Picture yourself wandering through vibrant lavender fields reminiscent of Provence, paddleboarding beneath slate-grey skies, and exploring centuries of British heritage—all within a day’s journey. Welcome to North Gloucestershire, a hidden treasure often eclipsed by the Cotswolds but rapidly emerging as one of the UK’s most dynamic and rewarding travel destinations.
Centering on the charming market town of Tewkesbury, this region blends family-friendly attractions, exhilarating outdoor activities, and serene natural retreats. Whether you are traveling with children, seeking adrenaline-fueled fun, or craving a peaceful, child-free getaway, North Gloucestershire is poised to surprise and delight in 2025.
For families, Over Farm Park near Highnam offers an exciting alternative to crowded theme parks. Here, kids can enjoy tractor rides, bounce on giant pillows, and ride quad trains, while live music and foam cannons enliven summer days. The farm shop serves up delightful local treats, making it a hit with all ages.
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Step aboard the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway for a scenic 28-mile journey through picturesque countryside between Broadway and Cheltenham. Visiting between 9 and 21 August? Don’t miss the free children’s craft sessions at Winchcombe Station, an engaging experience for the young and curious.
For swashbuckling adventure seekers, Sherdons Adventure Golf in Tredington offers pirate-themed fun, complete with lagoons and rafts—rain or shine. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts will appreciate the Jet Age Museum at Staverton, showcasing aviation milestones with free entry for the whole family.
Nature lovers will revel in North Gloucestershire’s unspoiled landscapes spanning 160 square miles. Cotswold Lavender near Snowshill bursts into bloom from mid-June to early August, creating a stunning purple haven without the crowds of its French counterparts.
Garden aficionados can explore grand estates like Stanway House, featuring the world’s tallest gravity-fed fountain, or lose themselves in the peaceful gardens of Sudeley Castle, Snowshill Manor, and Croome Parkland. For a more rustic retreat, the Tewkesbury and Beckford Nature Reserves offer tranquil walks among wildlife-rich meadows and water views.
Art meets ecology at the Nature in Art museum in Twigworth, the world’s first gallery dedicated exclusively to nature-inspired artwork—a fresh cultural experience set amidst the countryside.
North Gloucestershire is steeped in history. The majestic 12th-century Tewkesbury Abbey, with its Norman architecture and vibrant stained glass, is a national treasure. Wander Tewkesbury’s cobbled streets and visit the 17th-century Tewkesbury Museum, or time your visit for the thrilling annual Tewkesbury Medieval Festival in July, Europe’s biggest free medieval celebration.
Explore further with visits to Sudeley Castle, steeped in royal drama, or ancient sites like St Mary’s Church, Odda’s Chapel, Great Witcombe Roman Villa, and the evocative ruins of Hailes Abbey.
For thrill-seekers, North Gloucestershire offers plenty of action. The “Hell of the North Cotswolds” cycling event on 31 August 2025 challenges riders across various distances, including a junior race. The 270 Climbing Park near Bentham boasts one of Europe’s tallest ropes courses with options for all skill levels.
Mountain bikers can tackle trails at 417 Bike Park on Crickley Hill, while motorsport fans can witness classic cars roar at Prescott Speed Hillclimb, set in a stunning location.
Water sports enthusiasts are catered for at Croft Farm Water Park near Tewkesbury, offering paddleboarding, kayaking, powerboating, and windsurfing. Glamping pods, lakeside cabins, and hot tub lodges add the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
For those seeking luxury and tranquility, adults-only retreats like Ellenborough Park Hotel provide five-star spa treatments and sweeping views. Alongside, The Greenway Hotel & Spa and Hatherley Manor Hotel & Spa offer indulgent stays with pools, spas, and gourmet cuisine.
Take a leisurely river cruise along the Avon or Severn, explore artisanal silk scarves at Beckford Silk, or plan a shopping excursion to the new Cotswold Designer Outlet opening in summer 2025.
Cap off your day with a meal and a refreshing drink at The Fleet Inn, sipping on the heated terrace as the river flows by—a perfect end to your North Gloucestershire experience.
Authentic and unpretentious, North Gloucestershire is a place where history intertwines with nature and adventure, promising discovery and connection for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a solo retreat, or a romantic getaway, make sure North Gloucestershire is on your 2025 itinerary—you’ll wonder why you didn’t visit sooner.