Although it might be better known for its historic sights and rolling green hills, Gloucestershire is actually one of the UK’s most action-packed destinations. As @cotswoldlife says, ”Gloucestershire might be seen as a sleepy county with rolling green hills and quaint Cotswold-stone villages, but there’s plenty to get your heart racing in this part of South West England.”
Here are some of our favourite high-octane activities to get you started.
Canoeing
Gloucestershire is home to a number of stunning waterways. As a result, the county makes an excellent destination for anyone interested in canoeing or kayaking.
The River Wye, in particular, is ideal for a range of water sports. Take a one-day tour down the river or pack your bags and head out for a long weekend exploring the waterway and everything it has to offer.
Zip lining
Just over the border from Gloucestershire you’ll find The Wire. One of the UK’s longest, tallest and fastest zip wires, it stretches for 700 metres across a spectacular flooded quarry.
Crank your adrenaline levels up even higher by booking a night time trip on the zip line and hurtle head first into the darkness.
Rock Climbing
The Wye Valley may not be up there with the likes of Yosemite or the Alps, but its high quality sandstone and limestone crags in serene settings above the River Wye make it a popular destination for those looking to tie on to the sharp end.
Biking
Biking is a fantastic way to get the blood pumping and Gloucestershire is packed full of fantastic bike routes. You can hire bikes from centres across Gloucestershire, making it easy to find a route that will suit you perfectly. Head to the Forest of Dean to enjoy mile after mile of bike paths and spectacular scenery.
Skiing
If you’re a fan of winter sports, you’ll be pleased to hear that Gloucestershire has its very own dry ski slope. A great place to practice your downhill slalom and your snowboarding skills, the ski slope is suitable for people of all abilities.
Cheese rolling
Cheese rolling is one of Gloucestershire’s most unique activities. A tradition that dates back to at least the 19th century, the most famous event takes place at Cooper’s Hill near Gloucester.
The competition is normally held at the end of May. If you want to take part, all you have to do is turn up on the day and be prepared for some near-vertical cheese chasing.
GoApe
If you have a head for heights, you’ll love having a go at the rope walkways, swings and jumps at GoApe in the Forest of Dean. Designed for family fun, GoApe gives you a great opportunity to explore the forest canopy while getting your adrenaline pumping.
Hot air ballooning
See Gloucestershire from a different point of view by taking a hot air balloon ride over the county’s stunning landscape.
Available from a few different sites in the region, a hot air balloon ride will allow you to see this spectacular countryside at its very best.
For more ideas on things to do in Gloucestershire, take a look around our site or speak to a member of our team.
