The valleys around Stroud offer plenty of open spaces for all the family to explore this summer.
As part of our summer series with Active Gloucestershire, SoGlos has rounded up some top outdoor activities to try across Stroud and its surrounding areas, from trim trails and cycle trails to mazes and mellow walks.
Nearly all of our picks are free to have a go at, but we've outlined where you can save money on those that require a fee through early entry deals and more.
Whether you're looking to break a sweat through sports and exercise or simply have a mindful moment with a slow-paced stroll, we've curated this hot list with all kinds of outdoor exploration in mind.
Fly a kite on Rodborough and Minchinhampton Commons
Make the most of the open space and summer breeze by flying a kite on Rodborough or Minchinhampton commons.
Spot grazing cattle across the warmer months and watch as colourful butterflies enjoy its wildflowers.
Bring dogs along on a lead, pack a picnic and overlook the views of Stroud and the Severn Vale. It's free to explore the commons and parking is available from dawn until dusk.
Follow a mapped walk and explore Miserden
Spend a calm afternoon following a walking route around the well-maintained estate at Miserden, with three walks to choose from – all free of charge.
Download the map from the Miserden website and choose from: the farm walk which offers a less-trodden path; the valley walk which offers an easy, steady stroll; while the lake walk offers a trail around the water among its many tree specimens.
Those looking for a pretty outdoor space can also explore Miserden Gardens, where you'll find plenty of delicate plants and shrubbery to marvel at. There is an entry fee of £12 for adults, but children under 16 can go for free.
Plus, this summer, the Cotswold Sculptors Association is showcasing a contemporary sculpture trail featuring more than 200 works around the estate until 2 August 2026. For more information visit cotswoldsculptorsassociation.com.
Cycle along the Stroud Valleys Trail
The Stroud Valleys Trail stretches over five miles and offers a traffic-free route that can be cycled in as little as 30 minutes or walked at gentle pace for approximately one hour and 40 minutes.
Starting in Stonehouse, follow the old railway line and enjoy views of the River Frome, the Stroudwater Canal, and the Nailsworth Stream.
Cycle solo at your own pace or walk the route with family and friends while watching for birds and other wildlife as you go. Stroud District Council has a free app you can download with lots of walking routes to explore.
Explore the natural play trail at Woodchester Park
Swing from ropes, test your balance on wobble beams and hop across the stepping logs on the circular natural play trail at Woodchester Park.
Children can challenge themselves to this playful trim trail while adults enjoy the shaded woodland across the park. Head over to the Tinkley Gate Cafe for refreshments afterwards or pack your own picnic.
Little ones with lots of energy can also get stuck into den making at the dedicated den-building area or play on the seesaw and climbing frame. The grounds are free for all to explore.
Give archery a go at Berkeley Castle
There's lots to do and see at Berkeley Castle across the summer holidays, including the chance to grab a bow and give archery a try!
Adults can also catch the outdoor farmer's market on Sunday 19 July 2026, while families can also enjoy outdoor theatre shows or have a jam-packed day out with Dinosaur Day on Sunday 26 July 2026.
Those looking for a calmer afternoon can stroll around the castle gardens and take a pause at the tranquil Lily Pond.
Summer saver tickets costing £14.88 per adult and £7.88 per child are available from Thursday 25 June until Tuesday 1 September 2026, with many of the activities across the summer holidays coming at no extra charge to your admission ticket.
Find out more information at berkeley-castle.com
Peruse the poetry along Laurie Lee Wildlife Way
Pause and ponder at the 10 poetry posts along Laurie Lee Way at Slad Valley. Each post shares a snippet of the famous Gloucestershire author and poet's work, who was greatly inspired by the landscape of Slad Valley throughout his life's work, and particularly within his memoir, Cider With Rosie.
The trail is five miles long and isn't too tricky to tackle, though the ground is uneven and sloped in parts. Families can spot unusual wildlife along the way within its wildflowers, while walking groups and couples can end the trail by heading to Laurie's favourite pub, The Woolpack Inn, for cold refreshments.
Lose yourself in the maze at Painswick Rococo Garden
Little ones can explore the maze at Painswick Rococo Garden with guidance from grown ups from its hillside viewpoint. There's the option to play a game of hide and seek around its follies or even find the fairytale castle carved into a beech tree in the woodland glade.
A rustic play area offers a woodland swing and balance logs, while children's trails offer guided paths with facts to learn and challenges to get stuck into along the way.
You'll need to book online before you visit this summer, as the garden can get busy. There are summer saving rates from Thursday 25 June until Tuesday 1 September 2026, costing £11.20 per adult and £5.25 per child. Find out more information at rococogarden.org.uk
Pump some iron at the outdoor gym in Stonehouse
Get a workout in your day with the outdoor gym facilities at Laburnum Recreation Ground in Stonehouse.
Free to use, this equipment is accompanied by signposts that provide clear guides on how to use it safely.
Families can also try out the table tennis area, or make use of its open green spaces and shady trees for ball games or picnics.
Try a pollinator walk at Slimbridge Wetland Centre
Take a pollinator walk at Slimbridge Wetland Centre and learn about the smaller critters that keep our home planet thriving.
And that's not all, as there are plenty of other activities and events to try at the WWT Centre this summer, including waterside yoga sessions and even a Dragonfly Festival.
There's no additional charge to your admission to go on a pollinator walk. They run every Thursday until 1 September 2026, and offer an up-close look of busy bees and insects and the horticulture that supports them.
Find out more about all the events on this summer via wwt.org.uk/slimbridge
Play a team sport at Painswick Recreation Ground
With plenty of free play equipment and areas for football and cricket, families or friends can head to Painswick Recreation Ground for a challenging game of team sports.
Its football pitch is open for both matches among local clubs and casual use. Dogs are welcome on the grounds, and there are ample spots for a picnic lunch.
