Your Guide to
Cotswold Water Park
“A haven for wildlife and watersports”
Cotswold Water Park is a unique location, nestled amongst the wonderful Cotswold countryside. With over 180 lakes and miles upon miles of footpaths and bridleways to explore, this diverse area has so much to offer.
With an amazing range of land and lake-based activities, picturesque villages, spas and a choice of country pubs and restaurants, you will find something you love here. Watersports are the main attraction with so many for you to try you’ll never have a boring day, there’s even an inland beach with an inflatable obstacle course for you to try!
If you prefer something a little slower paced, walk the footpaths or hire bikes. Stop off for a meal along the way and treat yourselves to a spa visit for a massage to ease any aches at the end of the day.
We hope you enjoy your stay in this much-loved part of the Cotswolds. To help you plan your days we’ve put together a collection of our favourite experiences, so you can make the most of the Cotswold Water Park
Lake 32 Outdoor Centre
Whether you are looking to launch your own craft or have an induction session to learn a new sport, Lake 32 Outdoor Centre has plenty of options. 2-day courses teach you how to drive a power or sailboat, book an hour session to learn paddling techniques on a board, kayak or canoe or have an induction session to wild swimming. Pay as you go sessions are available for swimming or launching your own SUP, kayak or canoe.
4 Lakes Waterski School
There is something for everybody at 4 Lakes Waterski School from wake surfing and kayaking to inflatable rides and family paddle boarding. No matter your experience you can get to grips with a new skill here. If you’re a more serious water skier there is a tournament standard slalom and jump course with coaching available.
Cotswold Water Park Hire
Alongside equipment hire with a choice of paddle boards, kayaks or rafts, Cotswold Water Park Hire also run experience days. These are taster sessions introducing children to a variety of watersports and corporate days are also available. Spending time together learning a new skill is a fantastic way to bond a team.
The Real Outdoor Xperience
It isn’t all about watersports at The Real Outdoor Xperience, there’s plenty to do with your feet on dry land, or up in the air! All of the usual watersports are available, but you can also follow an obstacle course 40 feet in the air, try your hand at archery or climb the 13-metre-high tower. You can also learn bushcraft skills including fire building and outdoor cooking with an expert guide.
Bowmoor Sailing Club
Based on an 80-acre lake just outside Fairford outside the main Cotswold Water Park, Bowmoor Sailing Club caters to all types of watersports and swimming but has a focus on sailing. For beginners, you can learn to sail here, or if you’d like to join a race there are opportunities throughout the year to test your skills.
Lakeside Ski & Wake
Wakeboarding, waterskiing and inflatable rides are the main offerings at Lakeside Ski & Wake. You don’t need to have any prior experience before visiting as their beginner lessons will get you up to speed in no time. Everything is included from equipment to wetsuits. After your session, visit the Lakeside Brasserie for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
South Cerney Angling Club and The Tackle Den
Pop by The Tackle Den to pick up a day license for access to a range of lakes across the Cotswold Water Park and sections of the River Thames. There are well-stocked day ticket lakes where you can fish for carp and bream.
The Cotswold Range
The Cotswold Range is a centre dedicated to archery and air rifles. Groups of three or more receive exclusive lessons so you can get the best out of your experience. Whether you choose archery or shooting, you will receive in-depth tutoring matching your experience before competing in games against your group.
Old Downs Pursuits
Test your aim with air rifle shooting, archery, or clay target shooting. Taking place outdoors (but with rain cover if needed!) you can shoot arrows in the woods, follow the guidance of a qualified instructor as you hit clay targets or aim for targets with a state-of-the-art air rifle. Book more than one activity for a fun filled day.
Cotswold Driving Experiences
Add some speed to your Cotswold Lakes stay by booking a heart-racing day in a 4 x 4 or rally car. Taking control in the driver’s seat you can experience an off-road track in a modified Land Rover Discovery, driving down vertical drops amongst the trees. During a rally experience you power slide around gravel courses, pushing the car to its limits.
Rein and Shine
Explore the Cotswold Water Park on horseback, taking advantage of the livery options available at Rein and Shine. There are a host of bridleways that can be easily followed, or just use the facilities here with riding arenas, jumps, a cross-country course and more. If you’ve never ridden but want to give it a go, lessons can also be booked.
