Tetbury's the one visitor thinks of when they picture the Cotswolds – Georgian buildings along Long Street, antique shops that trade rather than just window-dress, and that honey-stone elegance that photographs well and lives even better. The Market House anchors the town centre, hosting weekly markets where you'll find local produce and crafts alongside the usual. Independent boutiques, cafés, and traditional pubs line the streets, giving the town genuine character rather than feeling like a heritage theme park.

What keeps Tetbury functioning as a real town rather than a tourist attraction is the community. Regular events and festivals throughout the year, active local groups, and the fact people who live here use the high street rather than just driving to supermarkets elsewhere. The schools – both primary and secondary consistently perform well, which is usually the main reason families choose Tetbury over neighbouring towns.

The royal connection adds a certain cachet. Highgrove Gardens, King Charles III's private residence, is just outside town and draws visitors year-round. Westonbirt Arboretum is a few miles away with over 2,500 tree species and walking trails that change dramatically with the seasons – stunning in autumn if you haven't been. These aren't just tourist attractions; they're genuinely used by residents, which says something about the quality of what's on the doorstep.

Location-wise, you're well-positioned. Bath's 20 minutes, Cirencester's 10, and both the M4 and M5 are accessible without being on top of them. Bristol and Cheltenham are both within comfortable reach. It's why the town attracts a broad demographic – families wanting excellent schools and countryside access, professionals who can work remotely or don't mind the commute, and plenty of people who've left London or Bath for a better quality of life without giving up connectivity.

The property market reflects Tetbury's appeal. Period townhouses in the centre command premium prices, while cottages in surrounding villages like Beverston and Leighterton offer that classic Cotswolds living. It's not the cheapest market in Wiltshire or Gloucestershire, but people who move here understand what they're paying for and tend to stay.