This historic region has a lot to offer when it comes to enjoying a weekend in Warwickshire.
When it’s time to start planning a weekend trip away it can be hard thinking of where to start. So we have put together this handy list with our resort in Warwickshire, things to do in the area and places to eat. That way you will hopefully get some inspiration and be able to start planning your escape with family or friends.
where to stay in Warwickshire?
Stratford-upon-Avon Lodge Retreat
Gospel Oak Lane, Pathlow, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 0JA
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We have over 24 different resorts across the UK and one of them is located in Warwickshire. Our Stratford-upon-Avon Lodge Retreat has a range of different lodges to suit couples all the way up to groups of 10! All lodges are self-catering with fully fitted kitchens, living dining areas, bedrooms & bathrooms. There is a lodge to suit everybody whether you are after a hot tub break or you want a pet friendly holiday. The best part about this resort is the location. It’s the perfect base to explore the area and make some memories.
things do to in Warwickshire
Shakespeare’s Birthplace
Henley St, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6QW | 8 min drive
If you are heading to Stratford-upon-Avon you have to go and see Shakespeare’s Birthplace. The beautifully restored 16th-century half-timbered house is full of history and is in the heart of the town. You can book tickets to visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Shakespeare’s New Place. It’s a full day experience where you will be able to take an inside look of how Shakespeare lived his life.
Stratford Butterfly Farm
Swan’s Nest Lane, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 7LS | 12 min drive
Known for being the ‘UK’s largest tropical butterfly paradise’, Stratford Butterfly Farm is the perfect place to explore no matter what the weather. This indoor exotic environment is home to hundreds of beautiful butterflies from across the world. There are plenty of tropical flowers, waterfalls and pools filled with fish which will make you feel like you have left Stratford-upon-Avon and gone overseas.
Spot On Wake
Wootton Park, Wootton Wawen, Henley-in-Arden, B95 6HJ | 9 min drive
For the water sport lovers or adrenaline seekers, Spot On Wake is the perfect place to go for all water based activities. This venue has three custom built and designed lakes to suit all the activities they have available. Whether you want to try out wakeboarding, stand up paddle boarding, open water swimming or try your luck on the aqua jungle, an over water high ropes course.
Ragley Hall, Park & Gardens
Ragley Hall, Alcester, B49 5NJ | 16 min drive
Ragley Hall is set in 450 acres of stunning park land and is home to some amazing events throughout the year. From festivals, concert picnics and sporting challenges there you will find something fun to enjoy during your visit to Ragley Hall. It was designed in 1680 and has been in the family for over 300 years, even if there are no events on it’s a breath taking place to explore with stunning views of the estate.
Umberslade Adventure
Chalcot Wood, Cut Throat Ln, Earlswood, Hockley Heath, B94 6SE | 20 min drive
If you are looking for something fun to do outdoors with kids of all ages then Umberslade Adventure will be perfect. There is something for everyone here from a low ropes course, commando course, nature trails, archery, zip line, tree climbing, den building and more. There is a Bluebells Lodge that serves various hot and cold food and drink options along with plenty of picnic benches for you to take your own food.
Watch a show at the RSC
Waterside, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6BB | 11 min drive
Since 1961, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre by the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) has been a place where you can go and enjoy plays by Shakespeare and his contemporaries. If you are staying in Stratford-upon-Avon we definitely recommend you check out what plays are on and book your tickets to watch a play! The RSC also has restaurants, cafes and bars that you can take advantage of whilst also supporting the company during performance days.
the best restaurants & cafés near Stratford-upon-Avon
The Woodsman Restaurant
4 Chapel St, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6HA | 10 min drive
Located in a Grade II listed building that dates back to the 1500s and was used as an Inn from 1655 to 1661, The Woodsman Restaurant has a traditional approach to contemporary cooking. With all of their ingredients sourced from the English countryside. Open from Wednesday to Sunday you will be able to enjoy everything from a Sunday Roast to a wood fired cod fillet and everything in between.
