As our local areas of Gloucester and Cheltenham are plunged into another lockdown, along with the rest of the country, it can be difficult to find ways of keeping ourselves entertained whilst remaining vigilant, safe and following the rules. It’s easy to feel down in the dumps and experience boredom, and perhaps a little cabin fever, as our regular routines are paused and disrupted. We have decided to put together a list of uplifting activities you can do safely in Cheltenham and Gloucester during these unprecedented times.
Continue to support local businesses
Many independent restaurants and takeaways are still helping to feed our local area with a COVID safe delivery and/or take away service. Why not give yourself a night off from the cooking and treat the family to their favourite take away or try something completely new! The COVID-19 pandemic has been particularly hard on small businesses so ordering from your local restaurant or takeaway could help them more than you know. Check out the Cheltenham lockdown takeaway guide here.
Go for a walk
We’re extremely lucky in Cheltenham and Gloucester in that we are surrounded by a lot of natural beauty to explore. We’ve picked out a couple of our favourite winter walks that you can wrap up warm and enjoy with the whole family. It may be winter, but these beautiful walks are worth braving the cold for! It’s also a good idea to try and fit in some exercise and get some fresh air now that we are all spending so much more time in our homes. Exercise not only benefits our bodies physically but also helps us to release endorphins and boost our mood.
Crickley Hill
Crickley Hill is easily accessible and has a car park at the top. With spectacular views, diverse habitats, and a wealth of historical significance to explore, there is a lot to be found just a short drive from Cheltenham. With many different routes over the limestone quarries, and through the woodlands, there is something for everyone at Crickley Hill. There are both dog-friendly and child-friendly areas, which make it the perfect family visit. Stop to enjoy a warming drink from a flask whilst enjoying the breath-taking views and watching the resident cows!
The Sculpture Trail
The Sculpture Trail is the ideal way to burn off those Christmas calories with a unique collection of sculptures to find throughout the Forest of Dean. The Trail starts and ends at the rear of Beechenhurt picnic site west of Speech House in the heart of the Forest and is about 4.5 miles long.
Plan home improvements
We may be amidst winter and yet another lockdown, but don’t let that discourage you from planning those home improvement projects. With recent announcements from the government about further lockdown restrictions, there’s never been a better time to finally plan those home improvements you have been putting off – especially as we are all spending so much more time in our homes. Whether you’re thinking of replacement windows and/or doors, or perhaps you have ideas for a bigger project like a conservatory, Albany have a solution for you.
Albany are here to help
Albany Windows have been offering high-quality products and expert customer service to homeowners throughout Gloucestershire for 20 years. We are pleased to say we are continuing to trade with COVID precautions in place. View our COVID safety guidance via our website. You can contact us on 01242 511384 or via our online form for any queries and/or updates. Stay safe, happy and healthy and remember that we’re all in this together.
