Top 20 Lakes in Gloucestershire

The Cotswold Water Park is an excellent choice for families, offering an inland beach, an inflatable obstacle course at North Lake (AquaVenture), boat hire, mini-golf, and high ropes courses. Other family-friendly options include Cannop Ponds in the Forest of Dean, which has picnic areas and is great for walking and cycling, and Greystones Farm Nature Reserve, featuring waymarked trails and facilities.

For peaceful walks and wildlife observation, Miserden Park Lake offers a serene atmosphere amidst charming countryside. Woodchester Park Lakes, managed by the National Trust, are exceptional for observing local wildlife, including 124 bird species and ten different bat species. Newent Lake is also perfect for spotting various freshwater fish and birds like kingfishers and herons.

Yes, the Cotswold Water Park is a major hub for watersports, including fishing, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and water skiing. The Gravel Pitt Lake in Frampton on Severn also hosts a sailing club, making it a good spot to watch or participate in sailing activities.

Many lakes offer excellent walking and cycling opportunities. Mallards Pike Lake and Cannop Ponds in the Forest of Dean are popular for their natural settings and trails. Woodchester Park features miles of walking trails through enchanting woodlands. For more extensive routes, you can explore hiking trails or MTB trails in Gloucestershire, which include routes like the Family Cycle Trail near the Forest of Dean lakes.

Many lakes in Gloucestershire are suitable for dog walks, especially those with extensive trail networks. Mallards Pike Lake and Cannop Ponds in the Forest of Dean are popular choices, as are the numerous paths around the Cotswold Water Park. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near wildlife, and check for specific local regulations.

Yes, Greystones Farm Nature Reserve, which includes a lake, is historically significant as the location of one of Europe’s earliest known towns. Woodchester Park Lakes are nestled around the historic Woodchester Mansion. Newent Lake historically served as a fishing pond for medieval monks. Additionally, Wyck Rissington Village Green and Pond offers a glimpse into 17th and 18th-century village life.

You'll find amenities at several locations. Mallards Pike Lake has a café and picnic area. Cannop Ponds offers picnic tables and often an ice cream van. Greystones Farm Nature Reserve has a café and other facilities. The Cotswold Water Park area provides a range of country pubs and lakeside restaurants, along with accommodation options.

Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Cannop Ponds is considered one of the best coarse fishing lakes in the county. The Cotswold Water Park also offers various fishing opportunities. Always check for necessary permits and regulations before fishing.

The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for watersports and family outings, with warmer weather. Autumn offers stunning foliage, particularly around the Forest of Dean lakes and Woodchester Park. Winter provides a tranquil experience for birdwatching, especially at the Cotswold Water Park, which hosts thousands of waterbirds.

Swallow Lake near Longhope is an off-the-beaten-path option for those seeking a quiet walk and a more secluded experience. Miserden Park Lake also offers a serene atmosphere for relaxation away from crowds.

While many lakes are best accessed by car, some areas have limited public transport. For instance, the Cotswold Water Park has some bus routes serving nearby villages. For specific destinations like Mallards Pike Lake or Cannop Ponds, checking local bus services to the Forest of Dean area is recommended, though direct access might require a short walk or taxi from the nearest stop.

The Cotswold Water Park is nationally important for wetland wildlife and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), hosting thousands of waterbirds in winter. Woodchester Park Lakes are exceptional for birdwatching, with about 124 bird species recorded. Newent Lake is also home to a variety of birds, including kingfishers and herons.