Best lakes around Gotherington are primarily found in the surrounding Gloucestershire area, including the Cotswolds. This region features a diverse landscape with numerous lakes, reservoirs, and ponds, many of which are formed from historical gravel extraction. The area offers opportunities for recreation, wildlife observation, and enjoying scenic natural features. These locations provide varied walking terrain and natural features for visitors.
Last updated: October 17, 2026
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Beckford Nature Reserve, situated just north of the centre of the village, is a wonderful place for a stroll and to enjoy nature. The reserve features a peaceful lake, lots of bushy green vegetation, woodland trails, and some interesting wildlife, including as greylag goose and wigeon.
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Dowdeswell Reservoir is a scenic stretch of water on the outskirts of Cheltenham. From the reservoir, you step straight into Dowdeswell Woods; a nature reserve that’s home to many species of plants and animals. Keep a lookout for birds including coot, moorhen, great crested grebe and little grebe.
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Hatherley Park is a lovely Park to stroll around either by yourself or with family and friends. Great for walking the dog.
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A great cycleway through the very beautiful Pittville Park... lots of pedestrians and dogs to avoid, but a great way to go and an even better place to plan as a spot to take a break.
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A lovely village pond next to the church with a green shaded by a huge willow. A great place to stop for a break.
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Great afternoon in the woods. Quite a few trees downed by winds and heard one crash whilst on my walk , so caution. Paths very muddy due to logging vehicles.
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Lovely area to walk, along footpaths through the woods and along the water.
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Around Gotherington, you'll discover a variety of lakes, including reservoirs, park lakes, and nature reserve lakes. Many of these, particularly in the broader Cotswold Water Park, were formed from historical gravel extraction, creating unique wetland landscapes. You can find tranquil village ponds, larger bodies of water suitable for walks, and extensive water parks offering diverse activities.
Yes, there are. The Lake at Beckford Nature Reserve is a wonderful place for a stroll and nature observation, featuring woodland trails and diverse wildlife like greylag geese and wigeons. Additionally, Dowdeswell Reservoir offers direct access to Dowdeswell Woods, a nature reserve rich in plants and animals, including various bird species.
For a peaceful experience, consider the Lake at Beckford Nature Reserve, known for its tranquil setting and wildlife. Dowdeswell Reservoir also offers a scenic and tranquil walk with opportunities for birdwatching. Miserden Park Lake, while not a highlight in our guide, is also noted for its serene countryside atmosphere and picturesque scenery, ideal for relaxing walks.
Absolutely! Pittville Park Lake is a great family-friendly option within a park, offering paths for running and walking, and benches to enjoy the view. Lake at Beckford Nature Reserve and Pond in Hatherley Park are also listed as family-friendly, providing pleasant environments for all ages.
Yes, birdwatching is a popular activity. Dowdeswell Reservoir and its adjacent Dowdeswell Woods are excellent for spotting species like coots, moorhens, great crested grebes, and little grebes. The Lake at Beckford Nature Reserve also hosts interesting wildlife, including greylag geese and wigeons. The extensive Cotswold Water Park is particularly known for its diverse waterbird populations, especially in winter.
Beyond walking and nature observation, the region offers various outdoor activities. The Cotswold Water Park provides a wide range of water sports, land activities, off-road walking, and cycling paths. For more structured activities, you can find numerous running trails around Gotherington, such as the 'View of Cleeve Hill' loop, or explore road cycling routes like the 'Gotherington Village – Broadway Village loop'. You can find detailed routes in the Running Trails around Gotherington and Road Cycling Routes around Gotherington guides.
Yes, Pittville Park Lake has a nice path perfect for running, and it even hosts a weekly 5k park run. The broader Cotswold Water Park features extensive off-road walking and cycling paths around its numerous lakes. For dedicated cycling, explore routes like 'The Shutter Pub – Bozard Lane' in the Cycling around Gotherington guide.
Visitors particularly enjoy the peaceful settings, the opportunities for nature observation, and the scenic walks. Many appreciate the diverse wildlife, especially the birds at places like Dowdeswell Reservoir and the Lake at Beckford Nature Reserve. The well-maintained paths and beautiful views at locations like Pittville Park Lake are also highly valued.
Yes, Apperley Village Pond and Church offers a lovely village pond experience. It's situated next to a church with a green shaded by a huge willow, making it a great spot to stop for a break and enjoy a tranquil village setting.
The best time to visit depends on your interests. For birdwatching, particularly waterbirds, the winter months are excellent, especially at the Cotswold Water Park. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walks, picnics, and enjoying the lush greenery. Autumn provides beautiful foliage around the lakes and woodlands.
The extensive Cotswold Water Park is well-equipped with country pubs, lakeside restaurants, and cafés. While specific facilities aren't detailed for every individual lake in our guide, larger parks like Pittville Park Lake often have amenities or are close to town centers where you can find refreshments.
Many of the lakes offer accessible paths suitable for walking. For example, Pittville Park Lake has a nice path for running and walking. The Cotswold Water Park also features numerous paths. However, some areas, especially within nature reserves like Dowdeswell Woods, might have more natural, uneven terrain. It's always a good idea to check specific highlight details for terrain information.


Still not found your perfect lake around Gotherington? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.