Stroud Rally, 3-10 June 2026

Stroud rally or should I say "The Republic of Stroud"; declared on the 24th June 2016. Marked this day as the morning BREXIT became a reality, so it looked like an interesting place to visit.

Finding the rally site was made easy, with Myra directing traffic into the correct lane entrance, as two lanes run almost parallel. After a get together at the Rugby club that evening, an itinerary of events for the week was explained, there was lots to do, subject to weather etc.

On the first day, we all discovered the truth, Stroud was build around five valleys, lots of walking up and down and a canal. Now, it doesn't have large multinational department stores, hurray; just lots of smaller artisan merchants with an indoor market, just refurbished; lots of nice cafes, eateries and a Lidl, Tesco and Waitrose for food.

It took Colin and I a day to find our way around, luckily the weather held out.

After a coffee morning with bacon rolls for breakfast, more reconnoitering the area to make sure we knew the way to the Farmers' Market on Saturday. Blimey, the days go so fast, eh?

We spent lots at the Market the following day and bought a dress. Funny thing is, I really wanted to pay by card but the assistant said they only took cash, so my lovely husband paid. He said he's not carrying cash anymore.

We spent an evening in the Rugby Club bar, with a lovely friendly atmosphere. The staff told us about the free local museum in the park by the centre, another trip to make.

A few ralliers took advantage of the nearby pub, The Clothiers Arms, for Sunday lunch and staggered back for a rest.

On Monday, we were all treated to Prosecco and scones with jam and cream for tea.

Unfortunately, we had to leave on Tuesday morning, but if this rally is on next year, subject to Stewards putting up with us, we will definitely be back. We haven't seen as much as we would have liked, but it was well worth the trip.

Thank you to Ken, Myra, Jules and Greg for kindly arranging a lovely rally.

Sheila & Colin Blissett