The Cotswolds is a picturesque area in the heart of England, known for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and rolling hills. It’s a popular destination for tourists looking to explore the quintessential English countryside. While the Cotswolds offers plenty of traditional activities such as hiking, visiting historic sites, and enjoying afternoon tea, there are also a number of unusual and offbeat things to do in the area. If you’re looking for something a little different during your visit to the Cotswolds, here are some unique experiences to consider.
1. Go llama trekking
Llama trekking is a fun and quirky way to explore the Cotswolds countryside. There are several farms in the area that offer guided llama hikes, where you can walk through the beautiful scenery with these gentle and inquisitive creatures. It’s a unique way to connect with nature and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and the llamas make for great photo opportunities.
2. Visit a lavender farm
The Cotswolds is home to several lavender farms, where you can wander through fields of fragrant purple blooms and learn about the cultivation and uses of lavender. Many of these farms also have on-site cafes and gift shops, making for a relaxing and aromatic day out.
3. Take part in a cheese rolling competition
Every spring, the village of Brockworth hosts the infamous cheese rolling competition, where competitors hurl themselves down a steep hill in pursuit of a giant wheel of cheese. It’s a chaotic and adrenaline-fueled event that has been a tradition in the area for centuries, and it’s a must-see for anyone looking for a truly unique and quirky experience.
4. Explore an underground quarry
The Cotswolds is home to several underground quarries that offer tours for those looking to explore a different side of the area’s history. Visitors can venture deep underground to see the tunnels and caverns that were once used for mining Cotswold stone, and learn about the fascinating stories and legends associated with these hidden spaces.
5. Attend a traditional Morris dancing event
Morris dancing is a traditional English folk dance that is often performed at seasonal festivals and events in the Cotswolds. Watching a Morris dancing performance is a lively and colorful experience, and it offers a glimpse into an ancient and enduring tradition that has been a part of rural English culture for centuries.
6. Take a hot air balloon ride
The Cotswolds is undeniably beautiful from the ground, but it’s even more spectacular from the air. A hot air balloon ride over the rolling hills and picturesque villages is a peaceful and unforgettable way to experience the area’s natural beauty, and it provides a unique perspective on the landscape below.
7. Visit a quirky museum
The Cotswolds is home to a number of unusual and quirky museums that offer a different take on the area’s history and culture. From museums dedicated to mechanical musical instruments, to collections of vintage lawnmowers, there’s something to pique everyone’s interest and offer a memorable and eccentric experience.
8. Attend a traditional country fair
The Cotswolds is known for its traditional country fairs, which are lively and charming events that showcase rural life and local traditions. These fairs often feature agricultural shows, livestock displays, craft demonstrations, and all manner of traditional games and activities, providing an authentic and immersive glimpse into Cotswold life.
9. Go wild swimming
The Cotswolds is home to numerous natural swimming spots, including rivers, lakes, and secluded pools, that offer the perfect opportunity for wild swimming. It’s a refreshing and invigorating way to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the Cotswolds from a different perspective.
10. Stay in a quirky accommodation
For a truly unique experience, consider staying in one of the Cotswolds’ many unusual and offbeat accommodations. From treehouses and yurts, to vintage caravans and converted railway carriages, there are plenty of one-of-a-kind places to stay that will add an extra element of charm and character to your visit.
In conclusion, the Cotswolds offers a wealth of unusual and offbeat experiences for those looking to explore the area in a different way. From llama trekking and cheese rolling, to underground quarries and traditional Morris dancing, there’s no shortage of unique and memorable activities to enjoy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Cotswolds enthusiast, these quirky encounters are sure to add an extra layer of excitement and charm to your time in this beautiful and timeless part of England.
