Discover Glorious Gloucestershire

Unveiling the Charm of Gloucestershire

Delve into the true soul of Gloucestershire for a surprising, heartwarming and joyful journey full of untold stories and hidden gems

About the Book

Glorious Gloucestershire Book

Did you know that Sir Peter Scott was named after Peter Pan, a Stroud man invented instant custard and why there is a Cotswold Manor House that looks exactly like the Palace of Westminster?  Gloucestershire has been at the forefront of world changing innovation, has inspired great works of literature and even has its own rhyming slang.

Join me on a joyful journey exploring the Gloucester streets that gave us Scrooge and Long John Silver, find out where classic TV and movie scenes were filmed and feast on delicious nuggets about royalty, rock stars and rugby legends. Walk with me to London in the footsteps of Dick Whittington, find out more about Gloucestershire’s quirky place names and fly over the county on Christmas Eve with Santa.

This book encapsulates all I have learned and shared over the years with thousands of inquisitive, funny, informative listeners. After spending thirty years broadcasting with BBC Radio Gloucestershire, this is my love letter to the county I adore.

“Brilliant, clever book. Mark Cummings gets it. He understands fully the essence and soul of Gloucestershire and he truly loves it! He is one of us.” Jack Russell MBE – England Cricketer and Artist.”

“I never knew my home county had so many amazing claims to fame. I will enjoy testing friends and family with the 100 local quiz questions. I can’t wait to take Mark’s advice on how to squeeze every drop out of Gloucestershire.” – Eddie The Eagle Edwards – Olympian

“I have loved reading about all the legendary characters who have invented, inspired and left amazing legacies. I’m thrilled my dad features amongst many others who have dedicated themselves to keeping Gloucestershire’s treasures and traditions thriving.” – Adam Henson – Countryfile Presenter

“A wonderful mixture of history, folklore and local characters. No Gloucestershire home should be without it.” – Katie Fforde – Bestselling Novelist

“Mark writes just as he broadcasts with humour and warmth, telling stories about the writers and musicians who have been inspired by our county. I was surprised and intrigued by the stories about Rick Astley, Ivor Novello, Charlie Watts and even Kylie Minogue! Who knew?” – Mike d’Abo – Singer, songwriter, former lead singer of Manfred Mann and composer of Handbags and Gladrags and Build Me Up Buttercup

“I couldn’t wait for Glorious Gloucestershire to be published! I learned so much from Mark’s uniquely well-informed, all-encompassing and loving look at the matchless Cotswolds” – Pam Ayres – Poet

Introducing Mark's New Book

More Adventures in Glorious Gloucestershire

Can you crack a cunning code as you visit GCHQ? Did you know Stroud used to have its own time zone, Wyedean School helped shape the Harry Potter books and a Cirencester woman reduced Margaret Thatcher to a quivering wreck?

More Adventures in Glorious Gloucestershire is an irresistible journey with author Mark Cummings guiding you on amazing tours exploring Adam Henson’s childhood playground to Pam Ayres’s favourite Costwold ramble.

Find out more about the new book here.