The Cotswolds is one of the UK's most sought-after holiday destinations thanks to its picturesque landscapes, glorious rolling hills and idyllic villages. Marvel at this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in its picture-postcard rural setting – an unspoilt corner of England.
As well as offering plenty to see, there is also a treasure trove of things to do in the Cotswolds. The region’s family-based activities and days out will keep you busy whilst admiring the sights.
From animal attractions to lakes, parks and historic buildings, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to discover the Cotswolds within our collection of guides.
Cottages in the Cotswolds
The best things to do with kids in the Cotswolds
When it comes to Cotswolds things to do for the whole family, you’ll find something for all ages in our informative guide to days out for kids. Including husky sledding tours through the countryside, banana boating on a lake, and bottle-feeding lambs in a farm park, these fun-filled activities are sure to please everyone.
Cotswolds days out for kids
Free things to do in the Cotswolds
We’ve created a list of our favourite free days out in the Cotswolds to keep the whole tribe entertained, so you can relax knowing you have a full itinerary planned that won’t break the bank.
Free things to do in the Cotswolds
Things to do with kids on a rainy day
Unfortunately, even in the Cotswolds, it can’t be sunny all the time. The good news is that there are plenty of wet weather activities and things to do in the Cotswolds on a rainy day too!
Cotswolds rainy day activities
Guide to the Cotswold Water Park and lakes in the Cotswolds
Peppered throughout this bucolic landscape is a series of beautiful, shimmering lakes, rich in wildlife and offering thrilling leisure activities. The Cotswold Water Park is home to 150 of these wonderful bodies of water and boasts a myriad of water sports, including sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, water skiing and wakeboarding – there’s even an inland beach for family bathing.
Lakes in the Cotswolds
The best walks in the Cotswolds
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Cotswolds is by donning your hiking boots and setting off on a countryside ramble. Crisscrossed with a variety of walking trails, you can stroll through chocolate-box villages, explore fascinating heritage sites, and dip in and out of cosy country pubs.
Walks in the Cotswolds
Where to find the best English cream teas in the Cotswolds
If you’re a bit of a foodie, one of the top things to do in the Cotswolds is to sample a traditional cream tea. This quintessential afternoon delight fits in perfectly with the leisurely pace of the Cotswolds, with a tearoom on nearly every corner. Here are some of our favourites.
Cream teas in the Cotswolds
Enjoy a drink in the best pubs in the Cotswolds
Sip a chilled pint in a beer garden with a view, or tuck into a delicious dinner by a warm fire; the Cotswolds is renowned for its atmospheric alehouses.
Best pubs in the Cotswolds
The best dog-friendly pubs in the Cotswolds
Many of the pubs in the Cotswolds also warmly welcome doggie diners, with an array of paw-friendly treats – try these top choices.
Dog-friendly pubs in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds' best hidden gems
Discover some of the best things to do in the Cotswolds, that only the locals know about, with our guide to some of its hidden gems. Including secret gardens, lesser-known festivals and Insta-worthy photo opportunities, these ideas are sure to make your holiday in the Cotswolds even more memorable.
Cotswold hidden gems
The prettiest Cotswold villages to visit
Defined by its honey-hued cottages adorned in rose climbers and wisteria, it’s no surprise that the Cotswolds is home to some of the prettiest villages in the UK. We’ve chosen some of the most enchanting to visit, with handy suggestions of things to do while you’re there.
Prettiest Cotswold villages
Stay in a cosy cottage in the Cotswolds
With so many fantastic things to do in the Cotswolds, you’ll need somewhere to put your feet up and relax after your endeavours. Click the button below to browse our collection of holiday cottages in the Cotswolds to enjoy the complete experience.
Cotswold cottages