Cotswold Country Park & Beach
Experience the UK's largest inland beach with watersports, adventure playgrounds, and BBQ facilities for a perfect family day out.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Cotswold Country Park & Beach
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the UK's largest inland beach with watersports, adventure playgrounds, and BBQ facilities for a perfect family day out.
"A beautiful hidden gem, kids had a fun time playing in the water and on the swan boats!"
🚗 Book Parking Online
Secure your spot and often a better rate by booking car parking in advance online. :admission_tickets:
☀️ Pack for Sun Protection
Bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water, especially on hot days. Natural shade is available but can be limited. :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
UK's Largest Inland Beach
Main Beach Area
Enjoy a sandy beach experience with designated swimming and paddling areas. Perfect for a classic beach day without the coastal journey.
AquaVenture Inflatable Park
Lake
An epic inflatable obstacle course on the water, offering hours of fun for older kids and adults who can swim 20 meters.
Watersports & Boat Hire
Lake
Rent pedalos, kayaks, SUPs, or electric boats to explore the freshwater lakes and enjoy the scenic parkland.
Adventure Playgrounds
Various locations
Multiple play areas cater to different age groups, ensuring younger children have plenty of space to climb, slide, and explore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Summer is Prime Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Book Parking Online
Secure your spot and often a better rate by booking car parking in advance online. :admission_tickets:
☀️ Pack for Sun Protection
Bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water, especially on hot days. Natural shade is available but can be limited. :sunwithface:
🧺 Picnic & BBQ Ready
Plenty of picnic benches and BBQ spots are available. Bring your own food or grab snacks from the cafe. :pizza:
🩱 Swim Test for AquaPark
Kids need to pass a 20-meter swim test to use the AquaVenture inflatable park. Book sessions in advance! :swimmer:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Book Parking Online
Secure your spot and often a better rate by booking car parking in advance online. :admission_tickets:
☀️ Pack for Sun Protection
Bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water, especially on hot days. Natural shade is available but can be limited. :sunwithface:
🧺 Picnic & BBQ Ready
Plenty of picnic benches and BBQ spots are available. Bring your own food or grab snacks from the cafe. :pizza:
🩱 Swim Test for AquaPark
Kids need to pass a 20-meter swim test to use the AquaVenture inflatable park. Book sessions in advance! :swimmer:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the park and beach, so wear comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Cotswold Country Park & Beach as a fantastic family-friendly destination, particularly praised for its large inland beach and array of water activities. The value for money, especially with car parking fees, and the well-maintained facilities are frequently highlighted. While it can get very busy during peak summer periods, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many planning return visits.
"Very cute little place 😍😁👍 great for kids! Good price to get in, per car around £10-20 per car with whoever in.
We had a nice day there, in July, while the kids were off...so was very busy! But still very nice to go visit. Maybe when it's quieter next time 👍"
Claire P
"What beautiful hidden gem 😍..... The trip to this place was so so so exciting and amazing. My kids really had a fun time. The beach area was so good for swimming and playing in 💦 the park area the beautiful swan boating connected to a small island in centre wow really awesome . Must visit place but don't forget only in summer super sunny hot days 😉 they also have a BBQ PLACE TOOO"
NABILA MUMTAZ
"We booked ahead by 4 days & caught a very hot day. There was plenty of natural shade off the beach area to stay cool in !
The water was cool but not cold & obviously busy as families splashed around. I counted 4 lifeguards !! Very vigilant and perhaps when it's very busy ball games in the water should be discouraged!! Everything was clean, the bins were emptied every hour & toilets looked like it was the beginning of the day...not the end! Well done cleaning teams! We loved our day & will bring our grandkids back soon."
trish morgan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located in the Cotswolds Water Park, easily accessible by car. The postcode is GL7 6DF. Parking is available on-site and booking online in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Public transport options are limited. While buses may serve nearby villages, driving is the most convenient way to reach the park. Check local bus routes for the most up-to-date information.
Parking is available on-site and is typically paid per car. Booking your parking slot online in advance is highly advised to guarantee entry and potentially get a better rate.
