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We will help you plan the perfect Cotswold holiday with touring itinerary so you don't miss-out on the hidden secrets and charm of this unique region

For more info....

 

VIDEO


Gypsy Horse fair at Stow
October 2006

Boxing Day Hunt Meeting in Broadway - 2007

75th Anniversary of Vintage Sports Car Club at Prescott Hill Climb - 2009

Cotswolds.Info YouTube Channel

 

PICTURES

Vintage Sports Car Club 75th Anniversary Meet at Prescott Hill Climb

Vintage Sports Car Club 75th Anniversary Meet at Malvern

Evesham River carnival

Gypsy Horse Fair

Snowfall in Broadway 2009

Scarecrow Festival at North Nibley 2011

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STRANGE THINGS
IN THE
COTSWOLDS

Click Here to go to Strange Things

 
 
 
 

The Cotswolds has a wide and varied choice of Tourist Holiday Attractions to suite all types, tastes, adults, and children of all ages to ensure you and the family are kept entertained and delighted during your stay in this area of outstanding natural beauty.


Athelstan Museum
Avon Valley Steam Railway
Bibury Trout Farm
Birdland
British Motor Museum
Cotswold Farm Park
Cotswold Falconry Centre
Cotswold Water Park
Cotswold Wild Life Park
Dunkirk Mill
Gloucester Antiques Centre
Gloucester City Museum
Gloucester Docks
Gloucester Folk Museum
Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway
Flight Simulator with SimAir
Hereford & Gloucester Canal
Edward Jenner Museum
Keith Hardings World of Mechanical Music
Lodge Park & Sherborne Estate
Longleat Safari Park
Malmesbury Abbey
Model Village
Museum in the Park
National Waterways Museum
Prinknash Bird and Deer Park
Safari Leisure Park
St Augustines Farm
Slimbridge Wetland Centre
Sudeley Castle
Tetbury Police Museum
Warwick Castle
Winterbourne Medieval Barn
Wotton-under-Edge Heritage Centre

Athelstan Museum at Malmesbury

Athelstan Museum tells the history of Malmesbury, an attractive hill top town built to a Saxon road plan on the site of a 2,800 year old Iron Age hill fort and the area of North Wiltshire that surrounds it.

Athelstan Museum at Malmesbury

The town of Malmesbury lies on the edge of the Cotswolds and is a great place for a family day out.

Malmesbury Lace is famous, as is the Abbey and there are a number of famous individuals associated with the town including King Athelstan (grandson of King Alfred the Great), first king of all England; Eilmer the flying monk over 1000 years ago; Thomas Hobbes, the renowned philosopher; Walter Powell M.P. who vanished at sea in a hot air balloon.

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Avon Valley Steam Railway

Located at Bitton Station midway between Bristol and Bath on the A431 one mile from Keynsham.

Avon Valley steam locomotiveAvon Valley Steam Loco

The Avon Valley Railway is more than just a train ride, offering a whole new experience for some or a nostalgic memory for others.

The track now extends south to the proposed location of a new platform at the River Avon with the opening planned during 2003. Passengers will be able to enjoy walks in the surrounding countryside, as well as the many attractions the River Avon has to offer.

Open certain dates from March to January. Avon Valley Railway, Bitton Railway Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD. Tel: 0117 932 5538. Web site: www.avonvalleyrailway.org.
E-mail: info@avonvalleyrailway.org.

For all Steam Railways in the Cotswolds.

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Bibury Trout Farm

For adults and older children. The Bibury Trout Farm is one of the oldest and attractive trout farms in the country. High quality trout reared to supply angling waters and for fishing by visitors. Gift shop, beginners fishing lessons (summer), fresh and smoked trout sales, and cafe.

Trout LakeBibury trout

Open Summer and Winter. Bibury Trout Farm, Bibury, GL7 5NL.
Tel: 01285 740215/740212. Directions: B4425 7miles from Cirencester.

For Places to Stay in and nearby to Bibury - See Accommodation Bibury, Burford and Cirencester.

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Birdland - Park and Gardens

For Adults and children of all ages. Birdland at Bourton-on-the-Water is set in Seven acres of woodland, river and gardens, inhabited by over 500 birds, flamingos, pelicans, penguins and cranes, 50 aviaries, also tropical, temperate, and desert houses. Picnic areas, cafe, gifts and play area.

Open all year. Birdland, Bourton-on-the-Water, GL54 2BN.
Tel: 01451 820480.

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold and Guiting Power.

