Boys never lose their sense of adventure, and every now and then its important to take some time away from it all and enjoy a men-only getaway. And where better to enjoy a get together and spend some quality time with the boys than in the Cotswolds? Not only are you spoilt for choice when it comes to activities and things to do, but the scenery is perfect for those outdoor adventures and savouring the memories of your boys weekend. The best thing about the Cotswolds is that its great to visit at any time of year, and stays are made even better by the luxurious offerings of our Jigsaw properties - who knows where your boys' adventures in the Cotswolds will take you?
Adventures for the brave
If your typical boys weekend involves plenty of daredevil antics or displays of manliness, then youll be in your element in the Cotswolds. From fast cars to wild beasts and epic feats, youll find plenty of activities to separate the men from the boys during your Cotswolds weekend. Some ideas for fun group activities include: 4x4 driving with the Cotswold 4x4 Off Road Experience City living may not call for big cars, or even any cars at all, so a 4x4 experience can be a great excuse to let loose and enjoy off road driving. Ideal for drivers of all abilities, you will take on obstacles and challenges and on an off-road track around the Cotswolds Water Park. Not for the faint-hearted, this will really settle the question of whos the best driver! Bubble football How many times have you had a kick about with the boys? Too many to count were sure. But how many times have you had a game of footy in a bubble? Probably never! Bubble football is one of the newest activity crazes sweeping the UK, providing plenty of laughs, as well as a good workout as you try to navigate your way around the pitch and score, all inside a giant bubble! Head to the Cirencester Arena for a great activity you wont forget. Climbing and bouldering with Far Peak Whilst you wouldnt normally associate the Cotswolds with climbing, there are actually plenty of great climbing centres offering the chance to reach dizzying heights without the danger that comes with climbing the UKs highest peaks. One of the best experiences comes with Far Peak Climbing, who offer a wide range of activities including outdoor climbing and bouldering. Whilst there are routes and instruction available for beginners, those looking for a tougher challenge won't be disappointed either!
Adventures of the more cultural kind
Boys' adventures in the Cotswolds don't have to be dominated by off-roading and other active pursuits. Part of the charm of the Cotswolds is that it offers some great activities for people of all tastes. Guys looking for a more refined weekend may want to consider some of the following: Exploring film and TV locations The Cotswolds has been fortunate to be the filming location for many great TV programmes and films. Bond lovers will love visiting various filming locations in Bourton-on-the-Water, Upper Rissington and Upper Heyford which have all played host to many of the backdrops featured in 007s adventures. Harry Potter, Poldark and even Dracula have also been filmed at many different locations across the Cotswolds, offering plenty to see for film and TV fans. A day at the races at Cheltenham Racecourse A day at the races can be a great activity for boys on their weekend escape. A chance to dress in suits and soak up the atmosphere, Cheltenham Racecourse has some fantastic events taking place throughout the year. As one of Britains best-loved race courses, Cheltenham also offers some great nightlife, so once the races are over, you can celebrate or commiserate in its recommended pubs and bars. Antiquing in Bath Whilst not a mainstream activity for boys' adventures in the Cotswolds, antiquing can offer a sort of treasure hunt for groups of guys, allowing you to enjoy your own Apprentice-style challenge. Set yourselves a budget and see who can bring back the best item, before working out whose is worth the most. A good excuse to pick up some items for your home, or show off your knowledge of homeware and collectibles you never know what you might find.
Adventures in food and drink
To make the perfect weekend, you need a great location, great company and great food. Whilst we cant guarantee the company for your boys' adventures in the Cotswolds, the location and food are both covered thanks to the Cotswolds impressive range of pubs, restaurants and suppliers all offering excellent food and drink experiences. Whether its whiskey tasting or a top-rated meal in a restaurant, you can catch up and relax over some food and drinks with your friends. Some of our recommendations include: A tour of The Cotswolds Distillery The Cotswolds Distillery is renowned throughout the Cotswolds for being the first of its kind outside of London. Tours include a journey through the history of the distillery, finding out how the spirits are crafted, as well as of course, sampling the goods in the tasting room at the end! No doubt you will want to take some spirits home with you, which you can enjoy back at your Cotswolds property or save as a reminder of your stay. True fine dining at The Lords Manor The Lords Manor is the place to go to enjoy Michelin Star dining within a magnificent luxury setting. Ideal for groups, you can either take a table in the restaurant or book a private dining experience for added exclusivity. Rated highly by The Times as well as other publications, Richard Picard-Edwardss menu will be sure to impress and offer a memorable experience as part of your break. Gentlemans afternoon tea at Slaughter Manor Afternoon tea definitely isnt just for girls. Gentlemans afternoon tea is becoming increasingly popular and one of the best can be found at The Slaughters Manor House in Gloucestershire. Sample their cheese and charcuterie board, scones, pies, Welsh rarebit and more and wash it all down with some Cotswolds beer or cider. The Slaughters Afternoon Tea is popular though, so be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Where to rest after your boys' adventures in the Cotswolds
At Jigsaw, we have plenty of amazing properties that will make your Cotswolds visit extra special, including some great properties for groups of all sizes. Smaller groups will appreciate the stylish, modern dcor found in Teagles Cottage (sleeps 7) in Stow-on-the-Wold, Hope Cottage (sleeps 6) in Quenington and Apple Cottage (sleeps 4) in Snowshill. Meanwhile, if your our larger properties offer some excellent facilities and are housed within magnificent grounds, including Watery Park Barn (sleeps 14), near Chipping Campden, Springfield House (sleeps 10) in Rendcomb and has its own pool, as well as the magnificent Elkstones (sleeps 10), also in Chipping Campden. Our cottages have everything you need for a relaxing, luxurious boys getaway and are located near some top Cotswolds locations. Whatever adventures youre into, youll find plenty to see and do whilst exploring the Cotswolds. So why not take a look at our complete properties list and book your boys' adventures in the Cotswolds with Jigsaw and enjoy some quality time with the guys.