Cotswold Family Adventure: Discovering Magical Lands & Quaint Villages

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Broadway, Cotswolds

Family-Friendly Adventures in Broadway, Cotswolds!

Broadway Tower

Family-Friendly view of Broadway Tower in Broadway, Cotswolds

Why Visit?

Broadway Tower, nestled in the beautiful Cotswolds, presents an enchanting day out for families. Start your adventure by heading to Broadway village, accessible via car or local bus services from surrounding areas like Cheltenham or Evesham. Parking is available at the tower for those driving.

Begin your exploration at Broadway Tower itself, the second-highest point in the Cotswolds. Climb to the top for a modest fee and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of up to 16 counties on a clear day. Children will be fascinated to learn that the tower, built in 1798, served various purposes, including a country retreat for artists like William Morris, who was a regular visitor in the 19th century.

After soaking in the views and history, take a leisurely walk around the tower"s expansive parkland. There are several well-marked trails suitable for all ages, offering both short walks and more challenging hikes. Along these trails, keep an eye out for local wildlife and the herd of red deer residing in the park.

For lunch, head back to the tower’s base where the Morris & Brown cafe offers delicious, locally-sourced food suitable for all family members. They also provide picnic items if you prefer to dine amidst nature.

Post-lunch, visit the nearby Nuclear Bunker, just a five-minute walk from the tower. Decommissioned in the 1990s and now open to the public, this Cold War relic will intrigue older children and adults alike with its history and preserved interiors.

Ensure you check the opening times and book tickets online in advance to enjoy a smooth visit. With a blend of natural beauty, intriguing history, and engaging activities, Broadway Tower offers a perfect day out for families looking to explore the English countryside and its heritage.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Bibury

Family-Friendly view of Bibury in Broadway, Cotswolds

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary in Bibury, England

Welcome to Bibury, a quintessential English village often described as the most beautiful village in England! Here’s a fantastic day trip itinerary that is sure to delight every family member.

Morning: Visit Arlington Row

Start your day at Arlington Row, a picturesque set of cottages dating back to the 17th century. These iconic houses, originally built in 1380 as a monastic wool store and converted into weavers" cottages in the 17th century, are now one of the most photographed examples of traditional English rural architecture. Park at the nearby Arlington Row car park, a short walk from the cottages. Spend some time snapping photos and enjoying the serene atmosphere.

Lunch: Picnic by the River Coln

After exploring Arlington Row, grab a pre-packed picnic lunch and head to the banks of the River Coln, just a few minutes’ walk away. Enjoy your meal surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle sounds of the flowing river, a perfect setting for a family picnic.

Afternoon: Bibury Trout Farm

Post-lunch, walk over to the Bibury Trout Farm, one of Britain’s oldest trout farms founded in 1902, about a 10-minute walk from Arlington Row. The farm offers a chance to feed the fish, learn about trout rearing, and even catch your own fish (equipment can be rented on site). It"s a fun and educational experience for children and adults alike.

Evening: Stroll Around the Village

Wrap up your day by exploring the rest of the village. Visit St. Mary’s Church, a lovely Saxon church with parts dating back to 1080. Stroll through the village streets, enjoy the tranquil ambiance, and perhaps pop into a local café or shop for a small treat or souvenir.

Departure

As your day ends, take a leisurely drive or bus ride back, filled with beautiful memories of Bibury. If driving, Bibury is conveniently located about two hours from London and is accessible via the A40. For public transport users, buses connect Cirencester and Burford to Bibury, making it easily reachable from major cities.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.