With opportunities to explore the region’s Roman history, see ecology in action and view a real meteorite, Gloucestershire is a living classroom where children can have fun developing their curiosity and soaking up knowledge.
Perfect for families who are home schooling or hoping for an interesting day trip, get ready to engage those brains, with SoGlos’s pick of 11 fantastic places to enjoy a fun and educational day out.
Educational days out at Dean Heritage Centre
Uncover the Forest of Dean’s ancient secrets at Dean Heritage Centre, where curious kids can trace the history of the forest from pre-historic times to World War II – with the chance to wander through five museum galleries and interactive exhibits.
With five acres of woodland to explore, families can also follow in the footsteps of Victorian school children, snoop around the forester’s cottage and peep inside the replica coal mine where freeminers once grafted.
Educational days out at Slimbridge Wetland Centre
Explore a natural landscape brimming with wonderful wildlife at Slimbridge Wetland Centre to find out why flamingos are pink, what a poisonous frog looks like and much more.
Have fun meeting ducks, geese and swans, walk in the footsteps of an Arctic researcher in the Tundra Hut or step back in time with tours of Scott House, where there’s an intact 1950s kitchen to explore and Slimbridge’s fascinating history as a hub for modern conservation to discover.
Educational days out at Nature in Art
Soak up the wonders of the natural world at Nature in Art in Twigworth, near Gloucester, home to an eclectic collection of artworks from across the globe, which all celebrate nature in unique ways.
Nature in Art also regularly hosts activity days for children, encouraging them to get crafty by taking inspiration from the world around them.
Educational days out at Gloucester Cathedral
From the tomb of King Edward II to the famous cloisters featured in the Harry Potter movies, there’s plenty of history for inquisitive children to discover at Gloucester Cathedral.
With the interactive app, kids can lead their families through the magnificent building, unlocking secret stories from historical figures, including monks and masons, along the way – and even watching the cathedral being built before their eyes.
Educational days out at Berkeley Castle
With a fascinating history dating back to the 11th century, there’s lots for curious kids to learn at Berkeley Castle near Stroud – with regular activities and events for all ages, too.
Open on selected days from March to October, visitors can wander through the ancient Keep, tour the medieval kitchen or even dare to visit the dungeon where King Edward II was imprisoned.
Educational days out at the Museum of Gloucester
Discover Gloucester’s origins as a Roman settlement with two floors of exhibitions and interactive experiences at the Museum of Gloucester – including a Roman kitchen and part of the original wall.
With regularly changing exhibitions and events scheduled throughout the year, young historians will enjoy learning all about the city’s rich heritage.
Educational days out at Jet Age Museum
Take off to the Jet Age Museum to learn all about Gloucestershire’s fascinating aviation history.
Showcasing a range of aircraft and engines near Gloucestershire Airport, aeroplane enthusiasts can have a blast exploring the exhibits, with cockpits for young pilots to clamber into as well.
Educational days out at Cotswold Motoring Museum
A must for young petrolheads, Cotswold Motoring Museum in Bourton-on-the-Water boasts an exciting collection of rare vehicles and 20th-century motoring memorabilia.
Families can enjoy wandering through the blacksmith’s workshop and small country garage, discovering the motoring industry’s humble beginnings – and there’s the chance to meet TV icon, Brum, too!
Educational days out at Corinium Museum
Discover Roman life at the Corinium Museum in Cirencester, inspiring children’s interest in history through engaging displays and computer interactives.
With thousands of objects to marvel at, from Roman antiques through to Victorian artefacts, kids will love following the story of the Cotswold capital from prehistoric times through to the modern day. And with the Cirencester Amphitheatre nearby, they can truly walk in the footsteps of gladiators!
Educational days out at The House of The Tailor of Gloucester
Educational for little ones and nostalgic for grown-ups, visit The House of The Tailor of Gloucester to discover the magical world of Beatrix Potter.
Explore the charming house that inspired her favourite tale, The Tailor of Gloucester, with displays that bring the story to life – including the tailor’s kitchen, which has been carefully reconstructed from Potter’s own drawings.
Educational days out at Winchcombe Museum
At Winchcombe Museum, children and their families can discover the town's historical heritage through engaging exhibits and artefacts – ranging from a cup from the Iron Age to fragments of the famous Winchcombe Meteorite, which made history when it plummeted into town in 2021.
With pop-up art displays, special activity sheets and an exhibition of police memorabilia, too, there's plenty to keep little and big kids entertained.
