Things to do & places to visit in Cotswolds, United Kingdom

So-called because of the honey-colored stone used to build its villages, the Cotswolds offers visitors the quintessential English experience. The area spans five counties and boasts some of England’s most impressive country houses, castles, and landscapes. Plus, plentiful pubs make it easy to experience authentic English hospitality.

Cotswolds #29 destination in United Kingdom 2023. The average rating score is 4.49 based on 45.6k traveler reviews, of 30 attractions. Timezone: Europe/London, current date and time: Sunday, May 05, 2024, 22:04.

Top things to do (18)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Cotswolds Distillery (2.420 reviews)
- Brilliant tour and tasting
Sunday: 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries

Offering tours at £20 per person when booked directly through our website, the Cotswolds Distillery is the first and only full-scale working craft distillery located within the Cotswolds - a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We lovingly craft single malt whisky, gin and other Outstanding Natural Spirits in our beautiful 4-acre site, all of which can be purchased in our shop onsite. We also have a café serving refreshments and light bites, open seven days a week. VisitEngland 2018 Hidden Gem Accolade. See more..
5.0 Cotswold Falconry Centre (1.089 reviews)
- Just fantastic! A must do!
Sunday: 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas • Zoos

We are open for 2021 from the 17th May until the 14th November. You'll get to see Eagles, Hawks, Owls, Falcons, Vultures, Kites, Caracaras and more. With 150 individual birds from over 60 different species either in their Breeding Aviaries or on the Flying Displays which are held daily at 11.30, 1.30 and 3.00 . You may wish to pre-book one of our popular experiences for that special day out. Cotswold Falconry Centre "More than a Flying Visit" See more..
5.0 Jet Age Museum (621 reviews)
- Fabulous
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Dedicated to the preservation of Gloucestershire's rich aviation heritage, Jet Age Museum is an all-volunteer, registered charity. We tell the story of the Gloster Aircraft Company, focussing on the first Allied jet flight. Our mission is to preserve the past and inspire the future by telling the stories of the people and places that put the County at the forefront of the aerospace industry. See more..
5.0 Chavenage House (502 reviews)
- A fascinating visit
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings

CHAVENAGE HOUSE is a privately owned Elizabethan Manor House open to the public. It has been used as a TV location for many productions and is at present playing Trenwith in the popular Poldark. There is so much more to see and enjoy. Guided tours by members of the family. See more..
5.0 Walks With Hawks (412 reviews)
- An intimate experience with hawks and owls.
Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

We offer a range of packages giving you a rare opportunity to handle and fly a variety of Birds Of Prey here in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire the heart of The Cotswolds. Groups are intentionally kept small, this ensures everyone will get plenty of hands on time with the birds. Max 6 participants, although larger groups catered for on request. Therefore our experiences should not be compared to those found on the discount sites, where groups tend to be very large. Our sessions are designed to give you a more personal experience whether you choose our Hawk Walk, Owl encounter or one of our other packages our aim is to give you some very special memories to cherish. See more..
5.0 Hawkstone Brewery (349 reviews)
- Fantastic couple of hours
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Breweries

Visit and tour the home of 'Hawkstone Lager', produced in partnership with Jeremy Clarkson, which is rapidly becoming one of the nation's favourite premium lagers. Whilst tasting of the range, which includes Kaleb Cooper's 'Hawkstone Cider', you'll learn all about the meticulous processes that go into making each of them 'hard to make, easy to drink'. Head to our website to view available tour dates and reserve your space. You can also visit our on-site bar, the 'Hawkstone Arms', to enjoy fresh pints of Hawkstone alongside food from local pop-up kitchens. See more..
5.0 Cotswolds Distillery (2.420 reviews)
- Brilliant tour and tasting
Sunday: 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries

Offering tours at £20 per person when booked directly through our website, the Cotswolds Distillery is the first and only full-scale working craft distillery located within the Cotswolds - a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We lovingly craft single malt whisky, gin and other Outstanding Natural Spirits in our beautiful 4-acre site, all of which can be purchased in our shop onsite. We also have a café serving refreshments and light bites, open seven days a week. VisitEngland 2018 Hidden Gem Accolade. See more..
5.0 Cotswold Falconry Centre (1.089 reviews)
- Just fantastic! A must do!
Sunday: 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas • Zoos

