A selection of unusual things to do in the Cotswolds

Spooky ghost tours at Woodchester Mansion near Nympsfield

Woodchester Mansion, hidden away close to the Cotswold village of Nympsfield, offers a spine-chilling experience for the paranormal inclined. Renowned for its rich spiritual manifestations, it's a must-visit for those seeking out some ghostly adventures.

Spiritual encounters at this unfinished Gothic masterpiece include a diverse cast of apparitions, from a young girl and woman to a mysterious short man, possibly a stonemason, and even an American airman. Visitors report hearing eerie sounds like a girl singing, 1940s music playing as well as the scent of recently extinguished candles in the chapel. Mysterious phenomena such as floating heads, horsemen on the drive and unexplained lights further contribute to the Mansion's enigmatic aura.

Photographs taken within the Mansion have, at times, captured ghostly figures or orbs believed to be manifestations of psychic energy or departed loved ones. These unexplained phenomena all add to the Mansion's reputation for the unusual.

You'll find a host of companies online offering paranormal experiences at the Mansion, providing various dates, group sizes and prices. A quick Google search will help you out but if not then use the links below:

• https://www.woodchestermansion.org.uk/hiring-the-mansion/paranormal-events-at-the-mansion/
• https://www.haunted-houses.co.uk/ghost-hunt/woodchester-mansion/
• https://www.hauntedhappenings.co.uk/woodchester-mansion/

Guided by knowledgeable tour guides armed with paranormal investigation tools like EMF meters and Ouija boards, tour participants can delve into the mansion's history of spooky occurrences.

A Ghost Tour at Woodchester Mansion offers a memorable and spooky night for those seeking the unknown.

Cider tours in the Cotswolds

Most of us would equate traditional cider making and cidery tours to the county of Somerset but did you know you can get a Cider Tour in the Cotswolds? We didn't know this… well, not until recently!

If you're after something a little unusual then visiting Dunkertons Organic Cider in Cheltenham is a delightful experience from start to finish. Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, this cidery offers superb, guided tours and tastings that provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of organic cider production.

On arrival you'll receive a warm welcome from some very knowledgeable guides who are genuinely passionate about their cider-making. You'll go on a journey from bud to bottle, with employees explaining how they craft their award-winning cider. You'll see where the magic happens - from pressing the apples to fermenting, hand-blending and finally bottling the cider. It's a hands-on experience that truly immerses you in the art of cider making.

If you book a Cider and Cheese Tour you'll be treated to a tasting of three different award-winning ciders, each expertly paired with organic cheeses; with the flavours of the cider complementing the cheeses in ways you might not imagine.

The tour lasts around 1.5 hours, although it does vary depending on questions and interactions between the guides and guests. Before booking, it's important to note that arriving 15 minutes early is required for a mandatory health and safety briefing. Dunkerton Cider is easy to find in Cheltenham with ample car parking available. We say dress appropriately as the cidery can get a tad chilly and also recommend you use a taxi to get yourselves safely home.

Overall, a visit to Dunkertons Organic Cider in Cheltenham promises to be a delightful blend of education and indulgence, cheers!

To find out more visit:
https://www.dunkertonscider.co.uk/pages/tours-events

Learn to ride a Horse!

If you're on holiday in the Cotswolds and seeking an unusual and memorable experience, look no further than the Barton End Equestrian Centre. Located just south of Nailsworth in Gloucestershire, this horse riding centre offers a unique adventure for you and your family.

What sets Barton End apart is its reputation for providing a safe and welcoming environment. With a team of supportive and knowledgeable riding instructors - highly experienced in nurturing the most apprehensive of horse riders - helping them to ride horses with a greater level of confidence. Whether you're a seasoned rider, a newcomer to the sport, or someone looking to rekindle their passion for riding, Barton End has an instructor, mount, and lesson plan that will fit your needs.

Your first visit to Barton End always starts with a private assessment, a thoughtful touch that ensures your riding experience aligns with your skill level. This approach ensures your safety and helps ensure you only ride alongside individuals of a similar experience.

Whether you're exploring the Cotswolds as a family or seeking a solo adventure, Barton End Equestrian Centre promises an unusual experience that connects you with the region's natural beauty in a truly unique way. So, saddle up and embark on a Cotswold adventure like something you might not have experienced before.

You can book horse riding lessons online via their site.

Be at one with the Birds!

If you get the chance to visit the Cotswold Falconry Centre then we say from experience that you'll find it will exceed all of your expectations. You don't have to be a bird fancier to get the most from your trip, if you are looking for an extraordinary experience in the Cotswolds then this place is an absolute must-visit.

What sets the bird centre apart is the opportunity to get up close and personal with some magnificent birds of prey. The highlight are their breathtaking flying displays with 3 a day being held in the summer months. It's absolutely spectacular and the birds are amazing to watch in flight!

