Coate's beautiful autumn colours.
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Coate Water Country Park

4.5
·4k reviews·Coate, United Kingdom

A beautiful country park with a large lake, wildlife, a free splash park, and a miniature railway, perfect for family fun and nature walks.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Splash park is open!

CrowdHigh
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Coate's beautiful autumn colours.

Coate Water Country Park

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Splash park is open!

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautiful country park with a large lake, wildlife, a free splash park, and a miniature railway, perfect for family fun and nature walks.

4.5
(4k reviews)

"A beautiful gem of Swindon, huge lake to walk around. The park also includes a splash park, golf and the miniature train ride which is my favourite."

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TIP

🎯 Free Splash Park Fun

The splash park is completely free and a huge hit with kids in summer!

🚗 Parking Pass Value

A small parking fee applies, but a yearly pass is economical for frequent visitors.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Splash Water Park

Splash Water Park

Near the main entrance

A free, fun-filled splash park perfect for cooling off on sunny days. A major draw for families!

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Miniature Railway

Miniature Railway

Adjacent to the lake

Charming miniature train rides offer a delightful journey around the park's scenic areas.

Instagram
Lake Walk & Wildlife

Lake Walk & Wildlife

Circumference of Coate Water

Enjoy a peaceful stroll around the lake, spotting diverse birdlife and enjoying serene water views.

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Planning Your Visit

Splash Park Fun & Parking Tips

The free splash park is a huge hit with kids in summer! Arrive early to snag a good spot. Parking has a small fee, but a yearly pass is cost-effective if you plan frequent visits. InstagramReddit

All-Day Adventure Potential

Coate Water is more than just a walk; it's a full day out! Pack a picnic, explore trails, enjoy the miniature train, and visit the splash park. Perfect for families seeking varied activities. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons
Why
Splash park is open!
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful walks
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn weekends
Why
Beautiful foliage, conker collecting
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍 Coate Water Country Park (5 minutes from J15 M4) I still can’t believe this splash park is completely FREE‼️☀️ Such a fabulous family friendly activity - go for an hour or so or stay and make a day of it! They also have a brilliant park onsite, beautiful walks around the lake, volleyball pitch (which doubles up as a children’s sandpit!), and crazy golf ⛳️ They also have a fab miniature rai...
southwest_little_explorers
33 likes • 1.3K views

🎯 Free Splash Park Fun

The splash park is completely free and a huge hit with kids in summer! Instagram+1

🚗 Parking Pass Value

A small parking fee applies, but a yearly pass is economical for frequent visitors. Reddit

Isn’t this miniature train ride charming 🚂😍 . . . #trainride #miniaturetrain #explore #explorenature #green #nature #natirelovers #fun #reelitfeelit #weekendgetaway #swindon #coatewatercountrypark #uk #friends #family #familyouting
deepika_singh_
110 likes • 2.2K views
Today I spent a glorious day at Coate Water Park on a day off. The fresh air and sunshine were so cathartic after weeks trying to shake off a respiratory virus. I live just a short drive away but hadn’t been there since moving to the area three and a half years’ ago. Today I walked around the lake before going back to the car for my painting chair and setting up on one of the angling areas, a cou...
melcooperpowell_artist
25 likes • 412 views

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Plenty of picnic spots make it easy to enjoy a meal amidst nature. Instagram+1

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

The park offers extensive walking trails around the lake. InstagramReddit

Coate water Country Park . . . . . . . @i.m.d_dhruv #fun #picnic #uk #unitedkingdom #sunnyday #rail
dhruvfuelandflex
188 likes • 4.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Splash Park Fun

The splash park is completely free and a huge hit with kids in summer! Instagram+1

🚗 Parking Pass Value

A small parking fee applies, but a yearly pass is economical for frequent visitors. Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Plenty of picnic spots make it easy to enjoy a meal amidst nature. Instagram+1

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

The park offers extensive walking trails around the lake. InstagramReddit

🦢 Bird Watching Hides

Utilize the bird hides for excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Coate Water Country Park as a beautiful gem offering a fantastic day out for all ages. The free splash park and charming miniature railway are major highlights, complemented by lovely lake walks and abundant wildlife. While parking has a small fee, the overall experience is highly recommended for its natural beauty and diverse activities.

