Gloucester is set to join the ranks of iconic cities immortalized in Monopoly, as a dedicated Gloucester Edition of the classic board game is announced for release later this year. To mark this exciting news, Mr Monopoly himself made a special visit to the city at Gloucester Food Dock.
Dressed in his trademark black top hat and suit, Mr Monopoly emerged from Roots + Seeds café on a crisp Tuesday morning, greeted enthusiastically by local town crier Alan Myatt, who rang his bell to welcome the beloved character in full ceremonial attire.
The event was attended by prominent city figures including Linda Castle, Deputy Mayor and Sheriff of Gloucester, Visit Gloucester’s Tourism and Destination Marketing Manager Jack Fayter, and Ben Ladd Gibbon from Winning Moves UK—the company behind many Monopoly editions since 1998.
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Deputy Mayor Castle expressed her delight at Gloucester’s inclusion: “It is fantastic news for Gloucester as a growing tourism hotspot. This initiative highlights the city’s vibrant energy, creativity, and independent spirit. It offers a wonderful chance for residents to celebrate the unique places that make Gloucester special.”
She added, “Meeting Mr Monopoly here in such a historic setting was truly memorable. It’s exciting to see our city recognized in this way.”
Ben Ladd Gibbon shared that Gloucester’s rich history and community landmarks made it a natural choice for the new board edition. “From Gloucester Cathedral to the historic docks and renowned sports facilities, there are many gems to showcase. We encourage locals to share their suggestions for inclusion.”
The public now has the opportunity to participate by submitting their ideas for Gloucester landmarks and businesses to be featured on the board via email at [email protected] before midnight on Monday, March 9.
Already, community favorites like Gloucester Cathedral and Gloucester Quays have emerged as top contenders. Longtime resident Lorraine Lloyd voiced her enthusiasm: “Seeing the Cathedral, the Quays, and other local highlights on the board would be fantastic—it really celebrates what makes Gloucester unique.”
April, a frequent visitor from nearby Hereford, emphasized the value of highlighting Gloucester’s independent shops and local character: “Monopoly should reflect the charm of Gloucester’s distinctive spots like the Beatrix Potter shop and the Tailor of Gloucester.”
Younger Gloucester resident Ellie, who works at Roots + Seeds, expressed pride in the city’s close-knit community and suggested including cherished local venues like the St Mary de Crypt building as well as popular spots like Wetherspoons.
Natalie, a Food Dock employee, added, “Representing the Food Dock itself would be wonderful—it’s a vibrant hub that visitors and residents alike appreciate. Gloucester truly offers an appealing mix of history, culture, and good food.”
As Gloucester gears up for its Monopoly debut, residents and visitors alike have much to look forward to in celebrating the city’s heritage and future.