5 reasons to visit the Cotswold Water Park for a short break in 2023
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We asked our Friends at Orion Holidays to tell us their 5 reasons for visiting the Cotswold Water Park for a short break in 2024:
If you are considering a short break or holiday in the UK and unsure where to go why not try the beautiful Cotswold Water Park. Set in an area of outstanding natural beauty across 42 square miles with 180 lakes that evolved from old gravel pits this picturesque location is the perfect spot to relax and unwind. There are many lakeside holiday homes in the Cotswolds that offer spa access, hot tubs and pet friendly cottages as well as a great choice of restaurants and traditional village pubs serving local ale with very good menus, so there's something for everyone. For the more adventurous, extensive leisure activities and outdoor pursuits are also available.
With many traditional Cotswold villages and old market towns on the doorstep there's plenty to see and do regardless of your hobbies, interests or pastimes and keep you, the family (and/or friends) happy!
Here are 5 good reasons to visit the Cotswold Water Park for a short break or holiday this year.
Credit: Orion Holidays
The Cotswold Water Park Lakes
Number one reason has to be the lakes themselves. With water all around there is a great choice of accommodation with lovely lakeside cottages and lodges with waterside balconies and patios offering stunning views of the lakes. Whether it's sitting with a novel or glass of something in hand looking out over the water or setting up a BBQ to have on a sunny evening on your decking, relaxation is guaranteed.
There's also an array of water sports available including windsurfing, water-skiing, wake boarding, canoeing and paddle boarding and of course, open water swimming. If boating is your thing there is local boat hire and some excellent sailing facilities available at various locations, such as Rox (previously South Cerney Outdoor) and the fantastic AquaVenture. Whether experienced or looking to learn, there is something for everyone.
If, however, you are looking for a more sedentary sport, the Cotswold Water Park is an absolute haven for those that like to fish and it is an ideal spot for both coarse and fly fishing. Day tickets and club membership facilities are available from local fisheries and tackle shops.
Credit: Orion Holidays
Walking in the Cotswold Water Park
There is no better way of exploring the amazing countryside in and around the Cotswold Water Park than on foot, and with a range of circular walks and interesting trails available you are bound to find something for everyone to enjoy.
The Cotswold Water Park Walks Guide includes details of 6 circular routes of varying lengths, and for some further insight into these and other walks in the area, why not pop in to our offices at the Gateway Centre. Our friendly team will be happy to give you a copy of the guide and share some of their own favourite walks.
Credit: Orion Holidays
Pet Friendly
The Cotswold Water Park has a selection of pet friendly accommodation catering for the many of us that wish to bring our four-legged friends on holidays. Why not check out those holiday cottages that are pet friendly. There are many footpaths and trails that are ideal for dog walking and lots of the restaurants and bars welcome your canine friend. Can you believe there's even a dog friendly swimming beach at the Cotswold Country Park and Beach!
Credit: Orion Holidays
Nature Abound
An abundance of wildlife awaits you at the various nature reserves dotted around the Cotswold Water Park. Whether you enjoy birdwatching, butterflies, bats or beetles there is plenty of flora and fauna to keep you entranced. With beautiful walks edging reedbeds and lakes there is plenty of opportunity to spot some of the amazing local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled as you may see something special such as otters, barn owls and water voles that all make their home here. Some of the best places for watching wildlife can be found on the CWP Bird Blog, which is kept up to date by volunteers and regular birdwatchers.
Credit: Orion Holidays
Cycling in the Cotswold Water Park
The Cotswold Water Park is a great place for a relaxing ride around the country lanes. Whilst it is very flat it should not deter the more ambitious cyclists who can use the park as a gateway with the National Cycle Route 45 going right through the park on its way from Salisbury to Cirencester.
If you don't have your own bikes with you on your break you can hire them from various local providers who will also provide maps with cycling trails and routes, both on road and off. They will have a wide array of bikes available to suit adults and children of all ability including electric bikes. In the busy seasons we'd suggest you book in advance to avoid any disappointment.
Need some more ideas on things to do or help with accommodation?
If you are still unsure of why you should visit the Cotswold Water Park, why not have a chat with one of the friendly Orion team. They are very happy to share some of their personal favourites and can help you with accommodation choices.
Alternatively, download their unique digital Guest Guide packed full of things to do, great eateries and places to visit plus some special offers that they have with local businesses. Follow the link to download the free Guest Guide and take a look for yourself.
Last updated: 01 January 2024 - Please note: This blog was first written over a year old and things may have changed since the blog was written.