The Farm Stratford-upon-Avon
King’s Ln, Snitterfield, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 0QA | 2 min drive
Known for being a hidden gem in Stratford-upon-Avon, The Farm is the perfect place for breakfast, lunch, pizzas or even a Sunday roast. As well as the café they have a farm shop and delicatessen that has a range of products which will be perfect for your self-catering holiday if you are wanting to cook at your lodge. If you are staying at our lodge retreat The Farm is only a 2 minute drive away!
Caffeine & Machine
Caffeine and Machine Ltd, Ettington, CV37 7NS | 17 min drive
Caffeine & Machine is everything you could need all in one place. A coffee house, licensed bar and restaurant. It is also a boutique B&B and living art gallery. Here you can enjoy a range of different food and drink options. Along with plenty of alcohol and soft drinks to suit all. It’s the perfect place to go in the summer months too as you can sit out and enjoy the weather.
Now you can enjoy planning your staycation starting with booking a place to stay.
Being in Britain means we can never be guaranteed sunshine all year round.
And although staycations are still as popular in 2022 as they were in 2021 it may still rain during your caravan holiday. But we are here to tell you that you can’t let a bit of rain stop you from having fun and making memories! There are so many fun rainy day activities that you can do on your caravan holiday. To make things easier for you we’ve put all our amazing ideas into a list below so hopefully you find one that suits your family.
make use of the facilities on-site
If you are at one of our Darwin Escapes resorts you will find a range of different facilities available to use that will be perfect for all the family. From indoor swimming pools to restaurants, outdoor splash areas and bowling. You will be able to stay entertained no matter what the weather is at our resorts and make memories that will last forever.
Here is a list of facilities you may find at our Darwin Escapes resorts:
- Indoor swimming pools
- Play parks
- Outdoor splash areas
- Bowling
- Restaurants
- Gyms
- Spas
- Go Active activities
have a movie day
If you do find it’s raining during your caravan holiday and you want to stay inside a great idea would be to have a movie day. Either make sure you have some snacks in or face the rain to stock up on some goodies then you’re good to go. Find all your favourite family films that will be perfect to watch during your movie day!
find some indoor attractions
No matter where in the UK you are for your caravan holiday you won’t be more than a short car journey away from some amazing indoor attractions. This could be anything from a trip to the cinema, an indoor play area, indoor shopping centre, museums etc. If you stay at one of our Darwin Escapes resorts you won’t be far from some fun indoor attractions for all the family.
play some games
The main thing you want to do when you are looking for ideas for rainy day activities for your caravan holiday is ensure that you are doing things that keep everyone entertained. Make sure your prepared for your holiday and take some games with you that you can play together.
Top 6 games to play as a family:
- Monopoly
- Cluedo
- Game of Life
- Trivia Pursuit
- Pack of cards
- Guess Who?
get creative
If arts and crafts is your thing then it’s the perfect time to do so when it’s raining. Whether that’s with a drawing competition or you want to get even more creative and make something out of all the things you can find at the caravan park. It’s a great excuse to think a little differently and create some amazing things together.
bake some treats
Why not pop to the local shops and get all the ingredients you need to make some baked goods. Even if you don’t think of yourself as a baker why not get the packet mixes of cookies and brownies etc. It doesn’t matter how you make them everyone will enjoy eating them at the end!
go out and explore in the rain
Sometimes when it is raining and you have the right clothing, there is nothing better than to go out and explore in the rain. Go on a countryside walk or find a viewpoint to walk to. It’s a great way to enjoy some fresh air, be at one with nature and get some good exercise in.
We have 24 different resorts across the UK which offer holidays and holiday home ownership options.
This stunning county in England can provide you with everything you need to keep everyone entertained no matter what age.
We have our countryside escape, Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa located here which makes the perfect base if you are wanting to explore all that this county has to offer. But, even if you are not wanting to stay in our resort this list of things to do in Norfolk will still be useful if you are heading down to the area and want things to keep you busy. Below you will find a list of a range of different attractions and places to visit in and around Norfolk.
