Greystones Nature Reserve

Greystones, located close to Bourton-on-the-Water, is a unique place for people and wildlife, with a history stretching back 6,000 years.

The nature reserve here is open to the public all year round, and features rare trees, ancient hedgerows, the River Eye, and a lake teaming with wildlife. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its wildflower meadows.

People have met, lived and farmed at Greystones continuously for thousands of years, and the site has fascinated archaeologists for centuries. It is the location of one of Europe’s earliest known towns and has been officially recognised for its important historic remains. Today, visitors are invited to explore Greystones and to find out about its role in shaping this part of the Cotswolds.

Come and learn more about the reserve in our interactive discovery barn; dress up in iron-age clothing, view archaeological finds, or have a go at our multi-level wildlife quiz.

Meet friends or family and relax with lunch, afternoon tea or a cuppa and slice of cake in our courtyard café.

Pick up a map and follow one of the many waymarked trails around the reserve; go dipping in the river, have fun on the play trail, watch cows being milked by the Freedom Milker, go back in time with a visit to our replica iron-age roundhouse.

Learn more at one of the many events or courses run at Greystones, for both children and adults. Greystones is also at the heart of our new education sessions for primary school children.