A family day out in the Cotswolds village of Bibury
Bibury is a picturesque village in the heart of the Cotswolds. Located in Gloucestershire on the banks of the River Coln, it features quaint Cotswold-stone houses and is most famed for Arlington Row.
It’s a truly charming place, offering a pleasant countryside stroll alongside a fascinating history.
The River Coln flows through its centre, between the main street and Rack Isle water meadow.
What else is there to do in Bibury?
There is lots to see in the area. Bibury attractions also include Arlington Row, Rack Isle, The Church of St Mary’s, Bibury Trout Farm, and Arlington Mill.
Built around 1380, the Arlington Row cottages were once used as a monastic wool store. Later, the cottages would be converted into weavers’ cottages.
Rack Isle was named so, as the wool from the Arlington Row cottages would be hung upon racks to dry alongside the boggy water meadow.
The Gloucestershire village is one of the Cotswolds and England’s most photographed sights, featured in films including Stardust and Bridget Jones’s Diary.
What’s accessibility like?
Bibury is a village in the countryside so expect some accessibility issues. Navigating the area with a buggy or wheelchair is possible but may be difficult in narrow and/or muddier areas.
If you’re looking for something to eat, The Swan Hotel and Trout Farm Restaurant offer food nearby.
Parking is free but limited. You can park along the main road or opposite the Trout Farm.
Boarstall Duck Decoy welcomes visitors to see one of the few remaining duck decoys in the UK.
Built in the 16th-century, the duck decoy was used to catch waterfowl for Boarstall Manor.
Although once very common in Britain, there are now only four left in the country. This one was built around 1697.
What is there to do?
Surrounded by woodland, you can enjoy a peaceful stroll among bluebells, ancient trees and wildlife in this charming place.
It offers visitors an hour of tranquility as you wind your way around the lake.
Is Boarstall Duck Decoyfamily-friendly?
It is to an extent. I’d probably suggest leaving your buggy or pushchair at home.
The area is mostly covered in wood shavings but there are some muddy and uneven areas if you stray from the main path.
You may choose to navigate them with your buggy but I’d probably bring a carrier instead for younger children.
There is lots to see! A highlight is the lovely children’s natural play and den building area with carved wooden mushrooms dotted around.
There are plenty of places to stop and appreciate your surroundings and lots to discover in the woodland. It is also surprisingly quiet, adding to the tranquility.
Please note, that there are no baby-changing or breastfeeding facilities. However, there are male and female toilets available.
Where can we eat and drink?
There is no cafe but you are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy and dedicated picnic tables are available.
Boarstall Duck Decoy is open on Sundays and Bank Holidays from 3 April to 25 September 2022. You do not need to pre-book your visit and it’s cash only.
Waddesdon Manor welcomes visitors to its grand Neo-Renaissance country home and grounds each day from 10am to 4/5pm.
This impressive French-style château was built in the 1870s and offers surrounding views of the Chilterns Hills, Oxfordshire and the Vale of Aylesbury.
What is there to do?
There’s so much to see and do, Waddesdon Manor is an entire day out in itself as the House and Grounds are so expansive.
Exploring the Grounds
You’ll start your day in the stunning Victorian Gardens. In spring, Waddesdon comes to life in a wash of colour. You’ll spot over 6000 tulips on the Parterre and plenty of daffodils left in Daffodil Valley.
The Aviary is charming. This ornate green and gold cast iron aviary features many exotic birds including the Rothschild mynah, a bird native to Bali. This bird was named after Walter, second Lord Rothschild (1868-1937), a famous zoologist.
All around you, there are things to discover. Whether it be the beautiful gardens, exquisite statues and sculptures, or the contrasting landscapes.
You could spend a few hours appreciating the grandeur of the House. Inside, you’ll discover a plethora of stately rooms, renowned paintings, exquisite furnishings, and fine porcelain.
I’d probably suggest leaving your buggy or pushchair at home. Although there are buggy-friendly routes, there are lots of hills and access from the car park is difficult.
From the car, the route takes 15 minutes to walk and is partly covered in wood shavings and in parts is uphill. This makes it awkward to navigate.
