Berkeley Castle

Medieval castle on the Severn Vale with rooms, grounds and a strong local history programme.

Broadway Tower Circular Walk

A circular route around Broadway Tower and the surrounding country park, with big escarpment views and open grassland.

Slimbridge Wetland Centre

A major wetland reserve with hides, lakes, seasonal wildlife and accessible family trails near the western edge of the Cotswolds.

Cotswold Water Park

THE INSIDERCotswold Water ParkCotswold Water Park is a useful change of pace from stone villages and country houses. The lakes support a mix of quiet wildlife reserves and bookable activities, from paddleboarding and open-water swimming to cycling and waterside walks. Different sites feel distinct, so choose your lake based on the day you want rather […]

Lechlade Riverside & Thames Path

THE INSIDERLechlade Riverside & Thames PathLechlade Riverside is a relaxed way to reach the Cotswolds’ southern edge. Start near St John’s Lock and follow the Thames Path past water meadows, willows and narrowboats, then return to town for coffee or lunch. The lock and footbridge give the walk a clear turning point, while the open […]

Crickley Hill Country Park

THE INSIDERCrickley Hill Country ParkCrickley Hill Country Park is one of the easiest places to get a big Cotswold view without committing to a long hike. The escarpment edge looks across the Severn Vale, while short paths lead through beech woodland, grassland and archaeological sites. On a clear day you can trace the Malvern Hills […]

The Dragonfly Maze

THE INSIDERThe Dragonfly MazeThe Dragonfly Maze suits a Bourton day when your group enjoys working something out together. The aim includes solving a puzzle at the centre, so allow children time to contribute rather than making speed the objective. Get a time slot first The operator sells a limited number of daily slots from the […]

Sandford Parks Lido

THE INSIDERSandford Parks LidoSandford Parks Lido, also presented as Cheltenham Lido, gives a town break a very different pace. The heated 50-metre outdoor pool is the centrepiece, with gardens around it that make the setting part of the visit. It suits a planned swim or a family session when the timetable allows. Choose the right […]

Westonbirt, The National Arboretum

THE INSIDERWestonbirt, The National ArboretumWestonbirt, The National Arboretum is a full outdoor day rather than a quick viewpoint. Its paths move through different collections and woodland spaces, with especially strong seasonal colour in spring and autumn. Bring the right plan Wear shoes that can handle woodland paths and allow more time than the map first […]

Cotswold Farm Park

THE INSIDERCotswold Farm ParkCotswold Farm Park is one of the easiest family days to shape around the weather. The farm has rare-breed animals, a Discovery Barn with young animals, outdoor play areas and a woodland walk, so a visit can move between active and quieter parts of the site. Why go Rare-breed farm animals and […]