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British Motor Museum

heritage motor museum

British Motor Museum, Banbury Road, Gaydon, Warwickshire,  CV35 0BJ 

Explore the British Motor Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of historic British cars.

Take a walk down the 'Time Road' and discover how both motoring and family life has changed through the decades including period music and memorable events such as the introduction of double yellow lines.

Travel through 'Making British Cars' and see how influential the motor industry has been over the years and where it is heading in the future.

Get 'Under The Skin' and unravel the mystery of how cars work with interactive exhibits. Experience how suspension has improved over time and compare the difference between rack and pin and power steering.

Enjoy a free guided tour with one of the enthusiastic guides who will help bring the cars to life. There is also an onsite café serving hot and cold meals and snacks.

Check our website for information on great school holiday activities and special weekend motoring events.
 
M40 J12 and take B4100. Attraction signed.
 
Opening times: The Museum is open daily 10am -5pm. Closed 24 Dec 2017 - 1 Jan 2018 inclusive.
         
Museum Prices: Adult £14.50 per adult/Child £9.00 (5-16 years) /Under 5 free /Concessions £12.50 /Family £40 (2 adults up to 3 children)  

Buy one day, get 12 months free. As we are a registered charity you can qualify for a 12 month GiftAid admission ticket at no extra cost. Simply agree to donate your entry and we claim back 25p in every £1 from the Inland Revenue. In return we will give you a 12 month admission ticket. This ticket is not valid on 5 event days per year.  See website for more details.
 
Address: Banbury Road, Gaydon, Warwickshire, CV35 0BJ
Tel No: 01926 641188
Email: enquiries@britishmotormuseum.co.uk

Website:www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Banbury and
Stratford-upon-Avon.

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car

 

 

car

Cotswold Farm Park

A rare farm family treat in the heart of the Cotswolds

From Gloucester cattle to Guernsey goats, Cotswold sheep to crested ducks, there's a rare breed for every week of the year. Daily demonstrations, tractor school and farm safari ride. Touch barn, adventure playground, bouncy pillows, conservation area, gift shop and café.

Discover Rare Breeds through History as you stroll the walkways surrounded by the fifty flocks and herds of farm animals. Enjoy our undercover facilities in the Touch Barn and Demonstration Barn. Help bottle feed the lambs and goat kids, hold a chick and experience the seasonal demonstrations, including lambing, shearing and milking.

With a passion for rare breed conservation, Joe Henson opened the Cotswold Farm Park in 1971 and since then the Cotswold Farm Park have welcomed millions of happy visitors in the 44 years since opening. This family-run business is not to be missed and is now run by his son Adam Henson.

A: Cotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power, Nr. Cheltenham, Glos. GL54 5UG

W: www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk

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Cotswold Falconry Centre

For both adults and children. Watch the flying exhibitions of eagles, hawks, owls, and falcons. Appreciate their speed, grace, agility and their close relationship with the falconer. There are many breeding pairs of birds including the owls in Owl Wood. The Falconry Centre is in the same grounds as Batsford Arboretum.

Open mid February to mid November 10.30am to 5.30pm.
Cotswolds Falconry Centre, Batsford Park, Moreton-in-Marsh,
GL56 9QB. Directions: A44, 2 miles out of Moreton-in-Marsh towards Broadway.

Web: www.cotswold-falconry.co.uk

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Cotswold Water Park &
Keynes Country Park

The Cotswolds Water Park is for adults and children of all ages. Britain's largest Water Park - 132 great lakes south of Cirencester. All outdoor needs are satisfied including:- nature reserves, country parks, water sports, Thames Path, cycling, fishing, riding, caravanning and camping. Safe summer bathing , lakeside cafe, walks cycling, barbecues, children's play area, bike, boat, and surf bike hire. Waterland outdoor activities centre. Disabled wheelchair access at Keynes Country Park.

Open all year. Cotswold Water Park & Keynes Country Park, Shorncote, Cirencester, GL5 6DF. Tel: 01285 860186. Web site: www.waterpark.org. Directions: 3.5 miles west of A419 Spine Road junction.

For nearby Places to Stay - See Accommodation at Cirencester.

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Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens is located near Burford and is for adults and children of all ages. The Park exhibits over 260 animal species in approximately 160 acres of parkland and beautiful gardens with a fine variety of plants around a setting of a listed Victorian Manor House. Facilities include cafe, picnic areas, adventure playground, narrow-gauge railway, and gift shop. Disabled wheelchair access provided for. Dog Friendly.

