A Long Weekend in the Cotswolds with Kids

Bourton-on-the-Water is a charming village in the Cotswolds, offering a variety of family-friendly attractions. Children can enjoy the Cotswold Motoring Museum, home to vintage cars and the beloved TV character Brum. Nearby, the Model Village provides a one-ninth scale replica of the village, complete with a flowing river and singing churches. The Dragonfly Maze presents a fun challenge with clues leading to a hidden golden dragonfly. Families can also relax by the River Windrush, where kids often delight in paddling or watching the ducks. The village boasts a variety of charming shops, inviting cafés and family-friendly restaurants, making it easy to find a spot to refuel or pick up a sweet treat.

Broadway, often called the "Jewel of the Cotswolds," is a picturesque village known for its wide, tree-lined High Street and honey-colored stone cottages. Families can enjoy a visit to the Broadway Activity Park, a 3-acre recreation ground offering play equipment suitable for all ages, including a zip wire, climbing frames and swings. Additionally, the Broadway Museum and Art Gallery provides a dedicated family zone with play and craft areas, allowing children to engage with exhibits in a fun and interactive way.

Stow-on-the-Wold is another delightful Cotswold town. Children will enjoy the enchanting St. Edward’s Church, renowned for its unique tree-framed doorway, believed to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien's Doors of Durin. Just outside town, Cotswold Farm Park offers hands-on experiences with over 50 rare breeds of British farm animals, including opportunities to feed lambs and watch sheep shearing demonstrations. The town also features a variety of antique shops, cafés and the historic Market Square, making it a pleasant stop for families.

The Gloucester Warwickshire Steam Railway offers a relaxing and scenic day out. The route meanders through picturesque Cotswold landscapes, stopping at charming stations like Winchcombe and Toddington. Children can marvel at the puffing engines, wave to friendly station staff and explore historical train stations.

The surrounding countryside offers beautiful walking trails suitable for families. The Heart of England Circular Walk, approximately 3.6 miles, provides a gentle route with scenic views, perfect for a leisurely family hike. The Broadway line is a 4-mile circular walk from Broadway to the Broadway Tower, which can be climbed for views (and a cafe!) For families with younger children, the Honeybourne Line offers a paved trail that is perfect for strollers.

Sudeley Castle is a fantastic family destination, blending history and adventure. The Adventure Playground, with its wooden fort, zip wire and climbing wall, offers hours of fun. Nearby, a challenging obstacle course keeps energetic kids entertained. The Animal Ark features life-sized sculptures of animals made from natural materials, while the castle’s beautifully landscaped gardens provide a peaceful spot to relax. Inside, children can explore engaging exhibits and learn about Queen Katherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII.

One of our children's favorite activities was exploring the grounds of our hotel, Ellenborough Park. Through a scavenger hunt, we were able to learn about the historic manor's past while enjoying the beauty of our surroundings and the child-centered activities the hotel offered. Whether you stay at the Ellenborough or one of the other recommended hotels, families will love learning about the unique histories and offerings of these amazing destinations.

Smiths: Delicious burgers and bespoke cocktails in a quintessential Cotswolds setting. Casual and family friendly, it's the perfect place to stop for lunch while in Bourton-on-the-Water.

The Broadway Deli: Part cafe, part deli, part specialty food shop, the Broadway Deli has something for everyone. Choose a seat at the cafe (outdoors if the weather permits) or grab food for a picnic from the deli. Bonus points for their lovely signage during Pride month!

The Slaughters Country Inn in Lower Slaughter: Children are welcome before 8pm, where they can enjoy tasty options for picky palates. You can choose to eat alfresco in the Inn's fabulous gardens.

The Porch House: Children can enjoy children's classics while parents enjoy dining in England's oldest Inn. Perfect stop in Stow-on-the-Wold.

The recommended hotels all offer elevated restaurants that are well worth a visit. In particular, the Calcot Manor and Fish Hotel offer special kids' menus, the Ellenborough features a fabulous hot chocolate bar at breakfast and the Cowley features the traditional Sunday Roast.