If you’re holidaying in the Cotswolds this half term, you can rest assured you certainly won’t run out of things to do – no matter what the weather throws at you! The region is a hive of attractions for families, with plenty to keep the kids off the screens and thoroughly entertained.
Bourton-on-the-Water | GL54 2AY
Just a five-minute walk from the centre of Bourton-on-the-Water is Birdland: home to one of the largest collections of exotic birds in the UK. Exhibits include birds of prey, rare breeds, waterfowl and an incredible ‘Out of Africa’ exhibit, where you can meet hornbills, village weavers and more.
Birdland also boasts England’s only breeding group of King Penguins and an awe-inspiring homage to the ancestors of birds: the Jurassic Journey zone, in which you will discover life-sized dinosaurs amongst the trees. It’s all set within nine acres of picturesque gardens and woodland, with a children’s play area, on-site café and plenty of picnic spots making it a full day of fun.
Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
Nr. Burford | OX18 4JP
Set in 160 acres of parkland around a listed Victorian Manor House, Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens has been wowing families since 1970. It’s home to a hugely diverse range of animals, many of which are endangered in the wild. But what makes this place unique is the uninterrupted views it offers of the animals – the clever landscaping and carefully considered enclosures make it seem as if you’re viewing the animals in a wild setting. There’s something really special about watching the rhinos graze in front of the spectacular manor house.
The beautiful gardens are just as much of a talking point and will delight anyone with a passion for horticulture. There’s a daily schedule of keeper talks, a fantastic adventure playground and a wide choice of refreshments in the restaurant. Dogs are welcome too!
Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park
Guiting Power | GL54 5FL
The family business of Countryfile favourite Adam Henson, the Cotswold Farm Park has always been passionate about the conservation of rare breeds. As a result, you’ll be able to get up close and personal with over 50 breeds of rare and commercial farm animals.
There’s an extensive programme of seasonal events throughout the year, including a pumpkin patch in autumn, lambing in the spring and an unmissable maize maze throughout the summer. It’s well worth checking out the website to see what’s on when you’re planning to visit.
Gloucester Ski and Snowboard Centre
Gloucester | GL4 6EA
This adrenalin-filled centre boasts the longest ski slope in England and gives you access to recreational skiing runs, snowboarding lessons and tubes – large inflatable rings that spin and can be linked together to slide down the slopes! You can visit for some one-off fun, or book coaching sessions to brush up your skills.
Lydiard Park | SN5 3PA
Got a head for heights? You’ll love Jungle Parc! Located in historic parkland on the edge of Swindon, this action-packed day out features a children’s Adventurer Course with over 50 different activities suitable for little tree climbers aged four and up. For bigger kids (age 10+) and adventurous adults, the Xplorer Course includes over 50 challenging activities suspended in the tree canopy.
When you’ve come back down to earth, you can also pay a visit to Lydiard House for a stroll around the walled garden, a visit to the tearooms or a stomp through its 260 acres of parkland. Dogs are welcome!
Still searching for a half-term staycation that will keep the whole family happy? We have some last-minute availability in our luxurious lakeside lodges at Watermark – the perfect holiday homes from which to experience the best of the Cotswolds.
Contact us now and we’ll help you plan your perfect getaway.
