Top Things to Do with Kids in the Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon & Warwick
Looking for things to do with kids in Stratford-upon-Avon, the Cotswolds or Warwickshire? Whether you’re staying with us at Mount Pleasant Barns for a short break or a longer family getaway, you’ll find a fantastic range of family-friendly attractions and days out just a short drive away. From adventure playgrounds and wildlife parks to castles and creative experiences, there’s something to keep every age entertained – rain or shine!
Here are some of our favourite child-friendly days out, loved by our guests and perfect for creating those lasting family memories.
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Adventure Playgrounds & Outdoor Fun
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Compton Verney Adventure Playground – 3 miles from Mount Pleasant Barns
Hidden away among the trees, the adventure playground at Compton Verney is a fantastic outdoor space for kids to let off steam. There’s a zip wire, climbing frames, swings, and plenty of space to explore. Entry is included with your day pass, which also gives access to the stunning Capability Brown grounds and the award-winning art gallery.
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Umberslade Adventure, Hockley Heath
Set in 80 acres of beautiful woodland, Umberslade Adventure is ideal for families who love the outdoors. Kids can tackle rope courses, a commando trail and zip lines, while parents enjoy archery or a peaceful woodland walk. You can even camp overnight for the full adventure experience.
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Fairy Dell, Chipping Norton
At Fairytale Farm, kids can shrink down to fairy-size and explore the magical Fairy Dell. Wander among giant toadstools, bridges, and slides before meeting friendly farm animals and exploring the enchanted walk. Fully wheelchair accessible, this is a lovely day out for little ones.
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Blenheim Palace Adventure Playground, Woodstock
A showstopper for kids of all ages, the new adventure playground at Blenheim Palace offers towers, walkways, cargo nets, slides, swings and three zipwires! Parents can relax at the café or nearby pizza restaurant while the kids burn off energy. Admission to the playground is an add-on to a Park and Gardens Pass, but it’s a full day out and worth the visit.
Wildlife & Nature Experiences
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Stratford Butterfly Farm
Get up close to hundreds of exotic butterflies, insects, and reptiles at Stratford Butterfly Farm. It’s a tropical paradise right in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon and a huge hit with children.
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All Things Wild, Honeybourne
Just a short drive from Mount Pleasant Barns, All Things Wild offers the perfect mix of nature and adventure. From lemurs and meerkats to dinosaur trails and indoor play barns, there’s something for every explorer.
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Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens
Cotswold Wildlife Park is a family-friendly zoological garden located in 160 acres of scenic parkland in Burford. Kids will love the...
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Giraffe Walkway: Get eye-to-eye with giraffes from a raised walkway.
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Walled Garden: This area features aviaries, a penguin enclosure, meerkats, and other small mammals. Penguin feeding talks are held daily.
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Madagascar Walk-through: A special exhibit designed to raise awareness for endangered lemur species, where visitors can walk amongst them.
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History & Heritage Adventures
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Warwick Castle
A must-see for families, Warwick Castle is packed with excitement — from live shows and jousting to the famous Horrible Histories Maze. Kids will love exploring the turrets, dungeons, and stunning castle grounds (pictured left)
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Avon Boating & The Stratford Big Wheel
See Stratford-upon-Avon from new heights on the Stratford Big Wheel or take a relaxing river cruise with Avon Boating. Both offer family-friendly ways to experience Shakespeare’s hometown from a different perspective.
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The MAD Museum
The Mechanical Art & Design (MAD) Museum is a firm family favourite – interactive, hands-on, and bursting with creative kinetic sculptures that fascinate both children and adults alike .
Play, Jump & Treats!
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Hatton Adventure World
A short drive from Mount Pleasant Barns, Hatton Adventure World is a paradise for little ones – with soft play zones, tractor rides, animal encounters and seasonal events like pumpkin picking and Easter trails.
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Air Hop, Warwick
If it’s raining, Air Hop in Warwick is the perfect place to let the kids bounce, climb and tumble their way through trampolines and obstacle courses.
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Henley Ice Cream Parlour
No family day out is complete without a sweet treat! Visit the much-loved Henley Ice Cream parlour for classic scoops and homemade flavours that delight all ages.
Stay at Mount Pleasant Barns
After a busy day exploring, return to your cosy retreat at Mount Pleasant Barns. With spacious accommodation, countryside views and easy access to Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick and the Cotswolds,
it’s the perfect base for families looking to relax and reconnect. Book here!