Things to do

The Cotswold Visitor Attractions explored...

With no theme parks or long queues for 'rides', the Cotswolds is a restful sort of place where time slips away happily and a Blackberry is something that you make jam with.

But don't think there's nothing to do. A typical day in the Cotswolds will see visitors enjoying everything from Archery to Zorbing. Our attractions are real, inspirational places run by passionate people. A number of our attractions are accredited by the Green Tourism Business Scheme. Click here for more information on being green in the Cotswolds and here to find out more about our accredited attractions.

Gardens...

Cotswold gardens are an English icon and a visit to one of the larger garden attractions is essential. The major Cotswold gardens bring visitors from all over the country but should also be explored alongside a smaller garden where, chances are, you'll meet the owner and pick up ideas for your own garden. There's an eccentric feel too, at gardens such as Painswick Rococo Garden (the only surviving Rococo garden). Famous for wonderful displays of snowsdrops in January and February, the Rococo Garden is set in a hidden Cotswold valley with outstanding views of the surrounding countryside.

...and other great days out

The Cotswolds area has a reputation for quirky visitor attractions. Arts and crafts family attractions, wildlife, museums and historic houses are each well covered. Examples such as the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust at Slimbridge have a way of charming you unexpectedly - and converting the vaguely curious visitor into enthusiasts.

Movie Map

Why not take a day or two to explore the locations of our Movie Map? We have put together a downloadable guide to the TV & film locations in the Cotswolds, along with snippets of information about our resident celebrities, past & present.

Activities

Our activities fame is built on walking, cycling and the great outdoors in general. But we've a few twists to add, not least as a centre of horse excellence, and an area with a first class cricket side, a sublime rugby team and a scattering of friendly, unpretentious golf clubs. There's a good range of weirder and more adventurous options too.

If you are looking to learn a new skill, look no further than the Farncombe Estate Centre, based in the beautiful north Cotswolds. The centre offers leisure breaks, day courses and other events all year round, with subjects ranging from Art to Zen!

Shopping

There are some great quirky shops in the area from chocolate makers to butchers. You'll find the biggest concentration of antique shops outside London and a vast selection of wonderful farm and craft shops. If every High Street looks the same to you, shopping in the Cotswolds is a pleasure with surprises at every turn.