Just three miles off the M5, south of Gloucester, lies the picturesque village of Frampton-on-Severn. With a population of just over 1,000, this quaint community is famous for boasting the UK’s longest village green—stretching roughly half a mile—flanked by a welcoming pub at each end.
A highlight of the village is the impressive Georgian mansion, Frampton Court, which has been privately owned by the Clifford family since the 1730s. This historic estate has also made its mark on screen, appearing in ITV’s 2019 period drama Sanditon and the 1968 BAFTA-nominated war film The Charge of the Light Brigade.
Frampton-on-Severn offers an eclectic mix of architectural styles. A stroll along the village green reveals charming countryside brick cottages alongside Tudor-style homes with their classic exposed timber frames. Sitting on the edge of the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal, the village invites leisurely walks to Saul Junction Marina, where The Stables Café serves coffee and light bites with scenic views of moored canal boats.
READ MORE: New Gloucestershire M5 Junction Faces Uncertain Future Amid Defence Spending Cuts
READ MORE: A Sunny £15 Pub Lunch at the UK’s Longest Village Green
Unlike many picture-perfect Cotswold villages, Frampton-on-Severn shines with its own unique charm. It’s a haven for walkers of all ages, with flat terrain making it easy to explore the entire half-mile stretch of the village green in just 10 minutes—including time to admire its varied architecture.
At the southern end stands The Three Horseshoes pub, skillfully revived by landlord Red Hogben after an 18-month closure and refurbishment, reopening it in October 2025. Red, who grew up in the village, warmly praises the strong community spirit here: “Everyone helps each other out. It’s a lovely little area with a cracking community.”
At the opposite end of the green, The Bell Inn complements the village’s social heart. Together, these pubs anchor Frampton’s lively community scene which bursts into life each summer with events like the Country Fair in September, the Giffords Circus in July, and the renowned Sheep and Pony Racing held annually.
Roman Cooper, a long-time resident and member of the Frampton Fundraisers, elaborates on the village’s enduring spirit: “It’s a brilliant mix of people who cherish the traditions. This village is special—it’s a genuine community where neighbors know and support each other.”
The Sheep and Pony Racing event, which started about 15 years ago as a quirky idea to raise money for charity, has blossomed into a major attraction drawing thousands. Roman explains, “We train the sheep to race for a bucket of food, and now around 2,500 people join us for the fun, with about 120 volunteers helping out. Over the years, we’ve raised over £325,000, mostly staying within Gloucestershire to benefit local causes.”
Caroline Clements, who runs the Ley Bistro café and has lived in Frampton all her life, captures the village’s spirit perfectly: “Frampton is a small place with a big heart. It’s safe, welcoming, and a real community. People come because it’s beautiful and special.”
Whether you’re drawn by the expansive village green, the friendly pubs, or the festive local events, Frampton-on-Severn offers an inviting glimpse into village life at its best. This weekend might be the perfect time to visit, enjoy sunshine, sample a cold pint at The Bell Inn, and witness the unique spectacle of sheep racing—all for a great cause.