Discover Local Activities in the Cotswolds
If your idea of a perfect break involves a little more adrenaline than an afternoon with a book on the decking, you’re in the right place. The Cotswold Water Park is a real playground for all ages, with some excellent family-friendly activity centres just a short drive from Nyhavn Lakeside Cottage.
The Cotswold Range – Archery, Air Rifles & Crossbows
The Cotswold Range is still going strong and remains one of the best-rated activities in the area for families. Tucked within the Cotswold Lakes, it offers instructor-led sessions in archery, air rifles and crossbows, with an emphasis on fun and confidence-building rather than fierce competition.
Sessions are typically suitable for children from around 8 years upwards, and the instructors are brilliant at pitching things just right for mixed-ability groups. Expect simple safety briefings, clear demonstrations and then plenty of time to play games, try different challenges and gently improve your aim. It’s all indoors on a covered range, so it’s a great option whatever the weather is doing.
Pre-booking is essential, especially in school holidays and at weekends. It’s worth checking their website for current age limits, session types and availability before you travel.
Combat Splat – Low Impact Paintball
For families with older children who fancy something a bit more energetic, Combat Splat offers “Low Impact” paintball designed specifically with kids and families in mind. They operate locally and have built a strong reputation for friendly staff and well-run games.
The low impact option uses smaller markers and lighter paintballs, which means far less of a sting than traditional paintball, while still feeling exciting and immersive. It’s generally suitable for ages 10+ (do check current age requirements when you book) and works well for family groups, birthday treats or just a high-energy afternoon out.
Sessions usually start with a safety briefing and kit issue, followed by a series of short games in different zones. Old clothes and sturdy footwear are recommended, and you’ll want to leave time afterwards to head back to the cottage for hot showers and a well-earned rest on the sofa.
RDB High Ropes (formerly Head 4 Heights) – High Ropes & Freefall Jumps
If you prefer your thrills at height rather than at ground level, RDB High Ropes is a fantastic high ropes centre within the Cotswold Water Park. It offers a wide range of aerial challenges, from totem pole climbs and wobbly bridges to freefall-style jumps for the truly brave.
Many of the activities are suitable for adventurous children from around 5 years upwards, with different elements graded by height and confidence level. Everything is fully harnessed and supervised, with friendly instructors on hand to coach nervous climbers and cheer on the more daring members of the family.
Because it’s an outdoor, weather-dependent activity, it’s a good idea to check opening times and conditions on their website and to book ahead, especially in peak season. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are a must.
Balancing Adventure with Lakeside Calm
One of the joys of staying at Nyhavn Lakeside Cottage is being able to mix days of full-on adventure with quieter time by the water. You can spend the morning tackling high ropes or perfecting your archery, then head “home” to unwind on the decking, watch the wildlife on Isis Lake or enjoy a gentle stroll with the dog.
Whether you have thrill-seeking teens, competitive tweens or adults who are simply young at heart, these local centres offer a brilliant way to add a little extra excitement to your Cotswolds escape.
