An Unexpected Discovery – Cotswold Water Park
A Serendipitous Detour to Cotswold Water Park. Like many, we stumbled upon Cotswold Water Park by accident. While driving to Cornwall, a sign near junction 11a on the M5, pointing towards Cirencester, caught our eye, advertising the Water Park. At that time, we imagined a typical water park with slides and wave pools but we couldn’t have been more wrong.
Back then, we both worked for the NHS, juggling a young family and a hectic social life and yet, we always remained curious about the Water Park.
First Impressions and Return Visits
From a Groupon Getaway to Owning a Lakeside Home. A few years later, we enjoyed a Groupon (remember them) getaway at what was then the Four Pillars Hotel, now the De Vere Hotel. Whilst staying there, we took a quick jaunt across the road to Windrush and Isis Lakes and we were amazed! The lakeside homes, with their turret-styled New England architecture, seemed very exotic. Although we explored the other end of the lakes, the area around Waters Edge, Summer Lake, Spring Lake, and South Cerney Outdoor (Lake 12) felt like we belonged. Like bad pennies, we returned whenever we could, always finding something new to see or do.
Growing Roots in The Cotswolds
Evolving from Visitors to Residents. As I (Barry) neared retirement from the NHS, we took a bold step. We bought our first holiday home on Windrush Lake and later moved to Waters Edge Lake. More than two decades after our first encounter, this place feels more like home than anywhere else we’ve lived. Although we travelled the world for 12 months as part of our retirement, no place matched the sense of belonging we found here.
From Residents to Business Owners. Our business began on Windrush Lake, starting with marketing our beautiful turret-style home. We were clear about our preferences and worked hard to ensure our home offered the best for our guests. Nearly ten years later, our business has expanded significantly and we now represent many lakeside property owners. We also work with homeowners in South Cerney, Upper Minety, and Malmesbury. All of our properties are either within the Water Park itself or just on the outskirts but always close to the amenities the park has to offer.
Additionally, we opened a commercial laundry and cleaning service in Cricklade to support our growing business.
The Allure of Cotswold Water Park
Living in Harmony with Nature. What’s the draw? The Water Park is the United Kingdom’s largest lake system its kind, straddling the Wiltshire-Gloucestershire border, north-west of Cricklade and south of Cirencester. There are 180 lakes, spread over 42 square miles.
The park is a mix of nature conservation activities, including nature reserves; recreation, including sailing, fishing, a country park and beach with water sports and play areas; rural villages; and holiday accommodation. It is a significant area for wildlife and particularly for wintering and breeding birds. The local wildlife trusts are involved in partnership with the Cotswold Lakes Trust charity in working with local communities and organisations in the area.
For us it’s a place where nature and humans exist in perfect harmony. We love living here, where people flock for a break. The area’s plethora of activities, cafes, bars, and restaurants is astounding. And then the number of activities available from tours to climbing and from archery to cycle hire – the list is endless.
Clearly, we are not alone in thinking this is a great place to live and work!
The Historical Shift of Cotswolds Water Park
From Gravel Extraction to Nature’s Haven. It began about 50 years ago with gravel extraction, long before the term “water park” suggested slides and splash pools. In order to get the gravel they have to keep pumping out the water due to the high levels of the water table. Once they have finished with a gravel pit it gets lined, pumps are switched off and fills naturally. Not quite sure how but many of the lakes are connected via monk weirs, streams and underground channels so in spite of the rain we don’t get too much flooding!
There is a local movement to rename it Cotswold Lakes, a name that truly reflects the area’s essence which we proudly support. With over 180 lakes and more forming as gravel extraction gives way to nature, this initiative aims to attract more visitors.
For more details, visit the official website.
Preserving Natural Beauty
Recognised Beauty and Biodiversity. Did you know the Cotswolds is an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB)? Within the Water Park, 177 lakes are are now recognised as sites of special scientific interest (SSSI). This region is a haven for businesses, tourists, locals, and wildlife. Over 20,000 winter birds make it their home, and it reportedly hosts every species of UK bat (still need to check that one out!). For us, watching bats dart under our deck at dusk, empathising with our carp fishing friends over the otters in the area, and the excitement of spotting roe deer grazing openly on the grass round Waters Edge lake at dusk just create the perfect home!
Culinary and Recreational Delights
From Fine Dining to Diverse Activities. Living in Cotswold Water Park offers access to exceptional local cuisine. Whether enjoying a hearty breakfast at the Lakeside brasserie or lunch at South Cerney Outdoors (ROX) Street Food Cafe, there are no wrong choices here. Ashas at the Crown in Cerney Wick is notable for its innovative dishes that blend tradition with modern techniques. Our favourite remains the Waterside Kitchen on Wickwater Lane – perfect every time.
Many of our guests choose to use their time in The Cotswolds to relax and chill and thats absolutely fine – you can always come back and try that wakeboarding at 4 Lakes or open water swimming at Lake 86 or hire a stand-up paddle board (SUP) on Lake 12.
Check out our experiences page for more information
Embracing the Great Outdoors
A Hub for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Pet Lovers. Cotswold Water Park is more than a tranquil retreat; it’s a centre for varied activities. Whether you enjoy water sports, archery, or golf, there’s something for everyone.
Families love the pet-friendly options. Exploring the area with a furry friend, especially in Wickwater Woods near Waters Edge, is perfect for a bit of freedom.
In short, Cotswold Water Park is not just a place; it’s a community, an adventure, and for us, it’s home.
