Just like many, we stumbled upon Cotswold Water Park quite by accident. Driving to Cornwall, a sign near junction 11a on the M5, pointing towards the Air Balloon, a well-known local beacon, caught our eye. It was advertising Cotswold Water Park. At the time, we, like many others, pictured a typical water park filled with slides and wave pools.
Fast forward a few years, and we found ourselves on a Groupon getaway (oh, those were the days!) at what was then known as the Four Pillars Hotel, now rebranded to De Vere, right on the fringe of the Water Park. A quick jaunt across the road took us to Windrush and Isis Lakes, and what a surprise awaited us! The lakeside homes, with their turret-styled New England architecture, were nothing short of exotic. Though we ventured to Lower Mill at the far end of the lakes, it was the area around Waters Edge, Summer Lake, Spring Lake, and South Cerney Outdoor (Lake 12) that really captured our hearts.
Years later, we took the leap and bought our first holiday home on Windrush Lake, later moving to Waters Edge. Now, we proudly represent owners of lodges on Summer Lake, Waters Edge, Spring Lake, and Little Horseshoe Lake as well as in the villages of South Cerney and Minety.
Two decades on, this place feels more like home than anywhere else. Despite our travels and the many wonderful places we’ve seen, nothing quite compares to the sense of belonging we feel here.
So, what’s the draw? Well, it all started around 50 years ago with gravel extraction, long before “water park” evoked images of slides and splash pools. There’s a local push to rename it Cotswold Lakes, a title that perfectly captures the essence of the area. With over 180 lakes, and counting, as gravel extraction gives way to nature, this initiative, coupled with some solid promotion, aims to keep visitors flocking in. Check out the Cotswold Water Park website for something a bit more factual on the history of the Water Park, we just enjoy living here!
Did you know that the Cotswolds is designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB)? And within the Water Park, 177 lakes are recognized as sites of special scientific interest (SSSI). This place is truly a haven for everyone: businesses, tourists, locals, and wildlife coexist in remarkable harmony. Over 20,000 winter birds call it home, and it’s said to host every species of UK bat (though I’m still verifying that one!). Then there’s the joy of watching bats dart under our deck at dusk, the otters that our fishing friends lament, and the beavers near Lower Mill Estate. Not to mention the roe deer we sometimes spot grazing across the lake.
For outdoor enthusiasts, it’s paradise. Our narrow lanes see a rare truce between drivers and pedestrians, creating a peaceful coexistence. And the food! Just a stone’s throw from our homes are myriad eateries, with the Waterside Kitchen and Ashas at the Crown in Cerney Wick being our top picks. Our digital guide, born from personal experiences, points you to the best spots—we’ve tried them all!
The activities on offer are endless, from water sports to archery, golf, and even dog-friendly spots. Speaking of which, we adore dogs here in the Cotswolds. There’s nothing like exploring the area with your furry friend by your side, and Wickwater Woods near Waters Edge is perfect for letting your dog roam free for a bit.
In short, Cotswold Water Park is not just a place; it’s a community, an adventure, and for us, it’s home.
