A 17 year old in Gloucester – Rafferty B.
Gloucester – a city with its identity rooted in its Roman past – is abundant with celebrated symbols of the past. The cathedral’s medieval spires pinpoint the city from afar, whilst centuries old churches stand as spaces for events and music, both contemporary and historical. However, as a teenager living in a city that is so strongly defined by its past, it can be easy to miss the range of activities that focus on the new generation.
One example of an area that accommodates the new generation into the city’s historic past is the Gloucester Docks. Surrounded by carefully preserved 19th century warehouses, Gloucester Docks offers a real selection of food and shopping that most certainly come together to create a great day out for a younger crowd. The new Gloucester Food Dock is a perfect example of this, offering a range of food, both delicious and reasonably priced, from all over the world, of which Daikoku Ramen is a prime example.
A more modern, in architecture, addition to the Docks, the Quays, offers a range of shopping opportunities through various outlet stores and independent shops. As always in Gloucester, the Quays keep up with the area’s historic past, using exposed steel and brickwork to mirror the warehouses. Nevertheless, the shops still keep up with modern trends and are worth a visit in the search for sought-after items.
Music is a large part of Gloucester’s identity, with pubs and venues all over the city hosting open mics and small gigs. However, for someone who isn’t particularly interested in 60s covers, opposite Gloucester Museum lies The Thirsty Pine, offering consistently exciting, modern music. Encompassing a variety of different genres from trap to metal, its involvement in Gloucester’s annual “Underground Festival” is eagerly anticipated by any music fan – young or old – with an interest in up-and-coming underground bands.
At the centre of all that Gloucester is proud of lies the cathedral. Having seen 40 monarchs, surviving three major fires, and spanning nearly 1,000 years, the cathedral’s walls hold a very comprehensive history of Gloucester. As a young person – especially one who grew up in Gloucester – it’s easy to disregard just how special the building itself truly is. Often admired simply for its striking appearance, it’s difficult to comprehend the scale of the craftsmanship and history contained within its walls.
The cathedral stands as the most pertinent symbol of Gloucester’s past, and even as a young person looking forward, its significance is sure to evoke a certain sense of awe. Yet what makes the city special is not only its history, but the way it continues to evolve. Ancient landmarks sit alongside independent cafés, live music venues, outlet shopping, and food from around the world, creating a city that offers something for every generation.
While the city offers a range of excitement by way of shopping, events and food, teenagers living in or visiting Gloucester should also take the time to reflect on the historical significance of the medieval structures that define the city. This provides an ideal mixture for any young person, especially those who actively engage with Gloucester’s historic sites and appreciate the significance they hold. Gloucester is a city that highlights its illustrious history, but in doing so also accommodates the future through the opportunities it offers to the next generation.
