AROUND SECOND CHANCE
The Cotswolds includes some of the most beautiful countryside in England and is a wonderful place to visit and explore at any time of year. There are lots of attractions and plenty of things to do in the Cotswolds for all ages. Visit the Cotswolds for a truly peaceful and relaxing holiday - get away from the crowds and explore the quieter tracks, hidden villages and secret corners.
COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK
27 MINUTES AWAY
The Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens exhibits over 260 different species of animals. The park is set in 160 acres (0.65 km2) of landscaped parkland and gardens 2 miles south of Burford, on the A361, Oxfordshire, England. Around 350,000 people visited the park in 2012.
BIBURY TROUT FARM
20 MINUTES AWAY
Bibury Trout Farm is one of Britain’s oldest, and certainly most attractive, trout farms. Founded in 1902 by the famous naturalist Arthur Severn, it was situated to stock the local rivers and streams with native Brown Trout. It is now owned and operated by sisters Kate Marriott and Sheena Woodhams and covers 15 acres in one of the most beautiful valleys in the Cotswolds, the Coln Valley. The crystal clear waters of the Bibury Spring provide the essential pure water required to run our hatchery, which spawns up to 6 million trout ova every year. It is also home to a great variety of other species, such as kingfishers and threatened water voles.
The village of Bibury itself was famously referred to as the ‘most beautiful village in England’ by William Morris and we can certainly understand why, Make sure you visit historic Arlington Mill, Arlington Row and the beautiful St Mary’s Church. Photo opportunities are around every corner in this small and perfectly formed Cotswold village.
COTSWOLD WATER PARK
15 MINUTES AWAY
The Cotswold Water Park is an area of 40 square miles, with more than 150 lakes set across the countryside of Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and West Oxfordshire.
Within the Park there is a diverse range of businesses offering accommodation, leisure activities and food and drink.
THE UK'S ONLY CROCODILE ZOO
34 MINUTES AWAY
Come face-to-face with some of the world’s most feared predators in a fun, safe and stimulating environment. With under-water viewing, talks, animal encounters and feeds throughout the day there’s plenty to keep you occupied at the UK’s only Crocodile Zoo. We are dedicated to the conservation of these incredible animals and want to share our passion with you.
From critically endangered Siamese crocodiles from Cambodia, to Chinese alligators, Nile Crocodiles and American alligators, a visit to Crocodiles of the World in Oxfordshire will take you on a journey of discovery around the world meeting different species of crocodiles, caiman and alligators, as well as meerkats, otters, Giant tortoises and laughing Kookaburras. We’re also one of only four zoos in the UK where you can see a Komodo dragon, the King of the Lizards. So whether your looking for a family day-out, unique keeper experiences, school trip or group visit, Crocodiles of the World is a truly memorable day.
WALKING & EXPLORING
Walking in the Cotswolds provides a wealth of choices with gentle strolls, hilly hikes and a variety of circular walks including many level, stile-free walks for wheelchairs and easy access.
The Cotswolds AONB boasts two National Trails – the Cotswold Way and the start of the Thames Path. Combine this with thousands of miles of footpaths and bridleways along rolling hills, dramatic escarpment, historic landmarks and winding river valleys and you have a walker’s paradise in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
BOURTON - ON - THE - WATER
37 MINUTES AWAY
The Cotswolds is set in the heart of England, famous for its honey coloured stone architecture and idyllic village scenes.
Regularly voted one of the prettiest villages in England, Bourton-on-the-Water has a unique appeal to visitors and residents alike, there is plenty to see and do with a wealth of attractions and shops, restaurants and tea rooms, or simply for you to enjoy some tranquil time by the River Windrush with its beautiful bridges throughout.
Popular attractions in the area include The Cotswold Motoring Museum featuring vintage cars and a toy collection. Birdland is home to species including parrots, owls and king penguins, plus life-size model dinosaurs. The Model Village is a 1930s scale replica of the village.
ROMAN TOWN OF CIRENCESTER
15 MINUTES AWAY
Cirencester, the capital of the Cotswolds, was the second largest town in Britain during Roman times. In later years it was a very prosperous medieval wool town. Cirencester is full of tastefully restored courtyards, alleyways and lovely old streets.
There are many places to visit and sites to enjoy, including the Abbey Grounds, St. Michael's Park, Cirencester Park, the Roman Amphitheatre, New Brewery Arts, and the Corinium Museum. Cirencester's market place is dominated by the Parish Church of St. John Baptist. From its founding in the early 12th century the church was extended and embellished over more than three centuries, culminating in a complete rebuilding of the nave in the 16th century.
Cirencester also has an open air swimming pool. Built in 1869 this unique pool offers the chance to swim in natural spring water heated to an average 27°C (80F). Open May to September.
SWINDON STEAM MUSEUM AND DESIGNER OUTLET CENTRE
24 MINUTES AWAY
The Steam Museum of the Great Western Railway is housed in a beautifully restored Grade II listed railway building in the heart of the former Swindon railway works.
Located right next to Swindon's Designer Outlet, the Museum tells the story of the men and women who built, operated and travelled on the Great Western Railway.
See famous locomotives, ‘drive’ our train simulator and even work the signals in our interactive GWR signal box!
At McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Swindon you'll find your favourite brands at up to 60% less, all year round. There's something for everyone; within our beautiful heritage building you'll find cafes, restaurants, a children's play area and more than 110 boutiques. Our wide range of stores range from iconic fashion brands such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Ted Baker, Tommy Hilfiger and Jack Wills to athletic labels, such as Nike and Puma, and high-street favourites, such as Guess and Joules.
ST. MARY'S CHURCH OF FAIRFORD
13 MINUTES AWAY
There has been a Church on this site for 1,000 years, the present one dating from about 1497. The Church, as well as being the largest place of worship in the town, is chiefly known for its stained glass windows – the only complete set of late medieval glass in a parish church in the country!
