Bamboo Field

Why not indulge in a spot of forest bathing at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum (20 minutes’ drive)? Here you can admire thousands of trees (both from below and from a treetop walkway right up in the canopy), hunt for Gruffalo sculptures on a woodland trail or go looking for woodpeckers and other birds. If you long for the roar of a powerful engine rather than the quiet of nature, head to Castle Combe Circuit (25 minutes). In addition to watching races and checking out rally car shows, you can have a go at driving a rally car yourself – or be a passenger on a white-knuckle ride with an experienced driver. Built in the 12th century to repel attacks from the Welsh, Berkeley Castle (45 minutes) houses a collection of historic treasures, such as a bedspread that belonged to Queen Elizabeth I. Its 6,000-acre grounds include a deer park and a woodland play area, and there is also a lively programme of events.