Open all year. Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens, Burford, Oxfordshire, OX18 4JP. Tel: 01993 823006. Web site: www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk.

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Burford.

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Dunkirk Mill Centre

The Dunkirk Mill Centre offers a wonderful opportunity to see a see a massive working water wheel directly powering a rare piece of historic textile machinery. The overshot wheel, twelve feet wide and thirteen feet in diameter, was installed in the mill in 1855 as part of the last major re-building programme carried out during its time as a woollen mill. It was made and installed by James Ferrabee of Stroud having a mainly cast iron frame with forty steel buckets.

The wheel is operated regularly on opening days, (subject to water supply), and the sight of the wheel starting to move in a powerful cascade of water is unforgettable. The Dunkirk Mill Centre has been made possible with the assistance of a grant from the Local Heritage Initiative.

Please note there is no public parking on site except for disabled visitors.

You can park in the Cycle Path car park behind Egypt Mill just off the A46 on the edge of Nailsworth and follow the cycle trail, it isn’t far and it is a beautiful walk.

Stroud Road, Nailsworth, GL5 2HP - Telephone: 01453 766273
Email: imack@btopenworld.com
Main: Website

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Nailsworth, Stroud, Painswick, Minchinghampton, Tetbury, Wooton-under-Edge.

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SimAir 737 Flight Simulation

SimAir 737 The Most Exciting Flight Simulator Experience in UK

Fly out of Gloucester Airport…. Fly all over the world….The Sky is yours!

Choose your Flight Experience from the Flight Sim Shop.
45, 60, 90 or 120 Sim minutes. Ther eis a detailed description on each flight.
You can add Gate to Gate and a Video from the Add-on section to make this a truly memorable occasion!

Your Exciting experience will start with your arrival at our reception area, where we will book you in and introduce you to your pilot instructor for the day.

Website: www.simair737.com

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SimAir Flight Simulator
Hereford & Gloucester Canal Trust

Since 1983 the Trust has pursued its aim to fully restore the 34 miles of canal and locks which will once again link Hereford with Ledbury, Dymock, Newent and the rest of the inland waterway system at Gloucester.

Their policy is to develop significant showpiece lengths of the canal in each county, working towards the full restoration.

Some of the original 22 locks were extremely deep so the restoration will include a few extra locks to make them all a practical depth.

Web: www.h-g-canal.org.uk

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The World of Mechanical Music is a living museum of the extraordinary variety of self-playing musical instruments and automata which were the pride and joy of our Great Grandparents, and the only kind of "canned" musical entertainment available in the home before regular broadcasting started up in 1924.

All the instruments are maintained in the most perfect possible order in our world-famous workshops on the premises, and introduced and played by our well informed guides in the form of a live entertainment.

The Oak House, High Street, Northleach, Gloucestershire. GL54 3ET
Tel: 01451 860181 - Fax: 01451 861133
Email: keith@mechanicalmusic.co.uk
Website: www.mechanicalmusic.co.uk

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Open every day
10.00 - 18.00 hrs,
except
Xmas and Boxing day

Gloucester Antiques Centre

Founded in 1978 by Eddie Cook, Gloucester Antiques Centre is one of the longest established antiques centres in the UK. Located in a former Victorian Grain Warehouse known as “The Lock Warehouse”, Gloucester Antiques Centre is one of the largest antiques centres in the region. We offer the widest range of antiques and collectables in the West of England. With over 20,000 square feet, we have a massive selection of antiques and collectables all under one roof.

Gloucester Antiques Centre
No. 1 Severn Road, The Docks, Gloucester, GL1 2LE
Open: Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm - Sunday 11.30pm to 4.30pm
Email: info@gacl.co.uk - Tel: 01452 529 716
Website:www.gacl.co.uk

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Gloucester City Museum
& Art Gallery

The museum's fascinating displays are housed in a fine Victorian Building in the heart of the City and contains many items of national and international importance. Among the spectacular collection are the archaeological finds, fine and decorative arts, and natural history specimens representing Gloucester's rich heritage.

A visit to the City Museum and Art Gallery will tell you so much about the early history of Gloucester. As well as fascinating Roman and Mediaeval displays there are dinosaurs, fossils, paintings, clocks, furniture, the stunning Birdlip Mirror and lots more.

A wide range of exquisite touring exhibitions and an exciting programme of events, hands-on activities, are held throughout the year.

Whether you are a researcher, a professional, an amateur, or an enthusiast about archaeology, fine art, science or history there are plenty of objects in our collection to grab your attention. And if you are visiting us a parent, grand parent or a child of any age, there is always something to do for children, interactive and other hands-on activities.