You won't just be viewing these birds behind bars, you'll be in arm's reach making for a truly immersive experience in the Cotswolds. We strongly suggest you keep your camera with you and you'll no doubt capture some fantastic shots of these birds of prey in their natural element.

The staff at the Cotswold Falconry Centre are incredibly knowledgeable about the birds and show genuine care and affection for them, you can clearly see that the birds are in an impeccable condition. The live shows are not only informative but also sprinkled with humour, making them engaging for all ages. There's a small gift shop, toilets and a cafe next door in Batsford Arboretum, offering a convenient place to relax and grab a bite.

Please note for fairly obvious reasons that dogs are not allowed in at the Falconry Centre so you'll probably have to keep them in your car or one of you may have to stay behind if pets are not allowed unattended in your Cotswold holiday accommodation.

The Cotswold Falconry Centre is not just a visit; it's an adventure into the fascinating world of these majestic birds, and we wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking an exceptional day out.

To find out more visit their website - Cotswold Falconry Centre.

Fantasy Forest Festival at Sudeley Castle

Every year, in July, Sudeley Castle hosts the always well received Fantasy Forest festival, which is nestled in its splendid surroundings. It's a family-friendly event offering a captivating cos-play weekend filled with entertainment, outdoor activities and fun for attendees of all ages.

The festival usually boasts a lineup that caters to everyone's tastes, with four stages hosting live music and entertainment. Bands deliver energetic, feel-good tunes that gets the crowd dancing the weekend away.

Beyond the stage performances, festival-goers can indulge in fantasy craft workshops, including a lightsabre session for Star Wars enthusiasts. The UK's largest Fantasy Market is also in attendance offering a treasure trove of unique finds, boasting over 100 stalls showcasing artisan crafts, art, jewellery, gifts, clothing, and more.

One of the festival's poignant highlights each year is the Wicker Fire Ceremony held on the Saturday evening. Witnessing a giant wicker structure set ablaze against the backdrop of the castle grounds makes for an unforgettable experience.

For those planning to drive to the festival, ample onsite parking is available at a reasonable cost, making it accessible to all who sought to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Fantasy Forest.

To find out more visit their about us section.

Yate and District Heritage Centre

Yate, being mostly a modern suburb town on the very edge of the Cotswolds, does not readily spring to mind as a destination to visit. However, if you're into all things heritage then the Yate and District Heritage Centre is certainly a place to check out.

Yate has a history stretching back over 1300 years and was once a cleared woodland area known to the Anglo Saxons as "Gete", quite literally "Gate". Not many know that Yate even gets a mention in the Domesday Book!

We know some people might get a little snobbish about visiting a modern town, but its heritage centre is worth a visit! It's a vital community resource offering thought-provoking exhibitions that reflect the rich diversity of the region's cultural, historical, social, and industrial heritage. Since 2000, the centre has been dedicated to producing ever-changing exhibitions and events that involve the local community.

Collaborating with local groups, the Heritage Centre showcases fine art, crafts, fashion, photography, and local history. Their diverse calendar includes quizzes, historical lectures, and unique one-off events, ensuring there's always something intriguing happening.

At its core, the Heritage Centre seeks to foster a sense of pride in their community through its inspiring exhibitions. It houses two major collections, the Yate Heritage Collection and the Yate District Oral History Collection, containing over 3,000 objects, including oral history, historic items, maps, photographs, documents, and an educational handling collection.

To read up more on Yate's history do give their site a look.

Airsoft Cotswolds

Amidst the picturesque Cotswolds landscape, Cotswold Airsoft offers an unusual and thrilling adventure for those seeking an unusual experience in this idyllic region. Situated along the scenic B4479, not far from the charming villages of Blockley and Bourton-on-the-Hill, this hidden gem is a haven for airsoft enthusiasts.

Spanning 300 acres of stunning woodlands, Cotswold Airsoft provides the perfect battleground for airsoft players of all levels, from novices to seasoned veterans. The site boasts an array of features, including forts, towers, barricades and an 80-foot deep valley offering diverse terrain for even more exciting gameplay.

Visitors will find a welcoming and friendly community of players that truly makes it special. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, you'll find camaraderie and a sense of adventure.

Practical amenities, such as ample hard-standing parking, covered changing and kit prep areas, and designated 'safe' zones ensure that your visit is comfortable and well-equipped.

Please note that while credit cards aren't accepted at this venue, the fairly affordable walk-on fee of £30.00 for a day ticket (with your own equipment, though you can hire their equipment too) promises an exhilarating day in the Cotswolds. Although lunch isn't included, you'll find free hot drinks on-site, and there's also the option to purchase hot food, canned drinks, and snacks at the shop when available. Cotswold Airsoft offers a unique and action-packed experience, making it a standout addition to your holiday itinerary.

If Airsoft sounds like it's something you'd love to give a go then do visit their website.