As a former local town councillor, Danae Savvidou has a firm finger on the pulse of what's happening in and around Dursley, the Cotswolds market town surrounded by one of England's finest beech woods. She's also a local resident, arts enthusiast, and parent. Here, Danae explains just why child-friendly, dog-friendly Dursley is her kind of town.
My favourite thing about Dursley is our direct access to beautiful countryside. Simply walk for ten minutes in any direction and you can find yourself surrounded by greenery. I read that no-one living in Dursley is more than 670 metres from the edge of woodland. That's great balm for the soul.
Best local place to spend time outdoors?
From the town centre it's easy to walk up and around Stinchcombe hill towards Cam where you'll find Leaf and Ground. There you can have lunch in the café or grab yourself a deli box to eat while you gaze at the view. There's a lovely park for kids to spend time in and plenty of space for dogs to run around too.
Favourite place to eat?
The Bank café is always a hit with my family. They have a great selection of food and drink for kids and adults alike and it is very dog friendly. I love that they have toys available to keep children entertained so mums and dads can finish their lunch in peace! In the evenings I often enjoy a curry in the award winning Bengal Lounge restaurant.
Favourite place for coffee & cake?
When I want a catch up with friends we head to Belle's Kitchen. They serve barista coffee in vintage china cups and a tantalising range of home-made cakes, so we're spoilt for choice. It's my excuse to keep going back.
Most Instagrammable spot?
The woodlands and fields around Dursley are breath-taking at all times of year whether spring summer or autumn but a special mention goes to the slopes of Cam Peak when the bluebells blossom each May – from a distance it's just a sea of blue and magical.
Don't miss?
'Dursley After Hours' events take place under the town's historic marketplace, during summer months, and at The Chantry Centre for Under Cover events. A band plays and people gather to listen to music, eat and relax with friends and family. It's wonderful to see people of all ages enjoying an evening together; children are free to run around while their adults enjoy the gig. I also enjoy a mooch in our local high-street – Tolsey Two is great for gifts and The Escape Room is hugely entertaining.