Lake 32 Outdoor Centre — Local services in Ashton Keynes

Lake 32, Cotswolds Water Park Review

Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Lake 32 is a testament to nature's ability to reclaim and rejuvenate. The lakes of the Cotswolds Water Park are a result of gravel extraction over the years, which left behind pits that have since been filled with water, creating a network of over 150 lakes. These lakes, with their unique origin, have now become a sanctuary for both nature and adventure enthusiasts.

Lake 32 stands out as a gem among these. Safety is paramount here, with vigilant overseers ensuring everyone from novices to expert competitors can enjoy their swim without a worry. The diversity of the swimmers is heartwarming - all ages, body shapes, and experience levels come together in a shared love for open water swimming. And with varying lengths available, you can choose your challenge for the day, be it a short refreshing dip or an endurance test.

Post-swim, the coffee place is a haven. Indulge in toast, scones, and an array of homemade treats that taste even better after a swim. Whether you're warming up on a chilly day or cooling down during summer, it's the perfect spot.

Booking is a breeze on their user-friendly website, and the pre-booking system ensures the place never feels overcrowded. The accessibility of Lake 32 is commendable, making it a welcoming spot for everyone.

Facilities are top-notch. Warm showers, clean changing rooms, and well-maintained loos make the experience comfortable. Ample parking ensures no last-minute hassles, and the views? Simply breathtaking.

While open water swimming is the star attraction, Lake 32 offers a plethora of other activities. From paddleboarding to sailing and canoeing, there's something for every water sports enthusiast. I've even been toying with the idea of sailing here!

Though not primarily a family gathering spot, I think? Lake 32 can be the backdrop for memorable family and even business events. Imagine a day of kayaking, or perhaps a team-building day paddling boarding.

I wholeheartedly recommend Lake 32. It's more than just a place to swim; it's an experience that...

I swam here twice during a recent trip to the Cotswolds. I am an experienced triathlete and this is one of the nicest open water venues in the UK I have swum at. The water is very clear and shallow (you can see the bottom of the lake for most of the course), and it is easy to sight.

On my second swim here, I arrived 1.5 hours early for my 11am booking, as I was planning a run around the lake before my swim, but I was refused entry to the car park, even though it was barely a third full. Apparently you are only able to show up 30 mins before your booked swim. The member of staff told me that I had to go home (I had driven 40 mins from my holiday rental to get there) or book a 9am and 10am swim, to allow me to park there, even though it is possible to swim and then sit in the coffee shop for several hours.

I felt that the member of staff could have used some discretion to let me enjoy the lake as a visitor before my swim. Instead, I found another nearby lake to park at to run, before returning for my swim at 10.30am. It just left a bitter taste...

One other thing I noted is that other than checking you in for the car park, there is nobody monitoring when you enter or leave the water, as most other open water venues do. This isn't an issue for me as I am a confident swimmer, but for safety reasons, I would have been more reassured if the staff knew if/when I was swimming, not just when I parked my car. There were also no lifeguards on kayaks in the lake. Again, not a problem for me, but it didn't feel quite as safe as other open water venues.

Nonetheless, a very enjoyable two swims and would certainly recommend it as a an open...

Lake 32 is a clear freshwater lake in the beautiful Cotswolds. The lake is surrounded by woodland and wildlife, offering the perfect spot to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.

Lake 32 is a great place to visit, just 20 minutes from junction 15 of the M4. Check out their website for the full address.

The lake has plenty of parking, I don't remember any dedicated disabled parking, but the team have always made it easy for me to park in a suitable place.

I've swum at Lake 32 several times, including the 113 Events Half Ironman Triathlon event. The lake offers various swimming courses, from a short 50m loop to a long 1500m loop. Recently, I visited on my own as I was working nearby and took the opportunity to get a swim in whilst there; it was lovely to swim there again.

Although I was there for the swimming, the lake offers various other activities to get involved in, from stand-up paddle boarding, mega paddleboard, raft building and much more.

The lake does have a cafe on site; they offer a wide range of hot and cold food with vegetarian and vegan options. They serve a great cup of coffee and other hot and cold drinks. Of course, they have a cake of the day which is a must for...