The Ultimate Cotswolds Family Adventure: Things to Do with Kids This Summer

Animal adventures: Cotswold zoos, farms & feathered friends

If your children are animal lovers or curious explorers, the Cotswolds is bursting with opportunities to get up close to all sorts of furry, feathered and fantastic creatures. Whether it's meeting exotic animals at the Cotswold Wildlife Park, feeding friendly farm residents at Cotswold Farm Park, or spotting ducks by the water at Cotswold Country Park & Beach, there's no shortage of wild encounters to make their summer unforgettable.

These attractions blend outdoor fun with educational experiences, perfect for keeping young minds entertained and engaged all holiday long:

Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

Address: Burford, OX18 4JP

Set in 160 acres of picturesque parkland near Burford in Oxfordshire, Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens offers a unique blend of zoological and botanical experiences. Home to over 260 species of animals from around the globe - including majestic giraffes, endangered white rhinos, lively lemurs, and exotic reptiles - the park provides an up-close look at wildlife in spacious, thoughtfully designed enclosures.

Visitors of all ages can explore the Park's themed exhibits, such as the Madagascar walkthrough and the Tropical House, home to sloths, bats, and a vibrant array of birds. Children will especially enjoy the adventure playground, the engaging daily animal talks and feeding sessions, and the popular narrow-gauge railway that winds through the park from spring to autumn.

The park is equally celebrated for its beautifully maintained gardens, which range from formal borders to wildflower meadows and tropical planting schemes. Seasonal blooms, rare trees, and carefully curated horticultural displays make it a haven for plant lovers as well. There are numerous picnic spots throughout the grounds, as well as a café serving locally sourced meals and refreshments.

Whether you're interested in conservation, looking for a family day out, or simply want to enjoy the outdoors in a tranquil setting, Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens offers something for all the family.

Why Cotswold Wildlife Park is great for toddlers (ages 1 to 3)

• Close-up animal encounters: With low fencing and open viewing areas, even the littlest explorers can get a good look at penguins, meerkats, and farm animals
• Farmyard petting area: Perfect for tiny hands - toddlers love meeting goats, sheep, and pigs up close
• Miniature railway: A gentle, fun ride around part of the park that's ideal for short attention spans
• Pushchair-friendly: Wide paths and flat terrain make it easy for parents to navigate with strollers

Why Cotswold Wildlife Park is great for younger children (ages 4 to 7)

• Adventure playground: A well-equipped play area with slides, climbing frames, and swings to burn off some energy
• Interactive animal talks and feeding times: Keep kids engaged with short, child-friendly sessions run by knowledgeable keepers
• Train ride + animal spotting: Younger kids love combining the thrill of a train ride with spotting zebras, rhinos, and lemurs

Why Cotswold Wildlife Park is great for older children (ages 8 to 12)

• Fascinating animal exhibits: From majestic lions to reptiles and tropical birds, older kids enjoy learning about the variety of species and their habitats
• Education centre & trails: There are wildlife trails and educational boards throughout the park that feed curious minds
• Freedom to explore: The Park's safe, spacious layout means older children can roam a bit more independently while staying in view

Why Cotswold Wildlife Park is great for teenagers (ages 13+)

• Instagram-worthy animals and gardens: From giraffes in front of a gothic manor house to the beautifully landscaped gardens, the park is full of striking photo opportunities that appeal to teens keen on capturing great content
• Unusual and exotic species: Teenagers tend to appreciate the more unusual animals - think white rhinos, Komodo dragons, clouded leopards, and giant tortoises. It's educational, but in a way that still feels cool and surprising
• Space to relax or wander: The expansive grounds mean teens can have a bit of freedom to explore at their own pace, without feeling like they're stuck on a 'little kids' day out
• Café and picnic areas: Perfect spots to hang out, grab a snack, or chill while the rest of the family catches up

Please note: Cotswold Wildlife Park offerings and facilities may be subject to change.

More details: Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

Cotswold Farm Park

Address: Guiting Power, GL54 5FL

Founded by Adam Henson, this farm park showcases over 50 rare and traditional breeds of farm animals. Children can feed and interact with the animals, enjoy tractor rides, and explore the adventure playground. The park also offers glamping and camping options for families looking to extend their stay.

