BUYING PARENTS A BREATHER – LET THE COTSWOLDS ENTERTAIN….

So, the post-Christmas slump has been safely negotiated, the sugar highs have calmed, and parents are allowing themselves a well-deserved breather as little Jack and Olivia are back at nursery, pre-school or school itself. But wait, what’s this looming on the horizon – surely it’s not half term already? Fear not, we at Cotswold XL hear your plea, so here’s our rough guide to some of the great ways to occupy little minds from around the district, through half term and beyond……

LET IT SNOW (DROP)

There are few more breathtaking sights to behold as spring begins to take hold than a blanket of snowdrops covering the ground. Taking little ones for a brisk walk is a great way to wear off some excess energy, so why not take a stroll through these enchanting blooms while giving young explorers the opportunity of an inspiring al fresco playground? Colesbourne Gardens, roughly halfway between Cheltenham and Cirencester, have a triumphant display every year, while Painswick’s Rococo Garden even open their own Snowdrop Grove. Just north of Cirencester is Cerney House Gardens. Perhaps one of the Cotswolds’ best kept secrets, the Victorian walled garden and 40 acres of surrounding parkland and woodland trails are an adventurer’s paradise, whatever your age.

PLAY, FOR ALL AGES

Lego is a perennial favourite with all ages. Invented in Denmark in 1934, the name is derived from the Danish phrase ‘’leg godt” meaning “play well” and from Saturday 14^th until Sunday 22^nd February, budding builders can indulge every whim when the magnificent Compton Verney house plays host to a week of Lego-based half term fun. Entrance is free although adults will need a valid day ticket or membership.

There’s no better time to visit Bourton on the Water than early spring before the little gem in our midst bustles with busloads of high season tourists. The Cotswold Motoring Museum is a delight for every generation, allowing grandparents to wistfully recall memories relating to vehicles past, or parents to delight as children pore over the collections of cars, motorcycles, toys and memorabilia. The Old New Inn Model Village is always fascinating, too, with youngsters sure to marvel at the intricate detail of the miniatures that have been built since the 1930s and at a perfect scale for them to inspect.

If the unpredictable British weather lives up to its dubious reputation, there are plenty of ways to entertain little ones indoors. The Play Barn at the Fosseway Garden Centre in Moreton in Marsh, Hocus Pocus Play in Fairford and Little Centurions Soft Play in Cirencester all provide a perfect opportunity to let little ones loose for a few hours to expend some excess energy. In the north of the region, Stratford upon Avon plays host to two fantastic attractions for older kids; The MAD Museum is the UK’s only permanent museum to mechanical art and houses over 70 exhibits that are guaranteed to fascinate all ages. Meanwhile, also in Shakespeare’s hometown is Magic Alley. From the moment visitors step into this spellbinding space, eyes light up with wonder in this magical emporium – a must for any youngsters enchanted by the promise of the mysterious and who could pass up the chance to enjoy a magical milkshake or a butterbeer in a castle, no less?

SWAP LITTLE SCREENS FOR A BIG ONE

Finally, there is always the perennial favourite of a trip to the cinema. Such trips at a young age can fire the imagination for decades to come and offer a great chance to spend a peaceful few hours in front of the silver screen as youngsters sit entranced by the magic of the movies. Family films slated for release for release in early 2026 include Disney Pixar’s latest offering Hoppers (6^th March) which gives us a glimpse into minds of the animal kingdom, while other animated releases include Looney Tunes: The Day the Earth Blew Up and Goat, both dropping on February 13^th.  Check listings at theatres like the Everyman in Cheltenham, The Regal, Evesham, the Theatre or the cosy Living Room Cinema, Chipping Norton for details. Don’t forget the popcorn!