OPENING TIMES: Tuesday to Saturday all year, 10.00-17.00.
FREE ADMISSION
Tel: 01452 396131
Brunswick Road
Gloucester
GL1 1HP
e-mail: city.museum@gloucester.gov.uk
Website: www.gloucester.gov.uk/citymuseum

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Gloucester Docks and the Sharpness Canal

The former dock estate has become a popular destination where visitors can enjoy shops, museums and refreshment places or just wander around the quays, looking at a variety of historic buildings and interesting vessels on the water.

An information office near the Southgate Street entrance is run by the Gloucester Docks Trading Co., who are responsible for the routine management of the area.
There is also a Visitor Information Point in the Merchants Quay building in the centre of the site.
The docks are well signposted with brown signs on the main approach roads. The vehicle entrance is from Southgate St, a short distance from the city centre. There is ample space for visitor parking within the dock estate.

Telephone 01452 311190
Website: www.gloucesterdocks.me.uk

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Gloucester Folk Museum

Gloucester Folk Museum is one of the oldest-established museums dedicated to social history. The collections have been drawn together through mainly gifts from the entire county of Gloucestershire, and represent one of the most fascinating collections of such material.

From treen (small wooden items), to the intriguing story of the river Severn fisheries, from historic costume to the life of the dairy; from the reconstructed Victorian classroom to the original pin factory - all of these plus hundreds of other elements of our local history are to be found here.

Set in Tudor timber-framed buildings, one of which was traditionally associated with the final night of the protestant martyr, Bishop Hooper, the Folk Museum is a complex of rooms on different levels and with a unique ambience that makes it a popular sight for locals and visitors. Behind the chocolate-box facade is a museum which is both larger than seems possible, and constantly surprising. No visit to Gloucestershire is complete without seeing the treasures and curiosities on display here.

A wide range of exhibitions, hands-on activities, events, demonstrations and role play sessions are held throughout the year. There is an attractive cottage garden and a courtyard area for events, often with live animals, and outside games.

OPENING TIMES: Tuesday to Saturday all year, 10.00-17.00.
FREE ADMISSION
Gloucester Folk Museum
99-103 Westgate Street GloucesterGL1 2PG
Fax: 01452 330495
Tel: 01452 396868
e-mail: folk.museum@gloucester.gov.uk
Website: www.gloucester.gov.uk/folkmuseum/folkmuseum

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The Gloucestershire
Guild of Craftsmen

The Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen is dedicated to promoting contemporary designer crafts. A resource for those seeking high quality British contemporary designer crafts, whether it be for education about the crafts and design, or be exhibition curators, or be public art consultants, or be those inspired to purchase or commission specially designed and made items.

A permanent Gallery in Painswick provides the opportunity to buy members work all the year round.

See the history of the Cotswolds Arts and Crafts Movement.

Guild Gallery,
The Painswick Centre,
Bisley Street,
Painswick,
Gloucestershire
GL6 6QQ
Tel : 01452 814 745
Open : Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm
Website: www.guildcrafts.org.uk

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Painswick.

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Gloucestershire & Warwickshire Steam Railway

The Steam Railway is based at Toddington (between Broadway and Winchcombe) and operates a round trip of 13 miles to just beyond Gotherington a few miles from Cheltenham Racecourse. Departing from the restored station at Toddington you will travel past the village of Didbrook and the site of Hayles Abbey onto Winchcombe and finally Gotherington. The line is being extended to Cheltenham Racecourse and will be open 2003. Good views of the Cotswolds Hills can be seen from both sides of the train.

Open certain dates throughout the year. Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, Toddington, Gloucestershire, GL54 5DT. Tel 01242 621405. Web site: www.gwsr.com

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Winchcombe and Broadway.

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Edward Jenner Museum

Edward Jenner became world famous following his publication in 1798 in which he demonstrated that vaccination with cowpox prevented the deadly smallpox. As use of his treatment spread he found that he had to spend more and more of his time answering correspondence about it. He called himself 'the Vaccine Clerk to the World'. He continued to advise and research on the safest ways to produce and transport his cowpox vaccine.

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Telephone 01453 810631

www.jennermuseum.com

The Edward Jenner Museum &
The Old Cyder House Conference Centre

For Museum Opening Times see website.

