Crickley Hill Country Park: A Scenic Haven of Wildlife and History
Discover breathtaking views, rich wildlife, and ancient history at Crickley Hill Country Park, a serene natural escape in Gloucestershire.
Crickley Hill Country Park, located near Birdlip in Gloucestershire, is a 32-hectare nature reserve and historic site offering panoramic views over the Severn Vale and Cotswolds. Renowned for its rich biodiversity and archaeological significance, the park features ancient woodlands, limestone grasslands, and an Iron Age hillfort. Visitors can enjoy accessible walking trails, a welcoming café, picnic spots, and a visitor centre with educational exhibits, making it ideal for families, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Crickley Hill Country Park
- Crickley Hill, Gloucester, Birdlip, GL4 8JY, GB
- +441452383333
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 6 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-9 pm
- Thursday 6 am-9 pm
- Friday 6 am-9 pm
- Saturday 6 am-9 pm
- Sunday 6 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and quieter trails.
- Pay attention to the parking payment system to avoid fines; online payment options are available.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes as some trails include uneven and hilly terrain.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera for stunning panoramic shots.
- Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads in grazing areas to protect wildlife and cattle.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Travelers can reach Crickley Hill Country Park via car by taking the A417 road towards Birdlip. Parking is available on-site with a pay-and-display system charging around £2 for all-day parking. The drive from Gloucester or Cheltenham typically takes 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Note that the park gates lock at dusk, so plan your visit accordingly.
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Public Transport
From Gloucester railway station, take the number 10 bus towards Cheltenham and alight at the Birdlip stop. The park entrance is a short walk from the bus stop. Bus services run regularly during weekdays but may be less frequent on weekends. Check current schedules and fares before traveling.
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Walking
Accessible walking paths are available within the park, including a 900-meter family-friendly trail suitable for wheelchairs and buggies. The terrain includes tarmac, crushed stone, and short grass, with gentle slopes. Walking from Birdlip village to the park entrance involves moderate uphill terrain and may take around 20 to 30 minutes.
Crickley Hill Country Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Crickley Hill Country Park
Panoramic Landscapes and Natural Beauty
Crickley Hill Country Park is perched atop the Cotswold escarpment, providing sweeping vistas across the Severn Vale and, on clear days, as far as the Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains in Wales. The park's 32 hectares encompass diverse habitats including limestone grasslands, semi-natural beech woodland, and scrub, which support a remarkable variety of flora and fauna. This biodiversity has earned Crickley Hill designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Visitors can explore well-marked trails that range from gentle slopes to more undulating terrain, suitable for various fitness levels and including accessible paths for wheelchairs and buggies.Rich Wildlife and Conservation Efforts
The park is a sanctuary for over 1,300 recorded species, including rare birds such as kestrels, buzzards, and skylarks, as well as butterflies, moths, reptiles, and a wide array of wildflowers and fungi. Conservation grazing by Belted Galloway cattle helps maintain the grassland habitats, promoting ecological balance. Seasonal wildlife hubs and educational programs enhance visitor engagement with the natural environment, fostering awareness and appreciation of local ecosystems. Due to the sensitive nature of the reserve, activities such as fires or barbecues are prohibited to protect its delicate habitats.Historical Significance and Archaeological Heritage
Crickley Hill is not only a natural treasure but also a site of profound historical interest. It is home to an Iron Age hillfort, one of the earliest known battle sites in England, revealing layers of human occupation and strategic importance through the centuries. Interpretive trails and information boards at the visitor centre provide insights into the site's archaeological past, allowing visitors to connect with the ancient landscape and its stories.Visitor Facilities and Amenities
The park is well-equipped to ensure a comfortable and informative visit. The visitor centre offers exhibitions and detailed information about the park's natural and historical features. A café serves hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals year-round, with indoor and outdoor seating areas that overlook the scenic surroundings. Clean restroom facilities, including disabled access toilets, are available. Designated picnic areas with tables and benches are scattered throughout the park, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the tranquil environment. Parking is available on-site with a pay-and-display system, and disabled parking spaces are located near the visitor centre.Activities and Visitor Experience
Crickley Hill Country Park caters to a wide range of visitors, from families and casual walkers to avid hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. The accessible walking trails make it suitable for all ages and abilities, including those using wheelchairs or buggies. Birdwatching, photography—especially at sunrise and sunset—and nature study are popular pursuits here. The park also hosts seasonal guided walks, historical tours, and educational events that enrich the visitor experience. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads in grazing areas to protect livestock and wildlife.Practical Information and Best Visiting Times
Open daily from 6am to 9pm during spring and summer months, and until 6pm in autumn and winter, Crickley Hill offers year-round access, weather permitting. Visitors should be mindful of the parking payment system to avoid fines, with charges typically around £2 for all-day parking. The café hours vary seasonally, generally closing earlier in winter. The hill can be breezy and cooler than surrounding lowlands, so dressing appropriately is advisable. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for photography and a quieter atmosphere for wildlife observation. Crickley Hill Country Park blends breathtaking natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and deep historical roots, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust
3.5 km
Explore the rich ecclesiastical heritage of Gloucestershire through its historic churches, showcasing stunning architecture and engaging community initiatives.
