Gloucester is a historic cathedral city on the River Severn, where the soaring Gothic cathedral, cobbled lanes and Victorian warehouses of the Docks sit side by side. Gloucester Quays brings outlet shopping, waterside dining and a Victorian-style Christmas market, while Kingsholm roars on Gloucester Rugby match days and the Guildhall hosts gigs, comedy and cinema.
Jump straight into what you fancy
Gloucester · within 15 km
Ahoy, mateys! All through October half term, young buccaneers can follow a pirate boat trail around the National Waterways Museum hunting for the secret code word. Crack it and prove you're a true pirate, then explore the historic boats moored on the dockside. A perfect, easy-going half-term outing at Gloucester Docks.
On Halloween itself, quirky larger-than-life Pumpkin Head characters roam Gloucester Quays, ready to say hello and pose for spooky selfies. It's free, family-friendly fun to slot into a day of shopping and eating by the historic docks. Little ones in costume will be in their element.
Every Saturday morning, Gloucester Civic Trust's knowledgeable guides lead a walking tour of the historic city, from Roman Glevum to medieval lanes and the Docks. Tours set off from St Mary de Crypt's tearooms at 11am and last about 90 minutes. A brilliant introduction to the city for visitors and locals alike.
Bring your little monsters, glow sticks and best costumes as Gloucester Guildhall turns into a haunted house of dance. Expect swirling bubbles, eerie snow machines, bouncing balloons and a spellbinding parachute dance finale. A proper rave for parents with kids in tow, and loved by both.
Gloucester's biggest and best bonfire night returns to Gordon League RFC in Hempsted, run by Chase Lane Firework Displays & Events. The evening kicks off at 5.30pm with an epic laser light show, followed by a six-minute low-noise display at 6.15pm — perfect for younger guests — before the main musical firework...
Big games on TV at local pubs