"A beautiful lake to walk around a Coate Water Country Park.
Taking in fresh country air whilst enjoying breath taking scenery.
The lake is a beautiful site welcoming all. Joggers, pushchairs, dog walkers, fishing and also cyclists.

With a trail going around the lake to take your stroll, you will find plenty of seating to just be still and take a breath taking it all in.
What better way to reconnect with nature but most importantly yourself. A true stress relief to be still amongst the water and the trees.

All types of birds can be spotted here through all seasons. Come rain or shine the Country Park will give you a welcome escape from a fast paced life. To allow you to press pause or connect with others.

Enjoy mini golf, the Coate Water cafe, a splash Park through summer, miniature railway ride, bird watching, Enjoy picnics, walking groups and lots more...

There is a small charge for the car park but if it becomes a firm favourite to visit, I would recommend buying a years pass for parking.
You can even link it to Lydiard Park should you wish. Then visit both sites as many times as you like."

Katie Tidy

"Beautiful gem of Swindon, huge lake to walk around. The park also includes a splash park, golf and the miniature train ride which is my favourite. The cafe offers varying hot and cold snacks. Its well worth a visit you won't be disappointed."

Quintessential !!

"I love it there its 2nd time for me to visit, its beautiful + so much to explore + a really long walk all the way around , with all little trails , the wildlife is lovely , you can spend a whole day here easily when the weather is good, I visited in summer on a sun 1st time, there were hundreds of people doing all sorts of fun things , highly recommended this , something for all ages , disable access is available , dog friendly , kids loved collecting conkers + exploring ."

Allison Stephenson

What People Like

Free splash park
Beautiful lake walks
Miniature train ride

What People Dislike

Parking fee

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Coate Water Country Park is easily accessible, located just a short drive from Junction 15 of the M4 motorway. Instagram It's also well-connected by local transport routes within Swindon. Consider using a navigation app for the most direct route. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available, but it does have a small charge. For frequent visitors, purchasing an annual parking pass is a cost-effective option. Reddit

Absolutely! The park is popular with cyclists, and there are often cycle paths that can lead you to the park, making it an enjoyable journey for those who prefer two wheels. Reddit

Yes, the main paths around the lake are generally well-maintained and suitable for pushchairs, making it accessible for families with young children. Reddit

Local bus services operate in the Swindon area and can take you close to Coate Water Country Park. It's advisable to check current bus timetables for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The park itself is free to enter and explore. However, there is a small charge for parking your vehicle. Reddit

The splash park typically operates during the summer months. Specific opening times can vary, so it's best to check the official park information or local listings closer to your visit. Instagram+1

Tickets for the miniature train ride can usually be purchased on the day of your visit. It's a popular attraction, so consider riding it earlier in the day if possible. Instagram

Some activities, such as mini-golf, may have separate charges. It's recommended to inquire at the park or check their website for current pricing and availability. Reddit

Yes, Coate Water Country Park is open year-round. While the splash park is seasonal, the walking trails and natural beauty are enjoyable in all seasons. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Kids will love the free splash park in summer, the charming miniature train ride, and the playground. There are also plenty of open spaces for running around and exploring. Instagram+1

Yes, there's a beautiful trail that goes all the way around the lake, offering lovely views and opportunities to connect with nature. InstagramReddit

The park is dog-friendly, making it a great place to visit with your canine companions. Remember to keep them under control and clean up after them. Reddit

You can spot a variety of birdlife, including swans, ducks, and other waterfowl, especially around the lake. There are also bird watching hides available. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! With a splash park, miniature railway, extensive walking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife spotting, you can easily spend a whole day here, especially with good weather. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe on-site that offers a selection of hot and cold snacks, perfect for refueling during your visit. Reddit

Coate Water has numerous picnic areas, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy in the designated picnic areas or anywhere suitable within the park. Instagram

