Having a new family or a growing family if you’re a grandparent does mean big changes, but it doesn’t mean you have to totally change your lifestyle and your hobbies and interests. If you’re a keen walker but can’t quite figure out the logistics of walking with a buggy then we’ve found some fabulous buggy-friendly walks for you so that you can continue to enjoy the great outdoors and can inspire new generations to as well.

The Cotswold Water Park is a great place to start; it has 150 lakes spread over 40 square miles so there are lots of gorgeous walks plus many activities to get involved in if you fancy it such as kayaking, rowing, or a picnic on the beach. Some of the walks will encounter stiles, gates, and possible muddy footpaths weather dependant, however, if you choose bridal paths and cycle routes you will find these to be buggy-friendly. There is a reasonably large parking charge at the Cotswold Water Park but you won’t pay for anything else once here (other than the obvious food/drinks/shopping)and the charge is per car so doesn’t work out too expensive. There is a nice little café and shop here too if it’s not picnic season.

Sudeley Castle is another fantastic place for a buggy-friendly walk; it’s pretty flat with nice paths for wheels and a lake on the walk up to the castle. If you fancy paying an entrance fee you can walk around the castle and use the brilliant kid’s playground which has a huge fort. The castle itself isn’t especially buggy friendly with different levels and stairs to get up, however, the staff are super friendly and helpful and will let you leave your buggy downstairs if you are happy to carry little ones upstairs to have a look around. There is also a café here and a shop.

Beechenhurst in The Forest of Dean is another great buggy-friendly spot. It lies in the heart of the forest so the surroundings are beautiful and you really feel away from the hustle and bustle of life. Having said that there is lots on at Beechenhurst; a sculpture trail, Gruffalo trail for the younger members of the family, Go Ape takes place here, an excellent children’s play park and there is a huge picnic area plus a café. It would be wise though to say that the trails are very hilly, so although the paths are absolutely fine for buggies you may need some strength to push them up and guide them down. You will see many people there with buggies but if you aren’t feeling too active then pushing them around could tire you out.

Finally, if you enjoy beautiful views then Crickley Hill is a great buggy-friendly option. With stunning panoramic views across the Cotswolds and a rich diversity of wildflowers and butterflies, it’s a perfect spot. There are paths and grass that cross the top of the hill and through forest land, and if you choose your time well and it’s a nice day then you can be there for sunset which is absolutely breathtaking. If it’s very windy it’s probably worth waiting for a calmer day as the wind can come with some force up there. They have a small café here for refreshments.

There are many fabulous buggy-friendly walks in our beautiful Cotswold so please don’t be put off walking, these are but a few suggestions. If you’d like any more help or would even like to talk through trails or walking holidays for your family then please give us a call, we’re a friendly bunch!