Top 4 Lakes around Bishop'S Cleeve
Best lakes around Bishop'S Cleeve offer diverse recreational opportunities and natural beauty in and around this village. The area features a variety of water bodies, including natural reservoirs, dedicated nature reserves, and ornamental park lakes. These locations provide environments for nature observation, leisurely strolls, and family-friendly activities. Many spots are suitable for walking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the outdoors.
Best lakes around Bishop'S Cleeve
- The most popular lakes is Lake at Beckford Nature Reserve, a lake that features a tranquil lake surrounded by bushy green vegetation and woodland trails. It is an excellent spot for enjoying nature and wildlife, with well-maintained paths and bird hides.
- Another must-see spot is Pittville Park Lake, a large ornamental park lake. Visitors can enjoy fishing during the season or hire a boat for a relaxing trip.
- Visitors also love Dowdeswell Reservoir, a scenic stretch of water within a nature reserve. It offers a peaceful environment for walks through Dowdeswell Wood, with footpaths winding alongside the water.
- Bishop'S Cleeve is known for natural reservoirs, dedicated nature reserves, and ornamental park lakes. These provide a variety of settings for outdoor activities and nature observation.
- The lakes around Bishop'S Cleeve are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 60 upvotes and 10 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Dowdeswell Reservoir
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Lake at Beckford Nature Reserve
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Pittville Park Lake
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Apperley Village Pond and Church
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Pond in Hatherley Park
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Tips from the Community
Beckford Nature Reserve, situated just north of the centre of the village, is a wonderful place for a stroll and to enjoy nature. The reserve features a peaceful lake, lots of bushy green vegetation, woodland trails, and some interesting wildlife, including as greylag goose and wigeon.
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Dowdeswell Reservoir is a scenic stretch of water on the outskirts of Cheltenham. From the reservoir, you step straight into Dowdeswell Woods; a nature reserve that’s home to many species of plants and animals. Keep a lookout for birds including coot, moorhen, great crested grebe and little grebe.
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Hatherley Park is a lovely Park to stroll around either by yourself or with family and friends. Great for walking the dog.
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A great cycleway through the very beautiful Pittville Park... lots of pedestrians and dogs to avoid, but a great way to go and an even better place to plan as a spot to take a break.
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A lovely village pond next to the church with a green shaded by a huge willow. A great place to stop for a break.
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Great afternoon in the woods. Quite a few trees downed by winds and heard one crash whilst on my walk , so caution. Paths very muddy due to logging vehicles.
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Lovely area to walk, along footpaths through the woods and along the water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for nature observation and wildlife near Bishop's Cleeve?
For nature observation, the Lake at Beckford Nature Reserve is an excellent choice, featuring woodland trails and bird hides where you can spot greylag geese, wigeon, sand martins, and even rare orchids. Another great option is Dowdeswell Reservoir, a scenic nature reserve known for birds like coot and great crested grebe, as well as deer and diverse plant life in Dowdeswell Wood.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Bishop's Cleeve?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Pittville Park Lake offers boating, fishing, children's play areas, and tennis courts. The Lake at Beckford Nature Reserve is also family-friendly with well-maintained paths and wildlife viewing. Additionally, the Pond in Hatherley Park has two children's play areas and is a pleasant spot to feed ducks (with grain).
Which lakes are suitable for walking and hiking near Bishop's Cleeve?
You can enjoy peaceful walks around Dowdeswell Reservoir, with footpaths winding through Dowdeswell Wood. The Lake at Beckford Nature Reserve also provides well-maintained woodland trails. For more structured routes, explore the nearby easy hikes around Bishop's Cleeve, which include trails like the 'Crane Hill loop from Oxenton'.
Are there any dog-friendly lakes in the area?
Yes, dogs are welcome at the Lake at Beckford Nature Reserve, though they must be kept on leads. Dowdeswell Reservoir also permits dogs on a short lead. Hatherley Park, home to the Pond in Hatherley Park, is also a popular spot for dog walking.
What outdoor activities, besides walking, can I do near these lakes?
Beyond walking, you can find various outdoor activities. Pittville Park Lake offers boating and fishing during the season. For cycling enthusiasts, there are gravel biking routes around Bishop's Cleeve. Runners can also find suitable running trails, including routes that pass by Pittville Park Lake.
Are there any lakes with fishing opportunities?
Yes, Pittville Park Lake allows fishing during the season. For dedicated anglers, Ivy House Fishing Lakes, though a bit further afield in Wiltshire, offers a 22-acre complex with multiple lakes for match, pleasure, and carp fishing, complete with an on-site tackle shop and café.
Which lakes are wheelchair accessible?
The Pond in Hatherley Park is noted for its accessibility, including for wheelchair users, making it a pleasant and inclusive spot for a visit.
Where can I find a peaceful spot for a break near Bishop's Cleeve?
For a truly peaceful break, consider the Apperley Village Pond. It's a quaint feature next to the local church, shaded by a large willow tree, offering a picturesque and tranquil village setting.
What should I know about parking when visiting these lakes?
Parking can vary. For Dowdeswell Reservoir, parking can be challenging. Hatherley Park, which features a pond, does mention parking availability. It's always advisable to check local signage or park information before your visit.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Beckford Nature Reserve?
At the Lake at Beckford Nature Reserve, you can often spot greylag geese, wigeon, and sand martins nesting on the old quarry face. The reserve is also home to rare orchids and great crested newts, making it a rich habitat for various species.
Are there any cafes or amenities near the lakes?
Pittville Park Lake is located within Pittville Park, which offers various amenities including children's play areas, tennis courts, and a pitch and putt golf course. If you're visiting Ivy House Fishing Lakes (further afield), there's an on-site café.
Can I feed the ducks at any of the lakes?
Yes, you can feed the ducks at the Pond in Hatherley Park. However, for their well-being, it's recommended to feed them grain rather than bread.
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