We are open for 2021 from the 17th May until the 14th November. You'll get to see Eagles, Hawks, Owls, Falcons, Vultures, Kites, Caracaras and more. With 150 individual birds from over 60 different species either in their Breeding Aviaries or on the Flying Displays which are held daily at 11.30, 1.30 and 3.00 . You may wish to pre-book one of our popular experiences for that special day out. Cotswold Falconry Centre "More than a Flying Visit" See more..
4.5 Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens (4.248 reviews)
- Lovely day out
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Zoos

Closer to Wildlife! Stroll around the Park discovering over 260 different animal species in 160 acres of beautiful parkland and stunning gardens. Get eye-to-eye with Giraffe, walk with Lemurs in our Madagascar exhibit and watch Rhinos graze in front of the Gothic listed Manor House, with only a ha-ha in between you. Take a ride on Bella the Train around the Park or let the kids explore the adventure playground. Have lunch in our restaurant or picnic on our spacious lawns. Pet the goats in the Farmyard or watch the Penguins being fed (daily at 11am & 3pm). If your're brave take a peek in our Reptile house with Crocodiles, venomous snakes and lizards or watch the bats flying around in the Bat house or see the creepy crawlies in the Insect House. Stroll around our Walled Garden with Meerkats, Otters, Prairie Dogs, Penguins and Tropical House with free-roaming Sloths, bats and birds. The glorious garden make a beautiful backdrop to the animals. See more..
4.5 Gloucester Cathedral (3.626 reviews)
- A must, even if it won't be for Harry Potter
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Architectural Buildings • Churches & Cathedrals

Very impressive architecture, beautiful stain-glass windows, intriguing whisperers corridor with good top views of the ground floor and ceiling's decorations. Plenty of information on the signs provided. The cloisters are another piece or art, really worth visiting, no wonder they were used in the Harry Potter film! One question for the Church of England: it's not the first time when we visited a cathedral where they say "free entry", but you are asked for a £5 "suggested donation", well then it is not really free is it? A donation is made by a free will and not in this way. Why aren't you honest and leave it as "entrance fee"? See more..
4.5 Birdland (2.254 reviews)
- Great day for young children
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas

Discover an amazing world of birds and their Jurassic ancestors on your day out in the Cotswolds. 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. See more..
4.5 Hidcote Manor Garden (2.104 reviews)
- Beautiful garden, long queues at cafe so take your own picnic!
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens

Hidcote is a world-famous Arts and Crafts-inspired garden nestled in a North Cotswold hamlet, created by passionate plantsman and talented designer, Major Lawrence Johnston. Covering an area of 10.5 acres the garden takes visitors on a journey through intimate formal areas revealing a different atmosphere or new vista at every turn. Smaller, more formal garden ‘rooms’ near the house, give way to more natural areas that blend in with the surrounding countryside further away. There is a central axis running from East to West and another North to South, forming corridors off which the garden rooms can be found, each one with its own character and personality. Using Hidcote as a ‘blank canvas’, Lawrence Johnston designed the garden in phases from 1907 to 1938. He furnished borders with newly discovered plants and exotic rarities gathered during plant hunting expeditions from around the world. See more..
4.5 Gloucester Docks (2.052 reviews)
- Tall Ships
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas

We came for the 'Tall Ships' event. It was excellent, despite the usual farce of a council trying to sell tickets which didn't scan or arriving for a time period we'd booked but didn't exist when we arrived. The 'Greyhound' boat was by far the best. It apparently featured in 'Pirates Of The Caribbean' and had several friendly pirates on board, who were brilliant with our children. It even fired a cannon ball every so often! The Food Festival was really good too on the day we were there. We bought a lot of items for a fiver or less and they were delicious (the scones and scratchings in particular). Parking can be pricey if you don't use a third party site like JustPark or YourParkingSpace. Definitely worth doing if you are in the area and the Tall Ships event is on. See more..
4.5 Cotswold Motoring Museum (2.036 reviews)
- Lovely museum
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Speciality Museums

Located in the picturesque village of Bourton on the Water, the Cotswold Motoring Museum is a fascinating journey through the 20th century that the whole family can enjoy. The Museum is bulging with great cars, quaint caravans, precarious looking motorcycles, enamel signs and an intriguing collection of motoring curiosities! Brum, the BBC TV's little super hero car whose adventures start and end at the museum can be found here every day. See more..
4.5 Sudeley Castle (1.983 reviews)
- Day trip to Sudely castle
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Castles