Visit Cotswolds Online
3.5 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds, where rolling hills, historic villages, and breathtaking landscapes await every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Eastgate viewing chamber
10.0 km
Discover Gloucester’s ancient Roman and medieval city defenses through a unique underground viewing chamber beneath Eastgate Street.
World Walks (inc. Cotswold Journeys, British & Irish Walks)
10.4 km
Explore the captivating beauty of the Cotswolds with World Walks, your gateway to unforgettable guided walking tours across Britain and Ireland.
Cotswold Journeys
10.5 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds on expertly crafted walking tours with seamless logistics and charming local stays.
National Trust - Chedworth Roman Villa
12.5 km
Explore the remarkable Chedworth Roman Villa, a historic site showcasing the grandeur of Roman architecture and lifestyle in stunning Cotswold scenery.
Belas Knap Long Barrow
12.7 km
A 5,000-year-old Neolithic mystery carved in stone, where ancient rituals and timeless Cotswolds views converge.
Haresfield Topograph
13.1 km
A three-dimensional map landmark on the Cotswold escarpment with panoramic views toward Wales.
Siccaridge Wood
13.1 km
Explore Siccaridge Wood: A serene nature reserve near Cirencester, offering beautiful trails and diverse wildlife for nature lovers.
Sim's Clock
13.9 km
Historic Sim's Clock stands as a timeless symbol in Stroud’s vibrant George Street, blending heritage with community spirit.
National Trust - Ashleworth Tithe Barn
14.3 km
Explore the historic Ashleworth Tithe Barn, a beautifully preserved medieval structure showcasing England's agricultural heritage amidst stunning countryside.
Odda's Chapel
14.8 km
Explore the historic Odda's Chapel in Deerhurst, a stunning example of Anglo-Saxon architecture and a serene retreat into England's past.
Sudeley Castle
15.0 km
Explore Sudeley Castle, a historical landmark in the Cotswolds, rich in royal history, stunning gardens, and family-friendly activities.
Sudeley Castle Gardens
15.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Sudeley Castle Gardens, a must-visit gem in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Walk The Cotswolds
15.3 km
Explore the Cotswolds' breathtaking landscapes and charming villages with Walk The Cotswolds, your gateway to England's picturesque countryside adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Barber wood
1.4 km
Discover peaceful woodland and limestone grassland trails in Barber Wood, a natural gem nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Cotswold Way
2.0 km
A 102-mile National Trail through quintessential English countryside, connecting picturesque Cotswold villages from Chipping Campden to Bath.
Leckhampton Hill
2.4 km
Limestone cliffs, wild orchids, and panoramic vistas above Cheltenham's cherished skyline.
Devil's Chimney
2.5 km
Discover the twisted limestone pillar of Devil's Chimney, a legendary landmark blending nature, history, and folklore atop Leckhampton Hill.
Cotswold Alpacas
3.5 km
Experience the charm of the Cotswolds with gentle alpaca walks, sustainable farming, and artisan fibre crafts at Cotswold Alpacas.
Great Witcombe Roman Villa
3.9 km
Explore the tranquil ruins of Great Witcombe Roman Villa, where Roman luxury and countryside beauty meet in Gloucestershire’s historic landscape.
Chosen Hill
5.6 km
Tranquil hilltop views and historic charm converge at Chosen Hill, a peaceful escape near Gloucester.
Montpellier Gardens
5.6 km
A serene Regency-era garden oasis in Cheltenham, blending historic charm with vibrant community life and lush greenery.
Montpellier Walk
5.6 km
Elegant Regency promenade in Cheltenham with historic architecture, boutique shops, and a lively café culture at its heart.
Imperial Gardens
5.8 km
A historic and vibrant formal garden in Cheltenham’s heart, hosting stunning floral displays and lively festivals year-round.
