MAKE A DAY OF IT!
We’re lucky enough to be surrounded by areas of natural beauty, with some idyllic open spaces on our doorstep. Some are well known, while others not so. Here’s a few of our favourites for a family day out in the fresh air!
At 270 we are desperate to preserve and look after these amazing beauty spots, there are two that sit within Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) that are particularly susceptible to damage from tourism and they are listed below. If you attend these sites please ensure you are careful, we’ve also listed other areas you may prefer to visit instead.
Robinswood Hill Country Park – Located to the south east of Gloucester, this country park and nature reserve offers 250 acres of open countryside, walks and nature trails with extensive views across the Severn Vale, Forest of Dean and the Cotswolds. As well as wildflower meadows it’s also home to woodland, ponds and stuffed with wildlife. This Green Flag award site features historically important wells and even a quarry which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest displaying strata from the Jurassic period.
Gloucester – We are just a short drive away from Gloucester City Centre where you can enjoy a stroll around the historic Docks and Quays, or a walk along the Canal, or head to Alney Island Nature Reserve for its impressive footpaths and cycling routes weaving in-between the wetlands and riverside meadows. For more information and a list of other attractions available in Gloucester, visit www.visitgloucester.co.uk
Cheltenham – The Regency Town is ideally situated to take advantage of picturesque urban landscapes and extensive countryside alike. With a number of beautiful parks and open spaces including Pittville Park which has a fantastic blend of living history, children’s activities, pond and even a boating lake! For more details and places to visit in the town, please visit www.visitcheltenham.com
SPECIAL AREAS OF CONSERVATION
Crickley Hill Country Park – Our near neighbour is rich in wildlife and archaeology and has a amazing panorama. The park overlooks the Severn Vale, with magnificent views over Cheltenham and Gloucester, and also features a café, picnic area and on-site car park. It is a prominent Cotswold escarpment and also boasts evidence of an Iron Age Hill Fort.
Cotswolds Commons & Beechwoods National Nature Reserve – The largest nature reserve in the Cotswolds, made up of woodland and limestone grassland and is designated as a Special Area of Conservation and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The majority of the reserve lies between the A46 and the B4070 near the villages of Sheepscombe and Cranham, and the reserve is accessed from these via various minor roads. Car parking is available at several car parks and lay-bys. Walks include the famous Cotswold Way, which passes through the reserve.
You can find further information at www.cotswolds.com
THE COUNTRYSIDE CODE
REMEMBER! If you are visiting any natural areas, respect the countryside by ensuring you always:
- Follow pathways and cycle routes
- Keep access to gateways and driveways clear
- Leave gates & property as you find them
- Respect other people & animals
- Leave no trace of your visit (take litter home)
- Don’t have BBQs or fires
- Keep dogs under control
- Enjoy the outdoors!
For more advice, click here.