 

Lodge Park and Sherborne Estate

Lodge Park, situated on the picturesque Sherborne Estate in the Cotswolds, was created in 1634 by John 'Crump' Dutton and inspired by his passion for gambling, banqueting and entertaining. Until 1983 it was the home of Charles Dutton, 7th Lord Sherborne, and, when bequeathed, it was the first project undertaken by the Trust that relied totally on archaeological evidence. Visitors can now experience how the unique grandstand would have looked in the 17th century and enjoy the impressive views of the deer course and park, which was designed by Charles Bridgeman in the 1720s. Wonderful walks around the surrounding Sherborne Estate cover 1,650 hectares (4,000 acres) of beautiful rolling countryside, and include the restored and working water meadows and sweeping views of the River Windrush. The village of Sherborne is divided into two parts, with the East End exploiting the model village design of the mid 19th century, and the West End retaining many of the older buildings in the village.

Lodge Park, Aldsworth, nr Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 3PP
Telephone: 01451 844130 - Fax: 01451 844131
Email: lodgepark@nationaltrust.org.uk 

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Standard Admission Grandstand: £5, child £2.80, family £12.50.
Estate free (£1 donation per car to support work on the estate)
Sherborne Estate Open All year

Longleat Safari Park

In 1966 Longleat opened the first Safari Park outside of Africa. Today it is difficult to imagine the furore aroused when Longleat’s plans for a 100-acre lion reserve were made public. There were dire warnings of big cats running amok in the Wiltshire countryside, local clergymen were up in arms and there were even questions asked in the Houses of Parliament. In spite of the fears however the concept of a drive through safari park proved hugely popular and forty years on, Longleat Safari Park remains one of the country’s leading wildlife attractions. But that’s not all… Longleat now encompasses a wide range of attractions to suit visitors of all ages… find yourself going round in circles in the Longleat Hedge Maze, journey on the Safari Boats for a sea-lion escorted cruise, enjoy a fun-packed ride on the Longleat Railway, let the kids let off steam in the Adventure Castle and more… your day at Longleat will never be long enough!

Contact:
The Estate Office Longleat Warminster Wiltshire BA12 7NW
Tel: 01985 844400
Fax: 01985 844885
Email: enquiries@longleat.co.uk
Website: www.longleat.co.uk

All attractions open: Daily: 17th Feb to 25th Feb
Weekends ONLY: 3rd Mar to 25th Mar : Daily: 31st Mar to 4th Nov

 

Malmesbury Abbey

Malmesbury Abbey

Founded in the 7th-century as a Benedictine Monastery by Aldhelm, a nephew of King Ina of Wessex, the Abbey was once a major European centre of scholarship and learning. The present building, now about a third of its original size, was consecrated in about 1180 AD. At the Dissolution of the Monasteries by King Henry VIII (1539), it was sold with all its lands to William Stumpe, a local wealthy clothier, for just over £1500. Today the Abbey is the Parish Church and dedicated to St. Peter, St. Paul, St. Adhelm and to St. Mary. The Abbey was an important centre for pilgrimage because it is the burial place of St. Aldhelm (first Abbot) and King Athelstan. The Abbey House gardens are especially enchanting are one of the most beautiful in England.

For more information see - Malmesbury Abbey and the Flying Monk.

For more about the history visit Athelstan Museum at Cross Hayes, Malmesbury, SN16 9BZ.

For more information about the town see - Malmesbury.

For Places to Stay see - Malmesbury Accommodation.

Don't miss a visit to the adjacent wonderful Abbey House Gardens owned and cultivated by the 'Naked Gardeners' Ian and Barbara Pollard

A Prayer of St. Benedict

'Oh Gracious and Holy Father, give us wisdom to perceive you, intelligence to understand you, diligence to to seek you, patience to wait for you, eyes to behold you, a heart to meditate upon you, and a life to proclaim you, through the power of the Spirit of Jesus Christ our Lord'.

Model Village

Model Village at Bourton-on-the-Water

For adults and older children. The model of the actual village of Bourton-on-the-Water built of Cotswold stone to 1/9th scale in 1937. The river Windrush flows under Bourton's famous bridges. The beeches, Cherries and chestnuts are all in miniature. Music in the churches and of course the model of the model.

Open all year. The Model Village, Bourton-on-the-Water, GL54 2AF. Tel: 01451 820467.

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold & Guiting Power.

For information on the village see - Bourton-on-the Water.

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Museum in the Park

The Museum welcomes families and children and has something to offer visitors of all ages. Whether you are visiting the District or have lived here for many years, you are sure to find something that interests, inspires or amazes you.

