Best places to stay in the Cotswolds? Try Cotswold Farm Park.

I knew I was getting close to Cotswold Farm Park as the fast tarmacked roads had given way to narrower lanes flanked by lush fields and stony walls. The rooves of the houses became thatched and their solid structures a pale yellow.

Sure enough, I soon entered the quaint village of Broadway, undoubtedly another of the best places to stay in the Cotswolds. Carrying along Church Road took me straight past the entrance of my favourite National Trust House, Snowshill Manor! Before long, I had arrived at the entrance to the farm park.

The first impression was excellent. The helpful receptionist helped my son and me with our wristbands and explained what was happening that day. We headed straight for the animal barns where the baby goat and sheep were being bottle fed.

Back out in the yard, there was an opportunity to ‘milk’ daisy the (plastic) cow and to learn about all the jobs that take place on a farm throughout each season. We then began our stroll around the rare breeds walk, stopping to meet and feed each animal that we came across. There were many photo opportunities along the route and even a viewing platform to look out across the estate.

Next stop after the handwash was the bouncy pillow. Having had a good bounce we stopped for a drink and a snack on the picnic benches. This is when we noticed the woodland walk and conservation area.

My little one made a beeline for the mud kitchen, but there was a wealth of information to be found about the environment and sustainability in the conservation area. The park is a haven for wildlife with a variety of species of birds and butterflies to look out for. I also noticed dens, steppingstones, and a campfire circle in the woodland.

It was then time to check out the restaurant. I was very impressed with the cleanliness and layout, with lots of treats on display. The hot options were adequate and were available until 4pm which was great. I do like a chunky coronation chicken sandwich with my chips however, so hopefully there will be some more cold options available next time!

As the sun was shining, we didn’t venture into the indoor play barn, or use the ride-on bikes and tractors, but I’m sure all would be big hitters on rainy days. We did however, have a fantastic time on the outdoor adventure playground.

We had arranged to look around the accommodation in the early afternoon, so off we went to inspect the glampsite and lodges. Some seriously sturdy and well-equipped tents (Songbird and Sunflower Safari tents) stood proudly in their own spaces. A family had pitched their caravan not too far away and were enjoying drinks outside.

We then had a peak inside the lodges, and I decided that’s what I would be booking as soon as I got home! A stylish lodge with two bedrooms, a lovely garden / decking area with a hot tub and views for days? Where do I sign?!

Another top attraction at the farm park is the stunning wild-flower field (July onwards). An Instagrammers dream, this is another reason it’s one of the best places to stay in the Cotswolds. The website states: ‘Weave your way through a colourful haven of wildflowers, snap some gorgeous family photos and learn more about how the flowers can help to support and conserve pollinators and other wildlife’. Wildlife enthusiasts might also be interested to know that bee keeping courses are now available too!

Of course, in an area of outstanding natural beauty you will find scenic and well-trodden walks leading out across the fields. According to the Outdoor Guide: [There is] ‘A 2 mile walk with a spectacular view of the Gorse Valley from the halfway point. There are lovely views across the rolling Cotswold Hills, with historic features along the way, including a Bronze Age burial mound and old quarry workings. This landscape has been shaped by generations of farmers, grazed on by animals (particularly sheep) for centuries’.

Finally, there are also fun activity sessions to be booked for the kids, including pony rides and messy play sessions. The website states ‘Arrival time at the Farm Park is between 9:30-9:45. The messy play session will last for one hour (9:45-10:45am). You are then welcome to stay and enjoy the rest of the day at the Farm Park’. Pre-schooler perfection!