Top 7 Lakes around Highworth
Lakes around Highworth, located in Wiltshire, England, offer a variety of natural and recreational water bodies. The area is characterized by its accessible countryside, providing opportunities for outdoor activities centered around its lakes and lagoons. These water features contribute to the region's natural landscape, attracting visitors interested in walking, wildlife observation, and tranquil settings. The proximity to the River Thames also introduces additional water-based attractions.
Best lakes around Highworth
- The most popular lakes is Coate Water Country Park, a country park that includes a nature reserve, woodland, and a lake. It offers varying sights and a pleasant walking experience.
- Another must-see spot is Coate Water Lake and Diving Platform, a large landscape park with a lake. It features woodlands, nature trails, bird hides, and a cafe.
- Visitors also love Cheese Wharf Wild Swimming Spot, a wild swimming location on the River Thames. It is owned by the National Trust and has nearby parking.
- Highworth is known for country parks with lakes, lagoons, and river swimming spots. These offer a variety of water bodies to see and explore.
- The lakes around Highworth are appreciated by the komoot community, with 90 upvotes and 11 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: October 24, 2026
Coate Water Lake and Diving Platform
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Cheese Wharf Wild Swimming Spot
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It's owned by the National Trust and there are a couple of parking spaces nearby.
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Peatmoor Lagoon
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Village Pond in the Oxfordshire Countryside
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Grotesque Head Pillars by the Lake
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Tips from the Community
Quite a large lake that can be walked around with numerous paths nearby, a mini-golf course.
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A walk around the lake is always pleasant. Can be quite muddy at the top end in the winter/ when wet.
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This lagoon is set in a picturesque landscape and is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. The surrounding path is paved and flat, with a few smaller offshoots inviting you to explore the surrounding woodland on more rugged trails.
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The pillars are carved with grotesque heads. These once stood at the top of the steps to the Peto Water Garden but have been moved to their current lakeside location.
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Willow, ash and birch can all be found in the park's woodlands, with oak trees on higher ground. A fantastic park with nature trails, bird hides and family activities, this is a lovely place to walk through or simply visit. There are also good facilities, a cafe and BBQ hire.
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Taking its name from the place where delicious cheese were once loaded onto boats for shipping to London, Cheese Wharf is now a brilliant wild swimming spot on the River Thames near Buscot. It's owned by the National Trust and there are a couple of parking spaces nearby.
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On the border with Oxfordshire, the village lay on a quiet hilly countryside. Some typical grass roofed cottages and a pond give the visitor the feeling to be inside a postcard.
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Large and very beautiful landscape park in the southwest of Swindon
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Highworth's lakes?
The lakes around Highworth offer diverse natural settings. You'll find country parks with nature reserves, woodlands, and large lakes, such as Coate Water Country Park. Other spots feature picturesque lagoons surrounded by woodlands, like Peatmoor Lagoon, providing tranquil environments for wildlife observation and leisurely strolls.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Highworth?
Yes, several lakes are well-suited for families. Coate Water Country Park and Coate Water Lake and Diving Platform are excellent choices, offering nature trails, bird hides, and family activities. The Village Pond in the Oxfordshire Countryside also provides a charming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Can I go walking or hiking around the lakes near Highworth?
Absolutely. Many lakes offer pleasant walking experiences. Coate Water Country Park is known for its varying sights and enjoyable circular walks. Peatmoor Lagoon features a paved, flat path perfect for leisurely strolls, with offshoots into surrounding woodlands for more rugged trails. For more extensive walking routes, you can explore the cycling guides around Highworth which often include paths suitable for walking.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming near Highworth?
Yes, you can find a notable wild swimming spot. Cheese Wharf Wild Swimming Spot on the River Thames, owned by the National Trust, is a popular location for a refreshing dip.
What facilities are available at Coate Water Country Park?
Coate Water Lake and Diving Platform, part of the country park, offers good facilities including a cafe and options for BBQ hire. The park also features nature trails and bird hides, making it a well-equipped destination for a day out.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Highworth?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather for outdoor activities like walking and cycling. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter walks can be peaceful, though some paths might be muddy, especially at the top end of Coate Water Lake.
Are there any fishing opportunities at the lakes near Highworth?
Yes, angling is a popular activity in the region. **Roughgrounds Lake**, located on the edge of Lechlade on Thames, is a prime spot for fishing. It's well-regarded for its mixed fishery, including Mirror Carp, Common Carp, Tench, Bream, Roach, Rudd, Perch, and Pike. The Highworth Angling Club actively manages this lake for its members.
Are there accessible walks for wheelchairs or strollers around the lakes?
Yes, Peatmoor Lagoon is noted for its wheelchair-accessible path. The surrounding path is paved and flat, making it suitable for those using wheelchairs or strollers, while still offering access to picturesque scenery.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near Highworth?
Visitors appreciate the varying sights and pleasant walking experiences, especially at places like Coate Water Country Park. The tranquil settings, opportunities for wildlife watching, and the presence of good facilities like cafes also contribute to a positive experience.
Can I go cycling near the lakes in Highworth?
Yes, there are numerous cycling opportunities. You can find various routes for road cycling, touring, and mountain biking around Highworth. For example, the 'Double Helix Cycle Bridge – Coate Water Country Park loop' is a popular touring bicycle route. You can explore more options in the cycling guides around Highworth.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' lakes worth visiting?
While not a hidden gem in the traditional sense, **Roughgrounds Lake** offers a specific and unique experience for anglers, being the sole still water venue for the Highworth Angling Club. For a picturesque village setting with a pond, the Village Pond in the Oxfordshire Countryside provides a charming, postcard-like atmosphere.
Where can I find parking for the lakes?
Specific parking information varies by location. For Cheese Wharf Wild Swimming Spot, there are a couple of parking spaces nearby. For other popular locations like Coate Water Country Park, dedicated car parks are generally available, though it's always advisable to check local signage upon arrival.
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