We know it can be hard to keep everyone entertained and find things to do on holiday, so here is a list of some places we consider to be great days out in The Cotswolds.
Farms
Bibury Trout Farm – Bibury, GL7 5NL
Founded in 1902, Bibury Trout Farm is England’s oldest working trout farm set in the historic village of Bibury, in the heart of the Cotswolds. A perfect day out for all ages – come and explore the beautiful grounds (and wildlife!), catch a fish, hire a barbecue, have a round of Crazy Golf, or just relax in the café and sample their delicious seasonal menu.
The Butts Rare Breeds Farm – South Cerney, GL7 5QE
The Butts Farm is a working farm showcasing rare and traditional farm animals and their young. There are many breeds of animals to see, horses, cows, sheep, goats, chickens, rabbits, pigs, to name but a few and you can visit the onsite café and farm shop.
Roves Farm – Swindon, SN6 7QG
A working farm open daily come rain or shine. Enjoy a tractor ride, help feed the animals and have fun climbing, sliding and swinging in the ‘Treehouse’ and ‘Farmers Den’ wooden adventure play areas. Plus there is a zip wire, nest swing and two giant sandpits. There is also an indoor soft play area and activity barn, suitable for all ages, a café and farm shop.
Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park – Cheltenham, GL54 5FL
A total countryside experience for the whole family! From bottle feeding lambs to interactive demonstrations and nature trails, there’s something to captivate and entertain visitors of all ages.
Wildlife
Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens – Burford, OX18 4JP
Stroll around the beautiful garden of this wildlife park and see a range of animals including white rhinos, asiatic lions, humboldt penguins, and get eye-to-eye with a giraffe on the Giraffe Walkway. With onsite shop and refreshments, this is a great day out.
Crocodiles of the World – Brize Norton, OX18 3NX
Come face-to-face with some of the world’s most feared predators in a fun, safe and stimulating environment. With under-water viewing, talks, animal encounters and feeds throughout the day there’s plenty to keep you occupied at the UK’s only Crocodile Zoo.
Birdland is set in nine acres of gardens and woodland, creating a picturesque canopy for the winding River Windrush. Meet over 500 birds from magical owls, large cassowary and rare species such as the Waldrapp Ibis. Spot flamingos, pelicans, cranes and waterfowl that live in our riverside habitats with many more inhabiting over 50 aviaries.
Slimbridge Wetland Centre – Slimbridge, GL2 7BT
Reconnect with nature and be wowed by our wild wetlands. With wide-open spaces and wetlands full of the sights and sounds of nature, there’s plenty to see and do.
Cotswold Falconry Centre – Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 9AT
One of the leading bird of prey centres in the UK, you can enjoy and admire flying skills in the different daily displays, gain an insight into the birds’ behaviours, and take away an even greater appreciation of these amazing birds and a better understanding of their conservation needs.
Outside Spaces
Westonbirt Arboretum – Tetbury, GL8 8QS
Home to 2,500 different tree species from the far corners of the globe and 5 national tree collections, Westonbirt is the perfect place for you to escape, relax or have an adventure! Take a journey up into the canopy on the Tree Top Walkway, stop by the café for a tasty treat or see if you can spot the Gruffalo!
Batsford Arboretum – Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 9AT
Batsford Arboretum is home to a unique collection of some of the world’s most beautiful and rare trees, shrubs and bamboos spread across 60 acres. Enjoy early colour from the snowdrops, followed by spring-flowering bulbs and spectacular Japanese flowering cherries; escape the heat under the tree canopy in summer and prepare to be amazed by the outstanding autumn colour! Includes a café, garden centre and gift shop.
Buscot Park, National Trust – Faringdon, SN7 8BU
A late 18th-century house, set in enchanting landscaped grounds.
Other Places to Explore
Bourton on the Water Model Village is the only Model Village in the UK that represents it’s own home in 1/9th scale, and recognised in 2013 by English Heritage as qualifying for Grade II Listed status – giving the attraction protection from any changes as the village accurately reflects life as it was in the 1930s when it was first built.
Motor Museum – Take a fascinating journey through time exploring the history of 20th-century motoring. This collection of rare vehicles and classic memorabilia will give you a nostalgic glimpse into life on the road the way it used to be.
Burford Garden Centre – Burford, OX18 4PA
Burford Garden Co. is a creative destination store for those seeking high quality plants and trees, garden furniture and accessories. There is also Little Burford, a lovely space specifically for children’s things and an award-winning café serving handmade, locally sourced food.