Sapperton

About

This small picturesque village lies between Stroud and Cirencester and is famous for two key historic features: the 18th century 2 mile long underground Sapperton canal tunnel on the Thames and Severn Canal, which for a while was the longest  in England. Although currently blocked the Cotswold Canals Trust is aiming to restore it; the second feature is the village's connection with the Cotswold Arts and Crafts movement. Many of the buildings in the village were built or rebuilt under the patronage of the Bathurst family in the Cotswold Arts & Crafts style.

With its spire visible from the surrounding countryside, the picturesque St Kenelm’s Church is well worth viewing for the setting and historical interest. Inside the church you will find Jacobean panelling used as bench ends in the nave. This panelling, once part of the banqueting hall at nearby Sapperton manor house, was donated to the church by 1st Earl Bathurst.

You can walk to Sapperton from Cirencester by entering into Lord Bathurst’s estate, Cirencester Park and walking straight along the Broad Avenue for about 5 miles. Once in the village, stop at the Bell Inn for a well-earned rest and refreshments. This independently owned traditional Cotswold village pub has roaring log fires in winter and a lovely landscaped garden and courtyard for the summer.  

Here is a Sapperton walk and map