Birdwatching
This area is an excellent spot for twitchers as the wetlands provide a fantastic habitat for migrating birds. Winter is a popular time with waterbirds and gulls, spring brings Nightingales, summer is filled with breeding waders and in autumn you can see a wide variety of birds migrating through.
Cotswold Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes
Nestled amongst 10 acres of forested land, Cotswold Sculpture Park is full of intriguing and eye-catching contemporary sculptures. Work by more than 70 artists is on display covering a wide range of tastes and styles. Spend some time wandering the grounds and stop off for a hot drink at the tearoom.
Barn Theatre, Cirencester
A former Nissen hut used to protect local residents from air raids during World War Two, today it is an award-winning theatre. An important part of the local community, it is an established charity supporting new actors and showing fantastic productions in its state-of-the-art auditorium. Enjoy a pre-show meal at the Teatro restaurant next door!
Jubilee Galleries, Cirencester
With three showrooms displaying over 120 pieces of art, Jubilee Galleries focuses on 20th century art and only shows one-of-a-kind works. The pieces move quickly so each time you visit there are sure to be new items on display.
Corinium Museum, Cirencester
Discover the history of Roman Cirencester, once known as Corinium, which was an important town. Many significant artefacts are on display here, telling the story of the people and the growth of this area. After visiting the museum, stop off at the amphitheater which today is an impressive display of grassed banks.
New Brewery Arts Centre, Cirencester
A hub of creativity, the New Brewery Arts Centre is a place to be inspired, create, and shop. Exhibitions change regularly, you have the opportunity to meet the makers and you can even take part yourself with regular classes in a mix of skills from pottery to painting.
Bathurst Estate Cirencester Park
These historic parklands offer a choice of walking routes, including several marked dog friendly paths with off-lead areas. The Old Kennels has options for dining, a play area and a micro-brewery. On selected days, tickets are available for a tour of the mansion and keep an eye out for special events.
Cirencester Markets
Cirencester is home to a number of independent retailers, boutique stores, and hosts regular markets. Monthly arts and crafts markets, a weekly charters market and a twice-monthly farmers market make it easy for you to get a taste of the Cotswolds.
The Old Boathouse, South Cerney
Perfect for: lunch, dinner, Sunday lunch, lakeside drinks
Set within the Cotswold Water Park, the Old Boathouse offers lakeside dining on the terrace with fantastic views. Enjoy a meal of locally sourced ingredients with your family in a relaxed setting.
The Lakeside Brasserie, South Cerney
Perfect for: breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks
With a south-facing lakeside terrace, this is a fabulous spot to fuel up before a day of watersports, or relax, drink in hand, after some exhilarating time on the water. Live sports are shown here, and equipment hire is available from Lakeside Wake and Ski.
The Crown Inn, Cerney Wick
Perfect for: Indian dishes, small plates
From the outside this is a quintessential British pub, but the surprising menu is filled with Indian cuisine. From small plates to larger curry dishes and burgers, you can choose something traditional or try something new. Takeaways are also available.
Pettifers Freehouse Hotel, Crudwell
Perfect for: dinner, afternoon tea
With an atmospheric dining room and cosy snug, Pettifers also has a lovely garden and outdoor dining area. Visit for an evening meal together or a lavish afternoon tea with a glass of prosecco.
Cotswold Lakes Brew Co., Somerford Keynes
Perfect for: local beers
Head down for a relaxed pint of local beer. Events take place year-round from jazz nights to pop-up food stalls and comedy clubs.
Masons Arms, Meysey Hampton
Perfect for: breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday roast
Found in the quiet village of Meysey Hampton, the welcoming Mason Arms has a focus on delivering great food. Serving meals throughout the day, stop off for a bite to eat or a quick drink as you follow a passing walking
trail.
Waterside Kitchen and Bar, South Cerney
Perfect for: Japanese cuisine
This gorgeous restaurant serves Asian tapas in a glorious lakeside location. Dine beside the water, in a private pod or at the restaurant choosing from sushi, curries and tempting small dishes.
