Eight fun activities to keep children entertained over half term
Published: Friday, 12 February, 2021
Being in lockdown is a difficult time for everyone, however we are allowed outside to exercise once a day. We have compiled a list of Covid-secure ways to get out and about for daily exercise within your local area. For more details on the current rules visit: https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
- Feed the ducks at Stratford Park
Stratford Park is located just outside of Stroud town and has over 55 acres to explore. The park has more than 800 trees of varied species and a lake full of ducks to feed. There are plenty of places to find ducks to feed in the district, at Stratford Park or along the canal. But please, don’t feed them bread which isn’t healthy for either the birds or the water quality. Bird seed, oats, peas, lettuce and sweetcorn are all tasty and healthy alternatives, and many water-side attractions will sell bags of seed. Download the Canal & River Trust’s free duck activity guide www.canalrivertrust.org.uk
From February 13 everyone can enjoy an outdoor ‘I Spy’ trail around the Museum in the Park or on a rainy day you can take part in Modelling Your Favourite Museum Object from homemade salt dough; both with the chance of winning a prize! For more information on these activities and more, visit: https://museuminthepark.org.uk/
- Have a stroll along the canal
Take a walk along the Gloucester and Sharpness, Stroudwater Navigation or the Thames and Severn Canal and observe our recent developments. As lead partner in the Cotswold Canals Connected project we are excited to share our vision of restoring and preserving the Stroudwater and Thames and Severn. To find out more head to: https://www.cotswoldcanalsconnected.org/. Click here to download a free nature guide: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/nature-spotters-guides
- Admire the view at Selsley Common
Take a walk around Selsley Common and admire the stunning views of the Cotswold Hills, River Severn and Wales. The common has been very busy recently and will be increasingly busy over half term; so please ensure you only park in designated parking areas or walk to the common if possible, and do not leave any litter on the site.
- Explore Woodchester Park
Head to the unfinished masterpiece of Woodchester Mansion and Woodchester Park. The mansion is closed however the park remains open and offers varied paths and stunning views; from a play trail in the woods to lakeside towpaths. You will need to pay to park in the National Trust-owned car park. To find out more visit the website at: https://www.woodchestermansion.org.uk/
- Climb up Cam Peak
Cam Peak offers beautiful views and a great workout. The unique, conic shaped hill is adjacent to Cam Long Down, which provides an area for a longer walk and views across Dursley, Cam and Berkeley.
- Get active with The Pulse
If it’s a rainy day, head to The Pulse website and attend one of their free online classes or check out their Youtube/Facebook. For half term The Pulse have organised a children’s dance and exercise class, a live den building class and a fridge cake making class. These will all be free and via Zoom or Facebook. Find out more at: https://www.pulsedursley.co.uk/
- Walk along the Cotswold Way
Challenge yourself with a more difficult walk along the Cotswold Way and see how far you can go. This scenic route runs through Wotton-under-Edge all the way up through Cranham. This is great for locals as it spans across the whole of the Stroud district; so you can pick the area closest to you and head there for a tranquil walk surrounded by nature.
- Head to Frith Wood
Frith Wood is home to abundance of wildlife and rare plants; which children will love to discover. The wood is located between Slad and Painswick. Please park at Bull’s Cross Car Park rather than on local lanes as these are used by residents. Parking is free at Bull's Cross. Find out more at: https://www.gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk/nature-reserves/frith-wood
For more information head to: http://www.visitthecotswolds.org.uk/things-to-see-and-do/