You’d think that, being landlocked, Birmingham wouldn’t have much access to many good outdoor swimming spots or sandy beaches. You’d be wrong. Quicker than getting to the coast, you can enjoy the sand between your toes at the UK’s largest inland sandy beach in less than 2 hours, at Cotswold Country Park & Beach.
The sandy beach that’s nowhere near the sea is located on a freshwater lake near Cirencester. With a little bit of planning, you can be swimming in the crystal clear water or building sandcastles, faster than you can get to Weston-super-Mare or Wales—making it a perfect day trip for Brummies.
What can I do at the UK’s largest inland beach?
Cotswold Country Park & Beach comprises a Main Beach for some serious outdoor swimming, as well as a Paddling Lagoon, which is great for playing and relaxing, while for those with little ones, the Mini Children’s Beach Lagoon is also available. But the whole place is jam-packed with exciting things to do.
You can make a splash with a high-energy AquaVenture inflatable course for the ultimate Total Wipeout-style experience. Or why not rent out kayaks, paddleboards or swan pedalo boats to explore these gorgeous lakes? Back on dry land, turn your hand to the 9-hole mini golf course or the giant climbing wall.
If that all sounds a bit… exhausting. Don’t worry. No one will judge you if you just want to throw down a towel and sunbathe with a good book all day. Just make sure to pack a picnic, but you can always buy burgers at the Beach Shack, or hire a BBQ to grill up your own food all day long.
How much does Cotswold Country Park & Beach cost?
Admission costs upwards of £3.50 for a pedestrian and £10 for a car, rising to £5,50 and £20 during high season (Saturday, July 4 to Tuesday, September 1). This includes access to the beach, swimming lagoon, toddler’s paddling area, children’s play parks and walks around the lakes. But other activities do cost extra.
You can find Cotswold Country Park & Beach at Spratsgate Lane, Shorncote, Cirencester GL7 6DF.