The cafe typically offers a range of snacks, light meals, and refreshments. It's a convenient option if you prefer not to bring your own food. Reddit

While the park has its own cafe, there are also dining options available in the wider Swindon area if you're looking for more extensive restaurant choices. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The lake itself offers beautiful reflections and scenic views, especially during sunrise or sunset. The wildlife, including swans, also makes for great subjects. Instagram+1

Yes, with its diverse birdlife and tranquil lake setting, Coate Water is an excellent location for nature photography. The bird hides can offer unique perspectives. InstagramReddit

Certainly! The miniature train is a charming subject, and many visitors capture photos of it during its journeys around the park. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always wise to be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially of individuals. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Coate Water Country Park is a dream for families! The free splash park is the ultimate summer attraction, guaranteeing hours of fun. Instagram+1 Don't miss the miniature train ride, which is a huge hit with younger children. Instagram Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic spots, and let the kids burn off energy in the open green spaces or at the playground. The park is dog-friendly, so your furry family members can join the fun too. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Lovers & Walkers

For those who appreciate a good walk and nature, Coate Water is ideal. The circular lake trail offers a refreshing 2-mile stroll with beautiful water views and abundant birdlife. Instagram+1 Utilize the bird watching hides for a closer look at the local avian population. Reddit The park's diverse habitats mean you can enjoy different scenery, from open water to woodland, making each visit a unique experience. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful escape and reconnecting with the outdoors. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Coate Water Country Park is incredibly budget-friendly. The entry to the park is free, and the splash park is also free to use during its operating season. Instagram+1 The main costs are parking (consider a yearly pass if you visit often Reddit) and optional activities like the miniature train or mini-golf. Packing your own picnic is a great way to save money on food. InstagramReddit+1 It offers a full day of entertainment without breaking the bank.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Splash Park Experience

The Splash Water Park at Coate Water Country Park is a major highlight, especially during warmer months. It's completely free to use, making it an incredibly popular spot for families with young children. Instagram+1 The park features various water jets and play areas designed to keep kids entertained and cool. Due to its popularity, it can get quite busy, particularly on sunny weekends. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended to secure a good spot and enjoy the facilities with fewer crowds. Remember to bring towels and a change of clothes for the little ones!

While the splash park is a fantastic free attraction, it's important to note its seasonal operation. It typically opens during the summer period. Visitors planning a trip specifically for the splash park should confirm its operating dates and hours before visiting. The proximity to the main entrance and ample space around it make it a convenient and enjoyable feature for a family day out. Instagram

Exploring the Lake and Wildlife

Coate Water itself is a beautiful large lake that forms the heart of the country park. A well-maintained trail circles the entire lake, offering a pleasant walk of approximately 2 miles. Instagram This walk is popular with joggers, dog walkers, and families alike, providing stunning water views and fresh country air. Reddit The lake is a vital habitat for a variety of birdlife, including swans, ducks, and geese, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Several bird watching hides are strategically placed around the lake, offering excellent opportunities for observation and photography. Reddit

Beyond the main lake trail, there are also smaller nature trails and areas to explore, leading through woodland and marshland. These offer a chance to discover different flora and fauna. The park is committed to preserving its natural environment, and visitors are encouraged to respect the wildlife and their habitats. Instagram Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll, a more vigorous walk, or simply a peaceful spot to sit and observe nature, the lake and its surroundings at Coate Water provide a serene escape. Instagram

Family Fun Beyond the Splash Park

Coate Water Country Park is a true family destination, offering more than just the splash park. The miniature railway is a particular favorite, providing charming rides that delight both children and adults. Instagram The gentle journey offers a unique perspective of the park's scenery. For those who enjoy a bit of friendly competition, there's also mini-golf available, adding another layer of entertainment to your visit. Reddit

Picnics are a popular activity here, with numerous designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park. InstagramReddit+1 This allows families to enjoy a meal together in a beautiful natural setting. The park also features a children's playground and open green spaces perfect for games. With so many varied activities, it's easy to see why visitors can spend an entire day here, catering to all ages and interests. Reddit

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