Posted on February 08, 2024
Looking for some fun, family activities to keep the brood occupied during half term? We've put together a round-up of local days out in The Cotswolds that are guaranteed to keep cabin fever at bay - and we've included some wet weather options too as we are in Britain after all!
Cotswold Farm Park
Reopening on the 11th of February, Cotswold Farm Park opens on the annual lambing event with over 900 lambs expected to be born and making it one of the largest lambing events in the country. We can’t think of a cuter way to spend the day that seeing hundreds of bouncing lambs! There will be talks from the keepers, lots of baby goats on site too plus a tasty menu in their onsite Ox Shed restaurant.
Combat Splat
Located in the Cotswold Water Park, Combat Splat has a reputation as one of the best paintball experiences for kids over 10. With safety and fun a top priority, they provide extra protection and guidance from the marshalls for under 16s, and wherever possible they separate the under 16s from the adults for games booked that day. For half term they offer discounted sessions and if you’re booked in for the whole day then expect to enjoy a Pappa Johns pizza too!
Cotswold Wildlife Park
Fully reopening on Friday the 9th of February, Cotswold Wildlife Park is the best place for a day out for wildlife lovers. Ramble along the high giraffe walkway to come eye to eye with the resident giraffes, watch lions roam and relax in their enclosure or enjoy interactive activities such as the penguin feeding and talks in the walled garden. If little ones are looking for something a bit more active then the adventure playground is a must-visit where kids can explore the jungle treehouses, bridges and slides.
The Model Village in Bourton-on-the-Water
An idyllic Cotswolds village a day out, Bourton-on-the-Water is such a pretty spot to wander and enjoy good food! What makes this village extra special is the Bourton Model Village which is a true reflection of the village in the 1930s and has even been given Grade II status by English Heritage. You’ll find tiny Cotswold stone buildings, choirs singing in the church, beautifully pruned alpine plants and even a miniature version of the model village itself! Tie in your trip with a visit to the attached New Old Inn for a country classic, tasty pub lunch.
Slimbridge Wetland Centre
For half term, all of the bird hides at Slimbridge Wetland Centre have become hideouts with lots of fun activities and ways to get little ones excited about bird watching. Borrow binoculars and telescopes for the day and hideout experts will be on hand with top tips to help you explore. There are hands on activities such as making your own binoculars, wild bird feeds, hot chocolate stations and plenty more to keep the whole family entertained.
Mud Fest at Slimbridge
Little ones don’t need an excuse to get messy and at Slimbridge this half term, they’re encouraged to get stuck in the mud. With a variety of hands-on activities are being held such as: mud puddle jumping, a mud kitchen where you can make your own mud, use the mud to sculpt, paint and craft nests and no matter the age, you can even get involved in mud slinging. There are numerous events held across the site so pack your wellies and you'll certainly need a spare change of clothes!
Cotswold Alpacas
A pretty picture of rolling Cotswolds hills with grazing alpacas, visiting Cotswold Alpacas in Cowley is a fun day out for animal lovers. Book in either a meet and greet or walk to get up close and personal with their alpacas. With the alpaca walks, you get a chance to walk side by side with your alpaca around the lanes of Cowley, plus enjoy a mini drop spindle workshop showing how their fleece is spun into yarn.
Blenheim Palace
A perfect, regal setting for getting fresh air, Blenheim Palace has plenty of activities to keep kids busy this half term. To start with, if you’re likely to come to Blenheim Palace often then make the most of their children go free offer with any adult annual pass purchase. For activities, explore their new wildlife trail, get involved in bird bingo and meet the palace’s farm animals including Delilah the calf and Stacey the sheep and learn about their life on the estate. If the weather is looking a little drizzly, then there’s also an indoor trail to look for hidden mice across the palace, plus new menus to enjoy across the palace’s eateries.
Become a detective at Chedworth Roman Villa
Visit Chedworth Roman Villa for the opportunity to become a detective through the ages to figure out why a villa was built there. You’ll meet characters such as Censorinus (the Villa owner) and Appian (the master mosaicist) who will help you during your investigation. Plus there are varied Roman themed games and puzzles for the whole family. At the end of your visit, you’ll be asked to cast your vote as to why you think the villa was built there.
Head down to the woods at Fat Squirrel Outdoor
Fat Squirrel Outdoor offer a number of varied experiences that everyone in the family will enjoy. Roasting s’mores, scavenger hunts, archery, axe throws and hanging around hammocks are all on the agenda. With such a wide variety of choice, we're know a day out here will be cherished. If you're looking for an evening experience, there's the offer of campfire nights too!
Cheltenham Observation Wheel
For a breathtaking view of The Cotswolds, don't miss the Cheltenham Observation Wheel. This towering marvel offers a unique chance to see Cheltenham and its picturesque surroundings from a bird's eye perspective. Whether you're a local or a visitor, it's an experience that adds a touch of magic and awe to any trip. As the wheel slowly rotates, take in panoramic views of the stunning landscape and architectural beauty that defines this quintessentially English spa town. Make sure to bring your camera along for some unforgettable family shots! For more information, visit Cheltenham Observation Wheel.
Barn Cinema - Wonka!
Immerse yourself in a chocolate-infused adventure with the screening of "Wonka!" at Barn Cinema in Cirencester. The movie is scheduled for Sunday 11th February with showtimes at 2pm (with subtitles) & 4.30pm. A perfect treat for the family, especially during half-term, this event promises a blend of entertainment and intrigue. Don't miss out on this delightful cinematic experience!
Snowdrop Open Days at Colesbourne Park and Painswick Rococo Garden
As winter gives way to spring, the Cotswolds come alive with the beautiful blossoming of snowdrops. This half term, why not take your kids snowdrop spotting at two of the best places in the Cotswolds: Colesbourne Park and Painswick Rococo Garden?
Colesbourne Park, often referred to as 'England's Greatest Snowdrop Garden', is located in the stunning Churn Valley. Here, you can marvel at the diverse collection of snowdrops, all while appreciating the serene beauty of the garden itself.
Equally captivating is the Painswick Rococo Garden, known for its quirky woodland walk. Amidst its playful architectural follies, you'll find one of England's largest naturalistic plantings of snowdrops. The sight of these delicate white flowers blanketing the grounds is truly a memorable spectacle.
Both gardens offer an excellent opportunity for a family day out, combining scenic walks with the joy of spotting these early signs of spring. For more information and to plan your visit, follow these links: Colesbourne Park and Painswick Rococo Garden.
Other ideas…
If you’re visiting The Cotswolds just for half term, then you must make the most of the amazing foodie scene for delicious grub kids and adults alike will love. For ideas on an idyllic day out for a ramble on the Wolds paired with a pub lunch stop, check out our journal of the best pub walks in The Cotswolds here.
For the best spots for a slap-up Sunday roast, then check out our journal here with our favourite Sunday lunch spots that won’t disappoint!