Jennie’s Kitchen, Ashton Keynes
Perfect for: lunch, dinner, takeaway
The perfect place to stop on a bike ride around the water park, Jennie’s Kitchen has cycle racks and is very muddy boot friendly. This charming café has neighbouring alpacas and a charming garden.
The Dragonfly Café and Nature Centre, Oaksey
Perfect for: breakfast, lunch
Set within the Lower Moore Nature Reserve, the dragonfly café serves a selection of options for lunch alongside cakes and hot drinks. Alongside the café, events are held such as craft and outdoor activities for children and
their parents.
Ballihoo Restaurant and Clubhouse
Perfect for: breakfast, lunch, dinner, dog friendly
Set within the Lower Mill Estate the Ballihoo Clubhouse has a restaurant serving meals throughout the day, takeaway hot drinks, woodfired pizza shack and there’s even a menu for dogs!
The White Hart Inn, Ashton Keynes
Perfect for: lunch, dinner, drinks
Sitting along the Thames Path in the village of Ashton Keynes within the water park, this is an ideal stop off on a walk or bike ride around the area. There is space to sit outside and a menu of classic pub grub.
The Dining Room at Whatley Manor, Malmesbury
Perfect for: fine dining
A dining experience of innovative dishes with optional accompanying wine flights. This is a fantastic way to try a variety of Michelin starred flavours.
The Red Lion, Cricklade
Perfect for: lunch, dinner, pizza, drinks
Award-winning restaurant dating back to the early 1600s. Full of original features with a woodburning stove and open stone walls, this is a wonderfully atmospheric spot for a meal or evening drinks.
The Potting Shed, Crudwell
Perfect for: lunch, dinner, Sunday lunch
Charming historic pub with a changing menu using the best seasonal produce. Choose from traditional meals or something with a bit of a twist.
The King’s Head, Cirencester
Perfect for: lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
Choose to dine in the elegant brasseries or refined restaurant for a wonderful meal or afternoon tea. Outside is a lovely courtyard and rooftop terrace for al fresco meals.
Cirencester
Cirencester has a rich Roman history which you can still see today. Find the marks of the old amphitheater and learn more about what life was like at the Corinium Museum. The centre is renowned for its regular markets and there is a range of boutiques and independent shops.
Fairford International Air Tattoo
With thousands of visitors, the air tattoo is a feast of flying displays made by over 25 nations. See the aircraft up close and feel the rush of this three-day event. Meet industry experts, enjoy the live music and chat to the pilots that are part of the displays.
Bibury
Home to one of the most photographed places in the Cotswolds, Arlington Row, Bibury is a hot spot for tourists. This charming village has a popular trout farm where you can fish or buy some of their produce for that night’s dinner. Full of honey-coloured Cotswold stone cottages and a lovely riverside pub this is a picture-perfect village.
Lechlade-on-Thames
Sitting on the edge of the River Thames, Lechlade is a small historic town with a thriving market square. The 15th century church sits beside the market square, a picturesque spot with historic buildings of Cotswold stone surrounding you. Wander across the Halfpenny Bridge to follow walking routes along the river and enjoy a waterside meal.
Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
Home to one of the UK’s largest zoological collections and diverse gardens, the park is home to more than 260 different species of animals, many of which are endangered in the wild, and sits in 160 acres of landscaped parklands and gardens.
WWT Slimbridge
The WWT Slimbridge Wetlands Centre is a 100-acre wetland paradise of wide-open spaces and accordingly the birdlife at Slimbridge changes from one month to the next. Explore the different zones including Asia, Australia, Flamingo Lagoon, Back from the Brink, and Tundra zone. Enjoy guided walks and talks, a Land Rover safari, and welly boot land – an outdoor wet playground for all the family!
Burford
The gorgeous high street is lined with a collection of historic buildings showcasing some wonderful architecture. This popular market town has a small museum where you can learn its story. Today there are many independent boutiques, art galleries and an array of tearooms and pubs. Known as the ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’, it is a popular location for a reason.
Cotswold Forest School, Ashton Keynes
Run wild in the woodlands at Cotswold Forest School and get hands on with nature. Children’s workshops are led by bushcraft instructors to discover the world around them and are almost guaranteed to eave covered in mud!
