Stroud is the adminstrative centre and largest town in the district named after it. The district consists of part of the Cotswolds and an area of the Severn valley.

The town of Stroud is situated at the meeting point of the 'Five Valleys', is is noted for its steep streets and cafe culture. The Five valleys are as follows:

• The Frome valley (known as the "Golden Valley" above Stroud)
• The Nailsworth Valley named after the town of Nailsworth
• The Toadsmoor Valley
• The Slad Valley (of Cider with Rosie fame)
• The Painswick Valley

The southern portion of the district is served by its own market towns, the largest being Dursley and Wotton-under-Edge. Other notable towns in the district include Nailsworth, Minchinhampton, Stonehouse, Painswick, Bisley, Chalford, Frampton-on-Severn and Berkeley.

Much of the landscape in Stroud District is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The well loved Cotswold Way walk leads through the area.