This family-friendly wetland centre makes the perfect day out. Hand feed the ducks and geese as you walk around the idyllic grounds, check out the huge flamingo flock, spot water voles from the canoe safari and go birdwatching in the comfy Discovery Hide.
WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT, +44 (0) 1453 891900
With 15,000 tree specimens from all over the world, Westonbirt Arboretum is regarded as one of the best arboretums in the country. There’s something for everyone here, whether you just want to wander around the grounds, explore the treetop walkway or take the children along the Gruffalo Spotters trail. Beautiful whatever the season, but particularly dramatic in autumn, as the leaves turn a kaleidoscope of reds and oranges.
Westonbirt Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8QS, +44 (0) 300 067 4890
Westonbirt Arboretum | © PJ Photography/Shutterstock
Explore the fascinating and turbulent history of Sudeley Castle, spanning more than 1,000 years. From the glorious, historic rooms to the jaw-dropping 1,200-acre estate (featuring 10 award-winning gardens) there’s a lot to see. There’s even The Pheasantry, which houses a collection of 16 rare and endangered species of birds from around the world.
Sudeley Castle and Gardens, Winchcombe GL54 5JD, +44 (0) 1242 602308
Sudeley Castle | © Patricia Hofmeester/Shutterstock
One of the quirkier attractions in the Cotswolds, The Model Village is an impressive 1/9th scale replica of the scenic village of Bourton-on-the-Water. The attention to detail here is incredible, with miniature houses, tiny bridges over a mini River Windrush and even the sound of choral song coming from one of the small churches.
The Model Village, Bourton-on-the-Water, Cheltenham GL54 2AF, +44 (0) 1451 820467
Folklore goes that an Iron Age monarch and his courtiers were turned to stone by a witch, resulting in The Rollright Stones. The truth about how this ancient stone circle came to be, just outside the village of Great Rollright, is still unknown, but it’s a fascinating example of a mysterious prehistoric monument.
The Rollright Stones, Stone Court, Great Rollright, Chipping Norton OX7 5QB, +44 (0) 370 333 1181
The Rollright Stones | © allou/Shutterstock
Upper and Lower Slaughter are widely believed to be the most picturesque example of a quintessentially Cotswold village. Honey-hued stone cottages, the meandering River Eye and an idyllic countryside setting make these villages an absolute must-see, for a real taste of the Cotswolds.
Upper Slaughter, Cheltenham GL54 2JF
Lower Slaughter | © Chrispo/Shutterstock
Lauded by William Morris as ‘the most beautiful village in England’, it’s easy to see why Bibury is one of the most popular stops on a Cotswold tour. Home to Arlington Row, one of England’s most photographed streets, Bibury’s beauty and charm will capture your heart.
Arlington Row, Bibury | © JeniFoto/Shutterstock