Gustav Holst Statue & Planets Fountain
5.8 km
A captivating bronze tribute in Cheltenham’s Imperial Gardens celebrating Gustav Holst and his iconic orchestral suite The Planets.
Cheltenham Town Hall
5.8 km
A stunning Edwardian Baroque venue in Cheltenham’s Imperial Square, hosting vibrant concerts, festivals, and events in a grand historic setting.
Prinknash Abbey Park
5.9 km
Discover serene monastic heritage and vibrant wildlife in the tranquil gardens and parklands of Prinknash Abbey Park near Gloucester.
The Neptune Fountain
6.0 km
A majestic 19th-century fountain on Cheltenham’s Promenade, celebrating Neptune with classical grandeur and Regency elegance.
Old Ebworth Centre
6.0 km
Explore peaceful Cotswold woodlands and limestone grasslands from the historic Old Ebworth Centre, a serene gateway to nature and heritage.
Essential places to dine
Le Champignon Sauvage
5.2 km
A serene Michelin-starred haven in Cheltenham offering inventive Anglo-French cuisine with exceptional service and a celebrated wine list.
The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie Cheltenham
5.5 km
Elegant dining in Cheltenham’s historic Montpellier Rotunda, blending modern British cuisine with iconic Ivy style and grand architectural charm.
Prithvi
6.0 km
Experience innovative Indian fine dining in Cheltenham with exquisite flavors, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service at Prithvi.
Petit Coco Bistro
6.1 km
Charming French bistro in Cheltenham offering authentic classics, cozy farmhouse decor, and a warm, intimate dining experience.
Purslane Restaurant
6.1 km
Discover Purslane, Cheltenham’s intimate modern British restaurant celebrating sustainable seafood and seasonal local produce with inventive flair.
Lumiere
6.2 km
Michelin-starred Lumière in Cheltenham offers innovative British fine dining with seasonal, home-grown ingredients in an elegant, intimate setting.
MUSE Brasserie
6.2 km
Creative fusion of French and Indian cuisine in stylish Cheltenham setting, offering innovative dishes and warm, attentive service.
Cosy Club
6.4 km
Eclectic British dining and lively social vibes await you daily in Cheltenham’s vibrant Brewery Quarter.
The Coconut Tree Cheltenham
6.9 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and island cocktails in a cozy, lively Cheltenham venue with authentic flavours and warm hospitality.
Wheatstone Inn
7.1 km
A traditional British pub in Barnwood, Gloucester, serving classic pub fare and local ales in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Nepalese Chef
9.7 km
Experience authentic Nepalese and Asian fusion cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu in the heart of Gloucester.
Sebz
10.0 km
Authentic Mediterranean tapas and vibrant wine bar in Gloucester’s historic Northgate Street, blending fresh flavors with a lively atmosphere.
The March Hare
10.1 km
A cozy tearoom in Gloucester’s historic Oxbode offering fresh local fare and friendly service from morning to afternoon.
Tiger's Eye Restaurant
10.2 km
Historic Gloucester’s Tiger's Eye offers interactive Pan-Asian fusion dining with hot rock grilling and a vibrant cocktail bar atmosphere.
Queens Head Longford
10.3 km
A cherished gastropub in Gloucester offering hearty traditional roasts, friendly service, and a cozy countryside pub atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Emporium
4.9 km
Discover unique gifts and a warm welcome at Emporium, Cheltenham’s charming family-run gift shop on Bath Road.
Great British Boutique
5.2 km
Discover unique gifts and quirky homeware in Cheltenham’s welcoming Great British Boutique, where friendly service meets charming finds.
Cotswold Creates
5.2 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and handcrafted treasures that capture the heart of the Cotswolds in Gloucester’s welcoming Cotswold Creates.
Willow Hilson Vintage
5.4 km
Authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to 1960s in a charming Cheltenham boutique with artistic flair and photography studio.
Vinegar Hill
5.9 km
Discover Cheltenham’s family-run boutique blending stylish homewares, fashion, and unique gifts in a warm, inviting setting since 1997.
King's Walk
10.0 km
Gloucester’s central shopping destination featuring popular high street brands and convenient dining in a lively city centre setting.
Pilgrims Gloucester
10.3 km
Discover unique gifts and a cosy, atmospheric shopping experience in the heart of historic Gloucester.
L&S Lifestyle
10.4 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds in a cozy boutique setting at L&S Lifestyle, Gloucester’s charming gift shop on College Street.
