Paddling at Bourton-on-the-Water is one of our favourite things to do when the sun comes out in the Cotswolds. The water is always absolutely freezing cold but very refreshing and fun too. With or without kids, on any visit to the Cotswolds, paddling here has got to be high on your list of fun things to do:

Bourton-on-the-Water is so pretty. It’s described as the Venice of the Cotswolds and is often voted one of the prettiest villages in England. It’s easy to see why:

If you are staying a while there is lots to do including a visit to Birdland, the Dragonfly Maze and the Model Village. We visited Birdland last summer and thought it was brilliant. A really good day out for the whole family. I’m sure we will be visiting again this year:

Sometimes we want a big day out but on other days like last week, we don’t want to spend a fortune. That’s okay though, just a little wander around this gorgeous village and a paddle in the stream makes it an exciting day out. Often we pack up a picnic, take towels, changes of clothes and perhaps some money for ice creams:

It’s often these days that are the best. Enjoying the simple pleasures in life like a picnic, pretending to fish with a stick, playing with ducks as well as your sisters and of course getting wet :

I remember paddling in streams when I was little and I think the girls will look back and remember these days fondly too. I do hope so anyway:

Karen x