Oxburgh Hall
Oxborough, King’s Lynn, PE33 9PS | 18 mins
If you are wanting to dive into some history in the King’s Lynn area then Oxburgh Hall would be a great place to go. Owned by the National Trust, this moated country house is an impressive site to see, and the history is just as impressive. It was built in 1482 by the Bedingfeld family and was home to them for over 500 years. Explore the house on a tour or enjoy wondering around the gardens and the estate. You can also get a bite to eat at The Servants’ Hall tea-room which serves cakes, hot and cold drinks and light lunches.
Great Massingham
King’s Lynn | 15 mins
Sometimes it’s nice to just have an area of village that you want to explore, and if that’s something you like the sound of make sure you take a trip to Great Massingham during your time in Norfolk. Located in the King’s Lynn area, this little village has a primary school, village shop, pub, village hall, a church and a sports club. There are also a few large ponds that are dotted around the village and plenty of open spaces so it would make a great day out exploring somewhere new.
Snettisham Park
Bircham Rd, King’s Lynn, PE31 7NG | 29 mins
Fun for all the family, Snettisham Park first opened in 1986 and has been welcoming families ever since. It is a working farm but you can come with all the family for a fun day out. Spread across 329 acres you will be entertained with lambs, a 45 minute deer safari and plenty of other farm animals that you can learn about and see. So if you have children that are animal lovers this would be a great place to head to and have fun for the whole day.
Gooderstone Water Gardens & Nature Trail
The Street, Gooderstone, King’s Lynn, PE33 9BP | 20 mins
This is definitely a unique thing to do because of its history behind it. The Gooderstone Water Gardens were owned by Billy Knights who was a retired farmer, in 1970 he decided to begin his garden and when he died at 93 in 1994 he left his 6.5 acre garden. Throughout the garden you will find ponds, bridges and beautiful flowers. So whether you just love to have a wonder around and take in some stunning sights or you are an avid garden lover, this will be the perfect place to explore in Norfolk.
Castle Rising
Lynn Rd, King’s Lynn, PE31 6AH | 21 mins
If you are into knowing more about history and castles in particular then you should definitely head to Castle Rising Castle. It’s a 12th Century castle that was built in around 1140 AD and got passed to the Howard family in 1544, it is still in their hands today! There are various events that run throughout the year in the castle grounds so make sure you check that out before you go to see if any are running during the time you are in the area!
The Railway Touring Company
14a Tuesday Market Pl, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JN | 21 mins
For something a little bit different, The Railway Touring Company would be a great day out for the whole family. You can get day trips around the UK or even go for UK holidays from this station. All trips are made by a steam charter which have carriages dating back to the 1950s. So if you wanted a thing to do in Norfolk that didn’t rely on good weather this would be a great option. As well as it being perfect if you want to take in some scenery.
ExTREEme Adventure
High House, Weasenham, King’s Lynn, PE32 2SP | 17 mins
Perfect if you are wanting some action packed fun, the ExTREEme Adventure in King’s Lynn can provide you with quad bike trekking and an army style assault course. So whether you are a family wanting to keep your kids entertained or a group of friends looking for some adrenaline fuelled experiences this will be great. Age restrictions do apply on the quad bike trekking so make sure you check all the information online before you are booking.
Holkham Hall & Estate
Holkham Rd, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AB | 47 mins
There are so many things that you can explore at Holkham Hall & Estate. There is the hall, the walled garden, the park, plenty of walk and cycle trails, a ropes course, boat and cycle hire, a woodland play area, the list goes on. So if you want to learn a bit about the history of the hall and the area whilst still having something to suit everyone around the estate this is a visit you don’t want to miss out on. Prices start from £5.50 for adults and £2.50 for children.
