Activities and Attractions

Whether you're planning a romantic 48 hours away, bringing the whole family, or celebrating a special occasion with friends; there's plenty to entertain and captivate every generation, right here in the Cotswolds.

To find out more, contact our guest services team who would be delighted to recommend some local activities for you.

Local Attractions, Tours and Activities

Vineyard, Brewery and Distillery Tours

Brewing and distilling come naturally here in the Cotswolds, so take advantage of the variety of great beers, gins, and wines being created right here on your doorstep! From nearby award-winning English wines vineyard Poulton Hill Estate to Cotswold Brewing Company, Battledown Brewery, and Cotswold Distillery, there's plenty to choose from and it's a truly great opportunity to get up close and be educated on this wonderful, specialist skill.

Local Hosted Tours

The Cotswolds are a perfect mix of lush green landscape, quintessentially British villages, towns made rich by the wool trade, centuries of history, grand stately homes, and dreamy private gardens. Private guided tours are the best way to really experience the vast land of the Cotswolds, a bus or map might take you to the generic popular tourist towns but the secrets lie within the inspiring Cotswold landscape found down country roads that lead to hidden Cotswold villages and amazing views.

Play Golf

South Cerney Golf Course & Driving Range is situated close by, on the edge of the popular Water Park area, just outside of Cirencester. An 18 hole, par 70 golf course, offers a challenge for all abilities – from experienced golfers to those starting out for the first time - it is a challenging, yet rewarding experience. Everyone is welcome. The practice facilities includes an 8 bay full-length driving range, practise bunker and putting green.

Country Pursuits

Whether you're a beginner or have bags of experience, make sure to pack your tweeds and flat cap as you'll be set for a great weekend with the incredible portfolio of country pursuits available right here in and around Cirencester. Our Guest Services team will help you to find the perfect experience-led activity, ranging from trout fishing, horse riding, clay pigeon shooting, and 4x4 off-road driving to falconry walks and so much more! Get in touch with us in advance of your arrival to guarantee we can book individual and group preferences. 

Cotswold Water Park

Whether you're bringing the kids or spending quality time with friends, there's plenty to do here. Spanning over 40 square miles, the park has 150 lakes and wetlands and is the largest marl lake system in the country. Explore its nature reserves, country parks and beaches. On warmer days (April - Oct), visit the beach and swimming lagoon, which features the largest giant inflatable Aqua Venture (think, total wipeout!), an adventure playground, volleyball court, training climbing wall, BBQ stations and so much more. If you enjoy fishing, aerial high ropes, watersports, riding, cycling or archery, then this is definitely a place worth visiting. Please note, some activities may require advance bookings.

kayaking

Slimbridge Wetland Centre

Located just 45 minutes from us, visit this incredible wetland wildlife reserve where you will see over 200 species of birds living amongst the 100 acres of wetland, enjoying the backdrop of the spectacular Severn Estuary. This is the nature lover’s paradise and an all-round wonderful day out, year-round. In the spring and summer months, see ducklings, goslings, cygnets, kingfishers, and so much more, whilst the autumn and winter months bring migrating birds, white-fronted geese, and the beautiful Bewick’s swans. Attractions within the centre include the 4x4 and canoe safaris, Welly Boot Land, feeding the geese and spotting the frogs at Toad Hall. Plus, visit the Scott House Museum, where you can step back in time in WWT founder Sir Peter Scott’s home!

flamingos

Cirencester Polo Park

Have you ever considered watching a Polo Tournament or riding western style on a polo pony? Cotswold Polo Academy welcomes all levels of rider from complete beginner to the seasoned competitor.

Their fully trained and qualified coaches will accompany you on an exciting journey through some 3,600 acres of ancient woodland. No two rides are ever the same. Alternatively you may prefer a bespoke one to one session where they will have you 'stick and balling' in no time at all!

Guests can watch a polo match, ride a polo pony, have a polo lesson and much more.

oip

Other things to do:

Whatever the occasion, our Guest Services team can help find the perfect activities to entertain you, do get in touch with them prior to arriving, for activities that require advance bookings. Just a few more suggestions, to whet your appetite, see below:

  • The Garden at Miserden
    Noted as one of the most romantic gardens in the UK and previous winner of the prestigious Historic Houses Garden of the Year
  • A cookery class at Harts Barn Cookery School
    From classes to group experiences, this is a must-have for food lovers
  • New Brewery Arts & Barrel Store
    A one-stop store, offering galleries, artists’ studios, café, and an artisan shop