Fairford, Gloucestershire

Nestled adjacent to the picturesque River Coln, Fairford boasts a rich past and a vibrant present. Once a key stop for travellers on the historic London to Gloucester route, the town's legacy is evident in its charming inns and hotels.

Fairford's crown jewel is undoubtedly St Mary's Church, a magnificent "wool church" (one of the finest in the Cotswolds) renowned for its complete set of 28 medieval stained glass windows - a breathtaking visual narrative of the Bible.

The town buzzes with activity throughout the year. Every Wednesday, a traditional market spills into the streets, while twice a year, a continental market adds a touch of European flair. The festive spirit takes centre stage on the first Friday of December with the Christmas market.

The Fairford Festival, a weekend brimming with fun and festivities, ensures there's something for everyone to enjoy.

St Mary's Church, Fairford

Fairford - Home to the Royal International Air Tattoo

Fairford is probably most famous for being the home of RAF Fairford, where the annual Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) is staged.

Come July, Fairford transforms into a global hub for aviation enthusiasts. The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT), the world's largest military air show, draws thousands of visitors, turning the town into a bustling spectacle.

Fairford - An important coaching town

Fairford was once an important coaching town on the old London to Gloucester route. Some of the inns and hotels in Fairford are reminders of this by gone era.

Fairford is famous for its parish church, St Mary's, a fine 'wool church' with a complete set of 28 medieval stained glass windows that tell the story of the Bible.

Fairford is a pretty market town with the River Coln running through it, if you would like to explore the wider area, there is a Fairford walk which takes you through the town and alongside the river before looping back to the town with its range of shops and pubs.

Map of Fairford

Situated between Cirencester and Lechlade, you can find Fairford on the A417.

Distance from Fairford to villages, towns and cities

Distance from Fairford to:	Miles	Km
Lechlade-on-Thames	5	8
Bibury	5	8
Cirencester	9	14
Northleach	10	16
Burford	12	19
Witney	16	26
Bourton-on-the-Water	17	27
Stow-on-the-Wold	18	29
Tetbury	20	32
Malmesbury	21	34
Stroud	22	35
Nailsworth	22	35
Moreton-in-Marsh	22	35
Chipping Norton	23	37
Cheltenham	24	38
Winchcombe	24	38
Gloucester	27	43
Chipping Campden	28	45
Oxford	29	46
Wotton-under-Edge	29	46
Woodstock	29	46
Broadway	30	48
Castle Combe	35	56
London	93	149

Please note: Distances are approximate, and measured using a common route between the two locations by road.

Fairford Walks

Fairford is a pretty market town with the River Coln running through it, if you would like to explore the wider area, there is a lovely Fairford walk which takes you through the town and alongside the river before looping back to the town with its range of shops and pubs.

Fairford page last updated 8 November 2024. Spotted a mistake? Please let us know.

Places to stay in Fairford

Seeking accommodation in Fairford? Here are some places to stay in and around the Fairford area.

The Nurseries Bed and Breakfast

The Nurseries is a small family run Bed and Breakfast in Fairford with a relaxed homely atmosphere.

The Nurseries Bed and Breakfast

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Fairford

Fairford is in the English county of Gloucestershire.

Permalink: What county is Fairford in?

The Cotswold market town of Fairford is in Gloucestershire, 9 miles east of Cirencester.

Permalink: Where is Fairford?

The 2025 Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) show took place on the 18th, 19th and 20th July.

The 2026 Fairford Air Show was due to take place on the 17, 18, 19 July 2026 but was cancelled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The 2027 Fairford Air Show is due to take place on the 16, 17, 18 July 2027.

Permalink: When is Fairford airshow?

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