There’s not just one bank holiday this month, we get two! Why not get out in Gloucestershire and explore the wealth of wonderful things to enjoy?

If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve got a suggestion or two for brilliant things to do on Monday 4^th May and Monday 25^th May.

Picnics

Packing a delicious picnic and enjoying it in the great outdoors is one of life’s greatest simple pleasures. In Gloucestershire, we’re spoiled with gorgeous spots to enjoy them. We love the views from Cleeve Hill, as well as the canal side and lakes in Frampton-on-Severn. So long as you take your litter home with you, any of your favourite countryside haunts and parks are enhanced by the power of a good picnic!

Walks

Gloucestershire is a prime setting for some stunning strolls. Whether you like a riverside ramble, wander through woodlands or taking in the views from the top of a hill, there’s a wealth of routes to boost your wellbeing in the great outdoors. Not to mention the historic Gloucester Docks and peaceful Stroud canals.

Boat trips

Whether you’re setting sail from Gloucester Docks or Tewkesbury, there’s nothing like being on the water to feel like you’re getting away from it all and doing something special. Cruise on a canalboat in Stroud or give kayaking or paddleboarding a bash. It’s always fun to try something new!

Cheese rolling

So good we’ve mentioned it twice in The Local Answer this month. The fact it’s free is a great reason to go along but it’s really the incredible atmosphere and sheer spectacle of cheese chase that makes this one an event to remember. This year it’s on Monday 25^th May and the action usually kicks off around midday before finishing up at 2pm. If you’ve never been before, follow the big crowds at the nature reserve near Birdlip.

If it’s raining

There’s a whole lot of history and heritage to explore in Gloucestershire, from Gloucester Cathedral and Tewkesbury Abbey, to the many museums and art galleries across the county. Families will find plenty of crazy golf fun at Mr Mulligans in Cheltenham. If you fancy a good movie or bowling, The Brewery Quarter in Cheltenham and Five Valleys in Stroud are great places to dodge any showers.

Animal lovers

If you’re a fan of all creatures great and small, head to WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre to admire an array of beautiful birds. Recently re-opened Prinknash Bird and Deer Park is great for a family day out, while Cotswold Farm Park is a much-loved classic for many cute and cuddly reasons.

Support your local

At a time when hospitality is needing a helping hand, why not head to your faithful local pub to see what they’ve got lined up for the bank holiday? Many put a huge amount of creativity into making it an extra special time to visit. We love the line-up at The Plough in Prestbury, which promises a fun day ahead of the bank holiday, on Saturday 2 May, with live music, face painting and family entertainment.