The Cotswold Lakes
If you are looking for a truly unique holiday destination then look no further than the Cotswold Lakes (formerly known as the Cotswold Water Park) arguably one of the best kept secrets of the Cotswolds. Offering a more relaxed, less crowded holiday destination, in self catering cottages and lodges, than some of the hugely popular towns and villages associated with a typical holiday in the Cotswolds.
A wetland landscape with over 180 lakes, spread across 42 square miles and encompassing 14 different Cotswold villages, it is home to tens of thousands of breeding water birds and other wildlife. In addition to enjoying the stunning landscape, visitors can enjoy a wide range of leisure activities, water-sports, fishing, walking and cycling on the miles of country trails, or using it as a base from which to visit the wider Cotswolds.
The Cotswold Water Park is managed by The Cotswolds Lakes Trust, a charity dedicated to the conservation and enhancement of the area through enhancing biodiversity, providing recreational facilities for the local community and visitors, as well as the provision of educational resources. Orion Holidays is proud to support the charity by being a Habitat Hero.
Close to the lovely old market town of Cirencester, just north of Swindon, and only 90 miles from London the Cotswold Water Park is easily accessible by road and train. There is a great choice of places to stay right on the water, with a number of the lakes offering excellent self-catering lakeside holiday cottages and lodges plus additional on site facilities including, heated swimming pools, all weather tennis courts, access to spa facilities, children’s playgrounds, restaurants and cafes as well as some excellent fishing (lake dependant).
The starting point to anyone visiting the area, or wanting to find out more, is usually the Gateway Information Centre, Spine Road, South Cerney Gloucestershire GL7 5TL and next door to our own Orion HQ and open 7 days a week from 9am – 5pm with plenty of free parking available onsite.
Holidays in The Cotswold Lakes
There are nearly 200 lakes within the Cotswold Lakes each offering a wide range of leisure activities, water-sports, fishing and nature reserves containing an abundance of wildlife.
Many of the lakes offer self-catering lakeside holiday cottages and lodges that take advantage of the fantastic lake views and provide direct access to the water. Some also benefit from additional on-site facilities such as a heated swimming pool, tennis courts, childrens’ play areas and Spa access as well as miles of walking and cycling trails to enjoy the area.
With so much choice on offer it is easy to find the right Cotswold holiday destination and property to meet your needs – whether that’s an action packed family holiday or a quiet, romantic short break.
Things to do in the area
The 42 square miles that make up the Cotswold Lakes encompass over 180 freshwater lakes and 14 Cotswold villages, providing a wide range of leisure activities, nature & wildlife plus the odd quaint country pub! There really is something for everyone in this stunning part of the Cotswolds!
The wide choice of self-catering holiday accommodation located on many of the lakes provides the perfect base from which to take advantage of all that there is on offer as well as explore the wider Cotswolds.
Frequently Asked Questions
As a natural landscape covering 42 square miles the majority of the water park is free to visit other than the Cotswold Country Park and Beach.
Car parks run by Cotswold Lakes Trust operate a parking charge, however parking is free for Cotswold Lakes Trust members.
Yes there are lots of walks around and from the Cotswold Water Park and with varying distances they are suitable for everyone.
Check out our blog post for more information on our favourite walks.
There is a paddling and bathing beach at Cotswold Country Park and Beach and wild swimming is possible at Lake 32 Outdoor Centre and Lake 86.
Check websites for seasonal opening times.
The Gateway Centre next to the Orion HQ is a good first stop when visiting the area. The centre is open 7 days a week from 9am – 5pm with lots of free parking.
Find out more here.
Download our Brochure
Looking for a different kind of holiday this year? Our online brochure is full of information about what the Cotswold Lakes have to offer!
