Welcome to the Cotswold Lakes, the new name for the Cotswold Water Park
Discover The Cotswold Lakes
Discover the Cotswold Lakes! A stunning wetland landscape in the heart of Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, featuring over 180 lakes spread across 42 square miles. Recognised as a haven for wildlife, it offers a unique natural setting for a wide range of visitors to enjoy, from nature lovers and birdwatchers to sports enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Discover…
Where to stay…
Most of the accommodation in the Cotswold Lakes is situated close to clear water. Choose from charming wooden chalets, New England style lodges, family holiday park, hotel luxury or glamping, offering a range of facilities and all within a few miles of the activities, country parks and nature reserves.
Things to do…
The Cotswold Lakes offers something for everyone, from miles of off-road walking and cycling paths, peaceful lakeside walks and fantastic and varied birdwatching. Choose from a wide range of watersports or land activities for both beginners and experts or visit the inland beach for family bathing and paddling.
What’s on?
Keep a regular eye on the events calendar to find out what events are taking place in the Cotswold Lakes. Whether you are looking for a 10k run, a rural cinema, a dog swim, a nature walk or activity days for the children during the school holidays, there are various special events taking place through the year.
Discover the Cotswold Lakes…
Take time to enjoy the tranquillity of the stunning wetland landscape and watch the water birds feeding on the larger lakes. Try a new watersport, spend the day fishing or take part in a land activity. Discover the country pubs serving local beers and enjoy home cooked dishes at lakeside restaurants and cafés.
Plan your visit so you don’t miss a thing…
Make the most of your time in the Cotswold Lakes, there is so much to see and do. Whether it is your first visit or you are returning, planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience. Plan your travel, pre-book your activities and restaurants and take a look at the maps and guides available.
Origins, History & Wildlife…
Over the last hundred years, sand and gravel extraction has resulted in the creation of over 180 lakes across 42 square miles. Nationally important for wetland wildlife, the Cotswold Lakes now has thousands of waterbirds visiting each winter and is a place where everyone can enjoy this unique natural setting.
Cotswold Lakes latest news…
Goldfinches
At this time of year one of the commonest birds around garden feeding stations is the Goldfinch and, as finches…
Hoburne Cotswold selects Cotswold Lakes Trust as its 2025 Charity of the Year
Cotswold Lakes Trust is delighted to announce that Hoburne Cotswold has chosen the Trust as its Charity of the Year…
Winter Reedbed Management in the Cotswold Water Park
During the winter months the Cotswold Lakes Trust staff, and volunteers, undertake many tasks to enhance and improve the wildlife…
Cotswold Lakes Trust thanks Peter Andrew prior to his retirement from The Hills Group
At a surprise reception at the Cotswold Water Park Visitor Centre, the Cotswold Lakes Trust team thanked Peter Andrew for…
Cattle Egrets in the Cotswold Lakes
If you walk around the Cotswold Water Park, it is likely that you notice egrets feeding around lake margins and…