One of Stroud’s most beloved family events is back.
The Amberley Cow Hunt 2026 will take place on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd May, inviting families, friends, and visitors from across the South West to explore Amberley village and Minchinhampton Common on a unique, cow-themed trail-all in support of Amberley Parochial School and local charities.
Now in its 16th year, the Amberley Cow Hunt is a light-hearted outdoor event that combines creativity, community spirit, and an impressive amount of cake—more than 4,000 slices, cupcakes, tarts, drizzles, and meringues baked by Amberley families. Dozens of life-sized wooden cows, each one imaginatively decorated by Amberley Parochial School pupils and their families, will be displayed around the village and across the National Trust’s Minchinhampton Common for participants to discover, admire, and choose their favourites.
At the heart of the event is the much-loved Cake Tent, serving a wide range of homemade cakes alongside fresh coffee and tea—perfect for a mid-hunt pause with a view of the surrounding countryside.
“The Cow Hunt has grown to become a highlight of the local calendar,” said Will Howick, Amberley School Governor and one of the event organisers. “It brings everyone together to raise money for the village school and local charities through ticket sales, sponsorships, and of course our legendary cakes. This year promises to be our biggest, most colourful, and most delicious hunt yet.”
The event runs from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm on both Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd May and is suitable for pushchairs, toddlers, dogs, and anyone who enjoys a country walk, whatever the weather.
Tickets are £2.00 per person and will be available on the gate at Amberley Parochial School, Amberley, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 5JG.
- Event: Amberley Cow Hunt 2026
- Dates: Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd May 2026
- Time: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm each day
- Venue: Amberley Parochial School, Amberley, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 5JG
- Trail location: Amberley village and Minchinhampton Common
- Tickets: £2 per person, on the gate