Re-designed and refurbished exhibitions telling the story of Sudeley's royal past, Castle rooms, romantic ruins, award-winning gardens and 1000 years of fascinating history are among the many reasons to visit Sudeley Castle & Gardens, which nestles in the Cotswold Hills in the historic town of Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, 8 miles from Broadway. Sudeley is the only privately owned home in England to have a Queen (Katherine Parr, Henry VIII's sixth and last wife) buried within the grounds. With a new visitor route for 2018 which includes Castle rooms - some never before opened to the public, completely re-designed exhibitions, plus a restaurant serving delicious lunches, café, shop, play and picnic area, children's Adventure Playground (voted best in Gloucestershire), Pheasantry and a packed programme of events throughout the season, there is something for everyone at this must-see Cotswolds attraction. See more..
4.5 Tewkesbury Abbey (1.911 reviews)
- Medieval, but in a good way
Sunday: 8:45 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

Very interesting visit. The staff are very informative, you get a free leaflet guide and there is also information dotted around the abbey. The decoration on the ceiling bosses is particular unusual. The recommended donation is £10 and you can donate by cash or card easily on your way in or out. See more..
4.5 Cotswold Farm Park (1.614 reviews)
- 10/10
Sunday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Farms

Sitting in the heart of the Cotswolds, Cotswold Farm Park has a long-standing reputation for a fun-filled day out. Visitors of all ages can interact closely with the animals and learn about farming, past and present. As the home of rare breed conservation, visitors can meet over 50 flocks and herds of farm animals, including Gloucestershire Old Spot Pigs and Highland cattle. The indoor barns can be enjoyed all year round, as they are undercover and protected from the elements. With an adventure playground, Tractor School, Sand pits and Jumping pillows, there’s lots of entertainment for children of all ages. The on-site restaurant, serving seasonal food and Adam’s own beer, is a hit with the adults. There’s plenty to offer outside the Farm Park too. Experience the stunning diversity of animals and plants by completing the two mile Wildlife walk, or extend your stay by booking a pitch on the campsite. We hope to see you soon! See more..
4.5 WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre (1.469 reviews)
- Fantastic day out
Sunday: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre is a multi-award winning visitor attraction set within 800 acres of wild reserve. WWT Slimbridge has a Gold accreditation from Visit England and received a silver award for Accessibility and Inclusion at the South West Tourism Awards. The centre consists of a collection of birds, mammals, amphibians, play areas, restaurant, gift shop and several interactive conservation exhibits including a walk through aviary, theatre, museum and accommodation. There is a nature reserve and for keen bird watchers there are several bird hides including the accessible Estuary Tower with stunning views across the Severn Estuary. WWT Slimbridge offers a fantastic day out for all the family. There are events and activities running throughout the year including canoe safari in the summer. WWT (Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust) is the leading wetland conservation charity. We’re working to create a world where healthy wetland nature thrives and enriches lives. See more..
4.5 Castle Combe Village (1.372 reviews)
- Picturesque Village
Historic Walking Areas

Pretty little village. We visited late afternoon, very few people around so very peaceful & good opportunities for photographs. We also walked along the Macmillan Way, which you can join at the lower end of the village, on the left past the public toilets, take the little bridge over the Bybrook river. This was very pleasant & helped to make more of our visit. No parking in the village but there is a good size free carpark at the top end of the village. See more..
4.5 Batsford Arboretum (1.346 reviews)
- Lovely
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Gardens

Home to one of the largest private tree collections in the country, Batsford Arboretum offers visitors year round interest - from lush, spring colour provided by the beautiful Japanese flowering cherries to autumn’s spectacular natural fireworks display. Wander along 56 acres of wild gardens, paths and streams, enjoy stunning views across the Evenlode Valley and discover the beautiful oriental-influenced statues hidden in glades around the grounds.Freshly-baked food available all day in the Garden Terrace Café; Beautiful, quality plants, gifts and garden sundries and expert gardening advice. See more..
4.5 Highgrove Gardens (1.104 reviews)
- Lovely gardens, expensive tea room
Spent More than 3 hours Gardens

Highgrove is the private residence of TRH The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall. Its organic gardens are open to the public for guided tours between April and October each year. Tickets must be booked in advance. See more..
4.5 Montpellier District (922 reviews)
- Stunning architecture
Neighborhoods

Cheltenham is stunning and this area is exceptional. So many fine architecturally beautiful buildings which are often best viewed from across the street. It obviously costs nothing to have a stroll around and would be a shame not to take in some of this elegant architecture coupled with green mini park areas as obviously many of these houses would not have had gardens. See more..
4.5 Arlington Row (894 reviews)
- Great now it isn't so busy
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Architectural Buildings