Look out for our exciting programme of family fun events during half term, Easter and Summer holidays. Most events are free and take place on Wednesdays during the school holidays. You might find yourself meeting an inventor from Stroud's past, listening to tales of life long ago, hunting for treasure or getting creative with drawing and making activities.

We are within easy walking distance of Stroud railway station, bus station and town centre. Look for the old Mansion House in Stratford Park next door to Stratford Park Leisure Centre.

The Museum in the Park, Stroud District Museum Service, Stratford Park, Stroud, Gloucestershire, GL5 4AF
Tel: 01453 763394 - Fax: 01453 752400
Email: museum@stroud.gov.uk

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Nailsworth, Stroud, Painswick, Minchinghampton, Tetbury, Wooton-under-Edge

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Opening Times
October - March:
April - September:
Tuesdays - Fridays 10am to 4pm
Weekends 11am to 4pm
Closed Mondays
Closed from 1 - 31 December Tuesdays - Fridays 10am to 5pm
Weekends 11am to 5pm
Closed Mondays apart from:
Bank Holiday Mondays
11am to 5pm
Open every day in August
Museum admission is FREE.

National Waterways Museum

The National Waterways Museum at Gloucester Docks bring the history of Britain’s waterways to life.Through interactive displays, recordings of former dock and canal workers, archive film footage and exhibits you can explore the fascinating story of this revolutionary transport system. Climb aboard historic boats and discover what life was like living and working on our waterways.

The original National Waterways Museum at Gloucester is housed in a Victorian warehouse at Gloucester Docks, in the city of Gloucester. It has a collection of boats including narrowboats, river barges, canal and river tugs, and a steam powered dredger. There is also a steam crane and heavy oil engine in the setting of a canal repair yard, complete with working machine shop, forge and weighbridge.

Opening hours
April – October: 10am – 5pm daily  November: 11am – 4pm
Admission Charges (2008/9) Adult £3.95 Child £2.75 Concession £3.50
Family Ticket £12.00 Under 5's Free
We also offer an Annual Season Ticket. for less than the price of two day-admissions you can visit the Museum and take part in the events throughout the year.

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Friends Membership Secretary
National Waterways Museum Gloucester Docks
Llanthony Warehouse
The Docks
Gloucester
GL1 2EH

Prinknash Bird and Deer Park

Prinknash Bird & Deer Park is situated in the Cotswolds just 3 miles from Painswick and is nestled in  a beautiful valley where you will find a stunning New Visitor Centre with south facing balconies overlooking the park.

You you can enjoy a casual cup of coffee here whilst soaking up the atmosphere of the park and there is a very good gift shop attached.

Inside the park there is a large collection of waterfowl, all of whom are free 
along with the famous fallow deer who will also feed from your hand.

There are follies for children to play in and a large collection of peafowl  who in the summer display their beautiful feathers as you walk around the park.

Of course there are many other inmates to meet, be it the miniature donkeys, pygmy goats or the  famous Rudolph & Prancer making the trip complete.

Open all year. Prinknash Park, Cranham, GL4 8EX. Tel: 01452 812727. Directions: M5 Junction 11a, on A46 between Cheltenham and Stroud.
Website - Prinknash Bird and Deer Park.

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Painswick.

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West Midland Safari & Leisure Park

The Safari and Leisure Park caters for adults and children with many wild animals to see and drive next to. The children will love the leisure park with many amusements.

The Park is situated on the A456 between Kidderminster and Bewdley and is open 7 days each week, including Bank Holidays, from Saturday 16 March until Sunday 3 November 2002. West Midland Safari and Leisure Park, Spring Grove, Bewdley, Worcestershire, DY12 1LF. E-mail groups@wmsp.co.uk, web site - www.wmsp.co.uk.

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Worcester.

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Saint Augustines Farm

About the farm: A real working organic dairy farm in the Severn Vale, St Augustines is a typical dairy farm of over 100 acres where the everyday farm life will go on around you. Watch the cows being milked in a herringbone parlour every afternoon, talk to the farmer as he works and find out where your milk comes from. Help feed the baby calves and visit the farm animals in the paddocks. Follow the farm trail to see over 50 acres and see our wildlife in its natural habitat. Explore the mini woodland trail. Go back in history and discover a vanished era in our bygones collection.

Join in the Fun on the Farm. -Indoor and outdoor activities - Acres to Explore. On the farm you will be able to enjoy a whole host of activities.

