Posted on January 21, 2022
Everyone flocks to The Cotswolds for an escape to nature and to be surrounded by beautiful cottages, quaint pubs and history. However, there are quite a few unexpected activities or events that are definitely worth exploring when planning a trip to The Cotswolds. From cheese rolling to dog-sledding, here are a few ideas which we think really stand out and are worth including in any Cotswolds trip itinerary…
Tetbury Woolsack Races
In the Middle Ages, Tetbury thrived as a market for wool by being in the middle of the sheep route from Oxford to Bristol. The woolsack races are thought to originate from the 17th Century when young drovers wanted to impress the local women by running up the one in four gradient hill carrying a woolsack! The official race has run for over 30 years and has world record times in the Guinness Book of Records.
Today the races maintain the links with the past by drinking beer in The Crown or The Royal Oak then running up the hill! The woolsacks are custom made by the British Wool Federation weighing 60lb for men and 35lb for women.
Woolsack race day remains an annual celebration for the town and fundraiser for local charities. A fair takes over the streets with entertainers, local stalls and amusement rides making it a fun and really unique day out in The Cotswolds. Dates for 2022 are yet to be announced by you can keep an eye on their website here.
Arctic Quest Dog-Sledding
There’s no need to visit the Arctic to enjoy the thrills of husky dog sledding when it’s available on our doorstep with Arctic Quest. Situated just outside Tewkesbury, their dog-sledding experiences are fully immersive as the trainers teach you how to manage the racing rig with the huskies as your lead. The dogs are fast and steady and suitable for all levels of riders. If you wish to make a weekend from the experience, there’s accommodation available in traditional herders huts, made extra cosy with campfires, hides and furs.
In early May, Arctic Quest is running Husky Fest which gives your own dog a chance at dog sledding! Find out more here.
The Dragonfly Maze
The Dragonfly Maze situated near Bourton-on-the-Water and is an opportunity to enjoy a truly unique treasure hunt.
Inspired by Kit Williams’ “Masquerade” where a golden hare was buried somewhere in the UK and its hiding place only revealed from clues lying within the book’s stories and paintings, this little maze in The Cotswolds is a hidden gem for those that love a challenge. The owners were huge fans of Masquerade and paired with a love of puzzles and mazes, the Dragonfly Maze was born. The author Kit Williams even created the stunning dragonfly centre piece you must find within the maze.
Made from traditional yew trees with around half a mile of pathways, 14 clues are to be found to crack the rebus puzzle to find the golden dragonfly.
The slots are only sold from the entry kiosk that day, find out more here.
The Cotswold Perfumery
Shops that sell perfume are on nearly every high street but finding a world class perfumery where you can create your own perfume is a rarity. For over 50 years the Cotswold Perfumery in Bourton on The Water has been making world renowned perfumes. By booking on one of their perfumery courses you’ll have the opportunity to learn from John Stephen, Chief perfumer, as he shares his expert knowledge and skills.
John is the owner of the Cotswold Perfumery and has acquired a reputation for creating high end, bespoke fragrances with a large portfolio of customers including Her Majesty the Queen.
You will discover the art and science of smells and learn how to make your own perfume learning the theoretical and practical aspects of creating a fragrance. As the day ends you will take your perfume home as a precious memento of a unique experience here in The Cotswolds. It’s worth noting that no animal products are used in the process and Cotswold Perfumery are against testing on animals, making your bespoke perfume cruelty-free.
Crocodiles of the World
Crocodiles of the World gives you the unique opportunity to come face to face with these fearsome predators in a safe, fun and stimulating environment at the UK's only Crocodile Zoo.
Shaun Foggett founded Crocodile Zoo in 2011 with his desire to find a kinder, compassionate place for crocodiles especially those on the endangered list. Initially Shaun opened the zoo at Crawley Mill only opening at weekends but the interest soon expanded and the zoo moved to its current site at Brize Norton and opened full time.
There are over 150 crocodiles representing 19 of the 24 species of crocodiles, alligators and caimans plus other reptiles homed here. As one of the largest collections, the zoo is able to contribute to research and conservation to secure the future of these magnificent creatures. As well as the critically endangered Siamese crocodiles from Cambodia, you will see Nile Crocodiles and Chinese and American alligators plus meerkats, otters and Galapagos tortoises. Find out more here.
Coopers Hill Cheese Rolling
Every year in the nature reserve of Coopers Hill near Birdlip, an extraordinary event takes place as participants compete to chase a rolling cheese down the 200 yards hill. The event attracts thousands of visitors from local spectators to international travellers from as far away as New Zealand.
The competition is a preserved ancient tradition which is estimated to be from pre-Roman times. Hundreds gather at the top of the hill to chase the cheese (7-9 lb round of Double Gloucester) as it rolls down the hill at speeds of 70 mph.
Multiple races take place during the day with the first person over the finish line at the bottom of the hill declared the winner. Due to injuries, the cheese was replaced with a foam version but the winners receive a prize of the famed Double Gloucester cheese following the competition. Pencil 30th May in your diary to attend this year!
Gin Blending Masterclass
The award winning Cotswold Dry Gin offers you the opportunity to create your own gin as part of their Gin Blending Masterclass at the distillery situated in Stourton.
On arrival you’re greeted with a Cotswold Cloudy G&T while hearing about the history of gin and how the juniper flavoured spirit is made. Following this, you’ll tour the distillery before arguably, the best part begins, making your own gin! Tasting and smelling a variety of botanicals and distillates, you create your gin with expert guidance from the host.
As the experience draws to a close you’re shown how to make a Martini cocktail using your bespoke gin with the remaining bottled for you to take away.