Wildlife & Garden Experiences
The Cotswolds is a countryside playground for wildlife enthusiasts
The Cotswolds is a protected landscape and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Not only are there dedicated locations such as Cotswold Wildlife Park and Slimbridge Wetland Centre, but conservation efforts can be seen throughout the region, looking after the local wildlife. Many of them offer close up keeper experiences as well, so you can truly see the impact of their conservation work.
In spring, embark along The Daffodil Way, a famous walk that takes you through meadows, orchards and woods, following the bright yellow flowers. In summer, the Cotswold lavender fields burst into a scentsational flurry of purple. In autumn, the maple trees set Westonbirt Arboretum on fire with their warm colours. Finally, in winter, discover the first snowdrops at Rococo Garden at the aptly named Snowdrop Grove.
With so much wildlife and so many gorgeous gardens to visit, each season offering a different photo opportunity, you are likely to return to the Cotswolds again and again.
Wildlife & Gardens Experiences
Batsford Arboretum
Bourton-on-the-HillChildren can win a prize upon completion of the dedicated children’s trail.
Cotswold Falconry Centre
Bourton-on-the-HillFor those special occasions, you can get closer to the action and meet and fly a number of birds, from owls to eagles.
Cotswold Farm Park
Lower SwellSome of the viewing platforms act as feeding stations for the cattle, so you can slide down some animal snacks to give them a treat.
Crocodiles of the World
BurfordEnjoy the live crocodile photo experience where you have the opportunity to hold a baby crocodile or alligator.
Heythrop Zoological Gardens
Little TewHeythrop only offers exclusive visits, so book in your appointment to discover an unforgettable animal experience.
Hidcote Manor Garden
EbringtonFor a spot of tranquillity, visit the Bathing Pool Garden. While the pool is used for ornamentation now, it wasn’t always!
Highgrove Gardens
TetburyJoin one of the expert guides on a tour of the gardens to discover the history, inspiration, and unique organic management behind them.
Slimbridge Wetland Centre
NympsfieldKeep an eye out for some of the giant LEGO® brick wetland animals that dot the wetland-scape.
Westonbirt Arboretum
TetburyIn the summer, enjoy Forest Live, a live music festival amongst the trees, with star names front lining the show.
Cotswold Wildlife Park
BurfordFor those wild at heart, go behind-the-scenes with one of their keeper experiences.
Bourton House Garden
Bourton-on-the-HillBeautiful at any time of year, the late summer flourish is quite magnificent, and as the year rolls into Autumn it just gets better and better.
Rousham House & Gardens
Have a picnic in one of England’s most important gardens and take in the sights and smells of this beautiful bucolic landscape.
Walks with Hawks
CheltenhamDiscover the wild side of the Cotswolds on a Hawk Walk, Owl Encounter, or the Ultimate Experience.
Cerney House Garden
ElkstoneThe Victorian walled garden was once described by Country Living Magazine as, “What most people aspire to in their gardens, and few achieve.”
Call of the Wild
NailsworthCotswold woodlands were once part of King Henry VIII’s Estate. Here you’ll learn rural crafts that are even older than the Tudors.
Millets Falconry
Near OxfordThe 40-minute flying displays take place at lunchtime, so make sure little ones have eaten beforehand. Discover over 100 birds of prey!
