From bracing walks in the Cotswold countryside to experimenting with new arty hobbies, the South Cotswolds is packed with things to do on nights out, day trips and weekends away.
Discover your new favourite South Cotswolds itinerary with SoGlos's round-up of nine best things to do in the area.
Discover distinctly British foodie experiences at Parsonage 53 in Dursley
An independent restaurant in the South Cotswolds town of Dursley, Parsonage 53 presents a delicious range of authentically British dishes, from Sunday lunches to evenings of fine dining. The menu is full of options for different dining scenarios, including themed tapas, steak and curry nights on the first and last Thursdays of each month.
Its Castle Bar is also worth a visit, pouring pints of Hawkstone lager and stocking a range of wines alongside classic bar snacks and meals. It also hosts quiz nights to raise money for different charities each month.
Get crafty at New Brewery Arts in Cirencester
With weekly courses, one-off workshops, shopping opportunities and even the opportunity to stay over, New Brewery Arts has so much to offer — whether you're looking to discover a new hobby or level-up your technique in a creative skill.
From its centre in Cirencester, its timetable of workshops is refreshed monthly and there's a wide variety of mediums to choose from, including pottery, sewing, sketching, painting and textiles.
Reach new heights at the Royal International Air Tattoo in Fairford
Head to RAF Fairford and keep your eye in the sky as the Royal International Air Tattoo takes flight in a yearly display during the summer.
The annual airshow attracts crowds from across the globe who gather to watch an exhibition of aerodynamic flair straight out of Top Gun!
Explore historic woodland at Westonbirt Arboretum in Tetbury
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum is home to 2,500 different plant species from across the world, as well as five national tree collections — and it's a great destination in the South Cotswolds for relaxing within a stunning natural environment.
Adventurous types can journey up to the canopy on the STIHL Tree Top Walkway and young families can take a trip around the grounds in search of the Gruffalo, with seasonal activities and trails for youngsters, too.
Get lost in live piano music at Téatro in Cirencester
Take a trip to Cirencester for an evening of live music from skilled musicians, over unique cocktails within a chic and moody atmosphere at Téatro.
Its live sessions take place every Friday and Saturday from 9pm until 11pm — be sure to book a table as these special evenings fill up quickly!
Boost your adrenaline at a race day in Castle Combe
Calling all petrol heads... Castle Combe Circuit offers adrenaline-pumping race days that put both motorcycle and car racers to the test.
With a jam-packed schedule running throughout the year, there's also the opportunity to take your own car or bike on the track — great for those with a need for speed!
Drift on down the River Thames via canoe in Lechlade
Experience the River Thames a little differently, in a quieter setting than you'd perhaps first imagine — by hopping into a canoe in the South Cotswolds!
The river's upper stretches have a base in Lechlade and Cotswold Canoe Hire offers a variety of water sports including canoes, kayaks and paddleboards, weekly and weather permitting from Thursday to Sunday, 9.30am until 5pm.
Discover a host of historical artefacts at the Corinium Museum in Cirencester
Archaeology enthusiasts can enjoy a day out at the Corinium Museum in Cirencester, formerly known as the Roman town of Corinium, and check out a whole host of significant finds on display.
The galleries feature a range of objects including prehistoric tools, Roman mosaics, Anglo Saxon grave goods and Medieval sculptures — and there's always plenty of unique activities for kids to do in the school holidays, too.
Treat yourself to a day of pampering at Calcot & Spa in Tetbury
Located in Tetbury, the glorious grounds of Calcot & Spa present an excellent opportunity for pampering and relaxation surrounded by Cotswolds scenery.
Overnight guests can sink into a zen-like state with unlimited access to its spa facilities that include an outdoor hot tub, indoor pool, thermal suites and gym. You can also opt for a spa day featuring two 55-minute treatments, as well as a two-course lunch; or a spa evening from 5pm with a 25-minute treatment, followed by supper in the hotel's brasserie restaurant.
