The Gloucestershire Family Bucket List 2026 returns with 100 unforgettable family days out in the county – from unique attractions and outdoor adventures to iconic local events – all carefully handpicked by SoGlos’s team of local journalists.
Looking for family days out in Gloucestershire? The Gloucestershire Family Bucket List 2026 brings together 100 must-try experiences across Cheltenham, the Cotswolds, the Forest of Dean, Gloucester, Stroud and Tewkesbury – from iconic attractions and seasonal events to hidden gems and outdoor adventures.
How many of the 100 experiences can your family tick off this year? Share your adventures using #GlosFamilyBucketList.
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The Everyman Theatre is Gloucestershire’s finest entertainment venue, offering a packed calendar of drama, dance, comedy and music events, as well as family shows, including the unmissable annual pantomime – which is Cinderella, starring Tweedy, in 2026. The Everyman’s inclusive youth theatre includes popular term-time and summer school programmes. Plus, look out for its new Everyman Education Centre at Grove Street, opening summer 2026.
Everyman Theatre everymantheatre.org.uk
One of Gloucestershire’s most popular attractions, Westonbirt Arboretum spans 600 acres of beautiful landscape with natural play areas, family-friendly trails, restaurants and standout annual events like Forest Live and Christmas at Westonbirt. It’s fully accessible, with free wheelchair and mobility‑scooter hire, and offers designated dog-friendly areas so every family member can enjoy the day.
Westonbirt Arboretum forestryengland.uk/westonbirt
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity provides lifesaving helicopter-led emergency medicine services across six Midlands counties including northern Gloucestershire, covering Cheltenham, Cirencester, Gloucester, Stroud, Tewkesbury and the surrounding areas. The charity operates and funds three air ambulances and a fleet of critical care cars to protect the lives of the communities it serves.
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity midlandsairambulance.com
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Brilliant family adventures in Cheltenham
Looking for family things to do in Cheltenham? From theatre shows and festivals to parks, museums and outdoor adventures, these bucket list experiences are perfect for days out with kids in Cheltenham.
1. Climb Cleeve Hill for views from the highest point in the Cotswolds
A short walk from Cleeve Hill's car park leads to panoramic views across the Severn Vale and Malvern Hills from the Cotswolds’ highest summit. For more of a challenge, look for Belas Knap long barrow, a Neolithic burial chamber, on the hill.
2. Pack a picnic for a day out at Pittville Park
Cheltenham’s largest park, Pittville Park is ideal for an easy family afternoon, with playgrounds, a boating lake, cafes and small aviary to explore. It’s also home to the impressive Pittville Pump Room.
3. Dive into outdoor swimming at Cheltenham Lido
Cheltenham Lido is one of the county’s favourite hangouts, with heated outdoor pools, slides, sauna and space to relax in the sunshine.
4. Experience the pantomime magic at the Everyman Theatre
Tweedy the Clown returns to the Everyman Theatre stage for the 2026 annual pantomime, Cinderella. Set to bring big belly laughs, lively songs and sparkle to one of Cheltenham’s best-loved family traditions.
5. See horses cross the finish line at Cheltenham Racecourse
The world-famous Cheltenham Racecourse includes a number of family-friendly jump racing fixtures every season, including the November Meeting, New Year’s Day races and April Meeting.
6. Spend an action-packed afternoon at The Brewery Quarter
Bowling, adventure golf, escape rooms, cinema screenings and Cheltenham’s largest soft play centre make The Brewery Quarter a popular family day-out destination.
7. Ride a steam train on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway
Climb aboard a restored Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway steam locomotive for a memorable journey through the countryside, with themed family events throughout the year.
8. Explore 1,000 years of royal history at Sudeley Castle
Katherine Parr’s final resting place, Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe blends centuries of royal history with family highlights including trails and a large castle adventure playground.
9. Discover art and Antarctic exploration at The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum
Cheltenham’s explorer Edward Wilson is celebrated at The Wilson, alongside collections of art and design, as well as creative workshops suitable for families.
10. Meet your favourite authors at Cheltenham Literature Festival
The family programme at Cheltenham Literature Festival brings stories to life through lively readings, workshops and the chance to meet popular children’s authors.
11. Get creative at the new Everyman Education Centre
Opening in summer 2026 on Grove Street, the Everyman Theatre’s new education centre will offer a range of creative workshops, classes and activities for all ages.
12. Spot cool street art along the Honeybourne Line
Street art and commissioned public artwork transform the Honeybourne Line into a vibrant and traffic-free open-air gallery, perfect for walking, scooting or cycling along.
