Things To Do In Gloucestershire

Discovery Days

Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the-Water, other wise known as ‘Little Venice’, is your picture-perfect postcard Cotswold village. The River Windrush, spanned by five arched limestone bridges, flows through the centre of the village creating a perfect backdrop for a paddle, gentle stroll and long lazy picnics. Honey coloured cottages line the streets, alongside tea rooms, pubs and independent boutique shops. Once you have browsed the shops enjoy a cream tea or a pub lunch. The Duke of Wellington offers hearty pub grub and has a fantastic beer garden overlooking the river. Other attractions include Model Village, Birdland Park and Gardens, and the Cotswold Motoring Museum. As one of the most popular Cotswold villages it can get busy during the summer weekend months so it is a good idea to visit early in the day or spring or autumn for a quieter experience.

Bibury

The village of Bibury, sitting a few miles east of Cirencester, is famously described as ‘the most beautiful village in England’ by 19th-century artist and designer William Morris. The small village runs along the River Coln and is surrounded by the rolling Cotswold hills making it the perfect backdrop if you are wanting to experience timeless English countryside charm. It is best known for its iconic Arlington Row, a line of 14th-century honey-coloured stone cottages that is arguably one of the most photographed scenes in the UK. These Grade I listed buildings are now managed by the National Trust. Visit the Saxon and Norman village church with its beautiful stained glass windows and ancient Saxon gravestones or explore Arlington Mill, a former water mill which is now a gift shop selling local crafts and artisan food.

Lower and Upper Slaughter

If you are looking for the charm of Bibury without the summer crowds visit the small but pretty village of Lower Slaughter. Sitting on the River Eye with its little stone footbridges and flower-lined banks the village is famous for its16th-century limestone cottages and unspoiled atmosphere. Visit the historic Old Mill and Museum or enjoy a gentle stroll in the Cotswolds countryside to the lesser known village of Upper Slaughter. With a more ‘lived in’ vibe and less touristy than its neighbour, Upper Slaughter still retains the Cotswold charm without the crowds. If you want to stretch your legs a little further you can walk the two and half miles along riverside paths and through open countryside to Bourton-on-the-Water.

Stow-on-the-Wold

Whilst equally as impressive and beautiful, the market town of Stow-on-the-Wold has a different feel to the classic Cotswold riverside villages. It is built around a large central square surrounded by honey coloured stone buildings housing shops, pubs and tea rooms. Visit the famous St Edwards church with ancient yew trees framing a small wooden door – often likened to a hobbit door from The Lord of the Rings, browse the antique shops and galleries and enjoy a long pub lunch. Stow-on-the-Wold also serves as a central hub for exploring the wider Cotswold countryside, with walking routes ranging from gentle strolls to long distance trails. The 5 mile circular route to the village of Lower Swell is a lovely route, with The Golden Ball pub making a perfect pit stop.

Family Days

Clearwell, Gloucestershire

Cotswold Country Park and Beach

Whilst Gloucestershire is not usually associated with beaches, the Cotswold Country Park and Beach is home to the UK’s largest inland sandy beach offering a wide range of activities suitable for families. Both big and little kids alike will love the AquaVenture, a huge inflatable obstacle course including jumping off the ‘Mammoth’ tower, flying high off the airbag and whizzing down the inflatable slides. If you are after something a little more sedate you can hire swan pedalos, rowing boats, kayaks and Stand-Up Paddleboards or simply enjoy a swim in the supervised swimming lagoon. For those that prefer not to get wet there are plenty of land activities to choose from. Play a 9 hole round of mini-golf, explore the park on a pedal go-karts, and let of steam in the adventure playgrounds. With BBQ pitches available and onsite dining the Cotswold Water Park is a fantastic place for the whole family to enjoy.

