Lakes around Bourton-on-the-Water offer diverse aquatic landscapes, from the village's central River Windrush to larger man-made lakes nearby. Bourton-on-the-Water is characterized by its waterways and stone bridges, earning it the nickname "Venice of the Cotswolds." While the River Windrush flows directly through the village, several other lake destinations are accessible for visitors. These areas provide opportunities for walking, fishing, and watersports.
Last updated: June 18, 2026
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The gardens of Stourhead are among the most famous 18th-century English landscape gardens and, for me, one of the most beautiful I have seen so far. The centerpiece is a large, artificially created lake, around which winding paths, temples, bridges, grottoes, and rare trees extend. The layout was designed so that new picturesque views open up at every turn of the path.
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The gardens of Stourhead are one of the most famous English landscape gardens of the 18th century. The centerpiece is a large artificial lake, around which winding paths, temples, bridges, grottoes, and rare trees extend. The layout was designed so that new picturesque views open up at every turn of the path.
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Beautiful gardens, very well-maintained and attractive; simply wonderful for relaxing and unwinding
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Lovely view of the lake, especially at sunset.
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Amazing place. I was able to check out the shop and cafe, and have a peak at the garden, whetting my appetite to make it a day's destination some time.
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Stourhead opened in the 1740s as a landscape garden and living work of art. At its centre is a lake surrounded by mythical temples, grottos and wonderful specimen trees. It's now managed by the National Trust and paid entry other than the footpaths which run across the estate.
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A beautiful National Trust garden with a great circular walk around the lake.
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The most iconic water feature directly in the village is the River Windrush. It's known for its clear water, numerous low stone bridges, and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls and watching ducks. Children often enjoy paddling in its shallow waters.
Yes, the Bourton Lakes, located just outside the village, are primarily known as fishing lakes. These man-made lakes are managed by Moreton Angling Club and offer a quieter, natural escape for anglers and birdwatchers.
The Cotswold Water Park, located about 16 miles from Bourton-on-the-Water, offers a wide range of activities. You can enjoy various watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding, explore off-road walking and cycling paths, go birdwatching, or relax at an inland beach for bathing and paddling. It's an extensive area with over 180 lakes.
Absolutely. The River Windrush in Bourton-on-the-Water is very family-friendly, with opportunities for children to paddle and feed ducks. The Cotswold Water Park also offers numerous family activities, including an inland beach, watersports suitable for various ages, and extensive walking and cycling paths.
The Bourton Lakes are home to various wetland birds, with populations fluctuating seasonally. They provide a peaceful setting for birdwatching and enjoying nature away from the village crowds. The clear waters of the River Windrush also allow you to see fish.
The lakes and waterways around Bourton-on-the-Water are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for watersports and outdoor activities at Cotswold Water Park and for enjoying the village's riverside charm. Autumn offers beautiful scenery, especially around the landscaped areas, and winter provides a peaceful, serene atmosphere for walks.
Yes, there are walking paths that lead between the Bourton Lakes, offering scenic views and a peaceful environment for a stroll. These paths provide a good option for those looking for a quieter walk amidst nature.
The Cotswold Water Park is approximately 16.1 miles from Bourton-on-the-Water. It's best accessed by car, offering a relatively short drive to reach its extensive network of lakes and activities.
While not directly a lake, the Stourhead House and Gardens is a significant historical site with a beautiful lake within its estate. This National Trust property features mythical temples and grottos surrounding the lake. You can explore this area further by visiting Stourhead House and Gardens.
Yes, the paths along the River Windrush in Bourton-on-the-Water offer very easy and pleasant walks suitable for all ages. The walking paths around the Bourton Lakes also provide relatively easy routes for a peaceful natural experience.
Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the River Windrush, the picturesque stone bridges, and the opportunity for leisurely strolls. The extensive activities at Cotswold Water Park and the peaceful fishing and birdwatching at Bourton Lakes are also highly appreciated.
Yes, there are several outdoor activity routes in the broader region. For hiking, you can explore trails like the 'King Alfred's Tower – Kingsettle Woods loop' or 'Victorian Water Pump – View of Glastonbury Tor loop'. For gravel biking, routes like 'Stourhead House and Gardens – Cold Kitchen Hill Trig Point loop' are available. You can find more details on these and other routes in the hiking guide or gravel biking guide for Bourton.


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