Watatunga Wildlife Reserve
Watlington Rd, King’s Lynn, PE33 0RG | 17 mins
One of the most impressive things about Watatunga Wildlife Reserve is that they are pioneering a new approach to protecting the last populations of endangered deer and antelope. The reserve is across 170 acres and you can book into a guided tour on either a buggie or safari trailer. As you go round you can learn more about the deer and antelope that live here along with plenty of other rare species like pheasants, ducks and great bustard.
Locked in Lynn
4 Campbells Business park, Campbells Meadow, King’s Lynn, PE30 4YR | 16 mins
With the Locked in Lynn experience you will have to put your heads together and see how well you can cope under pressure. When you book you will choose one of rooms available, Death Row, Diamond Heist, The Forbidden Campsite or Make or Break. When you are inside you will have a 60 minute countdown start, in that time you need to solve puzzles and clues, unlock locks and work together. Your mental and physical skills will be tested in every room at Locked in Lynn.
Norfolk Lavender
Caley Mill, Lynn Rd, Heacham, PE31 7JE | 31 mins
Founded in 1932, Norfolk Lavender is England’s premier lavender farm. It is known worldwide and you will find almost 100 acres of lavender set in these gardens in Norfolk. There is a garden centre on site along with an animal garden and playpark. You can also get a bite to eat at The Lavender Lounge tearooms and restaurant. And there is a huge lavender product range and gift shop here so you don’t have to leave empty handed.
Sandringham Estate
Sandringham, PE35 6EN | 21 mins
Known for being a country retreat that is loved by the Queen, Sandringham Estate has been the home of British Monarchs since 1862. You can explore the house, gardens, St Mary Magdalene Church and parkland most of the year, with just the parkland being open in the winter. The park is over 600 acres and has winging trails through woods and the parkland so you can spend hours exploring. They also do incredible light trails at Christmas time.
Church Farm, Stow Bardolph, Rare Breeds Centre
Lynn Rd, Norfolk, PE34 3HT | 23 mins
There is no better place to go than Church Farm, Stow Bardolph, Rare Breeds Centre. It is a farm park with animals, an adventure playground, a tea room and a shop. So there is plenty to do during your time at the park. You will find everything from horses to goats, pigs to fancy rats. As well as activities like ride on pedal tractors, pig racing and an indoor play area. If you are heading here around Christmas they always have different festive events on like meeting Father Christmas.
If you liked our list of things to do in Norfolk why not book our resort in Norfolk for your trip? It would make the perfect base for exploring.
From enjoying the English countryside to learning more about the history in a museum, there are so many things to do in Oxfordshire that are suitable for all.
Our newest resort has just opened its doors and would make the perfect base for you to explore the local area and the rest of the county. But even if you aren’t staying at The Springs Resort & Golf Club we have put together the ultimate list of things to do in Oxfordshire. Whatever you are wanting to do you will find something that is right up your street in our list below. With things to do in Oxford, local attractions in Wallingford and popular days out in Oxfordshire.
things to do in Oxford
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
Parks Rd, Oxford, OX1 3PW | 34 mins
If you love history and want to learn more about various topics then the Oxford University Museum of Natural History is the place to go. With different exhibitions and events running throughout the year you will always find something that peaks your interest as well as the rest of the collections that are always at the museum. Whether you want to learn more about animals or even art this museum has it all. It’s a great place for families with younger children or just couples or even groups of friends.
Oxford Castle & Prison
44-46 Oxford Castle, Oxford, OX1 1AY | 30 mins
Oxford Castle was market by the Normans as the perfect place for a castle after the Battle of Hastings in 1066. But over time it transformed into a prison, now visitors come from far and wide to learn all about the history that comes with this incredible site. You can explore and climb 101 steps that leads to an amazing panoramic view of Oxford, go underground and visit the candle-lit crypt and step inside the 18th century prison cells. Oxford Castle & Prison also has guided tours, a jailbreak escape room and murder mystery nights that you can book.