Birdland & Jurassic Journey

Birdland & Jurassic Journey, located just outside Bourton-on-the-Water, is a fantastic day out with the kids. Spanning nine acres of gardens and woodland the wildlife park is home to over 500 birds from around the world as well as a collection of life-size dinosaur replicas. Meet England’s only breeding group of king penguins and enjoy daily feeding sessions and keeper talks. Amongst other feathered friends you can also see flamingos, pelicans, parrots and owls. To stretch your legs head out on the woodland trail where you will find over 30 life sized dinosaurs including a 5-metre tall Brachiosaurus and a Tyrannosaurus Rex. Mini archaeologists can also unearth fossils and skeletons at the Dino Dig. The tarmacked paths are accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs and the Flamingo Point Café which overlooks the flamingos for perfect for hungry tummies or a mid afternoon treat.

Clearwell Caves

Located in the Forest of Dean, Clearwell Caves is a natural cave system as well as a working mining museum where mining for ochre pigments and iron ore dates back to the Stone Age. It is still one of the few places in the world producing natural ochre today. Head 100 feet underground and explore the winding passages and nine caverns as you go. It is a self-guided tour so keep your eye out for ancient creatures and fossils. The caves are well lit and safe - all you need is a sensible pair of shoes and a sense of adventure! The paths are suitable for a single buggy but please note as the caves are real working mines they may be a little steep and uneven in places. There is a gift shop onsite selling minerals, fossils and handmade jewellery and the Lamproom Café serves lunches, coffee and cake.

Painswick Rococo Garden

If you are looking for something a little quirky where the kids can run around, play hide and seek and explore nature head to Painswick Rococo Garden located near the historic wool town of Painswick. The unique 18th-century garden was designed for extravagant parties back in the day but is now the only complete surviving rococo garden in the UK. Head to the hillside maze or the fairytale castle carved into a beech tree. Other weird and wonderful buildings to discover include the Red House, the Eagle House and the Gothic Alcove. Take a woodland walk or let the kids run wild on one of the themed children’s trails that run during the school holidays. Don’t miss the rustic play area where you will find a climbing frame, swings and balance logs. Take a picnic or visit the friendly café to refuel after a days adventure.

Adventure Days

Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire

High ropes

The combination of ancient oak woodlands and river valleys in the Forest of Dean makes it a fantastic location for a range of outdoor activities. For the ultimate tree top fun, head to Go Ape Mallards Pike where the long zip wires and obstacles such as wobbly bridges and Tarzan swings will certainly test your head for heights. If you would rather keep your feet a little closer to the ground you can explore the forest on an all-terrain electric Segway. Keep your eyes out for wildlife such as wild boar and deer as you glid through the winding trails. Just a few miles down the road Go Ape Beechenhurst has two slightly easier courses that are better suited to beginners and mini adventurers looking to build their confidence. Both centres are perfect for families and friends looking for an outdoor adventure in a stunning forest setting.

Mountain biking

From dedicated mountain biking tracks to the natural trails meandering their way through the Cotswold countryside there are plenty of mountain bike rides to choose from in Gloucestershire. The Forest of Dean Cycle Centre has a number of trails ranging from gentle greens and blues for gentle family rides to epic downhill routers, a skills area and a pump track. Flyup Downhill offers an uplift service for anyone that want to skip the uphill process and bike hire is also available onsite. If you are looking for a day out on your two wheels to explore the Cotswolds countryside there are plenty of options to explore. Leckhampton Hill near Cheltenham has steep forested trails and a popular downhill path whilst Cranham and Sheepscombe is known for woodland trails and extreme sections best suited for enduro riding. If you are looking for a longer ride the Cotswold’s Common is a 40 mile route with sections of technical singletrack and challenging climbs.

Canoeing

The stunning scenery, long calm stretches of water and abundant wildlife makes the River Wye a fantastic place for canoeing. The 14 mile route from Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat is probably the most popular for spending a day on the water passing Goodrich Castle and entering the dramatic cliffs of the Wye Valley. If you are looking for something a little shorter the 8 mile trip from Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat is perfect for a half day wonder or a more leisurely paddle. Keep your eye out for buzzards flying high above you. If you are ready to test your skills at Symonds Yat Rapids (grade 2) the half day trip from Symonds Yat to Monmouth will offer a bit of excitement! There several companies such as Wyedean Canoe & Adventure Centre and Canoe the Wye that offer canoe hire, as well as guides and tuition if you prefer.

