From rolling hills to ski slopes and sculpture trails, there's plenty to do outdoors across Gloucester this summer.
We've teamed up with Active Gloucestershire to round up some of the best spots to get out and about and enjoy the outdoors, come rain or shine. Many are free to do and there's something for everyone of all ages and interests.
Take it slow on a relaxing walk or get the adrenaline pumping with team sports and bike paths. Go with friends, go with family, or go on a simple outdoor adventure alone and meet new people on the move.
See some of the tallest trees in Gloucestershire at Barnwood Park and Arboretum
Follow the tree trail at Barnwood Park and Arboretum to see some rare and particularly gigantic trees.
Gaze at a towering redwood giant, one of the tallest trees in the county, and marvel at Gloucester's oldest Indian Bean Tree. Children can learn how to identify these giants of nature by learning about their leaves and shapes, while grown ups can have a stroll in their shade along the way.
Pause for a quiet moment at the wildlife pond on your wander, and keep an eye out for grazing cattle feasting on the grassland over the summer months.
Get out on the water at Gloucester Docks
There's plenty to do at Gloucester Docks, both on and off the water, throughout the summer and beyond.
One highlight is the Gloucester Activity Hub inside the National Waterways Museum. The hub runs free activities including yoga and pilates sessions on a static barge – these are suitable for all abilities, including chair yoga options.
There are also free inclusive, adaptive community paddling sessions out on the water in Canadian canoes, sit on kayaks and SUPs.
Plus, free Let's Walk guided walks along the canal, led by volunteers. Visit canalrivertrust.org.uk for more information and to book.
Cycle along the Gloucester-Sharpness Canal path
The path along the Gloucester to Sharpness Canal offers plenty of history and heritage to absorb along the way, starting from Gloucester Docks or picked up anywhere along the 16-mile route.
Those seeking a fitness challenge can take on the full length, either by bike or on an energetic run, while shorter stretches are perfect for slow paced stroll with friends, or dogs, for a relaxed afternoon by the water.
Families can spot birds and unusual wildlife along the way, as well as swing-bridges and bridge-keepers' houses, with play areas in Hempsted, and a number of pubs along the route for a refreshing pitstop.
Tackle the BMX path at Churchdown Park
Keen bikers can head out on the BMX trail in Churchdown Park. These red, sandy slopes offer more challenging terrain than a typical cycle path, ideal for jumps and stunts.
You can also hit the skate ramp, play on the football pitch or settle down on its green fields for a picnic for a full afternoon of family fun.
Young children can also explore its play area or take on a lively game of frisbee on the grass.
Hit the slopes at Gloucester Ski and Snowboard Centre
Children and adults can have a go at skiing, snowboarding or tubing at the Ski and Snowboard Centre in Matson.
Learn a new sport from experienced tutors or have fun sliding down the slopes on an inflatable tube – for an affordable way to experience the centre for a first time.
The centre is also home to the UK's first outdoor laser tag space with its woodland warzone; team up with friends or go head-to-head in a family laser battle, all while enjoying the natural surroundings.
Go wild at Over Farm's Big Summer Blowout
There's plenty of family fun going on at Over Farm over the school holidays. Its Big Summer Blowout event runs from 18 July to 31 August 2026, and includes foam parties, live shows, crafts, foot golf and much more for those seeking a jam-packed day out.
Visitors can also pick their own strawberries until the end of August, and meet special characters from popular television shows and books, like Bluey and The Gruffalo, on select dates.
Early bird tickets available by visiting overfarm.co.uk offer a cheaper entry price.
Give the outdoor gym at Gloucester Park a go
Get your muscles moving with the intuitive gym equipment at Gloucester Park. No need for previous gym experience, this fitness station is suitable for people of all abilities from ages 14 and over.
From its pull up bar to its calisthenics rig, there's plenty of ways to try out familiar or new exercises in the outdoor breeze.
While at the park, families can stop by the aviary and say hello to its birds, enjoy the play area or watch out for wildlife.
Follow the Wild Explorer trail at Robinswood Hill Country Park
Hunt for the whimsical wood carvings along the Wild Explorer trail at Robinswood Hill for a guided route with plenty to see.
Opened in 2022, the trail has a pushchair-friendly footpath and features 10 sculptures that tell a story about the heritage of this popular nature spot. Collect a free sculpture trail map from the visitor centre, where children can let off steam on the nearby play area.
For children in search of an extra challenge, try the Lloyd Of The Flies bug hunt running from Saturday 18 July until Monday 7 September 2026.
Created in partnership with animation studio Aardman and the Royal Entomological Society, help young fly Lloyd find his way to the bug hotel and learn about his insect friends and family as you go.
It's free to explore the open green land of Robinswood hill, and you can also park for free too. Furry friends can come along as dogs are welcome, and may be let off the lead with caution in some areas.
Do some outdoor meditation at Cooper's Hill
The historic site of Gloucester's famous cheese rolling is also a great spot for pause and reflection.
Watch the sunset from the hilltop as the sky lights up with hues of orange and pink, take a gentle walk around its surrounding woodland or bring a mat or blanket and do some gentle yoga or breathwork with a backdrop of the county.
Early birds can similarly avoid the hottest point of the day by heading out at sunrise, and find a peaceful spot to listen to the birds sing and watch as Gloucester wakes up on the horizon.
Get kids moving with summer activities at Blackbridge
Families can enjoy plenty of summer events at Blackbridge in Podsmead over the summer holidays.
Most events are free, and take place across July and August. Children can take part in play days, fitness activities, craft workshops, wellbeing drop-ins, and a youth club.
There are also a number of family events taking place, including a trip to Cotswold Water Park on Wednesday 19 August 2026 for £5 per person.
Find out more by visiting blackbridge.org.uk.
