United Kingdom Outdoor Travel

Vacation rentals in Gloucester

Discover Gloucester in The Cotswolds—explore riverside parks, ancient cathedrals, and family picnics under leafy trees. Create memories in every season.

Gloucester Vacation Rentals

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Luxury rentals

Holiday village Luxury rentals
ARC Painswick
Gloucester, The Cotswolds
19 9 10
$6,367 per night
Holiday village Luxury rentals
Tormarton Court
Tormarton, The Cotswolds
16 8 6
$6,534 per night
Holiday village Luxury rentals
The Onibury
Breedon-on-the-Hill, West Midlands
12 6 5
$2,916 per night
Holiday village Luxury rentals
The Park
Breedon-on-the-Hill, West Midlands
12 6 6
$2,042 per night
Holiday village Luxury rentals
New Park Farm
Bratton Seymour, The Cotswolds
16 8 4
$4,904 per night

Family-friendly

Swimming

Tips on renting in Gloucester

Getting Around

When you visit Gloucester in the heart of The Cotswolds, your family will love exploring the majestic Gloucester Cathedral, where sunlight streams through ancient stained glass and children can hunt for Harry Potter filming spots among soaring arches. Just a short stroll away, the historic Gloucester Docks invite you to wander waterfront paths, watch boats glide by, and enjoy outdoor cafés perfect for family lunches. The docks come alive with festivals and boat rides in summer, making them a must-visit for families seeking adventure in The Cotswolds region.

What to Pack

Packing for your family vacation to Gloucester in the United Kingdom means preparing for adventure and relaxation in equal measure. Bring comfortable shoes for exploring Gloucester Docks, where your kids can marvel at historic ships and you can savor coffee by the water. Don’t forget layers for riverside picnics and gentle walks, as the weather can shift. Pack a camera for magical moments at Gloucester Cathedral, especially if your family loves Harry Potter. Include raincoats for boat tours and extra snacks for park playtime, ensuring every day is easy and memorable.

Must-Try Activities

Gloucester invites your family to explore its rich heritage and vibrant waterfront. Stroll through Gloucester Docks, where historic ships and bustling cafes create a lively scene perfect for curious kids. Enjoy hands-on fun at the National Waterways Museum or let little ones run free in the city’s leafy parks. Discover Gloucester Cathedral, a magical spot for Harry Potter fans, and unwind with a riverside picnic. In every season, Gloucester offers gentle walks, boat tours, and cozy tearooms, making family memories easy and unforgettable.

Smart Spending Tips

Gloucester, nestled in the heart of The Cotswolds, invites your family to savor its riverside charm and historic wonders. Plan for a daily budget of £150 per person or £500 for a family of four, covering boutique stays and hearty Cotswold cuisine. Imagine exploring Gloucester Cathedral or joining the "Cotswold Family Explorer" tour with Cotswold Adventures (£45 per adult, £25 per child), where you’ll roam medieval streets and picnic by the Severn. Cap your day with a family dinner at The Docks Brasserie—expect £30 per adult, £15 per child, for a memorable feast.Gloucester, nestled in the heart of The Cotswolds, invites your family to savor its riverside charm and historic wonders. Plan for a daily budget of £150 per person or £500 for a family of four, covering boutique stays and hearty Cotswold cuisine. Imagine exploring Gloucester Cathedral or joining the "Cotswold Family Explorer" tour with Cotswold Adventures (£45 per adult, £25 per child), where you’ll roam medieval streets and picnic by the Severn. Cap your day with a family dinner at The Docks Brasserie—expect £30 per adult, £15 per child, for a memorable feast.

Gloucester, nestled on the edge of The Cotswolds, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and adventure for families. Begin your journey at Gloucester Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and filming location for the Harry Potter films. Take a guided tour with Gloucester Civic Trust to uncover stories of the city’s Roman past and medieval secrets. The nearby Gloucester Docks is home to the National Waterways Museum, where interactive exhibits and historic boats fascinate children and adults alike.

For active families, hop on a paddleboat with Gloucester Boat Hire or cycle along the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal towpath, soaking up scenic views. The Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum and the Jet Age Museum offer hands-on exhibits perfect for curious young minds. Don’t miss a sweet treat from Hubble Bubble Coffee House, a quirky local café popular with families.

For something uniquely local, explore Robinswood Hill Country Park, a hidden gem where wildflower meadows and panoramic city views await. Ask locals about the tucked-away Llanthony Secunda Priory, a tranquil medieval site rarely crowded with tourists. Wrap up your visit with a stroll through Eastgate Indoor Market, where you’ll find artisan crafts and local produce that capture the spirit of Gloucester.

United Kingdom Outdoor Travel

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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to see what Gloucester has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • The best time to visit Gloucester, United Kingdom for outdoor fun is late spring through early autumn, particularly from May to September. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm and the city comes alive with vibrant festivals and events along the historic Gloucester Docks. Visitors can stroll the scenic paths of Robinswood Hill Country Park or explore the ancient ruins at Gloucester Cathedral under clear skies, while the nearby Cotswolds countryside offers perfect conditions for hiking and cycling adventures.

  • To experience the best of Gloucester, consider staying near the historic Gloucester Harbor, where you’ll be steps from the scenic waterfront, bustling Main Street, and iconic Fishermen’s Memorial. This area puts you close to both the natural beauty of Stage Fort Park, with its sweeping ocean views and walking trails, and the vibrant cultural scene of Rocky Neck Art Colony. You’ll enjoy easy access to whale watching tours, local seafood restaurants, and charming shops while being immersed in the city’s maritime heritage.

  • For families visiting Gloucester, the Quays area stands out for comfort and convenience, offering modern hotels with easy access to the Gloucester Docks, National Waterways Museum, and outlet shopping. The nearby historic city center provides charming guesthouses close to Gloucester Cathedral and Kingsholm Stadium. Both areas are walkable, filled with restaurants and parks, and offer excellent public transport links, making them ideal for families seeking a blend of relaxation and sightseeing.

  • Spend your weekend in Gloucester by exploring the historic harbor, where you can watch fishermen unload their catch and enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants. Visit the iconic Gloucester Fisherman’s Memorial and stroll along Stacy Boulevard for beautiful ocean views. Discover maritime history at the Cape Ann Museum, then relax on Good Harbor Beach’s soft sand. Take a whale-watching cruise departing from Seven Seas Wharf, and browse the charming boutiques and galleries in Rocky Neck Art Colony.

  • Gloucester, Massachusetts is renowned for its pristine beaches and safe swimming spots, with Good Harbor Beach standing out for its soft white sand and gentle surf ideal for families. Wingaersheek Beach is another favorite, offering calm, shallow waters perfect for children and panoramic views of the Annisquam River. Lifeguards are on duty during summer months, and the beaches are well-maintained by the city, ensuring a clean and secure environment for visitors seeking a classic New England seaside experience.

  • Yes, near Gloucester, you’ll find charming winter lodges and cabins around the Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean, offering a perfect base for snow activities when the weather allows. Stay at the luxurious Cowley Manor or a rustic cottage in Painswick, where you can enjoy scenic walks, sledding on Painswick Beacon, or explore the magical winter landscapes of Westonbirt Arboretum. After a day outdoors, relax by a roaring fire in a warm, inviting setting.

  • In Gloucester, hotel and vacation rental prices typically range from around £70 to £150 per night, depending on the season and location. For a stay near Gloucester Cathedral or the historic Gloucester Docks, expect prices to be on the higher end, especially during summer or local festivals. Quaint bed and breakfasts and charming cottages in the Cotswolds area can offer a more personalized experience, while budget options are available closer to the city center and train station.

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