Top schools in Gloucestershire and where to live nearby
Are you looking for a home near one of the top schools in Gloucestershire? The county has long been a favourite with families looking for a great education in a beautiful part of the country.
Whether you’re drawn to the buzzing town life of Cheltenham or the slower pace of the surrounding Cotswold villages, Gloucestershire has a fantastic mix of highly regarded schools and lovely places to live.
In this guide, we highlight some of the top schools in Gloucestershire, along with nearby towns and villages that make daily life just as appealing.
Cheltenham: Elegant streets and academic excellence
Cheltenham is a town that really does have it all: graceful Regency architecture, leafy green spaces, lively festivals, and some of the most highly regarded schools in the county.
It’s no wonder families are drawn here for both the lifestyle and the education.
Cheltenham College
Set in the heart of town, Cheltenham College is a leading co-ed school that blends tradition with modern thinking.
With its stunning grounds and a strong emphasis on both academic and co-curricular, it’s a great fit for families who value a well-rounded education. Sport, music, and community spirit are all part of daily life here.
Pate’s Grammar School
Founded back in 1574, Pate’s Grammar School is a selective school widely recognised for strong academic results and a balanced approach to learning.
It attracts families from all over the region and beyond. If you’re after a school with excellent results, a broad curriculum, and plenty of ambition, Pate’s is hard to beat.
Cheltenham Ladies’ College
This internationally recognised girls’ school has a longstanding reputation for academic excellence.
Whether boarding or attending as a day pupil, students benefit from a forward-thinking education rooted in strong values, exceptional teaching, and excellent pastoral care. It’s a school with a proud history and a truly global outlook.
Where to live
Cheltenham is a popular choice for homebuyers who want to live near some of the highly regarded schools in Gloucestershire. The town itself has a lot to offer in terms of property.
Areas like Montpellier and Leckhampton are particularly sought-after for their beautiful period homes, independent shops, and great access to the schools.
If you’re looking for somewhere more rural, the nearby villages of Winchcombe, the Guitings, and, a little further afield, Northleach, offer picture-postcard surroundings with a quieter pace of life, perfect if you want a mix of countryside and convenience.
Classic Cotswolds: Wycliffe College
Tucked away in the town of Stonehouse, Wycliffe College offers co-educational day and boarding places for pupils aged 3 to 18.
With a friendly, inclusive feel, Wycliffe College offers a nurturing environment that many families value and a strong academic offering, all set in lovely grounds.
Where to live
You don’t have to go far to find some wonderful places to live near Wycliffe College.
Nestled among rolling hills and honey-stone villages, market towns like Minchinhampton and Nailsworth combine country charm with independent shops, excellent schools, and friendly communities:
Minchinhampton is a quaint, hilltop market town with open common land, classic Cotswold stone houses, and a laid-back vibe.
Nailsworth has a slightly livelier feel, with lots of independent cafés, a strong local community, and some very desirable homes. Both are within easy reach of the school and offer a great mix of character and convenience.
And even though these are in a rural setting, you’re never far from key routes, making it easy to travel into Cheltenham, Cirencester, or even further afield.
It’s an ideal spot for families or professionals seeking a balance between calm and convenience.
Cirencester: Rendcomb College
Set just outside Cirencester, the prestigious Rendcomb College is a day and boarding school that benefits from its countryside setting, which supports its outdoor ethos.
It’s known for its personalised teaching and strong pastoral support, making it a great option for families looking for more than just results.
Where to live
Cirencester is often called the capital of the Cotswolds, and with its Roman roots, great shops and lovely green spaces, it’s easy to see why.
The town has a wide range of homes, from period terraces to detached family houses.
Nearby villages like Baunton, Stratton, and Siddington offer a more rural feel while keeping you within easy reach of the town’s schools, shops, and cafés.
Tetbury: Westonbirt School
Set in a stately home surrounded by parkland, Westonbirt School offers co-educational day and boarding places for children aged 2 to 18.
It combines a strong academic programme with a creative and inclusive approach, and its stunning setting adds to its appeal for many families.
Where to live
Picturesque Tetbury is a beautiful town full of charm and character. It’s known for its antiques shops, great restaurants, and royal connections.
Families moving here often look to Long Newnton, Avening, or Cherington. These villages offer peaceful surroundings, good-sized family homes, and excellent links to both Tetbury and Westonbirt.
Rural Cotswold charm: Hatherop Castle School
If you’re looking for a classic countryside prep school, Hatherop Castle ticks all the boxes.
Set in a fairytale-like castle surrounded by woods and meadows, the school focuses on giving pupils aged 2 – 13 years old a broad, creative, and caring start to their education.
Where to live
This part of the Cotswolds is truly idyllic. Coln St Aldwyns, Bibury, and Quenington are all within easy reach of the school and are often described as some of the most picturesque villages in the region.
Life here is peaceful, local, and community-led, ideal for families who want space to grow and a strong connection to nature.
Why families choose schools in Gloucestershire
There’s a reason so many families move to Gloucestershire for the excellent educational choices available.
It’s not just about grades, it’s about giving your children a childhood full of green space, fresh air, and a sense of independence and possibility.
With everything from top grammar schools to outstanding independents, plus a wide choice of market towns and countryside villages to call home, Gloucestershire offers something for almost every family.
Schools in Gloucestershire: Finding a home nearby
If you’re considering a move to Gloucestershire, at Garrington Property Finders, we can help you make the right decision for your family.
Whether you’re after a spacious townhouse near a top grammar school or a quiet rural home near a respected prep, we have the insight, connections, and experience to find the perfect match.
From living near some of the best schools in Gloucestershire to commuting routes, at Garrington, we’ll guide you through the whole process, making the journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Please contact us today to see how we can help.
