Lake 27

Lake 27 sits just outside Cirencester, a proper working gravel pit that's been given a second life as a fishing and watersports spot. It's the sort of place that doesn't announce itself much - you'll need to know where you're going - but once you're there, it's a tranquil stretch of water that punches above its weight for a quick afternoon out.

The lake itself is popular with anglers, which tells you something about the quality of the water. You'll see people fishing from the banks, and there's usually a handful of kayakers or paddleboarders if conditions allow. The walk around it takes a solid hour depending on which direction you head, and the paths are reasonably well-kept, though it can get muddy after rain. It's not dramatic scenery - this is Cotswolds proper, so you're looking at gentle banks and farmland views rather than anything alpine - but there's something calming about it.

If you're staying at Hoburne Cotswold Holiday Park just down the road, this is an easy morning visit before heading into Cirencester town itself for lunch. Families with older kids and keen walkers will get more from it than toddlers, honestly. There's nothing to keep little ones entertained beyond chasing ducks. Bring binoculars if you're into birds - the lake attracts decent variety. No facilities that I could find, so come prepared with water and snacks. Completely free access as far as I could tell, and it works best on a weekday when it's quieter.