Trains from London Paddington to Stroud Railway Station run at approximately 2 hour intervals throughout the day. First Great Western offer direct trains to Stroud which take a little over 1.5 hours. The first direct train of the day is at around 9:30 a.m., whilst the earliest service at about 8:30 a.m. involves one change at Swindon. Stroud is also easy to reach from northern parts of the UK. From Leeds, Crosscountry trains run a regular service throughout the day during the week and at weekends. This journey includes one change at Cheltenham Spa and takes around 3.5 hours. The first service is at about 8:00 a.m. and the latest at approximately 4:00 p.m. Stroud Station is conveniently situated in the town centre making onward travel easy to access.
The market town of Stroud lies in the heart of the Cotswold hills and has a long and rich history of creative diversity. Originally a wool town, Stroud these days has quite a bohemian feel to it. There are many independent shops selling a range of artisan crafts, foods and clothes and the town has a weekly, award winning farmers market that attracts customers from far and wide. Many of Stroud's historic buildings are still in in use throughout the town centre, some of them dating back to medieval times. The Shambles Market and the Museum in the Park are great examples of beautiful limestone architecture. Stroud's fringe festival is also worth a visit. Running for three days and nights in September it offers a varied range of entertainment, including bands, comedians, performance artists and street theatre. Stroud also has stunning scenery due to having been built within five valleys. There are many areas of outstanding natural beauty, including over 800 acres of common land from which far reaching views can be enjoyed.
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