Gloucester is an old Roman city. Its choice as a major centre for Roman occupation would have been based on its proximity to the River Severn. Gloucester Docks were once a hive of Industrial activity. Local products such as wool, cloth, agricultural products and iron would have been shipped from here in medieval times.
In 1580 Queen Elizabeth I bestowed upon Gloucester the status of a port and a new customs house was opened. This new status led to the expansion of Gloucester Docks and in the 1800's this was a busy and influential port for the region. The addition of a canal enabled the larger ships to travel without restrictions of the tidal flow. This canal runs from Berkeley directly to the Docks.
Gloucester Docks is one of the main attractions of the city of Gloucester. Old warehouses have now been converted and where there was once decay and dereliction, there is now a new kind of activity and renaissance of the shipping that these docks were famous for.
Today you will see leisure cruises, canal boats, motor launches and an array of shipping passing in and out of Gloucester Docks. Gloucester has done a fine job in revitalising its dockyard and utilising existing buildings for the purposes of museums, antique shops, restaurants and retail outlets.
The main attractions here are the National Waterways Museum, the shopping complex with its gift shops and woollen wares, the antique shops and the Gloucester Regiment Military Museum. Tall ships are seen from time to time at Gloucester Docks and the 'Onedin Line' was filmed here. Allow at least half a day for a visit round the Gloucester Docks. Ideal for families with small children. A river cruise should keep them amused for a while.
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