Best lakes around St. Paul Malmesbury Without are found in this rural civil parish in Wiltshire, England, which surrounds the town of Malmesbury. The area is characterized by its rural landscape, bordered by the Bristol Avon and the Gauze Brook. While St. Paul Malmesbury Without itself features smaller ponds, the wider region, particularly the Cotswold Water Park, offers extensive lake-based activities and natural features. This area provides opportunities for nature observation and tranquil walks.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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Popular around St. Paul Malmesbury Without
Very cute little pond, watch out for crossing ducks as per the local signage ;)
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Picturesque Cotswold village built around the church of St Andrew. There is a pretty village pond and a pub.
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"Please slow down, ducks may be crossing the road".
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Biddestone is such a lovely tiny Cotswolds village 😍 - also known as „Carsley“ in the British comedy-drama television program“Agatha Raisin“, which is based on M. C. Beaton's book series of the same name about a former PR agent who solves crime mysteries in the Cotswolds.
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Great cafe situated next to a lake. With outside seating on the decking (if you’re very lucky you might get to see otters) open from Wed-Sun 9:00- 16:00
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The area offers a mix of small, tranquil village ponds and extensive lake systems. You'll find picturesque village ponds like Biddestone Village Pond, Duck Pond in Alderton, and the pond in Leighterton. Additionally, the wider region features significant attractions such as the vast Cotswold Water Park and nature reserves like Lower Moor Lake.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Biddestone Village Pond and the Duck Pond in Alderton are noted for their charming settings and wildlife. The Lake at Cotswold Water Park is also highly family-friendly, offering a wide range of activities suitable for all ages, including an inland beach and various watersports.
The Cotswold Water Park provides a vast array of activities. You can enjoy various watersports such as sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, windsurfing, water skiing, and wakeboarding. It also features an inland beach for swimming, extensive off-road paths for walking and cycling, birdwatching opportunities, and fishing.
The Cotswold Water Park is located approximately 10.4 miles from St. Paul Malmesbury Without, making it an easily accessible destination for a day trip.
Many of the lakes offer excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Duck Pond in Alderton is known for its ducks and nesting boxes. Corston Quarry and Pond Local Nature Reserve is a local spot for observing wildlife. The Cotswold Water Park is a nationally important wetland, especially in winter, attracting thousands of waterbirds. Oakhill Ponds, though further afield, are noted for kingfishers, herons, and buzzards.
Yes, there are numerous walking opportunities. The Cotswold Water Park offers extensive off-road walking paths. For local walks, you can explore the tranquil settings around village ponds like Biddestone and Alderton. For more structured routes, consider exploring the hiking routes around St. Paul Malmesbury Without, which include paths along the River Avon.
Absolutely. The Cotswold Water Park has extensive off-road cycling paths suitable for various skill levels. Additionally, you can find several cycling routes around St. Paul Malmesbury Without, some of which pass by or near local ponds and scenic areas.
While not directly within St. Paul Malmesbury Without, Oakhill Ponds in Somerset, a bit further afield, are known for offering opportunities for wild swimming in their spring-fed waters.
The village of Biddestone, home to Biddestone Village Pond, is rich in history, featuring 17th-century manor houses, cottages, and a 13th-century church. The village of Leighterton also has a picturesque pond built around the church of St Andrew, offering a glimpse into Cotswold village life.
Yes, you'll find amenities near some of the lakes. In Biddestone, there are two pubs, the Biddestone Arms and the White Horse, close to the village pond. At the Cotswold Water Park, the Dragonfly Café & Visitor Centre offers a great spot for refreshments with lakeside views. Leighterton also has a pub near its village pond.
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for watersports and enjoying the vibrant greenery. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, and winter is excellent for birdwatching, particularly at the Cotswold Water Park, which hosts thousands of waterbirds.
While specific accessibility details vary by location, the Cotswold Water Park offers extensive paths, many of which are suitable for walking and cycling. For smaller village ponds, paths are typically well-maintained for general access, though some may be natural terrain.


Still not found your perfect lake around St. Paul Malmesbury Without? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.