Gloucester Getaway: Discovering History, Nature, and Fun

Discover family fun in historic Gloucester, where adventure awaits at every turn!

19 July 2023

Gloucester, United Kingdom offers an excellent family-friendly destination that combines history, nature, and entertainment. Explore historical landmarks such as the Gloucester Cathedral, with its stunning architecture and rich history. Enjoy a day out at the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, where kids can have fun while learning about various bird species and their habitats. Finally, indulge in a little excitement at the nearby Cotswold Water Park, offering water sports, nature trails, and picnic spots for a perfect family day out.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering Historic Gems

  • Begin your adventure by checking into The New Inn, a charming hotel with a historic Tudor façade, perfect for families.
  • Immerse yourself in history at Gloucester Cathedral, where Harry Potter fans can wander through the cloisters that appeared in the films.
  • Take a stroll along the Gloucester Docks, filled with charming shops, restaurants, and even a museum dedicated to the city's maritime heritage.
  • Dive into the world of dinosaurs at the Gloucester City Museum, where kids can explore interactive exhibits and fossil displays.
  • Enjoy a delightful dinner at The Cavern, a quirky underground eatery that serves up delicious pizzas and live music in a cozy setting.
Day 2

Forest Adventures

  • Indulge in a delicious breakfast at Coffee #1, a cozy café with a quirky vibe, before heading to the enchanting Forest of Dean.
  • Embark on a forest adventure with Go Ape, where you can swing through the trees on high ropes courses or zip line through the lush canopy.
  • Immerse yourself in nature at the Puzzlewood, a magical forest with twisting pathways that feels like stepping into a fairytale.
  • Enjoy a relaxing picnic amidst the natural beauty of Symonds Yat, with stunning views of the River Wye and the surrounding countryside.
  • Treat yourself to a scrumptious dinner at The Minsterworth Buttery, a delightful riverside eatery serving mouthwatering local cuisine.
Day 3

From Romans to Royals

  • Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at The Old Bell, a charming inn with a touch of old-world charm, before exploring the Roman ruins of the city.
  • Step back in time at the Museum of Gloucester, where you can discover the city's fascinating Roman past through artifacts and interactive exhibits.
  • Take a leisurely walk around the historic Gloucester Quays, filled with elegant Georgian buildings and a vibrant market offering unique treasures.
  • Visit Highnam Court Gardens, where you can wander through stunning landscapes adorned with vibrant flowers and charming sculptures.
  • Savor a delightful dinner at Portivo Lounge, a funky eatery serving up an eclectic menu of globally inspired dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
Day 4

River Cruises and Wildlife Encounters

  • Start the day with a delicious breakfast at The Secret Garden Café, a charming spot nestled in a picturesque garden, before heading to Slimbridge Wetland Centre.
  • Hop aboard a scenic river cruise on the River Severn, where you can spot local wildlife and admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Discover a wide variety of birds and animals at the Slimbridge Wetland Centre, with interactive exhibits and opportunities for close encounters.
  • Enjoy a leisurely walk along the River Chelt, surrounded by beautiful scenery and perfect for spotting wildlife.
  • Dine at The Lock Keepers, a charming riverside restaurant where you can savor delicious British classics with a modern twist.
Day 5

Art, Gardens, and Goodbyes

  • Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at The Terminal, a quirky café set in a converted railway carriage, before visiting the Nature in Art museum.
  • Explore the beautiful Rococo Gardens, with its stunning floral displays, intriguing follies, and peaceful lakes.
  • Visit the Gloucester Life Museum, a fascinating place where you can learn about the city's heritage through exhibits showcasing everyday life in the past.
  • Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at TGI Fridays, a lively restaurant serving up delicious American-style fare.
  • Bid farewell to Gloucester with a delicious dinner at Hotel Chocolat, where you can indulge in delectable chocolate treats and decadent desserts.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Gloucester by plane is to fly into Bristol Airport and then take a train or bus to Gloucester. Alternatively, you can fly into Birmingham Airport and then take a train or bus to Gloucester.

Car

The best way to get to Gloucester by car is to take the M5 motorway and exit at Junction 11 for Gloucester. Alternatively, you can take the A40 from London or the A38 from Birmingham to get to Gloucester.

Train

The best way to get to Gloucester by train is to take a direct train from London Paddington to Gloucester. Alternatively, you can take a train from Birmingham New Street to Gloucester.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Gloucester, but you can take a boat tour along the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal to reach the city. Alternatively, you can take a boat to a nearby city like Bristol or Birmingham and then take a train or bus to Gloucester.

Bus

The best way to get to Gloucester by bus is to take a National Express coach from London Victoria Coach Station to Gloucester. Alternatively, you can take a Stagecoach bus from Birmingham to Gloucester.

Destination

Gloucester

Welcome to the city where every local accent sounds like an audition for a Shakespeare play. If you're feeling lost, just ask for directions in their native tongue: Ow a' be then, my lovely.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Gloucester City: 1-Day Fun and Heritage Tour

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Gloucester Adventure: The Ultimate 4-Day Getaway

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3-Day Quest for Budget Bliss in Gloucester

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Gloucester on a Budget: 4 Days of Adventure!

Gloucester offers a variety of affordable destinations for budget travelers. Visit its famous Cathedral for free or take a stroll in the picturesque Gloucester Docks. Explore the city's history and culture with a guided walking tour, and indulge in local street food.