Top 5 Family-Friendly Days Out in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds isn’t just about honey-stone villages and cosy pubs, it’s also a dream destination for families. From animal encounters to castles and steam trains, there are endless adventures to keep little ones (and grown-ups!) entertained. Here are our Top 5 Family-Friendly Days Out in the Cotswolds- perfect for guests staying in our cottages.
1. Cotswold Farm Park
Founded by TV farmer Adam Henson, Cotswold Farm Park near Guiting Power is a firm family favourite. Children can get hands-on with rare breed farm animals, bottle-feed lambs, or enjoy tractor rides. Seasonal activities like pumpkin picking in autumn or lambing in spring make it a repeat visit kind of place.
Why kids love it: Interactive animal encounters, outdoor play areas, and themed trails.
www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk
2. Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
Set in 160 acres of landscaped parkland near Burford, the Cotswold Wildlife Park is home to giraffes, lions, penguins, and more. Families can stroll through spacious enclosures, take a ride on the narrow-gauge railway, and picnic by the manor house lawns.
Why kids love it: The giraffes and lemurs are always a hit, and the adventure playground is perfect for burning off energy.
www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk
3. Sudeley Castle & Gardens
History comes alive at Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe. Alongside its fascinating royal connections, the castle offers brilliant family trails, exhibitions, and stunning gardens to explore. In school holidays, you’ll often find special themed events, from knights and dragons to Halloween fun.
Why kids love it: Adventure playgrounds, seasonal treasure hunts, and a chance to explore a real-life castle.
www.sudeleycastle.co.uk
4. Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway
Step back in time with a ride on a classic steam train. The GWSR runs from Cheltenham Racecourse through to Broadway, winding through beautiful Cotswold countryside. Look out for family-friendly events such as the “Santa Express” at Christmas or themed days during school holidays.
Why kids love it: Riding a real steam train feels like stepping into a storybook adventure.
www.gwsr.com
5. Bourton-on-the-Water: Model Village & Birdland
No family trip to the Cotswolds is complete without a visit to Bourton-on-the-Water. Known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” it’s home to the famous Model Village- a 1/9th scale replica of the village itself and Birdland Park & Gardens, where children can meet flamingos, parrots, and even Jurassic-themed dinosaurs.
Why kids love it: Miniature houses to explore, exotic birds, and the shallow river perfect for paddling in summer.
www.birdland.co.uk
Family Stays Made Easy
When you stay in one of our Tucked Away cottages, family adventures are right on your doorstep. With space to spread out, fully equipped kitchens, and cosy living rooms for winding down after busy days, they’re the perfect base for making family memories in the Cotswolds.
From farm animals to castles, steam trains to wildlife, the Cotswolds is full of magical days out that both children and parents will love.
Explore Our Unique Lodgings
Because here at Tucked Away, we know The Cotswolds is the kind of place little moments feel big again.
What our guests have said
“We had a lovely stay at Charlotte's. My husband and I travelled with our 2 year old and my mum and it was the perfect layout for us. Being close to the shops and restaurants made it easy to explore and there are lot of local kid-friendly attractions a short drive away. We'll be returning for sure!"
“This was a lovely property for a chilled weekend with my friends. We were really impressed with how well stocked the kitchen was as it meant we could cook a nice dinner with ease. We loved the location as there was a pub a few steps away and was in short driving distance to lots of attractions like Daylesford. My dog particularly enjoyed the walking routes from the town that took him to big fields to play fetch!”
“The perfect get-away for our family holiday in the perfect place. The house is located right in the centre of Stow on the Wold so all the gorgeous pubs and shops are just a stones throw away. The house was immaculate and had so many facilities. All rooms were a generous size and beds super comfy. The hosts even allowed us to check in a few hours early and we arrived to a fresh loaf of bread and milk in the fridge. 10/10 the perfect stay.”