Things to Do in the Cotswolds
14 attractions and days out
Photo © Mallgosia Mocek, Google Maps
The Cotswolds offers rather more than honey-coloured villages and country walks, though there's plenty of that too. Around Gloucester and Cheltenham you'll find indoor pursuits like The Warehouse Climbing Centre and VRXPerience, along with the Jet Age Museum for a slower afternoon, while smaller towns such as Longford and Newnham keep things more outdoorsy with fishing at Lakeland Fishery or paddling with SUP Gloucester.
Families are well catered for, from riding lessons at The Playmate Childrens Riding School to falconry displays at the Cotswold Falconry Centre near Moreton-in-Marsh, and there's no shortage of ways to fill a wet-weather day either, whether that's an escape room challenge or a go at pottery painting.
Chipping Campden and Wotton-under-Edge tend to suit those wanting a gentler pace, with attractions dotted around rather than clustered together, so it's worth planning a route that takes in a couple of stops rather than trying to do it all in one visit.
⭐ 4.6
Climbing & Bouldering
The Warehouse Climbing Centre
Challenge your family to scale new heights at this Parliament Street climbing venue, though note it has limited facilities including no toilets or wheelchair access on site.
⭐ 4.6
Museums & Galleries
Chedworth Roman Villa
Step back in time at this remarkably preserved Roman villa nestled in the Cotswolds, where ancient mosaics and hypocaust heating systems reveal daily life from nearly 2,000 years ago.
⭐ 3.9
Farm Parks
Cotswold Reindeer Herd
⭐ 4.6
Pottery & Ceramic Painting
Pick a Pot and Paint in the Cotswolds
Select your own ceramic piece and unleash your creativity at this charming Cotswolds pottery studio, where families can craft personalised keepsakes while enjoying refreshments from the onsite restaurant.
Museums & Galleries
Corinium Museum
Discover Roman Britain at this fascinating Park Street museum where families can explore ancient treasures and mosaics, with onsite dining and baby facilities to keep everyone comfortable during your visit.
⭐ 4.6
Lidos & Outdoor Pools
Cirencester Open Air Swimming Pool
Make a splash at this Cecily Hill lido where naturally spring-fed water stays pleasantly warm at 27°C, complete with a fun slide for little ones and an onsite restaurant for refuelling.
⭐ 4.6
Boat Tours & Cruises
Bourton on the Water Mystery Trail
Explore the charming village streets on this self-guided detective adventure that takes families through Bourton's scenic spots while solving clues and puzzles together along the way.
⭐ 4.5
Zoos & Animal Parks
Birdland Park and Gardens
Meet Britain's only King Penguins at this charming wildlife park featuring exotic birds and interactive exhibits. Family-friendly with wheelchair access, picnic areas and dining options available.
⭐ 4.6
Sightseeing & Attractions
The Old New Inn Model Village
Step into a charming miniature world where Bourton-on-the-Water's famous honey-stone cottages and bridges are recreated at one-ninth scale. This enchanting model village delights visitors of all ages with intricate details.
⭐ 4.6
Museums & Galleries
Cotswold Motoring Museum
Step into automotive history at this charming museum housed in a historic mill, showcasing vintage cars, motorcycles and motoring memorabilia from bygone eras.
⭐ 4.1
Adventure & Activity Centres
The Gateway Ice Rink
Experience the thrill of ice skating at this well-equipped Cirencester rink, complete with accessible facilities, onsite dining and convenient parking for a fun-filled family day out.
⭐ 4.7
Indoor Soft Play
Hocus Pocus Play
This sensory-rich indoor play venue sparks children's creativity through imaginative activities, with baby-changing facilities and accessible toilets available at the waterski club location.
⭐ 4.2
Beaches & Coastline
Cotswold Country Park and Beach
This family-friendly lakeside park features a sandy beach area perfect for picnics, plus an onsite restaurant, parking and toilets, though wheelchair access is limited.
⭐ 4.2
National Parks & Reserves
Cotswold Water Park & Beach
Spanning 150 tranquil lakes across 40 square miles, this expansive waterside destination offers families endless outdoor adventures with onsite dining and a dedicated beach area.
Places to stay in Cotswolds
Hotels, B&Bs, cottages and apartments on Booking.com, with live prices and availability.
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Guides for days out in the Cotswolds
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