With sunny days on the way in Gloucestershire, family days out are firmly back in the calendar – and there are plenty of places to explore by bus for a budget-friendly trip.
In this hot list, SoGlos handpicks eight family day out destinations that are just a bus ride away. All aboard!
Visit Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe by bus
The stunning Sudeley Castle is steeped in history, being the final resting place of Henry VIII’s last wife, Catherine Parr – with the family-friendly attraction also boasting beautiful grounds to explore.
Hop on the bus from Cheltenham town centre to Winchcombe and take a leisurely stroll to the castle.
Visit Cirencester’s Corinium Museum by bus
Formerly one of the biggest Roman settlements in England, Cirencester is now home to the fascinating Corinium Museum, which charts the town’s history from ancient Rome, Medieval times through to the modern day.
With bus services from Ampney Crucis, Cheltenham, Stratton and Swindon, it’s an accessible family day out for history buffs of all ages.
Visit Painswick Rococo Garden by bus
Bursting with colourful flowers, enchanting follies and with plenty of space for energetic kids and well-behaved dogs, Painswick Rococo Garden is a lovely family day out.
With bus services to Painswick from Cheltenham and Stroud, the Rococo Garden is just a short walk from the town centre.
Visit Beechenhurst in the Forest of Dean by bus
With its spectacular sculpture trail, Gruffalo spotters trail, play area and Go Ape Treetop Adventure, outdoorsy families will have plenty to do at Beechenhurst in the Forest of Dean.
Jump on a bus from Cinderford, Coleford, Lydney or Mitcheldean to be dropped (almost) at the door.
Visit Gloucester Quays by bus
Bargain-hunting families will love a trip to Gloucester Quays to browse the shops, stop off for lunch by the water, or head into Gloucester city centre to explore attractions like the Museum of Gloucester and Gloucester Cathedral.
Bus services run to Gloucester from Cheltenham, Dursley and Quedgeley and there are several services which stop at Gloucester Quays from Gloucester city centre.
Visit Tewkesbury Abbey by bus
Dating back to the 1100’s, Tewkesbury’s historic abbey features a long, ornately decorated nave and the largest Norman church tower in existence – as well as beautiful examples of Medieval and Victorian stained glass windows.
Bus services from Bishops Cleeve, Cheltenham and Gloucester run to Tewkesbury.
Visit Stratford Park Lido in Stroud by bus
Make a splash with a trip to Stratford Park Lido in Stroud. The outdoor pool is a popular spot for families and swimmers during the summer months between May and September. Why not make a day of it and book tickets to the nearby Museum in the Park too?
Buses to Stratford Park in Stroud run from Cheltenham, Gloucester and Stonehouse.
Visit Oxford by bus
Those looking to travel a little further afield can enjoy a day trip to Oxford for as little as £10 per ticket direct from Cheltenham. With a plethora of family-friendly attractions, from the Oxford University Museum of Natural History to Oxford Botanic Garden – not to mention the city’s stunning architecture.
Buses to Oxford city centre run from Cheltenham.