13. Try tennis, squash, padel and pickleball at East Glos Club
With courts for a range of racquet sports and coaching programmes for all abilities, East Glos Club is a lively hub for active families.
14. Experience a live show at Cheltenham Town Hall
From orchestral concerts and stand-up comedy to festival events, Cheltenham Town Hall has been entertaining families since 1903.
15. Pedal on the Gloucestershire Cycle Spine between Bishop’s Cleeve and Gloucester
On the latest part of the Gloucestershire Cycle Spine, to be completed in early 2026, families can travel by bike from Bishop’s Cleeve in the north to Gloucester in the south of the county.
16. Step back in history at the Holst Victorian House
Birthplace of Gustav Holst, the Holst Victorian House offers an interesting glimpse into the early life of The Planets composer.
17. Settle in for a show under the stars at Tuckwell Amphitheatre
Set within the grounds of the Bacon Theatre at Dean Close School, the Tuckwell Amphitheatre hosts an annual open-air theatre festival each summer, where audiences can enjoy live music, plays and family performances in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Magical family adventures in the Cotswolds
From wildlife parks and countryside walks to quirky traditions and world-famous attractions, these Cotswold experiences make for unforgettable family days out.
18. Wander high among the leaves on the Treetop Walkway at Westonbirt Arboretum
One of the most celebrated arboretums in the world, Westonbirt is spectacular in every season, with its elevated walkway giving families a chance to stroll among the branches of the woodland canopy.
19. Visit the home of Brum at the Cotswold Motoring Museum
See classic cars, retro caravans and motoring memorabilia at the Cotswold Motoring Museum – including the famous little yellow car, Brum.
20. Marvel at breathtaking aerial displays at The Royal International Air Tattoo
RAF Fairford hosts The Royal International Air Tattoo, one of the world’s largest military airshows each summer, where powerful jets and historic aircraft perform dramatic aerial displays.
21. Admire spectacular cherry blossom at Batsford Arboretum
Popular with families all-year round, spring at Batsford Arboretum is particularly special, when the arboretum’s renowned collection of Japanese cherry trees bursts into colour.
22. Make a big splash at Cotswold Country Park and Beach
Extremely popular on sunny days, pack a swimming cossie, bucket and spade for a visit to Cotswold Country Park and Beach – the UK’s largest inland sandy beach.
23. Say hello to the king penguins at Birdland Park and Gardens
Birdland in Bourton-on-the-Water is home to the UK’s only breeding colony of king penguins, along with flamingos, pelicans and many more fascinating birds.
24. Get creative with hands-on craft workshops at New Brewery Arts
Cirencester’s New Brewery Arts invites all ages to explore galleries, meet resident makers and take part in creative workshops – with special classes designed for children and teenagers.
25. Soak up live music in the woods at Westonbirt Arboretum’s Forest Live concerts
Each summer Westonbirt Arboretum becomes an atmospheric outdoor concert venue, where major artists perform Forest Live concerts among the famous trees.
26. Step into a miniature world at Bourton-on-the-Water Model Village
The only Grade II-listed model village in the country, Bourton-on-the-Water’s Model Village perfectly recreates the village in charming miniature detail.
27. Walk a scenic stretch of the iconic Cotswold Way National Trail
One of Britain’s best-loved walking routes, follow the famous acorn markers across rolling hills and honey-stone villages along the Cotswold Way National Trail.
28. Cheer on the shin-kickers at the Cotswold Olimpick Games
Dating back centuries, the wonderfully eccentric Cotswold Olimpick Games on Dover’s Hill includes the infamously bruising shin-kicking contest.
29. Discover Roman life at the Corinium Museum
Home to one of the UK’s most important collections of Roman artefacts, head to the Corinium Museum for impressive mosaics, sculptures and everyday objects dating back to when Cirencester was one of Roman Britain’s largest towns.
30. Catch a show at the Barn Theatre
The Barn Theatre’s varied programme of professional productions spans an eclectic range of plays, musicals and family shows in its intimate Cirencester venue.
31. Meet the springtime lambs at Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park
Families can meet rare farm animals and experience the magic of lambing season at the popular Cotswold Farm Park, near Guiting Power.
32. Watch the famous Bourton-on-the-Water Football in the River match
Join the crowds lining the riverbanks in Bourton-on-the-Water each summer, as two teams battle it out in the ankle-deep River Windrush water in this quirky local tradition.
33. Wander the sweeping parkland avenues of Cirencester Park
Just a short walk from the town centre, Cirencester Park offers wide open landscapes, grand tree-lined avenues and peaceful countryside views.
