Things To Do In The Cotswolds

This stunning castle is a must see for families. The history of the castle tells stories that cover over 1000 years. With links to notable historical figures from Tudor Britain-Katherine Parr, one of King Henry VIII’s wives is buried here, this is a great way to teach the kids history outside the classroom.

There are lots of interesting features including exhibitions, dungeons and many different castle rooms. Sudeley also boasts not just one but 10 beautiful gardens and has an amazing adventure playground. Plenty of space for the younger family members to run around and enjoy this scenic outdoor space.

Snowshill Manor is a National Trust property near Gloucestershire. Kids will love exploring the manor house with it’s eccentric collection of objects from previous owner Charles Wade.

The garden is full of fun too with ponds, terraces and orchards to discover. Make sure you look out for seasonal events happening at the manor. These are often during in half term or summer school holidays.

Blenheim Palace is a country house situated in Woodstock, Oxfordshire. The birthplace of Winston Churchill , Blenheim Palace is a wonderful day out for all ages. You can explore the palace state rooms and walk in Churchill’s footsteps in the formal gardens. Also, try your luck in the Malborough Maze in the walled garden-will you find your way out? Then, try the Bugs and Butterfly trail to see of you can spot different insects on the estate.

Afterwards, you’ll need refreshments and with the variety of cafe’s and restaurants at Blenheim Palace you’ll be spoilt for choice! Want to remember your family day out? Make sure you take home an exclusive gift or gorgeous souvenir from the gift shop.

Kids can get up close and personal with animals such as lions, tigers, bears, giraffes and monkeys at Cotswold Wildlife Park. This wildlife haven is home to over 300 animal species. It’s open all year round and set in 160 acres of parkland. So, there is always something going on! They have lots of activities for children including animal shows, feeding sessions and even a petting zoo.

There are lots of trails to explore and a play area for smaller visitors. The landscaped gardens are pretty impressive too!

If you want a fun day trip head to Cotswolds Farm Park. Here you can find over 100 breeds of farm animals living in natural surroundings. You can feed the goats, sheep and chickens, ride ponies. Also, take part in pony rides and watch the resident peacocks strut their stuff.

Plus, there are lots of other attractions like a maze, jumping pillows and a mini golf course.

For those who love watching birds of prey soar through the sky then this is the perfect place to go. At Cotswold Falconry centre you can learn how to train and care for hawks, owls and eagles.

Children can join in with training exercises and help feed the birds. There are also talks about bird behaviour and conservation. A lovely idea for a Cotswolds day trip.

The pretty villages of Lower and Upper Slaughter are near Chipping Campden and Bourton-on-Water. These beautiful villages are like something you’d see on a chocolate box. They are surrounded by rolling Cotswold hills covered in lush green countryside. It is a popular destination for walkers and cyclists alike.

Interestingly, these villages have had no building work completed since 1906. So, you can really take the kids on a trip back in time. We recommend taking a stroll along the river and treating the family to a delicious afternoon tea.

The celebrated artist William Morris once said he thought that Bibury was the most beautiful town in the Cotswolds. With honey coloured Cotswold stone buildings and scenic surroundings he’s not wrong. Also, Bibury is the location for one of the most photographed places in the area, Arlington Row. A row of cottages dating back to the 14th Century and owned by the National Trust. Arlington Row is a popular visitor attraction.

Bibury would be the perfect place to head to on a warm bank holiday and enjoy an ice cream as you take in the beautiful views of the town.

Bourton-on-Water is one of many charming villages in the Cotswolds areas. It’s known as the Venice of the Cotswolds. Watch the kids delight as they feel like giants walking around the paths of the model village. This must see is a tiny version of Bourton-On-Water. The little shops, gardens and buildings in the model village are truly captivating.

Have you a little fan of cars in your family? Then, don’t miss a visit to the Cotswold Motoring Museum full of bikes, caravans, motorcycles, cars. Also, there’s all kinds of motoring memorabilia from throughout the 20th Century. This is only a short walk from the model village. After exploring, take time to have lunch in one of the cafe’s and restaurants along the river. A culinary delight with many places serving seasonal local produce.

A magical tree garden home to 5 national tree collections with around 15,000 trees from around the globe-wow! This is a place for both adventure and peaceful walks.

Are you feeling brave? Then, take a trip on the Treetop Walkway and you’ll be rewarded with incredible views. Children will adore the Gruffalo sculptures and there’s a selection of walking trails to pick from.

Discover 56 acre gardens with trees and shrubs from around the world. Do you have a four legged member of the family? Then, don’t worry Batsford is dog-friendly so pooch can come along too! Enjoy snowdrops in winter and flowers in full bloom during Spring and Summer, this is an ideal place to show children the beauty of the changing seasons.

For any budding gardeners there is a plant centre to buy your favourite plants to take home.

Bath is a shopper’s paradise with a retail scene that is hard to beat. Shop till you drop against the backdrop of stunning Georgian architecture. The city centre offers local, independent stores combined with well known high street retailers.

For a destination to buy designer brands, the best of the high street and a local market you need to head to Oxford. A great shopping trip, and Oxford is also a place with many other family attractions.

After shopping at one of Oxford’s many thriving businesses enjoy a meal in a high quality restaurant or why not take a trip on the City of Oxford Sightseeing bus?

Daylesford Organic Farm is an award winning farm with a range of homeware and outdoor living accessories. Furthermore they’ve loads of  delicious food and drink to try. The farm is a place in the Cotswolds to drink, dine and discover. Throughout the year there is always something new with hampers at Christmas, seasonal vegetables and plant collections to suit your garden in the Spring and Summer months. You will be sure to make more purchases than you planned when visiting the farm!