This place was becoming unbearable with the sheer volume of coaches visiting packed out with Far Eastern tourists. This unfortunately involved big parties shouting and waving flags whilst offensively taking pictures of anything and anyone last time I visited including children. This must have been terrible for those living there. There is now, despite it being in the summer holidays, a serene calm with a much more manageable number of tourists from all over the world who on the whole were respecting the area. I even saw a water vole which was great to see. See more..
4.5 Berkeley Castle (876 reviews)
- Fantastic Bank Holiday day out.
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Castles

This intriguing castle has been the home of the Berkeley family for more than 850 years. It has been used a filming location for many period dramas, including the BBC's Wolf Hall, Galavant and The White Princess. It was the last place of residence of King Edward II, who was imprisoned in the castle and murdered within its walls. The Castle is open from Easter until the end of October, from Sunday until Wednesday each week. A visit to the 'Hideout at Berkeley Castle' coffee shop is also a must! Please check our website for details open days and hours - we are always closed on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. See more..
4.5 Pittville Park (876 reviews)
- Certainly not the pitts
Parks

A wonderful park that is full of life. There is a nice walk around the lake which is full of swans and ducks. The last time we visited there seemed to be an organised mother and baby pram push - about a dozen. It was very popular with dog walkers and grandparents with toddlers taking advantage of a fabulous playground area - there were also cages with rabbits and birds to keep their interest. Making the most of a heavily populated area was the cafe hut which was working overtime at 11am. A lovely couple of hours stroll. See more..
4.5 Corinium Museum (837 reviews)
- Fascinating
Sunday: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

The Corinium Museum is located at the heart of Cirencester the 'Capital of the Cotswolds'. Its principal collection consists of the highly significant finds from the Roman town of Corinium. However the museum today is much more than that, taking the visitor on a journey through time and charting the development of the Cotswolds from its prehistoric landscape to the modern day. The light and modern galleries offer the visitor an exceptional interactive experience. The museum is renowned for its learning provision, with an education centre and temporary exhibition space that ensure a vibrant, changing programme of events and activities for everyone to enjoy. See more..
4.5 The Dragonfly Maze (809 reviews)
- A fun filled activity for all the family, including the dog.
Amusement & Theme Parks

A traditional yew hedge maze but with a twist! At The Dragonfly Maze, instead of simply trying to find your way to the centre you have to find the 14 clues dotted around our pathways. Only then will you be able to discover the Golden Dragonfly hidden inside the ornate central pavilion. Great fun whether you are 5 or 75.Been to visit us before?Then ask about our extra puzzle!Do our "Village Trail" around Bourton (£1)Take a walk around our beautiful village picking up clues along the way. If you can answer our hidden question come back to us to claim your "Village Genius" sticker! PRICES ADULT £4.50; SENIOR £4; CHILD (4-14) £3.50; Under 4yrs free; FAMILY TICKET 2 ADULTS 2 CHILDREN £15. Check out The Dragonfly Maze Facebook page for up to date info - especially COVID-19 restrictions. See more..
4.5 Chastleton House and Garden (672 reviews)
- Absolutely charming
Historic Sites

Completed in 1612, this is one of the finest and most complete Jacobean houses in England, with scenic gardens and a topiary that are truly Jacobean and Elizabethan in style. See more..
4.5 Parish Church of St John Baptist (592 reviews)
- A must to visit
Spent 1-2 hours Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

A fascinating building with many stories to tell. Beautifully constructed with lots of add ins over the centuries Unfortunately with Covid restrictions you can’t enter the chapels but you can see in Lovely stained glass windows dating from all periods. Don’t forget Ann Boleyns challis A must for a visit See more..
4.5 Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens (4.248 reviews)
- Lovely day out
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Zoos

Closer to Wildlife! Stroll around the Park discovering over 260 different animal species in 160 acres of beautiful parkland and stunning gardens. Get eye-to-eye with Giraffe, walk with Lemurs in our Madagascar exhibit and watch Rhinos graze in front of the Gothic listed Manor House, with only a ha-ha in between you. Take a ride on Bella the Train around the Park or let the kids explore the adventure playground. Have lunch in our restaurant or picnic on our spacious lawns. Pet the goats in the Farmyard or watch the Penguins being fed (daily at 11am & 3pm). If your're brave take a peek in our Reptile house with Crocodiles, venomous snakes and lizards or watch the bats flying around in the Bat house or see the creepy crawlies in the Insect House. Stroll around our Walled Garden with Meerkats, Otters, Prairie Dogs, Penguins and Tropical House with free-roaming Sloths, bats and birds. The glorious garden make a beautiful backdrop to the animals. See more..