Greystones Farm Nature Reserve

Greystones Farm is a nature reserve managed by the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust on the southern edge of Bourton-on-the-Water, reached by a short walk down Greystones Lane from the village. The reserve covers around 50 acres of traditionally managed meadows, hedgerows and the valley of the River Eye, and the habitats shift noticeably as you walk: from the wildflower paths where insects and butterflies gather through the warmer months, to the reed beds and damp ground along the river where water voles have been recorded.

The highlight for most families is the Time Travel Trail, which leads to a replica Iron Age roundhouse built on the site of ancient earthworks. The surrounding area includes the remains of Salmonsbury Camp, an Iron Age hillfort, and an on-site Discovery Barn is staffed by volunteers on selected dates, opening the space for children to try on Iron Age clothing, handle archaeological finds and hear the stories behind them. The barn is volunteer-run and does not operate every day, so it is worth checking the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust events calendar before travelling if you specifically want it open.

The reserve is free to enter at any time and the café along the lane is open Thursday to Sunday. It works well as a quiet half-morning alongside the busier village, or as a standalone walk when the main Bourton attractions have queues. Seasonal highlights include the wildflower meadows in June and July, and barn owl activity at dusk.

Good for: outdoors, animals, sensory, history, send-friendly. Ages: 0–2, 3–4, 5–7, 8–11, 12+.