34. Take a country walk with fluffy alpacas at Cotswold Alpacas
Animal lovers can meet and walk a friendly herd of Huacaya alpacas through the countryside from Cotswold Alpacas’ peaceful rural setting in Cowley.
35. Try a water sport at Cotswold Lakes
Spanning more than 180 lakes, Cotswold Lakes offers everything from wakeboarding and waterskiing to inflatable water parks.
Heritage-packed family adventures in Gloucester
Discover centuries of history alongside modern attractions, from its medieval cathedral and museums to sports, climbing and waterside adventures in Gloucester.
36. Bring the wizarding world to life wandering Gloucester Cathedral’s Great Cloister
Harry Potter fans will instantly recognise Gloucester Cathedral’s magnificent medieval Great Cloister, which doubled as the corridors of Hogwarts in several of the world-famous films. An ambitious conservation project has been launched to protect the space described as one of the most important medieval spaces in the world.
37. Experience an electric matchday at Gloucester Rugby at Kingsholm Stadium
Gloucester Rugby’s passionate fans fill Kingsholm to cheer on the Cherry and Whites, creating one of the most exciting sporting atmospheres in the region.
38. Witness the world-famous Gloucestershire Cheese Rolling
Each summer thrill-seekers race down Cooper’s Hill chasing a wheel of Double Gloucester in one of the county’s most famous and chaotic traditions.
39. Strap on your skis at Gloucester Ski Centre – England’s longest dry slope
Gloucester Ski and Snowboard Centre offers the chance to try winter sports all year-round, spanning skiing, snowboarding and tubing.
40. Spend the day shopping, eating and getting active at Gloucester Quays
Located in the historic Gloucester Docks, Gloucester Quays blends outlet shopping with a choice of family-friendly restaurants and cafes, plenty of activities, as well as regular markets, events and even ice skating in the winter.
41. Climb aboard heritage aircraft at the Jet Age Museum
Inside the Jet Age Museum’s hangars, visitors will find aircraft, fascinating exhibits and stories of the county’s pioneering role in aviation history.
42. Tackle the rope courses at the adventurous 270 Climbing Park
Impressive climbing centre 270 Climbing Park offers bouldering, high ropes and challenging obstacle courses for energetic families.
43. Test your driving skills at JDR Karting’s indoor race circuit
Aspiring racers can experience the thrill of competitive kart racing at JDR Karting, where junior and adult sessions offer high-speed excitement.
44. Discover canal heritage inside the National Waterways Museum
Housed in a former dockside warehouse, the National Waterways Museum at Gloucester Docks reveals the fascinating story of Britain’s canals and working waterways.
45. Catch theatre, comedy and live music at Gloucester Guildhall
Gloucester Guildhall has long been a cultural hotspot in the city, with an eclectic programme of events suitable for all the family.
46. Visit Beatrix Potter’s charming House of the Tailor of Gloucester
Tucked away down a cobbled lane, the House of the Tailor of Gloucester museum celebrates Beatrix Potter’s beloved children’s story set in the city.
47. Unearth artefacts at the Museum of Gloucester
Two floors of exhibits trace the city’s story at the Museum of Gloucester, from Roman times through to the modern day.
48. Scale the colourful climbing walls at Clip ‘n Climb Gloucester
This lively indoor climbing centre offers bright, themed climbing challenges with automatic safety systems that make it accessible for families.
49. Take a swing at Brickhampton Court Golf Complex and driving range
Families can enjoy golf courses, mini challenges and a high-tech Trackman driving range at Brickhampton Court, designed to sharpen the skills of golfers of all ages.
50. Roll around the rink at Roller Xpress roller disco
Music, lights and themed nights make roller skating sessions at Gloucester Quays’ Roller Xpress a fun, retro family activity.
51. Climb Robinswood Hill for sweeping countryside views
The rewarding walk to the summit of Robinswood Hill offers panoramic views across the Severn Vale and beyond.
52. Catch a film at the art-deco Sherborne Cinema
Treasured independent Sherborne Cinema offers a wholesome movie-going experience with a friendly atmosphere and mugs of tea!
53. Discover world-class wildlife art at Nature in Art
The unique Nature in Art museum celebrates the natural world through painting, sculpture and photography – with stunning exhibitions and creative workshops.
54. Explore centuries of military stories at the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
Personal stories, artefacts and uniforms reveal the experiences of local soldiers across three centuries at the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum.
55. Take on obstacle challenges at Ultimate Warriors indoor adventure park
From climbing walls and balance beams to giant inflatables and slides, Gloucester’s Ultimate Warriors gives families the chance to test their agility, speed and teamwork on a series of challenges.
