Location: Cotswolds
Top Things to do in Cotswolds
10 Nature & Wildlife Areas in Cotswolds That You Shouldn't Miss
The Cotswolds (/ˈkɒtswoʊldz/ KOTS-wohldz, /-wəldz/ -wəldz) is an area in south central England containing the Cotswold Hills, a range of rolling hills which rise from the meadows of the upper Thames to an escarpment, known as the Cotswold Edge, above the Severn Valley and Evesham Vale. The area is defined by the bedrock of Jurassic limestone that creates a type of grassland habitat rare in the UK and that is quarried for the golden coloured Cotswold stone. It contains unique features derived from the use of this mineral; the predominantly rural landscape contains stone-built villages, historical towns and stately homes and gardens. The population of the District is about 84,000.
Restaurants in Cotswolds
1. The Barn Owl Centre
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 75 reviews
Due to on going development, we are only open to the public by booking only, bookings relate to a number of Owl & Bird of Prey Experiences we do, which includes Photography Days. Please visit our website for further details, times & cost. For anyone visiting us to purchase an Owl Nest Box or Gift Vouchers, please give us a call before setting off. Please note that the Barn Owl Centre is a Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre as well as an Owl Conservation Centre.
Reviewed By linh0w - Liverpool, United Kingdom
Whilst visiting family we decided to go and enjoy watching and experiencing the magnificent birds on display. The fact that it is a conservation sanctuary was pleasing to discover. Long may it stay open. All the staff were knowledgeable and friendly. Great educational trip for children and adults alike.
2. Cotswold Falconry Centre
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,030 reviews
We are open for 2021 from the 17th May until the 14th November. You'll get to see Eagles, Hawks, Owls, Falcons, Vultures, Kites, Caracaras and more. With 150 individual birds from over 60 different species either in their Breeding Aviaries or on the Flying Displays which are held daily at 11.30, 1.30 and 3.00 . You may wish to pre-book one of our popular experiences for that special day out. Cotswold Falconry Centre "More than a Flying Visit"
Reviewed By BourneJ - North Shields, United Kingdom
Who knew that we would spend a full afternoon in this bird sanctuary? Our expectations were to spend an hour viewing the exotic birds or prey and then spread out the picnic for a mid afternoon feast. In reality we watched the first display in the gusting wind and pouring rain, quickly ate lunch and went back for the next two displays. The bird handlers were a font of knowledge and so enthusiastic it was easy to see that they cared for the birds; most of which were endangered in the wild. From burrowing owls feeding from my gloved hand to African Vultures hoping around our feet and Peregrine Falcons dive bombing from far off woodland, this was a superb and informative way to spend £10; unbelievable value for money. We were in the Costwolds for one week, this was our first day, and it was hard to surpass. We even had wild Buzzards and Kites joining the displays. I well deserved excellent from me.
3. Walks With Hawks
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 321 reviews
We offer a range of packages giving you a rare opportunity to handle and fly a variety of Birds Of Prey here in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire the heart of The Cotswolds. Groups are intentionally kept small, this ensures everyone will get plenty of hands on time with the birds. Max 6 participants, although larger groups catered for on request. Therefore our experiences should not be compared to those found on the discount sites, where groups tend to be very large. Our sessions are designed to give you a more personal experience whether you choose our Hawk Walk, Owl encounter or one of our other packages our aim is to give you some very special memories to cherish.
Reviewed By Extraordinary706245
Today was all about making treasured memories..... Thanks to Clare from Walks with hawks I was able to give my parents an experience I never thought possible. My mother is physically disabled with limited mobility and severe ataxia (uncontrollable shakes) Clare was so patient and kind to my mum and involved her completely and made her feel confident to fully participate. With mum's physical challenges this was truly magical to see. I was amazed to see mum completely at ease to hold all the birds, and have them fly to her, including the magnificent Hope, the blue Chilean Eagle. Dad was in awe and blown away by spectacular birds. The whole experience was fabulous from start to finish, Clare's knowledge and passion for her beautiful birds is infectious. Clare proved to be the most attentive guide with us all and adapted the experience so that we all could enjoy it to the full. 5 star service with memories that we will treasure forever
4. Greystones Farm
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 22 reviews
Greystones, located close to Bourton-on-the-Water, is a unique place for people and wildlife, with a history stretching back 6,000 years. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its wildflower meadows. Follow the ‘Time Trail’ or ‘Wildlife Trail’ to explore Greystones’ archaeology and rare trees, ancient hedgerows, the River Eye, and a lake teaming with wildlife. Nature reserve opening times: Open to the public all year, 24/7. Cafe opening times: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday (and bank holiday Mondays) 10am-4pm. The cafe is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Discovery Barn opening times: staffed by volunteers and open intermittently. Please call ahead if you would like to ensure the Discovery Barn is open. Parking: Parking is available for blue-badge holders at Greystones, all other vehicles must park in the village – it’s just a short distance to reach us. Dogs: Dogs are very welcome at Greystones, but are not allowed inside the cafe or Discovery Barn.