  • Get close to the small animals in the farmyard and hold some of them
  • Let yourself go on the adventure playground
  • All weather barn
  • Let the toddlers play in safety in the cafe play area
  • Learn and play in our activities room
  • Bring a picnic to eat in the fields and enjoy the views or undercover if wet
  • Enjoy a snack in our cafe and browse in the shop

Opening Times: 17th March to October 2007 - 11am - 5pm. Every day during school holidays, every day except Monday in term time. Open bank holidays.
Admission Prices for 2007: Adults - £5.00 Children - £4.00 Concessions - £4.50

St Augustines Farm, Arlingham, Gloucestershire. GL2 7JN
Tel: 01452 740277 - Email: staugustines@btconnect.com

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Nailsworth, Stroud.

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Slimbridge Wetland Centre

With an astounding array of wildlife from Water Voles to seals, hares to dragonflies, Slimbridge is home to the world's largest collection of swans, geese, and ducks. It is also the only place in the world where you can see all six species of Flamingo.

The vision of Sir Peter Scott, Slimbridge holds international significance as the headquarters of the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT) and it is here that the world renowned experts of WWT Consulting and Species Conservation are based.

This leading conservation reserve of 325 hectares of internationally protected wetlands including a Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI) a Ramsar Site and Special Protection Area (SPA) is managed by WWT.

A year round programme of walks, arts, events, workshops, talks and spectacular wildlife encounters are a fantastic way for everyone to connect to their natural surroundings.

Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust
Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT
T: +44 (0) 1453 891900 E: enquiries@wwt.org.uk
Website: www.wwt.org.uk/visit-us/slimbridge/

More information : Slimbridge Wetland Centre

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Sudeley Castle

Welcome to Sudeley Castle

Romantic ruins, award-winning gardens and one thousand years of fascinating history are among the many reasons to visit the ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’. Sudeley Castle nestles
in the Cotswold Hills in the historic town of Winchcombe, Gloucestershire.

Romantic ruins, award-winning gardens and 1000 years of fascinating history are among the many reasons to visit Sudeley Castle & Gardens.

Set against the backdrop of the Cotswolds hills in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Sudeley Castle & Gardens has played an important role in England’s history, boasting royal connections that stretch back over 1,000 years.

Inside, the castle contains many fascinating treasures from ancient Roman times to the present day. Outside, the castle is surrounded by award-winning gardens and a breathtaking 1,200 acre estate.

Located only eight miles from the picturesque Cheltenham, Sudeley Castle & Gardens is the only private castle in England to have a queen buried within the grounds. The last of Henry VIII’s six wives, Katherine Parr, lived and died in the castle. She is now entombed in a beautiful 15th century church found within the award-winning gardens.

Sudeley Castle at Winchcombe in the Cotswolds

A host of exciting events features throughout the year – check the calendar for upcoming days out for the whole family to enjoy. From  ‘Katherine Parr Day’ to the exciting Classic Car Rally, there’s sure to be something to please everyone.

Also explore the additional rooms now open, including the Major’s Dressing Room, the Morning Room, the Sewing Room, and the Haunted Staircase, as well as private bedrooms.

These rooms form part of an extended and revamped route around the castle, which includes the fascinating ‘20 Treasures of Sudeley’. A collection of artefacts and works of art of great historical importance which include Katherine Parr’s love letters, lacework reputedly made by Anne Boleyn, bed hangings made for Marie Antoinette and Charles I’s personal beer jugs.

Sudeley Castle’s magnificent gardens are world-renowned, providing variety and colour from spring through to autumn. The centrepiece is the Queens Garden, so named because four of England’s queens – Anne Boleyn, Katherine Parr, Lady Jane Grey and Elizabeth I – once admired the hundreds of varieties of roses found in the garden.

St Mary’s Church is bordered by the White Garden, rich with peonies, clematis, roses and tulips, where Katherine Parr and her companion, Lady Jane Grey would have entered the church for daily prayers.

The Knot Garden is based on a dress pattern worn by Elizabeth I in a portrait which hangs in the castle and a tranquil carp pond is set opposite the ruins of the 15th Century Tithe Barn.  

The famed Adventure Playground features a giant wooden play fort for younger visitors to enjoy, along with a pheasantry to enthral little ones. Additionally there’s a picnic area and Terrace Café serving drinks, light lunches and cakes. The Visitor Centre also offers a range of vintage items, together with souvenirs and locally produced gifts and crafts, to complete the perfect day out.

