A beach over 70 miles from the coast has reopened in a place famed more for its rolling hills, picturesque villages and lively market towns. Relaxing on the sand may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about things to do in The Cotswolds, but you can do just that at the Gloucestershire beauty spot.
Cotswold Country Park and Beach near the village of Somerford Keynes reopened to visitors on Friday (March 27). The venue is hailed by its owners as boasting the UK’s largest inland beach. It might be over 76 miles from the famous seaside resort, Bournemouth, but visitors to this spot in the heart of the English countryside can enjoy paddling, swimming and water sports here too.
During opening hours, lifeguards man the beach where you can hire boats, take a dip or enjoy a barbecue nearby.
Hot and cold food is served from the park’s Beach Shack, Café, and Ice Cream Hut. You can also take your own food and drink for picnicking.
Kayaks and paddleboards are available for hire too, with half an hour costing £10, as well as mini golf.
Dogs are also welcome as long as they don’t go on the beach or enter the water.
There are also pedalo swan boats while one of the main attractions is AquaAdventure, a giant inflatable obstacle course.
Admission costs £16 per person. Wetsuits cost £6 on the day and there is a 10 minute safety briefing followed by 50 minutes on the course.
Children must be at least six years old and over 110cm tall. Kids aged six to 10 have to be accompanied by an adult.
People with a head for heights can see how high they can reach on the venue’s climbing wall, costing £10 for a day pass.
The cost of getting into the park varies depending on the season. Tickets during low season range from £3.50 for pedestrians to £140 for a coach load of people.
During high seasons prices start at £5 and go up to £200. Admission for a car carrying five costs £20 with Gift Aid (or £18.18 without). A season pass costs £120 and is valid for a year. The park closes during the winter.
While it is not possible to stay at the park overnight, the venue recommends De Vere Cotswold Water Park Hotel and Apartments a few minutes away by car.
Hoburne Cotswold Holiday Park is also nearby and recommended by the venue. Cirencester is up the road too, about 15 minutes by car or half an hour by bike.
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