Family fun in The Cotswolds

Whether your kids are animal lovers, mini adventurers, or curious historians, the Cotswolds has something to offer them. From free outdoor fun to hands-on farm experiences, it’s the kind of place that creates those timeless family memories.

The Chestnuts and Culls Cottage are family friendly. From babies to the teenagers there is something nearby for everyone to enjoy..
Just two miles south of Burford and a quick drive fromThe Chestnuts rare and endangered is Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens. A massive 160-acre sanctuary for animals. With over two hundred and sixty species from giraffes to red pandas it's a guaranteed hit for animal-loving youngsters. Highlights include an adventure playground and a little scenic railway to hop on between stops.  
Kilkenny Lane Country Park is a close to The Chestnuts holiday cottage too, this 50 acre nature haven features adventure play zones with zip‑lines, trampolines, rope nets, and a sandy play area for little explorers. Set amid wildflower meadows and a shady willow maze, it’s a perfect mix of nature and active fun.  The play area has sensory elements, landscaped mounds and tunnels, willow igloos and even a totem pole! Open all day everyday, and entry if free. 

Cogges Manor Farm (Witney) is  a heritage farmyard where kids can feed animals, explore a walled garden, and experience farm life recreated in a friendly, educational environment.  And if the parents are Downton Abbey fans this farm featured in the production.
Bourton-on-the-Water is often on the adults list as its dubbed the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” with the river that runs through the town and bridges to cross ‘The Grand Canal’. It has not only got charming shops but a number of family attractions like Birdland Park and Gardens and the Cotswold Motoring Museum (which also includes a toy collection). For puzzle hunters The Dragonfly Maze is a twist on your classic hedge maze! Kids have to solve clues and puzzles to reach the hidden golden dragonfly in the centre.
Bourton is perfect for a scenic day trip.  Plus the shallow rivers that run through towns like Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water are safe for paddling, skipping stones, or racing little pooh sticks boats. Bring water shoes and a towel just in case!

The really tiny tots in your family will love Fairytale Farm near Chipping Norton, as they describe it, it’s a sensory and learning wonderland for all the family. Creating magical experiences with a combination of enchanting tales, interactive exhibits, adventure play and friendly animals. It is a farm setting so take your wellies.
Adam Henson of BBC Countryfile fame runs Cotswolds Farm Park as his father before him. Interact with and meet over 50 rare and native breeds across 7 different species of British farm animals, goats to cattle, sheep to rabbits. The farm park offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages where you can learn about farming past and present.

Crocodiles of the World may seem an unusual attraction but it’s really close by and has one of the largest collection of species in the world. Come face to face with some of the world’s most feared predators in a fun, safe way with under-water viewing, talks and feeding sessions. It is also one of only four zoos in the Uk where you can see a Komodo Dragon, the world’s largest living dragon species.
Whether it's the buzz of native wildlife encounters, creative playground adventures, serene walks along historic lanes, or tasty treats in sunny cafés, Burford and its surroundings offer endless delights for families.