Posted on July 09, 2026
The summer holidays are nearly here, and with it for many family, comes the juggling act of having the children around full time and coming up with some funs things to do together during their time off school.
It’s always nice to slow the pace down a little and not rush out of the door every morning in a mad panic to get to school on time! It happens to us all! However, from experience of having three young boys in tow who love the outdoors and are pretty active, it's essential to try and get out and about as much as possible, here are some fun suggestions we’ve come up with, whether its exploring a forest during a country walk, visiting a wildlife park or cooling off in the pool.
Cool down and splash around at the pool!
When very hot days are on the cards, a spot of outdoor swimming will keep you and your little ones cool! We love Cirencester open air swimming pool as it’s located edge of Cirencester Park and the historic Roman town so the backdrop is absolutely gorgeous. The pool is fed by natural spring water and features an additional children's paddling pool and sunbathing patio. With general swim sessions for everyone and inclusive swims for those with special requirements, it’s a great spot for kids looking to splash around this summer!
Sandford Parks Lido is also a great option for kids with slides, children's pool and a paddling pool. There is also a 50m pool for older kids or adults that want to do some serious swimming. If you want access to the children’s pool, you will need to book in advance!
Click here for more info and to book your swim at Sandford Parks Lido.
Click here for more info about Cirencester Open Air Swimming Pool.
Cotswold Water Park
The Cotswold Water Park is a fantastic and unique spot in The Cotswolds to make the most of summer with its 180 lakes and abundance of outdoor and adventure activities! Why not hit the beach here where you can relax on the sand while little ones splash and jump around on the inflatable AquaVenture for the ultimate total wipe-out style experience? Or explore every type of water sport possible from paddleboarding and swimming to wakeboarding and sailing! There is so much to do in the Water Park and recommend booking a mini holiday to this area so you can make the most of all the water activities while the sun is shining!
Go Ape
Another way to keep cool is to head into the forest and Go Ape is one of our favourite outdoors experiences for the holidays. Kids can climb among the treetops and fly around on multiple ziplines from exciting heights. If adventurous activities are your thing too then Go Ape is great for adults and kids alike!
Far Peak
A well kitted out climbing centre near Northleach, Far Peak is a great venue for all the family. The climbing slots can be booked online prior to your visit and members of staff are there to help you get to grips with the boulders and ropes. The on site Hayloft Café serves delicious food and drinks and is ideal if you want a little quiet time whilst the kids have a climbing session. There is climbing for all abilities, indoors and out. If the weather picks up you could even brave a night or two camping onsite in the adjacent fields.
Cotswold Farm Park
A firm favourite amongst us Cotswold folk, Adam Henson’s Farm Park guarantees a great day out for children and adults alike. Nestled on the outskirts of Guiting Power the Park has so much to offer including their spectacular Sunflower Festival from August, which provides the perfect backdrop for those essential family photographs. Plus the Maize Maze will be growing tall for the season to provide some puzzle-solving activities! Stays at Cotswold Farm Park Holidays and Farm Park tickets include entry to the Sunflower Festival!
Cotswold Wildlife Park
The Cotswold Wildlife Park near Burford is a guaranteed children-pleaser of a day out. All the ‘favourites’ are there – from giraffes, to zebras, lions, primates and penguins. Set in gloriously landscaped gardens with the Victorian manor house as a handsome backdrop. On a sunny day, a picnic on lawn is wonderful, overlooking the kids playing in the adjacent play park.
Westonbirt Arboretum
For oodles of fresh air then head to Westonbirt Arboretum. It’s fab for dog walks and family walks alike. Our boys love taking their bikes or scooters along and always make a bee-line for park! For this summer, they’re hosting an open-air cinema featuring family-friendly classics such as The Lion King and a fun sing-along version of The Greatest Showman.
Cotswold Motoring Museum
The Cotswold Motoring Museum, located in Bourton-on-the-Water, is a treasure trove for car enthusiasts and families alike. This captivating museum houses an impressive collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and motoring memorabilia that spans over a century. Visitors can marvel at classic vehicles and even the famous TV character Brum, who happily lives here. With the addition of a toy collection, parents and kids alike will surely get into a playful mood. The museum's engaging displays and nostalgic atmosphere offer a delightful journey through the history of motoring, making it a perfect educational outing for kids and adults to enjoy together.
Crocodiles of the World
For a truly unique experience, head to Crocodiles of the World, the UK's only crocodile zoo. Located near Witney, this fascinating attraction is home to one of the largest collections of crocodiles, alligators, and caimans in Europe. Children and adults alike will be thrilled by the opportunity to get up close with these incredible reptiles, learning about their behaviour, habitats, and conservation. The zoo also hosts interactive feeding sessions, talks, and handling experiences, providing an educational and unforgettable day out.