Baboon Adventures, Malmesbury
Explore historic Charlton Park on an electric scooter adventure. Follow the trails with your guide as you keep your eyes peeled for sights of deer, red kites and farm animals. Suitable for ages 5 and up, you can drive your own
scooter if you are over 12.
Cotswold Country Park and Beach, Shorncote
Spend a day on the water’s edge at this country park and beach. Paddle on the inland lagoon, laze on the beach and hire a BBQ so you can have a feast in the great outdoors. Kayaks, paddle boards and boats can be hired and
if you’re feeling especially energetic AquaVentures inflatable obstacle course is not to be missed.
Cycling
The Cotswold Water Park is criss-crossed with cycle paths, including a National Cycle Route which runs from Salisbury to Cirencester. There are six circular cycle routes covering the water park from 12km to 42km letting you choose a route suiting your abilities. Follow bridleways and sections of road as you discover this diverse area.
Nature Reserves
There are 8 nature reserve areas across the water park, each with a range of flora and fauna waiting to be spotted. From wildflower meadows to rivers and lakes, there are varying landscapes on offer. The Old Railway Line is a corridor of greenery where you are surrounded by birdlife, the Cleveland Lakes encompasses two of the largest lakes which during winter are home to many wildfowl.
Picnics
With so many nature reserves in the area, this is the perfect opportunity to grab your picnic basket, stop off at a farm shop and head out. Lay your blanket so you have a lakeview and while away a few hours in these blissful surroundings.
Combat Splat Paintball, Ashton Keynes
Combat Splat in the Cotswold Water Park is a fast and furious experience. Spend the day competing in various scenarios including games like capture the flag. Hide behind barriers, stalk your enemy, and fire paintballs to win the games!
Cirencester Lido
Normally open from May to September the pool is heated to an average of 27˚C (80˚F). Filled with natural spring water you can enjoy a pleasant dip in one of the oldest swimming pools in the country. Built in 1869 there is a main pool and a paddling pool for children.
Lower Mill Estate Spa
This award-winning spa is exclusively available to select guests staying on the Lower Mill Estate. Embrace the benefits of this spa in the outdoor eco pool, naturally filtered by water lilies. Spend time with a luxurious treatment and relax in the sauna and steam room.
Spa6 at DeVere, Cotswold Water Park
Set amongst the lakes of the Cotswold Water Park, Spa6 offers a selection of traditional treatments alongside some new experiences. Try dry floatation where you are suspended on a heated bed of water, feeling completely weightless, or a Rasul ritual. Book a standalone treatment or a longer experience.
Fritillary Spa, Cricklade
Hidden away in a beautiful countryside location, the Fritillary Spa is the place to indulge yourself in relaxation. Stunning views across the Marlborough Downs accompany your time here as you enjoy your favourite treatment or laze beside the pool. Alongside the pool is a fitness suite, steam room, sauna and spa lounge.
Aquarias Spa at Whatley Manor, Malmesbury
Take some time for yourself at Whatley Manor Spa. A thermal suite lets you choose your favourite way to rejuvenate or meditate in their tranquil relaxation room. With a hydrotherapy pool, heated stone recliners and salt scrub showers you might discover your new favourite method. Visit for a treatment and spend some time in the pool for a break away from life’s stresses.
Calcot Spa, Tetbury
With a lounge, sauna, steam room, indoor and outdoor pool and a menu of rejuvenating and relaxing treatments, Calcot Spa is a place to get back to yourself. Visit for half a day, an evening, or a full day, or just pop in for your favourite treatment. If you’re looking for a more invigorating experience, there is a choice of gyms, tennis court and you can hire a bike to follow a trail.
Thyme Meadow Spa, Southrop
The Meadow Spa is a calming spot hidden away in the tranquil countryside. A range of treatments are available at the cottage and in their botanical bothy, a haven of peace. Day sessions can also be booked where you can enjoy lunch and take a dip in the outdoor pool, tucked away in the walled garden.
Please Note: Information correct at time of publishing. Please check the destination/attraction direct website before visiting to confirm opening hours and visitor details.