The Best Family Activites in Cheltenham and the Cotswolds

Visiting Cheltenham with the family? Cheltenham and the Cotswolds areas offer a wealth of activities that are fun for families, from scenic countryside parks to historical town experiences! We’ve shortlisted our favourite Cheltenham and Cotswolds activities, no further than an hour from Cheltenham.

Outdoor Walks

Art, Museums, and Galleries

Cheltenham is renowned for its Regency art, and its historical famous faces. Holst Victorian House pays homage to Gustav Holst in the house where he was born and raised, preserving the Regency facade and decor of the building, as well as the pianoforte used to compose The Planets piece and many other artefacts. Whereas, The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum showcases many local artists’ talent as well as the historical story of Edward Wilson and his explorations with Scott in the Antarctic.

Lido at Sandford Park 

The park offers two outdoor heated swimming pools. The 50-meter main swimming pool is among the largest outdoor pools in the country, nestled within beautifully landscaped gardens at Sandford Park. It’s a perfect destination for children, featuring slides, a dedicated children’s pool, and a paddling pool. Visitors can also enjoy basketball, volleyball, and table tennis—all included in the entry fee. Light refreshments are available at the poolside café. The main pool is a great spot for training, with two lanes typically reserved most days. Throughout the year, the park hosts various events, such as outdoor cinema screenings in the summer, live music performances, and the popular Christmas Day plunge!

Cheltenham Racecourse

A Cheltenham favourite, the racecourse holds many fixtures across the year which are well worth the visit. There are 16 days across the calendar filled with action-packed races, sure to entertain the whole family. The racecourse holds many kid-friendly activities on race days as well, so is a perfect venue for adults and children, with free entry for children aged 0-4 years old.

Cotswolds Farm Park

The Cotswolds Farm Park is a classic family day out. Closely interact with over 50 rare and native breeds across 7 different species of British farm animals. The park hosts activities across the year, all designed to educate on farming and animal care. The park has an excellent range of animals you can interact with, play areas, and acres of land to discover, making it the perfect place for young children as well as adults!

Cotswolds Riding

Nothing screams a Cheltenham getaway like horse riding. Cotswolds riding is a short drive from Cheltenham centre, and caters to all levels of riders and ages, from beginner to novice level. Whether you fancy a relaxing hack in the beautiful Cotswolds countryside or a showjumping lesson with one of the instructors Cotswolds Riding can match you perfectly to one of their 50 horses.

Cheltenham and its surrounding areas offer plenty more to explore, with family-friendly activities at every corner. Book your stay and discover all the fun Cheltenham has to offer!