Hiking

The best way to experience the stunning Gloucestershire countryside is to lace up your walking boots and explore it on two feet. With the rolling green Cotswolds hills, the ancient woodlands of the Forest and Dean and gentle riverside paths to explore there are plenty of walks to suit all abilities from multi day challenges to short family friendly routes. Challenge yourself to a section of The Cotswold Way. The 8 mile stretch from Cleeve Hill to Leckhampton Hill includes the highest point of the trail rewarding you with stunning views across the Severn Vale to the Malvern Hills. Other shorter routes include the 4 mile loop at Biblins Rope Bridge where you may get lucky and spot peregrine falcons or the 3 mile loop to Painswick Beacon taking in the historic Iron Age Hillfort. The Forest of Dean also has hundreds of miles of walking trails. The famous Sculpture Trail which starts in Beechenhurst and features 16 nature-inspired artworks hidden in the woodland is always a firm family favourite or enjoy a relaxed waterside stroll and picnic at Mallards Pike.

Historical Days

Gloucester Cathedral

Gloucester Cathedral

With over 1,300 years of history behind it, Gloucester Cathedral is arguably one of England’s most impressive medieval buildings. It is a fascinating mix of Norman and Gothic architecture with the original skeleton of the cathedral, including the Massive nave pillars, built in the 11th century. Later additions included the pointed arches, ribbed and fan vaulting in the ceiling and huge stained glass windows reflecting the ‘newer’ Gothic style. The Cloisters are famous for not only being a fantastic example of medieval fan vaulting but for also being used as the hallways of Hogwarts in several Harry Potter films. There are various guided tours and experiences where you can learn more about the fascinating architecture as well as the stories and hidden spaces in the cathedral.

Berkeley Castle

The stunning medieval fortress of Berkeley Castle is the oldest building in England to be continuously lived in by the same family that built it creating more of a ‘lived in’ feel compared to many restored castles. Explore the armour displays in the Medieval Great Hall, the decoration of the State rooms and the dungeon where King Edward II was imprisoned and allegedly killed in 1327. The castle is surrounded by beautiful terraced gardens including a stunning Lily Pond and a massive display of roses best seen in June and July. There is a woodland play area with a castle-themed slide and seesaw and statues of historical monarchs, perfect for a history themed game of hide and seek. Or take a journey through history on the Interactive Lookout Trail. If you are feeling peckish head to the Kitchen Garden where you will find local and seasonal goodies from breakfasts fit for a King to leisurely afternoon teas.

Sudeley Castle and Gardens

The historic Grade I listed manor house at Sudeley Castle and Gardens near Winchcombe offers the perfect mix of history, romantic ruins and scenic gardens. Visit the 15th-century St. Mary’s Church on the grounds where Katherine Parr, the sixth wife of King Henry VIII is buried, explore the vast collection of historical treasures and browse rooms reflecting centuries of royal history. Head outside where ten beautiful gardens surround the majestic castle. Admire the stunning roses in the Queen’s Garden in late spring and summer, enjoy quieter moments admiring the tulips in the Secret Garden or explore the slightly wilder Ruins Garden where the original 15th-century Banqueting Hall provides the backdrop for climbing roses and ivy. Kids will love the adventure fort and playground or they can enjoy getting lost in the large living willow maze. During the school holidays there are usually a host of additional interactive family friendly activities on offer such as quizzes, trails, falconry experiences and forest school sessions.

Tewkesbury Abbey

The historic market town of Tewkesbury is celebrated for its preserved medieval landscape including the distinct traditional timber-framed buildings and narrow alleyways. Pick up a Heritage and Alleyways Trail map from the Tourist Information Centre or enjoy a guided walk where you can find out more about the town’s medieval architecture and fascinating hidden alleyways. Dominating the skyline Tewkesbury Abbey is a fantastic example of Norman architecture. The abbey is dominated by its immense 45 metre high tower and the massive arches and pillars in the nave. Admire the stained glass windows and take a tour of the tower where you will get great views from the roof as well as explore hidden gems such as the Upper Nave walkway and Lantern Chamber. After you have visited the Abbey why not view the town’s medieval landscape from a different angle by taking a boat trip or enjoy stroll along the banks of the Avon.