Cotswold Country Park and Beach
Spratsgate Lane, Shorncote
View on Google MapsPhoto: Postie Matt
About Cotswold Country Park and Beach
This family-friendly lakeside park features a sandy beach area perfect for picnics, plus an onsite restaurant, parking and toilets, though wheelchair access is limited.
What's nearby
- AquaVenture 250m away
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Parking
- ✓Paid car park
- ✓Free street
- ✓Paid street
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
- ✓Accessible toilet
Payment
- ✓Credit cards
- ✓Debit cards
- ✓Contactless
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Opening hours
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
Great place for a day out. There are loads of things to do including a beach perfect for swimming. I was pleasantly surprised at the cleanliness of the water. I also rented a pedalo for £12 for 30 minutes, which fit four people. They have a shop, cafe and toilets too.
· via Google
What a beautiful venue with so many fun activities for the whole family, also suitable for corporate events. Huge thanks to Kyla for showing us around today, you are very professional and really know your stuff. Thanks and hopefully see you for our events in summer 2027!
· via Google
Located near South Cerney in the heart of the Cotswold Water Park, Cotswold Country Park & Beach offers a surprising and sophisticated twist on the traditional English countryside. This expansive leisure landscape is centered around two large, spring-fed lakes, formed from former gravel pits. Its most famous feature is the UK’s largest inland paddling beach, where soft, golden sand meets the clear, calm waters of the "North Lake," creating a coastal atmosphere miles from the nearest ocean. The park is a masterclass in versatile outdoor design. The landscape transitions seamlessly from the high-energy "Beach & Lagoon" area—buzzing with families and sun-seekers—to the more tranquil, wooded trails of the "South Lake," which is a haven for paddleboarding and quiet reflection. The architectural tone is set by the modern, timber-clad café and activity centers that overlook the water, offering panoramic views of the sailing boats and the inflatable AquaVenture course. Surrounded by the characteristic lush greenery and honey-colored stone of the Cotswolds, the park provides a polished and refreshing environment where the thrill of water sports meets the relaxed pace of a lakeside retreat. Traveler Tips for your visit: • Booking is Essential: During the peak summer months, the park operates a pre-booking system for vehicle entry. To ensure you get a spot on the sand, plan ahead and book your arrival slot via their website. • AquaVenture: If you’re looking for a thrill, the massive inflatable obstacle course on the water is a highlight. It’s physically demanding but incredibly fun—wetsuits are usually available for hire on-site. • BBQ Hire: The park features dedicated BBQ pitches that you can hire for the day. It’s a sophisticated way to enjoy a long summer afternoon with friends, situated just a short walk from the shoreline. • Explore the South Lake: For a quieter experience, head away from the beach toward the South Lake. The walking paths here are beautifully maintained and offer great opportunities for spotting local birdlife or watching the more serene water activities like kayaking. Cotswold Country Park & Beach is a dynamic and meticulously managed destination that brings the joy of the seaside to the refined surroundings of the Cotswold hills. 🏖️🚣♂️☀️
· via Google
The worst mini golf you can think of. This mini golf needs a lot of love. No creativity, No fun, No smooth flows of “obstacles” build by amateurs below my DIY abilities. People are friendly. Parking is 15£🤯 mini golf 5£. If you think you go there just to play mini golf DON’T will be a huge disappointment.
· via Google
Visitors say this country park offers a clean, sandy beach and lake with various activities like paddle boats and an AquaVenture course, providing plenty of fun for families. They also highlight the good value, with admission charged per car, and recommend booking in advance, especially for activities.
Some reviews mention the beach area can be overcrowded.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- 1 Spratsgate Lane, Shorncote, Cirencester, GL7 6DF Get directions
- Category
- Beaches & Coastline
- Guest rating
- 4.2 / 5 (2,349 reviews)
- Suitable for
- All Ages
- Setting
- Outdoor
- Dogs allowed
- Yes
- Good for children
- Yes
- Toilets on site
- Yes
- Destination
- Cirencester