National Trust - Woodchester Park
Secluded Cotswolds valley with lakes, wildlife, historic boathouse, family trails, and scenic café views in a National Trust haven.
Nestled in a secluded wooded valley near Stonehouse in Gloucestershire, Woodchester Park offers a tranquil escape with its chain of five lakes, limestone grasslands, and rich wildlife. Managed by the National Trust, the park features waymarked walking trails, a café with scenic views, family-friendly play areas, and historic features including an early 19th-century boathouse. It is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking peaceful countryside walks.
A brief summary to National Trust - Woodchester Park
- Tinkley Lane Nympsfield, near, Stonehouse, GL10 3UH, GB
- +441453860037
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy walking shoes as paths can be steep and uneven in places.
- Visit the Tinkley Gate café for refreshments with panoramic views of the valley.
- Use the all-terrain Tramper mobility scooter available for hire to explore accessible routes.
- Keep dogs on leads around livestock and wildlife areas to protect sensitive habitats.
- Parking charges apply for non-National Trust members; consider membership for free parking.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
From the M5 motorway, leave at Junction 13 and take the A419 towards Stroud. Then follow the B4066 towards Nympsfield. Look for brown signs directing to Woodchester Park and the Tinkley Gate car park. Parking charges apply for non-National Trust members. The drive typically takes 20–30 minutes from Stroud.
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Bus and Walking
Local bus services run from Stroud to nearby villages such as Nympsfield. From the bus stop, expect a 30 to 40-minute walk on uneven terrain to reach the park entrance at Tinkley Gate. Walking paths can be steep, so suitable footwear is recommended.
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Taxi
Taxis from Stroud or Stonehouse to Woodchester Park take approximately 15–25 minutes depending on traffic. This option is convenient for visitors with limited mobility or those seeking a direct route without parking concerns. Prices vary but typically range from £15 to £25.
National Trust - Woodchester Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Trust - Woodchester Park
A Hidden Valley of Natural Beauty
Woodchester Park is tucked away in a steep-sided wooded valley in the heart of the Cotswolds, near the village of Nympsfield. This tranquil landscape is defined by a chain of five lakes set amidst limestone grasslands and mixed woodland. The park is recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its remarkable biodiversity, providing sanctuary to a variety of wildlife including rare bats, red kites, deer, and an impressive heronry on a secluded island. The park’s natural habitats change with the seasons, offering wildflowers in spring and vibrant autumn foliage.Historic Features and Landscape Heritage
The park is dotted with remnants of its past as a grand country estate. The early 19th-century boathouse, possibly designed by John Adey Repton, stands as a charming reminder of the estate’s leisure pursuits. Nearby, a disused quarry once supplied stone for the Woodchester estate. Although the famous Woodchester Mansion lies within the park’s valley, it is privately managed and not part of the National Trust property. The park’s landscape includes undulating grasslands and peaceful glades that reflect its history as a designed landscape, blending natural beauty with human craftsmanship.Walking Trails and Visitor Experience
Visitors can explore a variety of waymarked walking trails that wind through the park’s diverse terrain. The blue route, starting at the family-friendly Tinkley Gate entrance, offers a gentle circular walk around the lakes, suitable for most visitors. Paths vary in gradient and surface, with some steep and uneven sections, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The park also features a children’s play trail with rope swings, a zip wire, and see-saws, making it an engaging destination for families. Benches and picnic areas are scattered throughout, inviting visitors to rest and absorb the peaceful surroundings.Facilities and Accessibility
The recently renovated Tinkley Gate visitor facilities include a café serving refreshments with outdoor seating overlooking the valley, enhancing the visitor experience with scenic views. Accessible parking spaces and the availability of an all-terrain mobility scooter (Tramper) for hire help accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. While the park is open 24 hours daily, the café and visitor centre operate during regular daytime hours. Parking charges apply for non-National Trust members, but entry to the park itself is free.Wildlife Conservation and Environmental Importance
Woodchester Park plays a vital role in local wildlife conservation. It is home to over 120 bird species, including several warblers and finches, as well as rare greater and lesser horseshoe bats. The lakes support fish populations and provide important breeding grounds for herons. The National Trust actively manages the park to protect these habitats, discouraging activities such as swimming that could disturb sensitive species. Visitors are encouraged to keep dogs on leads around livestock and wildlife areas to preserve the park’s ecological balance.A Year-Round Destination in the Cotswolds
The park’s varied landscapes and wildlife make it a rewarding destination throughout the year. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and bird nesting activity, summer offers warm walks and boating memories evoked by the boathouse, while autumn paints the valley in rich hues. Winter’s quiet beauty is marked by crisp air and the chance to spot hardy wildlife. Woodchester Park is ideal for day trips, family outings, and nature escapes, offering a peaceful retreat within easy reach of Stroud and the wider Gloucestershire Cotswolds region.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Walk The Cotswolds
4.0 km
Explore the Cotswolds' breathtaking landscapes and charming villages with Walk The Cotswolds, your gateway to England's picturesque countryside adventures.