Yes, cycling is a great option if you're local or staying nearby. There are lakeside walks and bike rides available within the park.
The park generally offers good accessibility with paved paths in many areas. However, specific accessibility details for all attractions should be confirmed directly with the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry is typically charged per car, with prices varying based on the season and whether you book online in advance. Expect around £10-£20 per car for a full day. +1
It is highly recommended to book your car parking online in advance, especially for summer weekends and hot days, to guarantee entry and potentially save money.
Opening hours vary seasonally, with longer hours during the summer months. It's best to check the official website for the most current opening times before your visit.
Yes, the AquaVenture inflatable water park requires a separate booking for a specific time slot, usually a 1-hour session. Booking online in advance is essential.
Absolutely! Cotswold Country Park & Beach is very picnic-friendly, with many benches and BBQ spots available.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, boat hire (pedalos, electric boats), an inflatable water park (AquaVenture), adventure playgrounds, crazy golf, and lakeside walks. +1
Yes, it boasts the UK's largest inland beach, offering sandy areas for playing and designated swimming zones.
There are designated swimming areas on the sandy beach, suitable for both paddling and swimming. Lifeguards are often present during busy periods.
Yes, there are several adventure playgrounds catering to different age groups, including a toddler-specific play area.
Boat hire is available, including swan pedalos, electric boats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs).
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a cafe and snack shack offering ice creams, drinks, and light meals. However, many visitors opt to bring their own picnics.
The park provides designated BBQ spots, making it a great option for a family cookout. You can bring your own BBQ or sometimes hire them.
The cafe typically offers classic park fare like ice creams, hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and snacks.
Options may be limited at the cafe. Bringing your own picnic with a variety of choices is often the best approach for specific dietary needs.
Park cafes can be pricier than supermarkets. Bringing your own food and drinks is a budget-friendly option.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the sandy beach, the lake with boats, the AquaVenture park in action, and the surrounding parkland. The reflections on the water are particularly photogenic.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful soft light. Midday can be harsh but is great for capturing the vibrant activity.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's essential to check the park's official regulations regarding drone photography before flying.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both wide landscapes and action shots on the water. Waterproof cases are useful for water activities.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors' privacy and check for any specific park rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For older kids, the AquaVenture inflatable water park is a massive hit, offering a thrilling challenge.
With plenty of picnic spots and BBQ facilities, you can easily spend a full day here without breaking the bank. Booking parking online in advance is a must to avoid disappointment. ☀️ Summer Day-Trippers
The AquaVenture offers a dose of adrenaline, while boat hire provides a more leisurely way to enjoy the lake. Arrive early to make the most of the day and secure a good spot. Remember to book your parking online beforehand, especially on weekends.
👫 Couples & Friends
The beach area provides a pleasant spot to relax, read, or simply enjoy the scenery. Consider packing a romantic picnic or utilizing the BBQ facilities for a casual outdoor meal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Making the Most of Your Beach Day
Beyond the beach, the park is a hub for aquatic fun. AquaVenture, an inflatable water park, is a major draw for thrill-seekers, though a swim test is required. For a more relaxed pace, boat hire is readily available, offering everything from swan pedalos to electric boats and paddleboards, allowing you to explore the picturesque lakes.
Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, as natural shade can be limited. Booking your car parking online in advance is crucial, especially for summer weekends, to avoid disappointment and secure a better price.
Family Fun at Cotswold Country Park & Beach
The AquaVenture inflatable park is a highlight for older children and teens who meet the swimming requirements, offering a fantastic opportunity for energetic fun. For a more laid-back family activity, boat hire provides a chance to bond on the water, exploring the scenic surroundings at your own pace.
With ample space for picnics and BBQs, and the convenience of on-site cafes, it’s easy to spend an entire day here. Booking parking in advance is a smart move to ensure a stress-free arrival.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
When packing, prioritize sun protection: hats, high SPF sunscreen, and plenty of water are essential. While there are picnic areas and BBQ facilities, consider bringing your own food and drinks to cater to specific tastes and manage your budget.
For those planning to tackle the AquaVenture, remember the 20-meter swim test requirement and book your session in advance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit