Prestbury Farm Shepherd Huts

Renowned for its elegant cloister (which appears in several Harry Potter films), the medieval cathedral in Gloucester (20 minutes’ drive) combines Romanesque and Gothic elements. The city is also England’s most inland port. The Victorian warehouses lining its historic docks are home to shops and cafés, plus the National Waterways Museum. In addition to a woodland Sculpture Trail, the Forest of Dean (25 minutes) has hiking areas, cycling parks and attractions for the entire family. These include Puzzlewood, an enchanting forested landscape with trails, moss-covered rocks and assorted wildlife; the Perrygrove Railway Adventure, a miniature steam-train ride; and treetop adventures at Go Ape Beechenhurst. At Symonds Yat (35 minutes), woodland walks lead to picnic areas or overlooks like Symonds Yat Rock, where you can admire the Wye Valley and the birds of prey that nest in the vertiginous cliffs. Or you can take in the views from a canoe as you paddle down the Wye.