Why Cotswold Farm Park is great for toddlers (ages 1 to 3)

• Animal Barns: Little ones can meet and touch gentle farm animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, lambs, and chicks.
• Soft Play & Toddler Areas: Designated soft play zones and smaller play equipment make it a safe and engaging space for younger kids.
• Tractor Rides: A calm, slow-paced ride around the farm that toddlers will love - especially with all the animals to spot.
• Pushchair-friendly paths and plenty of indoor/outdoor seating areas help make life easier for parents.

Why Cotswold Farm Park is great for younger children (ages 4 to 7)

• Daily animal feeding and demonstrations: Young children love the hands-on experience of bottle-feeding lambs or watching piglets at feeding time.
• Adventure Playground: Includes jumping pillows, pedal tractors, sandpits, and climbing frames - perfect for energetic kids.
• Seasonal activities: From lambing season in spring to pumpkin picking in autumn, there?s always something special going on.

Why Cotswold Farm Park is great for older children (ages 8 to 12)

• Rare Breed Trail: Older kids will enjoy learning about British farm animals and following the trail around the paddocks.
• Wildlife Walk: This nature trail winds through fields and woodlands, offering a taste of the countryside beyond the farmyard.
• Interactive displays: Educational yet engaging - children can find out how farms work, how food is produced, and what conservation means.

Why Cotswold Farm Park is great for teenagers (ages 13+)

• Behind-the-scenes education: For teens interested in agriculture, conservation, or animals, the park offers a deeper insight into sustainable farming.
• Photography opportunities: The scenic views, rustic farm scenes, and animal encounters offer loads of content for teens into photography or social media.
• Seasonal events and farm experiences: Teenagers may enjoy helping during lambing season or learning through practical workshops.
• Café and relaxed areas: With a good café and plenty of space, teens who prefer to chill can find their own pace while the younger siblings run around.

More details: Cotswold Farm Park

Cotswold Falconry Centre

Address: Batsford, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9AT

Home to around 150 birds of prey, this centre offers daily flying demonstrations where children can learn about these majestic birds. The centre is located next to Batsford Arboretum, allowing for a combined nature experience.

More details: Cotswold Falconry Centre

Birdland Park & Gardens

Address: Rissington Rd, Bourton-on-the-Water, GL54 2BN

This park features over 500 birds, including flamingos, penguins, and pelicans. Children can explore the Jurassic Journey, a dinosaur-themed area with life-sized models, and enjoy the interactive play areas.

More details: Birdland Park & Gardens

Fairytale Farm

Address: Southcombe, Chipping Norton, OX7 5QH

An inclusive attraction blending fairy tales with farm animals. Children can interact with animals, enjoy sensory gardens, and explore themed play areas. The farm also offers indoor play zones for rainy days.

More details: Fairytale Farm

All Things Wild

Address: Station Road, Honeybourne, Near Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 7QZ.

A nature centre featuring animal walkthroughs, a soft play barn, and a dinosaur-themed area with life-sized models. Ideal for younger children, the centre offers interactive exhibits and seasonal events.

Bibury Trout Farm

One of England's oldest working trout farms, visitors can feed the fish, try fishing, and explore the picturesque village of Bibury. The farm offers a tranquil setting for families to enjoy nature.

Address: Bibury, near Cirencester, GL7 5NL

More details: Bibury Trout Farm

Chipping Norton Lido

Address: Chipping Norton

Nestled in the heart of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, Chipping Norton Lido is a cherished community-run outdoor swimming pool that offers a delightful escape during the summer months. Featuring a 25-metre heated swimming pool and a toddler-friendly paddling pool, it caters to swimmers of all ages and abilities.

More details: Chippy Lido

The great outdoors

The Cotswolds isn't just about picture-perfect villages and rolling hills - it's also a haven for outdoor family fun.

If you're visiting the Cotswolds with children, there's no shortage of fresh-air adventures to keep everyone entertained. From splashing around at Cotswold Country Park and Beach to discovering wildlife, nature trails, and open-air play areas, the region offers a wide range of attractions designed to engage curious young minds and burn off some energy.

Whether you're planning a sunny summer day out or looking for wide-open spaces to explore year-round, these outdoor spots are sure to delight kids of all ages.

