A trip to the Cotswolds doesn’t have to mean donning a tweed suit and hiking over hill and dale; there’s a lot going on in this sleepy part of England. We picked a few of our favourite activities and lesser known haunts that make the Cotswolds a world class holiday destination.

Surfing the River Severn

The Severn Bore is a tidal wave that runs down the River Severn and is actually the third largest in the world. The wave travels at between 8 and 13 miles an hour and is usually largest in spring. And what better way to make use of this natural phenomenon thant dusting off your canoe, kayak or surfboard and riding that baby!

severn bore

The wave was first ridden by famously eccentric WW2 veteran ‘Mad Jack’ Churchill. Not only was he known for carrying a claymore and being the only Allied soldier to have killed an enemy with a longbow during the war, but he also took up surfing and made his own board to ride the Severn Bore.

Today anyone can surf the Severn Bore by checking the tidal tables and just showing up with a wetsuit and a healthy dose of good humour. Spectators are also welcome and there are several good spots to get a good view of the intrepid surfers trying to catch this one-off wave.

Gloucester Guildhall

Known for breaking up and coming acts, this lively venue is home to an eclectic mix of performers and musicians. Jan 24th-26th 2014 sees the Gloucester Cajun and Zydeco Festival bringing a taste of New Orleans funk to the Cotswolds. The Gloucester Guildhall also has an on-going programme of film, theatre and comedy. If you are planning a trip in advance you might even be able to book into one of their popular workshops. Choose from African drumming, swing dance, knitters with attitude and much more…

Grab a bit to eat

The Cotswolds has a lot more to offer than village pubs and cafes. Here you’ll find some truly innovative restaurants offering the best of British food. If you are passing through Chipping Norton, or ‘Chippy’, then why not book a table at Wild Thyme owned by Chef Nick Pullen. Nick has crafted a menu that combines British favourites with Mediterranean flair. The décor is comfortable chic and the welcome warm – perfect for a cosy Cotswolds dinner.

For a little taste of perfection stop off at Made by Bob; this café/ deli hybrid run by Cotswold’s foodie hero Bob Parkinson will leave even the fussiest eater satisfied. Located in Cirencester at The Cornhall, Made by Bob opens at 7.30 to cater for caffeine hungry commuters, serves lunch from 12 noon, an afternoon menu from 3.00 to 5.30 and then dinner. The menu changes daily and incorporates local produce and seasonal ingredients. Expect anything from braised cuttlefish with chorizo to white peach bavarois with caramelised almonds – yum!

Rest your head

Cheltenham is a great place base for a holiday in the Cotswolds. Designed in the 18th century as a pleasure resort for the wealthy it still retains plenty of genteel charm. Known as the ‘cultural capital of the Cotswolds’, Cheltenham lives up to its name with a plethora of theatres and art galleries. As well as art shows and , theatre extravaganzas, the town loves a good festival. The Cheltenham Festival – four days of adrenaline pumping jump racing action – is one of the highlights in the horse racing calendar. While the literature, music and science festivals gain more popularity every year.

The Thistle Hotel, Cheltenham is an ideal accommodation choice having recently been refurbished to include a new swimming pool and patio area. This modern hotel is within walking distance of regency Cheltenham Spa and being just off the M5 J11 gives easy access to the Cotswolds countryside.