Unusual Days Out in The Cotswolds

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Quirky Adventures & Experiences You’ll Always Remember

The Cotswolds is known for its honey-stone villages and rolling hills, but some of the best days out are the ones you don’t expect. Beyond castles and market towns, the region is full of quirky experiences — from walking alpacas to joining a foraging class. If you’re looking for something a little different, here are our favourite unusual things to do in the Cotswolds.

Alpaca Walking

Yes, you can take an alpaca for a walk! Farms like Cotswold Alpacas near Cowley and Alpaca Experience near Chipping Campden offer fun treks where you can stroll the countryside with these gentle, quirky animals. Perfect for families or couples looking for a unique memory (and some great Instagram shots).

Why it’s special: Something totally different, calming, and guaranteed to make you smile.

Foraging Classes

Learn to live off the land with a guided foraging course in the Cotswolds. Experts lead small groups through woodlands and meadows, teaching you to identify edible plants, mushrooms, and herbs. Many classes end with a cook-up using your finds- a true field-to-fork adventure.

Why it’s special: Connects you with nature and gives you skills you can take home.

Cotswold Distilleries & Tastings

From gin to whisky, the Cotswolds is making a name for itself in the craft drinks scene. Cotswolds Distillery in Stourton offers fascinating tours and tastings, while smaller producers like Siblings Gin in Cheltenham bring a modern twist.

Why it’s special: Discover the stories behind the spirits and take home a bottle as the perfect souvenir.

Hawkstone Brewery & Diddly Squat

Famous for its connection with Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm, Hawkstone Brewery near Bourton-on-the-Water is a fun spot to taste locally brewed lager and pick up merchandise without the farm shop queues. Pair it with a visit to Clarkson’s local pubs for the full experience.

Why it’s special: A quirky pop culture connection mixed with a genuinely good pint.

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Pottery & Craft Workshops

Get hands-on with a pottery class or craft workshop at one of the Cotswolds’ many artisan studios. From throwing clay on a wheel to painting ceramics or learning traditional skills like willow weaving, it’s a relaxing and creative way to spend a day.

Why it’s special: A chance to make something lasting and personal to take home.

Falconry Experiences

Step into the world of medieval sport with a falconry experience at places like the Cotswold Falconry Centre near Moreton-in-Marsh. Handle owls, falcons, and hawks, and watch them soar over the countryside.

Why it’s special: Hands-on wildlife encounters with incredible birds of prey.

Hot Air Balloon Rides

For the ultimate unusual day out, soar above the patchwork fields of the Cotswolds in a hot air balloon. Flights often launch from villages like Bourton-on-the-Water or Cheltenham, offering unforgettable views and a champagne toast on landing.

Why it’s special: An unbeatable way to see the landscape from a new perspective.

Lavender Distilling & Seasonal Farm Visits

In summer, visit Cotswold Lavender at Snowshill — not just for the purple fields but to see how lavender oil is distilled. Seasonal farms also offer pumpkin picking, sunflower trails, and even maize mazes.

Why it’s special: Seasonal magic that makes for brilliant family days out and photos.

Beyond the Ordinary

Staying in a Tucked Away cottage means you can balance classic Cotswold charm with these more unusual adventures. Whether you’re walking alpacas, sipping local spirits, or learning a new craft, you’ll go home with stories that last a lifetime.

Because sometimes the best memories are made when you try something different.

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