Haresfield Topograph
7.6 km
A three-dimensional map landmark on the Cotswold escarpment with panoramic views toward Wales.
Somerset Monument
14.0 km
A towering Victorian tribute to Lord Robert Edward Somerset, commanding panoramic views over the historic Cotswold landscape.
Visit Cotswolds Online
17.3 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds, where rolling hills, historic villages, and breathtaking landscapes await every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust
17.4 km
Explore the rich ecclesiastical heritage of Gloucestershire through its historic churches, showcasing stunning architecture and engaging community initiatives.
Eastgate viewing chamber
17.6 km
Discover Gloucester’s ancient Roman and medieval city defenses through a unique underground viewing chamber beneath Eastgate Street.
St Oswald's Priory
18.2 km
Explore St Oswald's Priory in Gloucester, a historical landmark that offers a captivating journey through time amidst stunning medieval architecture and serene gardens.
Gloucestershire Revealed
18.2 km
Explore Gloucestershire's rich heritage at Gloucestershire Revealed, a museum that brings history to life through engaging exhibits and interactive displays.
King's Board
18.3 km
Discover the historical allure of King's Board, a charming landmark in Gloucester that showcases rich heritage and stunning architecture.
Over Bridge
18.7 km
Historic stone arch bridge by Thomas Telford, offering scenic river views and a glimpse into 19th-century engineering near Gloucester.
Cirencester Park
19.8 km
Discover Cirencester Park: A historical gem in the Cotswolds offering expansive gardens, serene woodlands, and breathtaking views for every nature lover.
Barber wood
20.2 km
Experience the tranquility of Barber Wood, a nature reserve near Cheltenham, perfect for families and nature lovers seeking a peaceful outdoor escape.
Cirencester Amphitheatre
20.3 km
Step into history at Cirencester Amphitheatre, the largest Roman amphitheatre in the UK, where echoes of ancient times come alive in a beautiful setting.
Abbey Grounds Park
20.8 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical charm of Abbey Grounds Park in Cirencester, a serene escape for all visitors.
Cotswold Sculpture Park
20.8 km
Discover the Cotswold Sculpture Park, where over 175 unique sculptures blend seamlessly with nature's beauty in a serene outdoor art gallery.
Unmissable attractions to see
Woodchester Mansion Trust
0.9 km
A hauntingly beautiful, unfinished Victorian Gothic mansion hidden in a tranquil Cotswold valley, offering a rare glimpse into architectural ambition and a haven for rare bats.
Coaley Peak
2.2 km
Coaley Peak offers sweeping Cotswold views, ancient Neolithic heritage, and vibrant wildflower meadows on a tranquil hilltop reserve.
Nympsfield Long Barrow
2.3 km
Explore the ancient Neolithic burial chambers of Nympsfield Long Barrow, set amid stunning Gloucestershire countryside and steeped in mysterious legends.
Selsley Common
2.5 km
Explore Selsley Common’s ancient limestone grassland with rare orchids, historic barrows, and sweeping views over the Severn Valley in the Cotswolds.
Uley Long Barrow (Hetty Pegler's Tump)
2.8 km
Explore a 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial mound with ancient chambers and stunning Severn Valley views at Uley Long Barrow, Gloucestershire.
Cam Peak
5.1 km
Discover Cam Peak’s breathtaking views, wildflower meadows, and ancient hillfort on a scenic Cotswold Way walk near Dursley.
Sim's Clock
5.5 km
Explore the historical Sim's Clock in Stroud, a charming landmark that reflects the town's rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.
Made In Stroud
5.5 km
Discover authentic handmade gifts and local artisan treasures in the heart of Stroud’s creative community.
Museum in the Park
5.7 km
Explore Stroud’s heritage and art in a historic wool merchant’s house, with engaging exhibits and a serene Walled Garden in Stratford Park.