Clearwell Caves
Dive into the subterranean wonders of Clearwell Caves, a natural iron ore cave system that has been mined for over 4,500 years. Located in the Forest of Dean, these ancient caves offer a fascinatingly different family day out. Families can embark on guided tours to explore the vast underground caverns, learn about the techniques used by miners throughout the ages, and see the tools and artefacts left behind. The atmospheric lighting and intriguing rock formations make Clearwell Caves an exciting and educational adventure for curious minds.
Sudeley Castle & Gardens
Sudeley Castle & Gardens, located near Winchcombe, is a majestic historic site that offers a captivating day out for families. The castle boasts a rich history, being the final resting place of Katherine Parr, the last wife of King Henry VIII. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored interiors, filled with fascinating exhibits and artefacts. The extensive gardens provide a stunning backdrop for leisurely walks, featuring intricately designed flower beds, majestic trees, and a serene pond. And to tire the kids out, there's an adventure playground and a challenging maze to navigate. Sudeley Castle & Gardens seamlessly blends history, nature, and play, making it a perfect destination for a family outing.
Horse riding at Cotswold Farm
If you're seeking a quintessentially English countryside experience this summer, visiting Cotswold Farm for horse riding is an absolute must. Whether you’re a family of seasoned riders or perhaps your little ones are wanting to try it out and are absolute beginners, the experienced staff at Cotswold Farm ensure a safe and enjoyable outing for all. The gorgeous trails take you through rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and picturesque villages, providing riders with a memory filled outing.
If horse riding tours interest you, why not read our blog here to find out about nine other tours you could do this summer.
Drive in cinema nights with Lunar Cinema
There’s a certain nostalgic romance to drive in movie nights and attending one of the Lunar Cinema events in The Cotswolds is an experience like no other. Boasting the largest open-air cinema screenings in the UK, and taking place in some of the most iconic and scenic locations that The Cotswolds have to offer, this truly is a unique experience. Plus, with a selection of gourmet snacks and beverages available, it's an ideal way to enjoy a summer evening with your family.
Explore Harry Potter filming locations
Harry Potter enthusiasts will find a treasure trove of filming locations scattered throughout The Cotswolds. Firstly you can visit the cloisters of Gloucester Cathedral where you can find its corridors doubled as the corridors of Hogwarts, not only that but its rooms were used to film where Harry found the mirror of Erised in The Philosopher's Stone.
Next up you can head to the quaint village of Lacock, which notably was used for the exterior shots of Godricks hollow, including Harry's parents home.
Finally head to Lacock Abbey where its cloisters also served as Hogwarts’ corridors. You’ll also be able to find Professor Quirrell's classroom and Snape's potion room.
Birdland Park & Gardens
Birdland Park & Gardens is a brilliant day out for younger children and budding wildlife enthusiasts. Home to over 500 birds from around the world, little ones can wander through beautiful riverside gardens whilst spotting everything from colourful flamingos and pelicans to cheeky parrots and owls. The real stars of the show, however, are England's only group of king penguins, with daily feeding sessions always proving a huge hit with visitors.
Broadway Tower
If your family enjoys getting outdoors, a trip to Broadway Tower is a must. Perched on one of the highest points in The Cotswolds, the iconic tower rewards visitors with spectacular panoramic views stretching across the countryside. The walk up to the tower is an adventure in itself, with plenty of open space for children to burn off some energy, while the resident deer enclosure is always a favourite stop along the way. Once you've reached the top, reward yourselves with a well-earned treat from the café before heading back down to explore the charming village of Broadway, filled with independent shops, cafés and galleries.
The Play Farm
When the British weather has other ideas, The Play Farm in Cheltenham is the perfect rainy-day escape. Designed for children up to the age of 12, this award-winning indoor play centre is packed with climbing frames, slides, tunnels and imaginative play areas to keep little ones entertained for hours. There's even a dedicated toddler zone, making it a great option for families with younger children. Parents can relax with a coffee from the café whilst the children let off steam.
Day Out In Bourton-On-The-Water
The Dragonfly Maze in Bourton-on-the-Water is a traditional hedge maze with 14 clues to solve in order to find the golden dragonfly hidden at its centre. It takes most families 30 to 60 minutes to complete and works brilliantly for children aged four and above. Just across the village, The Model Village is a one-ninth scale replica of Bourton-on-the-Water built from Cotswold stone, children are fascinated by spotting the miniature versions of buildings they have just walked past.