So, if you take a buggy or pushchair, you’ll want to utilise the shuttle bus (separate fee) or pay for parking outside the House (£20 per car). Alternatively, do what we did, and bring a carrier.
Please also note that buggies and pushchairs cannot be taken into the House and you are advised to bring a carrier.
You’ll find baby-changing, breastfeeding, and toilet facilities available at the Manor and Stables.
You can enjoy afternoon tea in the Manor Restaurant, grab a bite to eat at the Stables, Woodland Playground, or Manor Terrace, and even pre-book a picnic!
Alternatively, if you fancy something a little different, why not bring your own yummy picnic to enjoy on the Grounds?
Please note, that visitors to Waddesdon Manor are advised to book Grounds admission in advance and online booking is essential for timed entry to the House.
On arrival, you’ll make your way down the tree-lined North Drive. Eventually, you will be greeted by the entrance to the honey-coloured stone country home alongside its beautiful terraced gardens.
What is there to do?
There is lots to do! Within the house, you will find plenty of character alongside a plethora of renowned and impressive artwork including paintings, porcelain, and tapestries. Some of the National Trust’s most celebrated paintings are featured within the gallery at Upton House and Gardens!
The expansive South Lawn behind the house leads to a deceptive and steep ha-ha with a terraced hillside beneath. This is surrounded by the Orchard, Wild Garden, Mirror Pond, Sunken Lawn and Bog Garden.
The gardens offer numerous landscapes including the orchard, woodlands. grassland and lakes. It’s truly a beautiful place to wander around and full of colour in spring.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can grab to grab a bite to eat in the Pavillion cafe or treat yourself to local produce at the gift shop.
For those feeling adventurous, you’re also welcome to explore the surrounding countryside if you fancy.
Is Upton House and Gardens family-friendly?
Upton House and Gardens are indeed family-friendly! However, it’s probably best to bring a carrier if you plan to go with a baby and leave the buggy at home.
Within the house, buggies will have to be left outside. Once in the gardens, there are lots of steps and slopes which would be awkward to navigate. However, there is a wheelchair-accessible route that partially covers the garden that you may wish to use if you do choose to bring your buggy.
Please note, the house and gardens are located near the edge of a valley and there are a few steep drops as well as open water elements.
You will find baby-changing, breastfeeding, and toilet facilities available in the Courtyard.
The onsite Pavillion cafe serves light lunches, snacks and hot and cold drinks. A children’s menu and high chairs are available also.
If you wish to, you can also take advantage of the sunshine and enjoy a picnic in the gardens.
How much does it cost?
Upton House and Gardens offer free entry for National Trust members. If you are not a member, please see the entrance prices below:
National Trust Stowe welcomes its visitors to a vast Georgian landscaped garden and parkland each day from 10 am-4 pm.
Once parked at New Inn, there’s a short walk downhill to the garden entrance where you will be free to explore over 250 acres of nature.
Image of property map by National Trust Stowe
What is there to do?
There is lots to do and you can expect plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Stroll around the scenic garden at your leisure before heading into the surrounding parkland to discover its secrets.
You’ll see lakes, temples and plenty of monuments, alongside beautiful flora and fauna. If you choose to go off-the-beaten-track and explore further, you’ll be spoilt.
You could easily spend an entire day wandering around discovering new sights and sounds throughout the parkland.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, feel free to grab a bite to eat in the cafe, browse second-hand books at the Old Dairy Book Shop or treat yourself to local produce at the gift shop – all located at New Inn on the way out.
Is National Trust Stowe family-friendly?
It is indeed! There are buggy-friendly routes around the garden and surrounding parkland and you’ll also find baby-changing, breastfeeding, and toilet facilities available at the New Inn entrance.
The onsite cafe offers a children’s menu and high chairs are available also.
How much does it cost?
National Trust Stowe offers free entry for National Trust members. If you are not a member, please see the entrance prices below:
Adult – £13.00
Child – £6.50
Family – £32.50
Family One Adult – £19.50
Children under five are free.
Please note, if you would also like to visit Stowe House, this is charged separately.
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