As winter fades and the honey-stone villages glow under softer skies, spring is one of the most magical times to visit the Cotswolds. Rolling hills turn vibrant green, orchards burst into blossom, and the events calendar fills with everything from world-class festivals to family-friendly farm fun.

What to do in the Cotswolds During Spring

Here’s your guide for things to do in the Cotswolds this spring – explore our month-by-month guide and make the most of March, April and May in the beautiful Cotswolds!

baby lambs at Cotswold Farm Park

Your Ultimate Guide to the Spring Season

March in the Cotswolds

March is when the Cotswolds begins to truly wake up.

  • The month opens in spectacular style with the iconic Cheltenham Festival, drawing racing fans from across the country for four days of thrilling action at Cheltenham Racecourse. Expect an electric atmosphere, fabulous fashion, and a wonderful excuse for a spring getaway (don’t forget the big St Patrick’s Day celebrations on Thursday!)
  • For something much more gentle, Cotswold Farm Park run their annual lambing and kidding event until mid-April. It’s a heartwarming experience for families and a lovely way to connect with the countryside. StayCotswold guests can enjoy 10% off pre-booked tickets at Cotswold Farm Park with our exclusive VIP pass.
  • With Mother’s Day falling in March, why not treat the mother figure in your life to a cosy Cotswold escape. Think roaring pub fires (if there’s still a chill in the air), spa afternoons, and long scenic walks followed by a Sunday roast. Our collection of 2 bedroom cottages are the perfect way to treat her.
  • Garden lovers can enjoy spring tours at Highgrove Gardens, the private gardens of King Charles III, which open for guided tours as magnolias, daffodils and blossom come into bloom.
  • Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the Evesham Blossom Trail, when orchards in the Vale of Evesham explode into pink and white blossom, one of spring’s most beautiful sights.
  • For fresh air adventures, head to Woodchester Park, Cam Peak, Leckhampton Hill, Cleeve Hill and Broadway Tower.
  • For Tree lovers, both Westonbirt and Batsford Arboretum are breathtaking as spring colours begin to unfold.

As Easter approaches, look out for family events throughout the region. From Easter eggstravaganzas to trails and everything in between, there’s plenty to do. Read our full guide on Things to do at Easter in the Cotswolds.

April in the Cotswolds

With the Easter bank holiday weekend and two-week school holidays typically starting at the end of March and rolling into April, the Cotswolds becomes a playground for families. Expect Easter trails, egg hunts and craft activities across the region.

  • GWSR often runs special Easter-themed steam train rides, making it a nostalgic treat for all ages, while the much-loved Gifford Circus often returns, pitching its vintage big top at Fennels Farm near Stroud before moving to Sudeley Castle later in the month. It’s a magical blend of theatre, music and circus performance in idyllic countryside settings.
  • At Blenheim Palace, the Easter Eggstravaganza brings together egg trails, fairground rides and family entertainment within its magnificent parkland.
  • Book lovers can plan a visit around the Chipping Campden Literature Festival, which spans April and May, bringing celebrated authors to one of the Cotswolds’ prettiest market towns. B
  • eyond events, April is prime time for spring Cotswold walks. Bluebells begin to carpet woodlands, blossom fills village greens, and wildlife parks welcome newborn animals.
  • At Birdland Park and Gardens, you’ll often spot fluffy chicks in spring, while Westonbirt hosts its whimsical Room on the Broom Trail, delighting younger visitors.
  • For something a little different in the Cotswolds this spring, why not experience an alpaca walk with Cotswold Alpacas, a pottery class at Honeybourne Pottery (don’t forget StayCotswold guests can enjoy 10% off using your VIP pass), a wander around the charming Model Village in Bourton-on-the-Water or for a taste of the Cotswolds, try a distillery tour at Hawkstone (StayCotswold guests can enjoy a free half pint using your VIP pass).

Batsford Arobretum in the Spring

May in the Cotswolds

By May, the Cotswolds is in full bloom – longer days, warmer weather, and a packed events calendar!

  • Music lovers flock to the Cheltenham Jazz Festival and The Chipping Campden Music Festival.
  • For something truly unique to the region, the legendary Cheese Rolling at Cooper’s Hill and Tetbury. Woolsack Races are eccentric annual traditions in the Cotswolds.
  • Equestrian enthusiasts are  spoilt for choice with both the Badminton Horse Trials and Cirencester Park Horse Trials taking place in May.
  • Under the big top, Gifford Circus continues its run, this month at the iconic Blenheim Palace – which is always worth an explore around the lake and to spot the iconic film and TV locations.
  • Stroud Festival of Food and Drink is perfect for foodies, while walkers can explore scenic routes during the Winchcombe Walking festival.

Book a Stay in the Cotswolds This Spring

With so much going on in and around the Cotswolds in spring, it’s the perfect time to experience it for yourself. Explore our huge collection of Cotswold holiday homes, find out what’s on in the Cotswolds and book your stay with us today!