Ashmolean Museum
Beaumont St, Oxford, OX1 2PH | 31 mins
Founded in 1683, The Ashmolean Museum is the University of Oxford’s museum of art and archaeology. There are a range of world famous collections for you to explore from contemporary art to Egyptian mummies. Admission is free into this museum but it is essential you book a ticket online as you are then guaranteed entry. As well as the usual collections there are also different exhibitions that are changing throughout the year.
Christ Church
St Aldate’s, Oxford, OX1 1DP | 28 mins
Although located in the hustle and bustle of Oxford town centre, Christ Church is a peaceful and vibrant place to visit if you are in the area. There is a Cathedral and Choir, a picture gallery, a library and events that go on inside this building. Its architecture is magnificent and definitely somewhere you would want to see whilst you’re here. Christ Church was also the location for many Harry Potter scenes so if you are a fan you may want to go and see what you recognise!
The Oxford Artisan Distillery
Old Depot, South Park, Cheney Ln, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7QJ | 31 mins
If you enjoy whisky, gin or vodka and you want to know how they are created then The Oxford Artisan Distillery would be a great place to take a tour of. Learn all about how they make their award-winning spirits and watch every step starting from the seed all the way to when it’s in the bottle. Prices start from £20 and the tour lasts an hour and includes the chance to taste the vodka, gins and whisky. Then at the end if you’d like you can buy a bottle or two of your favourites.
Iffley Lock
Iffley Lock, Oxford, OX4 4EJ | 26 mins
Built in 1632, the Iffley Lock has helped canals make their way across the River Thames for centuries. It was rebuilt in 1924 and since has marked the starting point of many organised rowing races with the Oxford University Boat Club. On a sunny day you can enjoy a walk along the riverbank and incorporate watching the Iffley Lock alter its water levels to help boats pass along the River Thames.
Harry Potter Walking Tour of Oxford
5 Broad St, Oxford, OX1 3AJ | 32 mins
Calling all Harry Potter fans, this one is for you. Did you know many scenes in Harry Potter were filmed in different locations around Oxford? With this walking tour you will be able to discover all of the different movie locations like the Bodleian Library and a few of the oldest colleges in Oxford. Whilst you are on the tour you will also hear different insider gossip about the movies, characters and filming. Along with having the chance to test your knowledge with a Harry Potter quiz as you go along the tour.
local attractions near Wallingford
Wallingford Castle, Gardens & Meadows
Bear Ln, Wallingford, OX10 8DR | 8 mins
This medieval castle is a great one to visit if you want to explore the castle, gardens and meadows. With amazing views, an incredible history and beautiful flowers you will be able to learn all about when William the Conqueror began building the castle in 1067. And when the castle was expanded in the 13th Century and then all of its history since then. It’s a great place to visit that is only down the road from our resort.
Brightwell Vineyard
Shillingford Rd, Wallingford, OX10 8LJ | 10 mins
Just a mile from Wallingford is where you will find Brightwell Vineyard. The vineyard adjoins the River Thames and they have various events throughout the year that you can go to. Like the English Wine & Food Festival for example. As well as events there is a vineyard tour & wine tasting tour that you can go on all year round. It includes a 1 hour vineyard tour along with the chance to taste 3 different wines that are produced here.
AV Boats
Unit 3 Benson Waterfront, Benson, Wallingford, OX10 6SJ | 6 mins
When the weather is nice a trip to AV Boats along the River Thames would be a great idea. You have the chance to hire a day boat, fishing boat, rowing boat, kayak, pedal sup, paddle board, canoe or pedal kayak. So there is something for everyone and it is perfect for all types of groups to enjoy. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get involved in some river sports or just enjoy sailing along the river in your chosen boat for the day.
Cholsey-Wallingford Railway
5 Hithercroft Rd, Wallingford, OX10 9GQ | 7 mins
The Cholsey & Wallingford Railway is a heritage railway that takes you on a 45 minute round trip from the historic market town of Wallingford all the way to Cholsey. It first opened in 1866 and has been running ever since. The train still has its 1950s coaches that you will travel in and you can choose different train tickets. From a usual journey to one that includes a cream tea and even one where you can enjoy fish and chips! It’s a great experience if you want to enjoy views of the beautiful countryside in a different way.
