Dubbed the 'Capital of the Cotswolds', that statement alone would be enough to convince most people to move to Cirencester.

Quintessentially English, Cirencester's rural way of life sees most buyers put down roots here.

And who can blame them?

Yellow Cotswold stone cottages and bustling markets help cement a genuine community feel in a town that is still only just over an hour away from the big cities of Bristol and Oxford.

Living in Cirencester

The main reason home buyers and renters flock to Cirencester year after year?

Rural living. As a way of life, it doesn't get much better than waking up every morning on the fringes of the Cotswolds.

But with brilliant access to larger towns and cities, great schools and all-round charm, there are a multitude of things that make Cirencester great.

Houses for sale in Cirencester

So, what can you expect from properties in Cirencester?

Well, this is one place where the image on the postcard is often a taste of reality.

Cirencester's textile past is present in the former weaver's cottages available, complete with beams, high ceilings and large period fireplaces.

More modern, 20th century family homes are also available, while new-build developments are springing up on the outskirts of the town.

For suburban living, head to Stratton and Watermoor on the outskirts of town.

Average property price: £321,329*

Houses for rent in Cirencester

Cirencester has a good stock of rental properties, from flats and period conversions to larger family homes.

A great example of the type of classic Cotswold properties available to rent in Cirencester is this two-bedroom terraced house close to the town centre.

Average monthly rent: £926**

Cirencester transport links

Although Cirencester doesn't have its own train station, Kemble station is only six miles away with services to Swindon, Cheltenham and London Paddington, which is around 90 minutes away.

On the roads, Cheltenham, Warwick, Bristol, Bath and Gloucester are all within easy reach along good A roads, while Bristol airport for domestic and international flights is around an hour away by car.

Schools in Cirencester

Gloucestershire is well known for its superb schooling and Cirencester is no different.

Among the 'Good' schools assessed by Ofsted are Watermoor CofE Primary School, Kemble Primary School, Cirencester Primary School and Siddington CofE Primary School.

Stratton CofE Primary is rated 'Outstanding', as is Powell's CofE Primary.

Cirencester Kingshill School for 11-16-year-olds is rated 'Good' alongside Cirencester Deer Park School.

Shopping in Cirencester

As well as more common high street stores like WHSmith, Argos and Boots, Cirencester is hugely popular and well known for its independent, boutique-style shops.

Eating out in Cirencester

If you're looking for well-cooked food using local ingredients then head to Jesse's Bistro on Black Jack Street.

Carrying two AA Rosettes, the eatery is one of the most popular in town for both lunch and dinner.

Elsewhere, if you like your food with a touch of spcie, try Indian Rasoi on Dollar Street for traditional curries served in a contemporary way.

Things to do in Cirencester

As well as its array of independent shops, Cirencester's antique and collectables market is well worth a visit - even if you're not buying.

Run for more than 40 years every Friday at the Corn Hall, the market is part of the history and fabric of the town.

Things to do with the kids

In the warmer months, get the little ones down to Cirencester's open air swimming pool.

With plenty of seating around the edge, you can relax while the little ones enjoy the water, slide and inflatables.