Cotswold Country Park & Beach

Address: Spratsgate Lane, Shorncote, Cirencester, GL7 6DF

This park offers a sandy beach, pedal boat rentals, and an inflatable water obstacle course. Children can also enjoy the playgrounds and picnic areas. The park is a great spot for a family day out during the warmer months.

More details: Cotswold Country Park & Beach

Cotswold Lakes

Spanning over 150 lakes, the Cotswold Lakes (previously known as the Cotswold Water Park) park offers activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and nature walks. Children can explore the various trails and enjoy birdwatching in this expansive natural area.

Address: Various locations across Gloucestershire and Wiltshire.

Indoor rainy day activities for children in the Cotswolds

Don't let the rain spoil your family fun in the Cotswolds! Here are some excellent indoor attractions to keep the kids entertained and dry:

Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (various stations, e.g., Toddington, Winchcombe, Broadway)

All aboard for a magical journey! This heritage railway offers a delightful experience entirely within the warm, dry confines of classic train carriages. Kids love the rumble and whistle of the steam engine as you chug through the picturesque countryside. Many stations also have small indoor exhibits, gift shops, or discovery coaches (like at Winchcombe) to explore, adding to the indoor time.

Soft Play Centres

When energy needs to be burned, soft play is the answer. These purpose-built centres are entirely indoors and offer hours of climbing, sliding, and exploring.

Rugrats and Halfpints, Cirencester

Address: Meadow Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire. GL7 1YA

Rugrats and Halfpints is a popular multi-level centre with dedicated areas for different age groups, ensuring safe and exciting fun for everyone.

Wacky Warehouse at the Strawberry Field

Address: Charity Crescent, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 2UT

Get ready for an adventure the whole family will love at Wacky Warehouse! While your little explorers conquer our fantastic soft play area, you can kick back and relax with a refreshing drink. Got a tiny tot? Jump right into the fun with them and create some precious memories. The friendly Wacky Warehouse team is always on hand, ensuring a safe, fun, and entertaining experience for kids of all ages. It's the perfect spot for family fun, guaranteed to put a smile on everyone's face!

Crocodiles of the World (Brize Norton)

Address: Burford Road, Brize Norton, Oxfordshire, OX18 3NX

Prepare for an exciting encounter with some incredible reptiles! This unique attraction is the UK's only crocodile zoo, and all the viewing is from comfortable indoor spaces. You'll see various species of crocodiles, alligators, caimans, and other fascinating creatures in their naturalistic indoor enclosures. They also offer informative talks and feeding demonstrations throughout the day, making for an educational and thrilling visit.

Stroud Bowl

Address: Top Floor, Five Valleys Shopping Centre, Stroud, Gloucestershire, GL5 1QA

A classic family favourite for a reason, bowling is a fantastic indoor activity for all ages. Stroud Bowl offers multiple lanes, arcades for extra fun, and a diner for snacks and drinks. It's a great way to enjoy some friendly competition and stay warm and dry for hours on a gloomy day.

Historical and cultural gems in the Cotswolds

Step back in time and spark your children's imaginations with a journey through the Cotswolds' rich history and heritage. From the grandeur of Blenheim Palace to the medieval magic of Sudeley Castle, there's plenty to captivate curious young minds. Interactive museums like the Cotswold Motoring Museum bring the past to life with vintage vehicles and nostalgic treasures, while places like Cogges Manor Farm offer hands-on experiences that show what rural life was like centuries ago. It's history made fun-and perfect for a summer day out the whole family will enjoy.

Blenheim Palace

Address: Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1PP

The birthplace of Winston Churchill, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers beautiful gardens, a maze, and family-friendly events. Children can explore the vast grounds and learn about history in an engaging setting.

Why Blenheim Palace is great for toddlers (ages 1 to 3)

• Walled Garden Play Area: This enclosed space includes toddler-friendly play equipment, sand pits, and soft surfaces.
• Miniature Train Ride: A short ride from the palace to the Walled Garden is always a hit with little ones.
• Wide open spaces: Perfect for toddling around safely with views of lakes, sheep, and the grand palace.
• Baby-changing facilities and buggy-friendly paths make it easy for parents to enjoy the day.

