Dog Walk in Cotswold Water Park, great hike in nature

Cotswold Water Park is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the picturesque Cotswolds. If you’re a nature enthusiast and a proud dog owner, you’re in for a treat! A dog walk in Cotswold Water Park offers a perfect setting for a memorable hike amidst stunning landscapes, tranquil lakes, and abundant wildlife. 

Distance	Total Time	Difficulty
2.32 km	00:41	Easy

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through our chosen route, share useful tips, and highlight the reasons why this dog walk should be on every pet lover’s bucket list.

Cotswold Water Park is conveniently located just a short drive from the town of Cirencester in Gloucestershire. If you’re coming from Cirencester, follow the A419 south until you reach the B4696. Take a left onto the B4696, and you’ll find yourself at the entrance to Cotswold Water Park. 

We used the postcode GL7 5TL but it didn’t quite take us to the place, so I have added the info above for convenience. 

There is ample parking available, so finding a spot for your vehicle won’t be a hassle. Once you’ve parked, gather your essentials, leash up your furry friend, and get ready for the hike.

Don’t forget to check the post notes at the bottom of the page, with maps, a detailed table about the hike and links to everything mentioned in the post.

The Hike

After visiting the Visitor Centre and buying a map (£1), the gang started the walk at the car park. Our chosen walking trail in Cotswold Water Park covers approximately 2.5 kilometres and offers a blend of open meadows, wooded areas, and picturesque lake views.

As you set off on the trail, keep your pup on a leash, ensuring their safety and that of the wildlife. 

Back to the car park, the gang started the hike and passed between an outdoor equipment shop on the left and the Gateway Centre on the right arriving at the start of a path.

From there, we followed the path around Lake 6, turning right at the first signpost and walking along the shore. We stopped for a “dog dip” here and there along the way. 

During the walk, we met many very happy and wet puppies who had been enjoying the lakes. In fact, we could safely access parts of the lake in many places.

On a good day, the water sparkles under the sun, inviting you to pause and admire the lake’s beauty. Let your dog dip their paws in the water and watch as they delight in the refreshing experience. Remember to keep a close eye on them, ensuring their safety near the water’s edge.

We kept walking around the lake turning right once before crossing a small footbridge over the River Churn and, this time, following the river shore path. This section was quite good, with plenty of little beaches where families played with kids and dogs.

We kept following the path by the river until we got to the Spine Road and turned left after crossing it. From that point, it was a straight walk back to the Visitor Centre.

This hike was really good, and the girls loved it. We all took a moment to absorb the tranquillity and explore the surroundings.

The presence of numerous bird species adds to the charm of the walk, providing an opportunity for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

A dog walk in Cotswold Water Park is an experience that will leave both you and your furry friend feeling rejuvenated and connected to nature. With its diverse landscapes, serene lakes, and abundant wildlife, this hidden gem offers a dog-friendly adventure like no other. Remember to come prepared with essentials like water, snacks, waste bags, and a leash for your dog.

Cheers,

Ademar