Gloucester Quays
10.5 km
Discover designer bargains and festive charm at Gloucester Quays, a lively waterfront outlet set within historic docks.
Gift Company
10.5 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homeware at The Gift Company, nestled in the vibrant Gloucester Quays outlet by the historic docks.
Chez Rose
10.6 km
Discover unique gifts and shabby chic treasures in a warm, welcoming boutique nestled in Gloucester’s historic Westgate Street.
Upstairs Downstairs
10.7 km
Discover Gloucester’s charming antique shop with unique collectibles and a cozy tearoom serving homemade treats.
Westgate Retail Park
10.8 km
Convenient shopping with free parking and a variety of homeware stores in the heart of Gloucester’s Westgate Street.
The Malthouse Collective
13.3 km
Explore a unique collection of antiques and vintage treasures at The Malthouse Collective in Stroud, perfect for home decor enthusiasts and collectors.
Adana Collective Antiques
13.3 km
Discover timeless treasures and beautiful antiques at Adana Collective, a curated gem in Stroud’s vibrant Salmon Springs Trading Estate.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Experimental Cocktail Club Cotswolds
3.7 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant DJ nights in the heart of the Cotswolds at Cowley Manor’s stylish Experimental Cocktail Club.
The Green Dragon Inn Pub & Shop
4.3 km
A historic 17th-century Cotswold inn blending rustic charm, fine dining, and countryside comfort in tranquil Cockleford near Cheltenham.
The Retreat
5.4 km
A charming Cheltenham wine bar blending historic ambiance with locally sourced cuisine and a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
Copa of Cheltenham
6.2 km
Lively pub and restaurant on Regent Street offering great drinks, tasty pub food, and a welcoming atmosphere with live sports and a beer garden.
The Cotswold Inn, Cheltenham.
6.5 km
A lively Cheltenham pub blending traditional charm with vibrant live music and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The House in The Tree
8.0 km
A charming and historic English pub in Cheltenham, serving hearty homemade meals in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with rustic character.
The Royal Oak, Prestbury
8.4 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Prestbury offering traditional Cotswold charm, seasonal British fare, award-winning ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Three Oaks Inn
8.7 km
A welcoming gastropub in Gloucester’s Robinswood, blending traditional charm with modern comfort and community spirit.
England's Glory
9.5 km
A traditional Gloucester pub offering hearty food, the best Guinness, lively events, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
One Eyed Jacks
9.5 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Gloucester blending classic charm with lively entertainment and friendly atmosphere.
Devoted Deluxe - Mobile Bar Hire
9.6 km
Elegant mobile bar hire in Gloucester delivering bespoke cocktails and personalized service for every special occasion.
The Turks Head Inn
10.0 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Gloucester’s heart, famed for its excellent cask ales and friendly local atmosphere.
The Heritage
10.1 km
A welcoming Gloucester bar blending rugby spirit with cozy charm and a diverse drink selection for locals and fans alike.
The Abbey
10.1 km
A vibrant Gloucester bar famed for its bottomless brunch, friendly service, and lively social atmosphere in the city centre.
Elbien Soe Bar
10.2 km
Discover Gloucester’s vibrant grill and bar scene at Elbien Soe Bar, where flavorful dishes meet a lively, welcoming atmosphere 24/7.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Under the Prom
5.9 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
6.0 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Popworld - Cheltenham
6.0 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
Thirteen Degrees
6.0 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
6.0 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.
The 21 Club
6.1 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Coco
6.1 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
2 PIGS
6.3 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
ATIK Gloucester
9.7 km
Gloucester’s largest nightclub, ATIK pulses with vibrant music, student nights, and an energetic party atmosphere until the early hours.
Bar Fever Gloucester
9.9 km
Experience Gloucester’s vibrant nightlife at Bar Fever, a trendy nightclub with dynamic music, stylish interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Jax Nightclub Gloucester
10.0 km
Energetic nightclub in Gloucester offering diverse music, two dance floors, and a welcoming atmosphere for late-night fun.
Trio Nightclub
13.9 km
Experience Stroud’s vibrant nightlife at Trio Nightclub, where music, dancing, and energetic vibes light up weekend nights.
ReVA Nightclub
17.1 km
Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Capones
25.2 km
Historic nightclub in Dursley with legendary ties to Al Capone, offering vibrant weekend nightlife and pulsating music.
Venue Five-0 Night Club
36.4 km
Energetic weekend nights and diverse music await at Venue Five-0 Night Club, Royal Wootton Bassett’s lively nightlife hotspot.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
