10 Best Family-Friendly Activities in the Cotswolds
Explore the Cotswolds with your loved ones
Ah, the Cotswolds! The rolling green hills like a giant, fluffy rug, dotted with sleepy villages straight out of a storybook. Thatched roofs, honey-colored stone cottages, and gardens overflowing with roses. Pretty idyllic, right?
But this isn’t just a place for picture postcards. Families, buckle up, because the Cotswolds is your playground! We’re talking adventures in the great outdoors, like hikes through babbling brooks and ancient woodlands (keep your eyes peeled for sneaky deer!). Or maybe you fancy conquering a castle or two – there are more of those around here than you can shake a sword at.
For something a bit more chill, imagine picnics under whispering willows, afternoons spent punting on shimmering rivers, or getting lost in a maze (don’t worry, you’ll find your way out eventually… probably). And when the rain rolls in (because, hey, it’s England!), there are cozy pubs with roaring fires and enough board games to keep everyone entertained until the sun peeks back out.
History buffs, gather round! The Cotswolds is practically overflowing with it. You can roam Roman ruins, peek into grand stately homes, or even wander through a village that hasn’t changed much since Shakespeare was scribbling his sonnets. Basically, it’s like stepping back in time, minus the plague and dodgy dentistry.
So, whether you’re a family of rambunctious adventurers, history nerds, or just folks who appreciate a good cup of tea and a stunning view, the Cotswolds has got your back. It’s a place where time slows down, imaginations run wild, and memories are made to last a lifetime. Pack your wellies, grab your sense of wonder, and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget!
Here are our top 10 picks for a great time with the family:
1. Cotswold Country Park and Beach
This park is a great place for a family day out with something for everyone. There’s a water sports lake, an adventure playground, a high ropes course, and a mini golf course. You can also enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing.
2. Bibury Trout Farm
This working trout farm is a great place to learn about trout fishing and conservation. You can also feed the trout, watch them being smoked, and enjoy a delicious trout lunch in the cafe. Find out more.
3. Cotswold Wildlife Park
Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens is home to a variety of animals from around the world, including giraffes, rhinos, and meerkats. There’s also a large playground, a cafe, and a picnic area.
4. Sudeley Castle
This Tudor castle is a fascinating place to explore. You can take a tour of the castle, visit the gardens, and enjoy a variety of events throughout the year.
5. Bourton-on-the-Water
This village is known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” because of its five arched stone bridges that cross the River Windrush. You can take a boat trip on the river, explore the village’s shops and cafes, and visit Birdland Park.
6. Blenheim Palace
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. There is so much to do and see at Blenheim Palace – including taking a tour of the palace, visiting the gardens, and take a look at their events calendar for some fantastic events throughout the year.
7. Cotswold Farm Park
This farm park is a great place for children to learn about farm animals. You can pet the animals, watch them being milked, and enjoy a variety of rides and activities.
8. The Dragonfly Maze
This giant maze is a great place for a family challenge – though note that there are a limited number of daily time slots available and they do not offer pre-booking. All sales are on the day from their on site kiosk.
9. Cotswold Falconry Centre
Located in Moreton-in-Marsh, this center is a great place to learn about birds of prey. You can watch flying demonstrations, see the birds up close, and even have a falcon perch on your arm.
10. Cotswold Water Park
Just south of Cirencester, this park is a great place for a variety of water sports, including sailing, canoeing, and kayaking. You can also enjoy swimming, fishing, and bird watching.
I hope this list of family-friendly activities in the Cotswolds has given you some inspiration for your next family trip. The Cotswolds is a beautiful region with something for everyone, so I’m sure you’ll have a great time exploring all that it has to offer.