Address: Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, GL54 5JD
Web: www.sudeleycastle.co.uk; Email:enquiries@sudeley.org.uk

Tel: General Enquiries: Mon-Fri: 01242 602308 Sat-Sun: 01242 604244

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Tetbury Police Museum

The museum is mainly dedicated to the history of the Gloucestershire Constabulary, founded in 1839 despite a petition raised by the people of Compton Greenfield against the necessity of forming a police force in Gloucestershire at all! There is a copy of this petition in the museum and a photo of Gloucestershire first Chief Constable Mr. Anthony Thomas Lefroy.

A number of interesting displays of photographs and equipment show the history of policing. Our resident Sergeant is always on duty in the station watching over the prisoners, local troublemakers and the public as he has done for over a hundred years.

In the first floor courtroom there is a complete magistrates court with a display using models and depicting hearing, as it would have been in the late 1940's or early 1950's.

Tetbury Police Museum is fast becoming one of the main attractions for all ages of visitors to the town and well worth a visit if you like history.

It is open daily Monday to Friday, from 10am to 3 p.m. and at other times by appointment.

Tetbury Police Museum, The Old Court House, 63 Long Street,
Tetbury, Gloucestershire.GL8 8AA
Tel: 01666 504670 - Fax: 01666 504670

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Nailsworth, Stroud, Painswick, Minchinghampton, Tetbury, Wooton-under-Edge

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The Toy and Collectors Museum

For both adults and children. A fascinating display of teddy bears and dolls with many other Victorian and later toys, trains, games, and books. Also on show are textiles and lace, porcelain and pottery and other interesting collectibles.

Open all year. The Toy and Collectors Museum, 8, Park Street, Stow-on-the-Wold, GL54 1AQ. Web site: www.thetoymuseum.co.uk.

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Stow-on-the-Wold.

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Warwick Castle

A great day out for both adults and children. Warwick Castle is one of the best preserved in the UK and dates back to William the Conqueror. It brings to life a thousand years of history. Here you can experience the sights and sounds of the medieval household, chilling dungeon and torture chambers, state rooms, towers and ramparts. In addition there are live shows of sword fighting, falconry, and knights jousting. This venue is a must for children of all ages. For more information on  - Warwick Castle .

Open all year. Warwick Castle, Warwick, Warwickshire, CV34 4QU. Tel: 01926 406600. Web site: www.warwick-castle.co.uk.

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Stratford-upon-Avon. and Warwick

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Winterbourne Medieval Barn

Winterbourne Medieval Barn is a grade II* listed tithe barn which due to its high risk category was purchased by South Gloucestershire Council in 1998 with the help of funding from English Heritage and the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme.

It is an outstanding and unique building of national importance.  All other surviving medieval great barns were built by the important monastic estates, Universities or the Knights Hospitallers, but Winterbourne Barn was built by Thomas de Bradeston, a commoner who seems to have amassed great wealth as an army captain for Edward III in the Hundred Years' War against the French.

These were very turbulent times, Edward II having been murdered at nearby Berkeley Castle in 1327. Thomas de Bradeston was closely associated with the Berkeley family and is suspected of involvement in the King’s murder. He acquired the patronage of Winterbourne Priory in 1328 and went on to build the Barn in 1342, just a few years before the Black Death first hit in England.


The Barn is in a compact group of medieval buildings formerly the home of Carmelite Friars in the 13th Century, and an underground passage is reputed to lead from the house to St Michael's Church. 

The landscape is typical of the scattered hamlets that existed in the 14th Century, and the surrounding field patterns, lanes, footpaths and stiles have remained virtually unchanged since then.  The hamlet has been granted Conservation Area status by South Gloucestershire Council. 

Winterbourne Medieval Barn, Church Lane, Winterbourne BS36 1SE
Web: www.winterbournebarn.org.uk

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Winterbourne Medieval Barn
Fun and games at the barn
Wotton-under-Edge Heritage Centre

Located in a converted fire station in the Chipping, Wotton-under-Edge, the Museum provides visitors with an excellent introduction to this historic wool town and its surrounding area of outstanding natural beauty.

The Heritage Centre houses the collection of the Wotton-under-Edge Historical Society as well as a wide range of resources for family and local history research. The collection provides a good example of artefacts from Wotton's crafts and industries along with photographs, postcards, documents, maps and books of local interest.

The Heritage Centre, The Chipping, Wotton-under-Edge,
Gloucestershire. GL12 7AD
Tel:01453 521541
Email: wuehistsoc@gmail.com

For Places to Stay nearby - See Accommodation at Nailsworth, Stroud, Minchinghampton, Tetbury, Wooton-under-Edge

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Cotswolds Visitor Attractions

This page last modified Monday, 24-Jul-2023 11:24:25 CEST