Lake 38

A proper working gravel pit turned water sports venue, Lake 38 sits just outside Cirencester and serves as the local watering hole for anyone keen on kayaking, windsurfing, or just mucking about on the water. The lake itself is decent-sized - enough to give you a real sense of space without feeling overwhelming - and the water's clean enough for swimming if you're brave enough to take the plunge.

The setup is straightforward: you've got a clubhouse area, rental facilities if you want to have a go at watersports without owning the kit yourself, and plenty of bank space for spectators or anyone who just fancies sitting with a flask watching the action. It's the sort of place where you'll see everything from serious windsurfers tackling proper conditions to families in hired kayaks pottering about the shallows.

It works brilliantly if you're staying at Hoburne Cotswold Holiday Park just down the road - only 1.6 miles away - or Park Farm Campsite a bit further out. Spend the morning here, afternoon exploring Cirencester's Roman history and high street. The lake doesn't demand hours of your time unless you're actually getting on the water yourself, but it's a solid half-day activity, especially if you've got kids who want a break from traditional sightseeing. Allow two to three hours to get the most from it. Worth checking their website for current pricing and opening times before you head over.