its skyline is dominated by the Saint John the Baptist Parish Church, one of the finest “wool” churches in England. Wandering around, you get a feel of a “big city” yet marvel at the stone buildings which used to be the 16th century manors of wool merchants now turned into hotels, boutiques, pubs, bistros, bed & breakfast inns.

The St. John Baptist Church in Cirencester is Gothic in architectural style with pillars bearing the crest of the wool merchants who financed its construction. Its glass stained windows and fan vaulting invite you inside the parish church that feels more like a Cathedral in grandeur and style. Behind is the Abbey Grounds where once stood an Augustinian monastery. A bit further down and through a Norman archway is your Cotswolds “countryside” beyond the city. Not too far from here is the more popular and more photographed Bibury, just 8 miles and 12 minute drive away. And don’t forget the very first college of agriculture in the English-speaking world. Founded in 1845, the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester has no less than HRH Prince Charles as University President.

In 2008, Prince Charles opened Highgrove Store in Tetbury, named after Highgrove House where the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall has a family residence. Prince Charles’ environmentalist philosophy echoes in the running of his private residence and gardens. Just as well, he sells his organic products in Highgrove Store here in Tetbury and the sales proceeds donated to the Prince’s Charitable Fund. It’s a lovely boutique where one finds anything from teas, jams to ceramic products and toys.

Along the main road – Church Street – and right in the center of town is the popular 17th century Market House. Its bright mustard hue stands out and is a favorite spot among photography buffs. An important part of Tetbury’s history, this stone building used to house a wool and yarn market in medieval times. It is still used as a market hall for various crafts fairs and other functions. Because of its alleged “royal connections” and much “wool history”, Tetbury has claimed fame and in fact, an architectural gem with many listed merchant houses and weavers’ cottages. If you’re in the area, drop by the Prince’s creatively inspired Highgrove Gardens and buy something from the Highgrove Store. Walk the streets and marvel at the many historic stone buildings. Who knows? You may even bump into Tony, Tetbury’s resident town crier, dressed in full regalia!