Reviewed By Spa2Junkie - Staffordshire, United Kingdom
Amazing countryside with lovely walks, lot's of different paths all within a few miles of Bourtonon the water, easy walks skirting the lakes ,then extend to returnv via Moor lane to the beautiful village with plentiful tea rooms for that special reward..
5. Hillview Lakes
6. Cotswold Alpaca Walking
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Visit our alpaca farm in of the Cotswolds just outside Stroud. Meet our friendly championship winning herd and alpaca babies ("cria"). Lead one of our halter trained alpacas on a walk round the farm. Take a selfie holding one of the cria, and feel the incredible softness of a championship fleece. Bring a picnic or perhaps stay in our Luxury B&B. Alpaca walks have to be booked in advance.
Reviewed By SarahC0805 - Gloucester, United Kingdom
Google maps will find the farm but Satnav won't! We had a group of 2 year old alpacas to choose from, all were delightful, all had names! They are mostly docile and easily led animals, although they prefer to stand still or eat! The Mums and babies were very skittish because we were unknowns! We were told they don't bite and only spit at each other (mostly the male stud animals!) but might get you by mistake! This did not happen to us. The owner was a mine of information and all our questions were answered as well, so, while I am not an expert, I now know a lot about these animals! They gradually get to know you during the walk which makes them less anxious. Their coats are amazing. Soft, soft like cashmere. You go for a walk around the farm between the fenced fields, mostly on cut grass. Some inclines, some lumps and bumps. The visit is for about an hour. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
7. National Trust - Bibury
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 5 reviews
Reviewed By lisamicky123 - London, United Kingdom
Absolutely stunning place , beautiful stone cottages , very nice little village pub with such friendly staff .... must go and see the famous Arlington row cottages a must see ????
8. Birdland
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,994 reviews
Birdland is delighted to be able to welcome visitors back in line with government guidance. The health and safety of all our visitors and staff is of utmost importance to us and we have introduced some additional measures to ensure social distancing can be maintained including setting restrictions on daily admissions, pausing all keeper talks and feeding displays and closing indoor attractions. Two hour timed tickets will need to be pre-booked in advance on the website. For more information on all the steps we’re taking to ensure the safety of our visitors and to see what attractions will be open, please click here: https://www.birdland.co.uk/birdland-reveals-re-opening-plans/ Birdland in Bourton-on-the-Water is set in nine acres of gardens and woodland, creating a picturesque canopy of the winding River Windrush.
Reviewed By doreent192 - Bristol, United Kingdom
What a great place to see so many species of birds. Set in lovely well cared for grounds, this is a must see if you are visiting this area. Ideal for adults and children alike, disabled friendly, there is so much to see. You can watch at designated feeding times, meet a keeper, and just stroll from area to area seeing these beautiful birds. Jurassic area that children just love, picnic tables set around, aheltered seating areas, and a lovely cafe for light snacks/meals and drinks. All set in the delightful Bourton on the water in the Cotswolds, at a very reasonable price. We shall be back
9. WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,379 reviews
See exotic birds from all around the world in our beautiful grounds set in more than 800 acres of wild reserve. Award-winning visitor centre with great facilities.
Reviewed By dorothyo151 - Minehead, United Kingdom
What a beautiful place and something for everyone who likes birds. It’s divided into separate area’s for different types of birds. There’s an area for tame and semi tame birds where people can feed the birds some of which have been injured and can’t be released. Lots of things for children to do including model bigs around the place. There are also hides for serious bird watchers and photographers and some lovely walks. Knowledgeable helpful friendly staff altogether a wonderful place to visit
10. Elemental Sculpture Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 159 reviews
Situated in the heart of the Cotswolds, The Elemental Sculpture Park features the work of many talented sculptors through a woodland trail and an on site tea room.
Reviewed By ShaunG127 - South Cerney, United Kingdom
This is place is now becoming a regular for us to bring friends, there are hundreds of sculptures set in lovely parkland and wood settings. Most are available to buy. Well worth a visit to spend a couple of hours walking around enjoying the sites, as well as a visit to the great little tearoom.