56. Watch the colourful dragon boats racing at Gloucester Docks
Every April, cheer on the dragon boat-racing teams as they paddle furiously along the water during this lively charity fundraising event.
57. Get outdoors at Over Farm’s Countryside Adventure
Over Farm’s Countryside Adventure family farm park blends hands-on animal encounters with outdoor play areas, tractor trailer rides, mini golf and bouncing pillows for an energetic day out for little ones.
58. Grab a bite from an independent eatery at Gloucester Food Dock
Gloucester Food Dock is home to a vibrant collection of restaurants, cafes and dessert spots serving everything from ramen and pizza to brownies and gelato scoops.
59. Come face to face with friendly animals at Prinknash Bird and Deer Park
Popular for generations and reopened in late 2025, spot animals including deer, donkeys, chickens and geese at Prinknash Bird and Deer Park, near Painswick.
Creative family adventures in Stroud
Expect quirky traditions, wildlife encounters, historic gardens and creative community experiences across the Stroud district.
60. Discover flamingos, cranes, swans and lots more at Slimbridge Wetland Centre
Slimbridge Wetland Centre, an internationally important wetland reserve, gives visitors close encounters with wildlife across lagoons and marshes – with a chance for little ones to splash about in Welly Boot Land or paddle a canoe, too.
61. Step into centuries of history at Berkeley Castle
One of England’s oldest continuously inhabited castles, Berkeley Castle is a fab day out and also regularly hosts medieval reenactments and family events.
62. Wander through whimsical follies at Painswick Rococo Garden
The unique 18th-century Painswick Rococo Garden features winding paths, playful follies and spectacular seasonal planting, including snowdrops and daffodils.
63. Grab a bite at the award-winning Stroud Farmers’ Market
Regularly dubbed one of the best in the UK, Stroud Farmers’ Market fills the town every Saturday with top notch independent traders selling bread, produce and delicious street food.
64. Stroll along Stroud’s canals
Follow the restored canal through the Stroud valleys, where level towpaths offer easy walks and bike rides past locks, bridges and tranquil waterside scenery.
65. Celebrate storytelling at the lively Stroud Book Festival
Each autumn Stroud Book Festival welcomes celebrated authors, illustrators and readers for a festival of stories, with plenty for families.
66. Meet the friendly residents at Cattle Country Adventure Park
Cattle Country offers animal encounters, outdoor play areas, ride-on tractors and plenty of space for children to run around, at its rural location just outside Berkeley.
67. Step inside the magical big top of Giffords Circus
Starting and finishing its annual tour at Fennels Farm, near Stroud, the much-loved Giffords Circus returns in 2026 with its new show Waterfield, blending music, storytelling and dazzling performances beneath the vintage big top.
68. Search for the abandoned boats of Purton Ships’ Graveyard
Rows of decaying vessels along the River Severn form one of Britain’s most unusual outdoor museums.
69. Explore the unfinished Gothic mansion hidden in Woodchester Park
The mysteriously unfinished Woodchester Mansion stands frozen in time, surrounded by woodland walks and wildlife.
70. Discover local history at Stroud’s Museum in the Park
The charming Museum in the Park combines fascinating local history exhibits with beautiful Stratford Park surroundings.
71. Enjoy theatre, comedy and music at Stroud’s Sub Rooms
Stroud’s much-loved arts venue Sub Rooms hosts an eclectic programme of performances throughout the year and some tasty pop-up foodie events too.
72. Share a community feast at The Long Table
The Long Table is a welcoming community kitchen which invites everyone to sit together, pay-what-you-can and enjoy delicious food.
73. Go star gazing on Painswick Beacon on a clear night
High above the Stroud valleys, Painswick Beacon’s open hilltop offers some of the county’s darkest skies and sweeping views of the Milky Way on clear evenings.
74. Lick a Winstones ice cream cone on Rodborough Common
Dating back to 1925, generations of locals have stopped at Winstones for a cone after exploring the sweeping views of Rodborough Common.
Wild family adventures in the Forest of Dean
With ancient woodland, adventure trails, caves and canoeing on the River Wye, the Forest of Dean offers some of the best outdoor family adventures in Gloucestershire.
75. Descend deep underground into the caverns of Clearwell Caves
Self-guided tours at Clearwell Caves lead visitors through vast underground chambers that reveal centuries of mining history beneath the Forest of Dean.
76. Paddle a canoe on the River Wye
Take a gentle canoe trip along the River Wye past dramatic cliffs and some of the most beautiful scenery in the region.
77. Swing through the treetops at Go Ape
Thrill-seekers can tackle high ropes courses, Tarzan swings and zip lines high among the trees at Go Ape’s two Forest of Dean locations, at Beechenhurst and Mallards Pike.