The Malthouse Collective
6.1 km
Discover timeless antiques and artisan crafts in Stroud’s vibrant Malthouse Collective, where history and creativity unite.
Cotswold Hills
7.4 km
Discover the enchanting Cotswold Hills near Tetbury, where rolling landscapes and timeless villages create a perfect English countryside escape.
RMC - The Cave
7.6 km
Step into RMC - The Cave for an immersive hands-on journey through five decades of retro gaming history in a historic Cotswold mill.
Haresfield Beacon & Standish Wood - National Trust
8.0 km
Discover sweeping Cotswold views and ancient woodlands atop the dramatic Haresfield Beacon escarpment near Stonehouse.
Visit The Cotswolds
8.0 km
Your essential gateway to exploring the scenic beauty, heritage, and charm of England’s Cotswolds National Landscape.
Ozleworth Park
8.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic charm of Ozleworth Park, a tranquil Cotswold escape with lush gardens and a unique circular graveyard.
Essential places to dine
Wilder
3.6 km
Discover an intimate fine dining adventure in Nailsworth with inventive tasting menus and expertly paired wines at Wilder.
The Long Table
5.3 km
A pay-as-you-can community restaurant in Stroud serving locally sourced meals that nourish both body and spirit.
Fagin's
11.5 km
A charming family-friendly English pub in Brookthorpe serving hearty steaks, classic carveries, and warm hospitality in a relaxed setting.
Miller & Carter Gloucester
13.4 km
Experience expertly cooked steaks and warm hospitality at Miller & Carter Gloucester in the heart of Quedgeley’s Olympus Park.
The Bell at Sapperton
13.4 km
Historic Cotswold inn blending seasonal British fare, a renowned wine wall, and cozy accommodations in the heart of picturesque Sapperton village.
Grey's Brasserie
15.9 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed dining at Whatley Manor, featuring globally inspired small plates and traditional Sunday roasts in a stunning Cotswolds setting.
Bill's Gloucester Quays Restaurant
17.2 km
A relaxed, modern British restaurant at Gloucester Quays, perfect for a post-shopping meal or casual catch-up with friends and family.
Côte Gloucester
17.2 km
Modern French brasserie offering refined cuisine and warm service in Gloucester Quays, now closed but fondly remembered.
The Tall Ship
17.3 km
Historic Grade II listed pub in Gloucester Docks offering excellent British food, great beer, live music, and a lively social atmosphere.
The Barge
17.3 km
A cozy family-run spot in Gloucester Docks serving hearty English classics with a welcoming bring-your-own-drinks policy.
Settebello Trattoria
17.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with panoramic dockside views at Gloucester’s beloved Settebello Trattoria.
Greek on the Docks
17.5 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and vibrant Mediterranean flavors with stunning waterfront views in the heart of Gloucester Docks.
Aroma
17.5 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with impeccable hospitality in the heart of Gloucester’s historic Southgate Street.
Eat Unique
17.5 km
A peaceful village restaurant in Churcham, Gloucester, offering distinctive dishes in a cozy, rural setting.
Topoly's
17.5 km
Authentic family-run Italian dining in the heart of Gloucester, serving fresh homemade dishes since 1990 in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Little Gift Shop
3.6 km
Curated gifts and local treasures in the heart of Nailsworth's independent retail scene.
Duffle Vintage
5.5 km
Authentic 60s and 70s vintage fashion in intimate, inspiring room settings.
Butterfly Ball
5.5 km
Discover mindful gifts and spiritual treasures in Stroud’s welcoming Butterfly Ball shop, a hub for creativity and community since 2011.
Moonflower Too
5.6 km
A vibrant gift shop in Stroud’s historic High Street, blending unique homewares with local charm and ethical brands.
Adana Collective Antiques
6.0 km
Discover timeless treasures and beautiful antiques at Adana Collective, a curated gem in Stroud’s vibrant Salmon Springs Trading Estate.
Handmade Cotswolds
8.3 km
Discover exquisite handmade crafts and unique artisan gifts in the heart of Stroud’s vibrant Cotswolds community.
Domestic Science
10.5 km
Discover curated vintage treasures and contemporary homewares in a charming Georgian townhouse at the heart of Tetbury.
Highgrove Shop - Tetbury
10.7 km
Exclusive royal estate boutique offering sustainable crafts, fine china, and artisan gifts inspired by King Charles III’s Highgrove Gardens.