Wallingford Museum
Flint House, 52 High St, Wallingford, OX10 0DB | 8 mins
Wallingford Museum is full of different displays and exhibitions that provide you with interesting information about the history of Wallingford Castle. As well as general information on the castle you can also learn all about different aspects of what everyday life was like inside the castle. Throughout the year there are often various special exhibitions to give you more insights and information about local history.
Basildon Park
Lower Basildon, Reading, RG8 9NR | 15 mins
This National Trust site is the perfect place to go if you want to enjoy the outdoors and learn about the life of Lord and Lady Iliffe. Inside Basildon Park there is the house, garden and parkland that you can explore. Dogs are welcome in the garden and parkland so long as they are on leads. It’s a great place to visit all year round and you can enjoy plenty of walks across the 400 acres of parkland.
popular days out in Oxfordshire
Grey’s Court
Rotherfield Greys, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 4PG | 19 mins
Grey’s Court is a 16th century mansion and tranquil gardens that you can explore. It was home to the Brunner family until recent years. Now you can explore the house and walled gardens and enjoy the colourful flowerbeds throughout. There is a tea room on site that serves hot and cold food and drinks along with a shop that has a wide range of gifts that are available to buy.
Thorpe Park
Staines Rd, Chertsey, KT16 8PN | 1 hr 2 mins
For the thrill seekers and the adrenaline junkies, Thorpe Park is just outside of Oxfordshire which means wherever you are in the county you will easily be able to enjoy this day out! Thorpe Park is home to the UK’s fastest roller coaster, the UK’s only winged coaster and the world’s first horror themed roller coaster that features a 100ft drop.
Hellfire Caves
Church Ln, West Wycombe, High Wycombe, HP14 3AH | 33 mins
Get the chance to explore the maze of caverns at The Hellfire Caves. They were built in the 17th century so that you could travel deep underground in the Chiltern Hills. This day out is perfect for any group and would make an amazing family day out. As well as just going to visit and explore yourself they also host kids parties, events and weddings and you can hire it out as a set if you are filming something!
Beale Wildlife Park
Lower Basildon, Pangbourne, Reading, RG8 9NW | 16 mins
For all the animal lovers out there Beale Wildlife Park will be the perfect day out for you. The park is within 40 acres of land and is set right against the River Thames. There are various zoo and farm animals throughout the wildlife park along with plenty of attractions to keep all the family entertained. If you are planning a visit, be sure to check out any events and activities that they have on during the time your there – especially during the school holidays.
Aston Martin Heritage Trust
Drayton St Leonard, Wallingford, OX10 7BG | 17 mins
At the Aston Martin Heritage Trust you will be able to enjoy viewing the ultimate collection of cars, scale models, trophies, engines, racing memorabilia and engineering tools. It’s a great experience that everyone would enjoy whether you have an interest in cars or not. Ticket prices start from £5 that includes access to viewing everything in the museum. The Aston Martin Heritage Trust also run events throughout the year that are based across the UK!
Reload Reading
Beale Park, Lower Basildon, Reading, RG8 9NW | 16 mins
Whether you are a family wanting to entertain everyone or a group of friends looking to have some fun, Reload Reading is a great place to go. You can enjoy archery or laser clay pigeon shooting here and each bay can have up to 6 people. It’s the perfect way to get involved in an outdoor activity that will test your aim and be something that everyone will love having a go at.
Wellington Country Park
Odiham Rd, Riseley, Reading, RG7 1SP | 43 mins
With Wellington Country Park you will be able to enjoy an adventure for the whole family. At this country park you will find an animal park, miniature railway, jumping pillow, splash zone, indoor soft play, welly wheels, mini golf, adventure play and the list goes on. There is so much to do here you can easily spend the entire day having fun. The kids will have an endless amount of things they will want to do during their day here.
Why not use our The Springs Resort as your base when it comes to exploring the area with all the things to do?