78. Explore the magical twisted woodland of Puzzlewood
Ancient trees, moss-covered rocks and winding trails make Puzzlewood feel like stepping into another world, which is why it has appeared in epic films including Star Wars.
79. Discover striking artworks hidden along the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail
Contemporary sculptures appear among the trees along the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail’s popular woodland walking route.
80. Travel aboard a heritage train at Dean Forest Railway
Vintage trains run along a scenic line through woodland and countryside at Dean Forest Railway.
81. Follow the magical Room on the Broom family trail from Beechenhurst
Forestry England’s Room on the Broom family trail starts at Beechenhurst, bringing Julia Donaldson’s beloved story to life with interactive activities. Plus, Beechenhurst is also home to a fantastic playground and cafe.
82. Follow the family-friendly Colliers Trail through the Forest of Dean
The scenic Colliers Trail cycling route follows former mining railway lines through woodland, linking Beechenhurst, Mallards Pike and the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre.
83. Discover local history at the Dean Heritage Centre
Dean Heritage Centre’s museum exhibits and outdoor trails reveal the unique traditions and industries of the Forest of Dean in fascinating detail.
84. Splash in the forest stream at Wenchford
This peaceful forest clearing at Wenchford is perfect for paddling, picnicking and relaxing beside the babbling brook.
85. Soak up breathtaking views across the Wye Valley from Symonds Yat Rock
This famous viewpoint from Symonds Yat Rock offers sweeping panoramas across the forest and is a great place to spot large and powerful peregrine falcons.
86. Ride the miniature trains at Perrygrove Railway Adventure
Miniature locomotives wind through forest scenery at Perrygrove Railway Adventure, while families explore tunnels, treehouses and play areas.
87. Tuck into tasty waffles at The Fairview Gardener’s Tea Room
Perfect for a treat, The Tea Room at The Fairview Gardener in Birdwood is a family favourite destination for homemade cakes, brunch and its extensive waffle menu.
88. Explore the historic docks at Lydney Harbour
Take a walk around Lydney Harbour, where old stone quays, boats and wide views across the Severn Estuary create an atmospheric place for families to explore.
Historic family adventures in Tewkesbury
From medieval festivals and historic abbeys to nature reserves and riverside walks, Tewkesbury offers plenty of memorable family days out.
89. Marvel at the towering Norman architecture of Tewkesbury Abbey
Dating back to 1121, Tewkesbury Abbey’s huge stone arches and stained-glass windows make it one of the most impressive historic buildings in Gloucestershire. Families can even climb the tower on special occasions.
90. Relive the famous battle at the Tewkesbury Medieval Festival
Europe’s largest free medieval festival, Tewkesbury Medieval Festival recreates the dramatic Battle of Tewkesbury with armour, reenactments and living history.
91. Soak up a splendid family show at The Roses Theatre
Tewkesbury’s warm and welcoming Roses Theatre presents plays, films and workshops that inspire young performers, as well as the annual panto, too.
92. Shop for food and fashion at Cotswolds Designer Outlet
Cotswolds Designer Outlet, just off the M5, offers big brand shopping and dining, with a year-round programme of events for all the family.
93. Ride on the fairground at the Tewkesbury Mop Fair
Bright lights, thrilling rides and bustling stalls fill the streets at the Tewkesbury Mop Fair every October, during this centuries-old two-day celebration.
94. Go for a paddle at Croft Farm Water Park
Try windsurfing or paddleboarding at the scenic Croft Farm Water Park, which offers outdoor activities for adventurous families.
95. Spot birds at peaceful Tewkesbury Nature Reserve
The wetlands and meadows of Tewkesbury Nature Reserve provide an important haven for wildlife, as well as a relaxing place to walk.
96. Follow the historic Battle Trail across the fields of Tewkesbury
Battle Trail information boards guide visitors through the landscape where the decisive battle of 1471 took place.
97. Enjoy free live music across pubs and venues at Tewkesbury LIVE
Tewkesbury LIVE sees local bands and musicians perform across the town during this free summer music festival.
98. Discover countryside wildlife at the charming John Moore Museum
Named after the naturalist writer, the museum celebrates rural life and wildlife of the Severn Vale.
99. Putt your way around the adventure golf course at Sherdons Golf Centre
Sherdons’ colourful adventure golf course adds a playful twist to a family visit, with winding holes and fun obstacles – perfect for a relaxed round with kids.
100. Drift along the River Severn on a relaxing boat cruise
Enjoy a peaceful journey along one of Britain’s great rivers, with boat trips running between Twyning and Tewkesbury.
