Here is our round-up of ways pupils of Rendcomb College  can spend the October half-term with family events for all:

 

Walk the Cotswolds Way

Scenic landscapes, historical landmarks and hours of fresh air in the great outdoors, this 102 mile footpath is the perfect opportunity to put on your walking boots and embrace some wanderlust. Reaching from the market town of Chipping Campden all the way to the Roman city of Bath, there is plenty to take in. It is an activity where you select the duration. Whether you fancy the entire walk, or a section which you’re particularly drawn to, the options are open for all. Plus each leg of the Cotswolds Way promises to deliver lots to see and explore. Throughout your adventure you could put together a scrapbook filled with photos and artifacts picked up throughout the journey.

 

Support Local Businesses

We are very lucky in Gloucestershire to have an array of independent shops and cafes, each with their own unique offerings to give a taste of the local area. Whether you want to start your Christmas shopping early or try something new from a delicatessen, it is nice to treat yourself. Gloucestershire is famously known for its cheese, Old Spot sausages, fudge and artisan bread. This is your chance to test your cookery skills and impress friends and family. Not just limited to food, arts and crafts are also well known in the Cotswolds. Pick up something by a local designer or be inspired to make your own creation with local materials.

 

Gaia at Gloucester Cathedral

Even though it is half term, we always like to encourage ways to learn something new during downtime for the pupils. Following the hugely popular installation Gaia at Gloucester Cathedral last year featuring the Museum of the Moon exhibition, Bristol-based artist Luke Jerram is back again. For a limited time (20 October - 1 November) this is your moment to be mesmerised by his seven-metre sculpture of the Earth. It features detailed images from NASA and allows you to view the planet like never before. Not just a sight for the eyes, but something for the ears too as BAFTA award-winning composer Dan Jones has also produced an immersive soundscape to accompany. Tickets are available for both daytime and evening viewings which maintain social distancing can be booked online gloucestercathedral.org.uk

 

Pick a Pumpkin

One thing October half term is known for is Halloween. So why not pick your own fresh pumpkin to decorate just in time for the spooktastic festivities. There are a number of great locations across Gloucestershire that are proving to be the perfect pumpkin spots. Cotswolds Farm Park in Guiting Power is run by Countryfile favourite Adam Henson is open until 31 October and includes all the fun of the farm including rare breeds. Another location for pumpkin picking is Cattle Country near to Berkeley Castle (known to have been visited by King Henry VIII) with thousands of home-grown items to pick and take home. The adventure park also features a play area and open events throughout the year.

 

Staycation

As restrictions across England and Wales have been changing yet again since September 2020, the Cotswolds have been a hot-spot for staycations thanks to its chocolate box villages, rolling hills and a sense of escapism and relaxation. There are a huge array of ways to enjoy the scenic allure of Gloucestershire on your own doorstep with hotels near Painswick Rococo Garden, manor houses near the Museum of Gloucester, glamping close to sculpture trails and treehouses in the Forest of Dean. A great way to bring together the family.