Head to The Corinium Museum in the Roman town of Cirencester to see prehistoric tools, Roman mosaics, Anglo-Saxon grave goods and medieval sculptures. Or visit the Steam Railway Museum in Swindon to explore the history of the Great Western Railway and test your skills in the signal box.
Catch the latest releases at The Parade cinema and see live action at Barn Theatre in Cirencester. See 260 species of animals in 160 acres of landscaped parkland and gardens at the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens. Or take the nature trails, watch the lambing and see the sheepdog show at the Cotswold Farm Park.
Ever wanted to be completely confused about which outdoor activity you want to try next? The Cotswold Water Park is the place. Pick from aerial adventure, archery, wilderness skills, canoeing, waterskiing and much more. Or visit the world’s first Peppa Pig World with nine rides aimed at young kids at Paulton’s.
Show kids what real cars look like at Atwell Wilson Motor Museum, with motors from the 20s onwards. Experience the largest prehistoric stone circle in the world at Avebury or the rocky daddy of them all: Stonehenge. Or ride Swindon and Cricklade, Wiltshire’s only standard-gauge heritage railway, and refuel at the Whistlestop Café.
Non-members are welcome at Bassett Down Complex for tennis and padel (a sort of modern-day real tennis) or just rack up a few lengths at Marlborough Leisure Centre. Or try just about anything you fancy at the Cotswold Water Park, from angling to archery and walking to wakeboarding.
Blast clay high on the Marlborough Downs with Barbury Shooting, ice-skate at The Link or try a little casual climbing and bouldering at Rockstars in Swindon. Stretch your legs around Lydiard Park and test your nerve on the Jungle Parc high wire. Or explore on four legs with the brilliantly named Rein and Shine.
Drink the award-winning artisan ales at the Ramsbury Brewery in the estate pub, The Bell at Ramsbury, or stock up at the brewery tap and shop at Wadworth Brewery. Walk The Ridgeway or Avebury Stone Circle. Or walk with clubs on great golf courses at Basset Down, Ogbourne Downs and Marlborough.
Find a peaceful spa sanctuary at Rejuvenesce or book an indulgent spa day within the idyllic parkland of Bowood House and Gardens. Visit local landmarks such as Dirham Park, Lacock Abbey, Highclere and Blenheim Palace. Shop the quirky independents of Oxford and Bath. Or stay on site for a Pick, Cook and Eat day with Nancy.