Cotswold Creates
16.0 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and handcrafted treasures that capture the heart of the Cotswolds in Gloucester’s welcoming Cotswold Creates.
Gloucester Quays
17.0 km
Discover designer bargains and festive charm at Gloucester Quays, a lively waterfront outlet set within historic docks.
Gift Company
17.1 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homeware at The Gift Company, nestled in the vibrant Gloucester Quays outlet by the historic docks.
Upstairs Downstairs
17.6 km
Discover Gloucester’s charming antique shop with unique collectibles and a cozy tearoom serving homemade treats.
King's Walk
17.6 km
Gloucester’s central shopping destination featuring popular high street brands and convenient dining in a lively city centre setting.
Pilgrims Gloucester
17.8 km
Discover unique gifts and a cosy, atmospheric shopping experience in the heart of historic Gloucester.
L&S Lifestyle
17.9 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds in a cozy boutique setting at L&S Lifestyle, Gloucester’s charming gift shop on College Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Weighbridge Inn
4.8 km
Historic 17th-century Cotswolds pub famed for its unique 2in1 pies, local ales, and warm, rustic charm.
Cotswold Mobile Bar Hire
8.0 km
Bringing bespoke, fully stocked mobile bars with rustic charm and quirky inflatable pubs to your Cotswold events.
The Bumble Bee
12.1 km
A charming gastropub in Gloucester blending traditional warmth with quality seasonal dining and real ales in a relaxed setting.
Barn Owl
12.7 km
A friendly, family- and dog-welcoming pub in Quedgeley offering classic British fare, cask ales, and a warm, spacious setting with outdoor gardens.
Three Oaks Inn
15.3 km
A welcoming gastropub in Gloucester’s Robinswood, blending traditional charm with modern comfort and community spirit.
Avenue
16.0 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub in Gloucester serving classic fare and drinks in a welcoming Victorian setting with a vibrant community spirit.
Brewhouse & Kitchen - Gloucester Quays
17.2 km
A vibrant gastropub and microbrewery at Gloucester Quays offering craft beers, hearty meals, and waterfront views in a lively, modern setting.
TANK
17.3 km
Discover Gloucester’s premier craft beer bar with a lively atmosphere, local brews, stonebaked pizzas, and a welcoming beer garden in the historic docks.
One Eyed Jacks
17.3 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Gloucester blending classic charm with lively entertainment and friendly atmosphere.
Devoted Deluxe - Mobile Bar Hire
17.3 km
Elegant mobile bar hire in Gloucester delivering bespoke cocktails and personalized service for every special occasion.
Our House Bar
17.5 km
A vibrant cocktail and wine bar in Gloucester Docks offering curated drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Café René
17.6 km
A lively Gloucester pub and restaurant blending historic charm, award-winning food, and vibrant live music in the city centre.
The Drunken Duck
17.8 km
A vibrant Gloucester pub blending unique space, exceptional beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy.
The Sword Inn Gloucester
17.8 km
Historic Gloucester pub blending tradition, community spirit, and lively sports in a welcoming city centre setting.
The Fountain Inn
17.8 km
Charming Grade II listed pub in Gloucester’s city centre offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a cozy historic atmosphere with garden and function rooms.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Trio Nightclub
5.4 km
Experience Stroud’s vibrant nightlife at Trio Nightclub, where music, dancing, and energetic vibes light up weekend nights.
Capones
6.5 km
Historic nightclub in Dursley with legendary ties to Al Capone, offering vibrant weekend nightlife and pulsating music.
ATIK Gloucester
17.4 km
Gloucester’s largest nightclub, ATIK pulses with vibrant music, student nights, and an energetic party atmosphere until the early hours.
Jax Nightclub Gloucester
17.5 km
Energetic nightclub in Gloucester offering diverse music, two dance floors, and a welcoming atmosphere for late-night fun.
Bar Fever Gloucester
17.5 km
Experience Gloucester’s vibrant nightlife at Bar Fever, a trendy nightclub with dynamic music, stylish interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
ReVA Nightclub
20.6 km
Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Under the Prom
24.9 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
Thirteen Degrees
25.0 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
25.0 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
25.0 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Popworld - Cheltenham
25.0 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
The 21 Club
25.1 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Coco
25.2 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
2 PIGS
25.3 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
The Lion - Bar & Nightclub
29.1 km
A vibrant bar and nightclub blending historic charm with lively nightlife in the heart of Chepstow.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