Why Blenheim Palace is great for younger children (ages 4 to 7)

• Adventure Playground: Swings, slides, climbing frames, and a large sandpit provide hours of entertainment.
• Butterfly House (seasonal): A magical experience for little ones who want to get up close to tropical butterflies.
• Interactive family trails: Specially designed to keep young children engaged while walking through the palace gardens and parkland.
• Palace Dress-up & Storytelling Days: Look out for themed events where kids can dress in period costume and enjoy live storytelling.

Why Blenheim Palace is great for older children (ages 8 to 13)

• Exploration and History Trails: Kids this age will enjoy the challenge of family trails around the palace and grounds, often with fun puzzles and hidden facts to discover.
• Historical intrigue: The palace rooms and Churchill exhibition can spark curiosity in older children, especially those interested in World War II or grand stately homes.
• Boating on the lake (seasonal): Row boats or paddle boats are available during warmer months - a fun way for kids to enjoy the great outdoors.
• Woodland Walks and Hidden Sculptures: A great way to burn off energy and keep the adventure going beyond the main attractions.

Why Blenheim Palace is great for teenagers (ages 13+)

• Instagram-worthy scenery: Between the stunning architecture, landscaped gardens, and lakeside views, teens will find plenty to photograph and share.
• Churchill Exhibition: Older teens may appreciate the detailed displays and historic significance of Blenheim Palace as Winston Churchill's birthplace.
• Cultural events and festivals: From outdoor cinema nights to food festivals and light trails, there are seasonal events that appeal to teenagers.
• Freedom to roam: With over 2,000 acres of parkland, teenagers can explore walking routes, formal gardens, and woodlands at their own pace.

Top Tip for Families: If visiting with kids of mixed ages, plan your day to include both structured time (such as a short palace tour or trail) and plenty of free play in the Walled Garden or Adventure Playground. Bring a picnic or visit one of the cafés with family-friendly menus.

More details: Blenheim Palace

Sudeley Castle

Address: Winchcombe, GL54 5LP

A historic castle with beautiful gardens and interactive exhibits for children. The castle offers a glimpse into royal history and provides various family activities throughout the year.

More details: Sudeley Castle and Gardens

Lacock Abbey & Village

Address: Lacock

A picturesque village and abbey featured in the Harry Potter films. Children can explore the abbey's cloisters and the village's quaint shops, making it a magical experience for fans of the series.

Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection

Address: The Old Mill, Bourton-on-the-Water, GL54 2BY

Showcases vintage cars, caravans, and toys from the 20th century. Children can admire classic vehicles and play with antique toys, offering a nostalgic experience for all ages.

More details: Cotswold Motoring Museum

The Model Village, Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2AF

Address: Bourton-on-the-Water

A 1:9 scale model of Bourton-on-the-Water, allowing visitors to explore a miniature version of the village. Children can marvel at the intricate details and learn about the history of the area.

More details: Bourton Model Village

Cirencester Corinium Museum

Address: Park Street, Cirencester, GL7 2BX

Explore Roman history with interactive exhibits, including a life-size Roman soldier and mosaic-making activities. The museum offers a hands-on experience for children to learn about ancient civilizations.

More details: Corinium Museum, Cirencester

Painswick Rococo Garden

Address: Painswick

A historical garden with a maze and seasonal children's trails. Ideal for a leisurely family stroll, the garden offers a glimpse into 18th-century landscape design.

More details: Painswick Rococo Garden

Snowshill Manor & Garden

Address: Snowshill

A 16th-century manor featuring an eclectic collection and beautiful gardens. Children can explore hidden house mechanisms and the Arts and Crafts garden, offering a unique experience.

Cogges Manor Farm

Address: Witney

Experience farm life with Shetland ponies, pygmy goats, and Oxford Sandy and Black pigs. Children can participate in animal feeding and play in the farmyard, providing an interactive learning environment.

Your Cotswolds Family Bucket List

From animal encounters to historical explorations, from outdoor adventures to creative workshops, the Cotswolds offers a diverse range of activities to keep your family entertained this summer. Whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement, there's something for everyone in this charming region.

So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for a summer of unforgettable memories in the Cotswolds!