You don’t need glorious weather to enjoy the Cotswolds, in fact, the rain gives us an opportunity to enjoy some of the often overlooked, fantastic indoor attractions that the region boasts. Whether you are interested in getting-active, relaxing or being entertained, here are 9 things to do in the Cotswolds when it rains…
Quick links:
1. Cotswold Brew Co
2. Everyman Theatre
3. Clearwell Caves
4. JDR Karting
5. Boutique Shopping
6. Oxford Castle & Prison
7. Modern Art Oxford
8. Thermae Bath Spa
9. Afternoon Tea
What to do in Gloucestershire when it’s raining:
1. The Cotswolds Brewing Company, Bourton-on-the-Water
Cotswold Brew Co is an independent, family-owned craft brewery based in Bourton-on-the-Water. Home to premium lagers, IPA and cider, the micro-brewery offers tours and tasting sessions to those interested in learning about the history, production and sampling of these fine beverages. Enjoy the smell of “sugar-dusted Shreddies” with the opportunity to sample vodkas and gin from their sister company, Spirit of the Cotswolds.
Tour prices start at £15/pp – tickets can be bought in advance on the Cotswold Brew Co website
Note: This is a strictly over 18s event only, admission can not be granted to anyone under the legal drinking age.
2. Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham
Located in the heart of Cheltenham, Everyman Theatre is a stunning venue, presenting everything from comedy nights to musicals & opera. Not only can you catch a show, but you can also experience Theatre Tours and delicious Food & Drink. The venue is family-friendly and the perfect solution to a rainy day, with plenty of appeal to young children, through to the elderly.
Ticket prices and availability may vary – check out the Everyman Threatre website before your intended visit
3. Clearwell Caves, Forest of Dean
“Discover the wonder of under” in the Clearwell Caves, situated underneath the Fores of Dean. This experience is perfect for thrill-seekers as you explore the natural cave system, dating back more than 4,500 years. This unique space not only provides sanctuary to many species of bat but also provides the perfect filming location for the likes of Dr Who and Merlin. Featuring jaw-dropping Sound Chambers and Skeleton Pools, a visit to Clearwell Caves promises to be a brilliant experience.
Tickets start at £7.50 for adults and £5.50 for children – tickets can be bought in advance on the Clearwell Caves website
4. JDR Karting, Gloucester
This indoor karting and laser tag arena is extremely popular with children looking to burn off some energy on a drizzly day. The thrill-binding venue itself is fun, contemporary and safe, allowing children to engage in some serious fun, whilst adults can rest assured knowing their children are kept safe.
Tickets vary in price depending on package type – find your perfect combination on the JDR Karting website
Things to do in (and near) Oxford in the rain:
5. Boutique Shopping, Burford
Indulge in a boutique shopping trip on the vibrant and varied High Street of Burford. Jam-packed with character, each and every shop boasts individuality, from antiques to the very best fashion.
Not only can you pick up a variety of home, garden and fashion goods, but as expected the high street also boasts lots of tantalising and mouth-watering local produce, including pastries, cheeses, deli meat and more. So grab your umbrella and prepare to hop from shop to shop for a truly Cotswolds shopping experience.
6. Oxford Castle & Prison, Oxford
Character Reenactments and Guided Tours are just some of the ways in which you can experience Oxford Castle & Prison. With a history dating back to 1066, you can climb, descend, explore and scale the attraction whilst immersing yourself in the fascinating stories of old. As well as the standard visitor passes, you can also take part in visitor events by keeping an eye on their events calendar such as Knight Scool (26/07/2019 – 02/09/2019)
Tickets prices start at £12.50 for adults and £8.50 for children – for opening times and prices visit the Oxford Castle and Prison website
7. Modern Art, Oxford
Modern Art Oxford is a contemporary arts organisation, founded in 1965 and shaped by a commitment to educate and include. Renowned for its bold, thought-provoking exhibitions, MAO promotes diversity, engagement and creativity, and in addition to more “traditional” exhibitions, visitors can also enjoy film, performances, talks, music and workshops. With an onsite Cafe Bar and shop, you can while away hours amongst some of the UK’s most incredible art pieces.
Admission is free and open to all – for more information visit the Modern Art Oxford website
Things To Do In Bath In The Rain:
8. Thermae Bath Spa, Bath
Do as the Romans did and enjoy Britain’s only natural, thermal waters in the Thermae Bath Spa. Located in the World Heritage City of Bath, indulge in an experience which dates back over 2,000 years ago to the Celts & Romans. With over 40 spa treatments and packages to choose from, the options are endless, allowing you to enjoy a truly tailored experience. Whilst the spa boasts a number of outdoor pools, there are also a number of facilities which can be enjoyed indoors including the multi-sensory Wellness Suite.
New Royal Bath admission starts at £36/pp – for more options and ticket prices visit the Thermae Bath Spa website
9. Afternoon Tea, Bath
Enjoy a cosy, quintessential Afternoon Tea in one of Bath’s many lovely tearooms. Tucked away from the cold and wet, you can enjoy finger sandwiches, cakes and freshly brewed tea on tap in the stunning city. With tearooms dotted amongst the hustle and bustle of the city centre, or in many of the luxury hotels on the outskirts, enjoying an afternoon tea is a great way to celebrate a special occasion, whatever the weather.
For more information on Bath, take a look at our article on reasons to visit Bath.
Is it raining in the Cotswolds?
GLOUCESTERSHIRE WEATHER
OXFORDSHIRE WEATHER
BATH WEATHER
Through both rain and sunshine, the Cotswolds is a stunning location to visit. If you’re looking to book a short break or perhaps a family holiday, then you’ll be able to find plenty of information on our Cotswolds Travel Blog.
Image Credits: Everyman Theatre, CC BY-SA 4.0; Tejvan Pettinger, CC BY-SA 2.0; Nilfanion, CC BY SA-4.0; Barbara Kruger, CC BY SA-2.0
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*Ticket prices correct as of 21st August 2019