Area Guide – Renting in Painswick
Elegant, artistic, and full of Cotswold charm, Painswick offers an enviable lifestyle in a stunning hillside setting. With excellent amenities, beautiful homes, and a thriving community spirit, it’s a top choice for those seeking a peaceful yet cultured place to live.
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Overview
Often referred to as the “Queen of the Cotswolds”, Painswick is a beautifully preserved hillside town bursting with charm and character. Known for its narrow streets, creamy limestone buildings, and the iconic 99 yew trees in St Mary’s Churchyard, Painswick offers a timeless atmosphere that’s rich in history and heritage.
It’s a town that captures the essence of Cotswold living – peaceful, picturesque, and surrounded by stunning countryside – yet it also boasts a lively cultural scene and welcoming community spirit.
Transport
Despite its rural setting, Painswick remains well connected. The town sits just off the A46, providing straightforward road access to Stroud, Cheltenham, and Gloucester.
For rail travel, Stroud station lies around 10 minutes away by car. From here, regular direct services reach London Paddington in approximately 90 minutes. In addition, local bus routes link Painswick with nearby towns, making everyday travel manageable even without a car.
Property Types
Painswick features a wide range of highly sought-after properties, from charming period cottages and handsome Georgian townhouses to converted mills and stylish modern homes tucked into the hillsides.
The town centre offers traditional stone houses steeped in character, while the outskirts provide more contemporary family homes with scenic views. Its distinct architectural style and conservation status help preserve the town’s unique look and feel, making property here particularly desirable.
Schools
Painswick provides strong educational options for families. The Croft Primary School, located in the town, holds a good local reputation.
For secondary education, most students attend schools in nearby Stroud or Gloucester. Popular choices include Marling School for boys, Stroud High School for girls, and Pate’s Grammar School in Cheltenham, all known for excellent academic results.
In addition, several respected independent schools sit within easy reach. These include Wycliffe College, Cheltenham College, and Rendcomb College.
Amenities & Lifestyle
Though small, Painswick has a great selection of amenities. There’s a village shop, pharmacy, art gallery, and a choice of cosy cafés and pubs – The Falcon Inn and The Oak are local favourites. The Painswick Hotel offers fine dining, while nearby Stroud expands the shopping and leisure options considerably.
Painswick is also a paradise for walkers and nature lovers. It sits on the Cotswold Way, with miles of scenic footpaths and trails accessible from the town. The nearby Rococo Garden is a highlight – a beautifully restored 18th-century garden tucked into a hidden valley.
Culturally, Painswick punches above its weight with events like the Art Couture Festival, concerts, and exhibitions held throughout the year. There’s also a strong emphasis on health and wellness, with yoga classes, holistic therapies, and outdoor activities forming part of daily life.
Community
Painswick has a warm, close-knit community that embraces both long-standing residents and newcomers. Local clubs and societies cover everything from art and theatre to gardening and rambling, and the town’s community centre acts as a hub for many activities and events.
With its rich cultural life, welcoming residents, and strong volunteer ethos, Painswick strikes the perfect balance between peaceful retreat and active involvement. It’s a place where you can feel both grounded and inspired.
Thinking of Moving to Painswick? We Can Help
If you’re planning a move to Painswick, we’re here to help you. With our local knowledge we can help you find a home that suits your needs, whether you’re new to the area or relocating locally.
Look out for available properties in Painswick on our Find A Property page and Rightmove.