Roundhouse Lake Nature Reserve
A tranquil wetland sanctuary where Great Crested Grebes glide and migratory birds find refuge in the Cotswolds.
Roundhouse Lake Nature Reserve is a serene wetland sanctuary managed by Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust in Lechlade-on-Thames, Gloucestershire. This peaceful reserve showcases diverse habitats including open water, reed beds, and woodland, supporting abundant birdlife and aquatic species. With accessible walking trails, bird hides, and year-round open access, it offers an ideal escape for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and families seeking tranquility in the Cotswolds.
A brief summary to Roundhouse Lake Nature Reserve
- Lechlade, Lechlade-on-Thames, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit between March and August for peak wildlife activity, when breeding birds are most vocal and visible, and dragonflies are abundant around the water's edge.
- Bring binoculars and a bird identification guide; the reserve is home to Great Crested Grebes, Water Rails, Cetti's Warblers, and numerous other species, especially during migration seasons.
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and most active wildlife observation, when birds feed and light conditions enhance photography.
- Wear waterproof footwear and check weather conditions before visiting; paths can become muddy after rain, and the wetland environment demands appropriate clothing.
- Pack a picnic and plenty of water, but ensure all rubbish is removed; the reserve operates on a leave-no-trace principle to protect this sensitive habitat.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car from Lechlade-on-Thames town centre
From Lechlade town centre, follow local roads southwest toward the Thames and the nature reserve. The drive takes approximately 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is available at the reserve car park, which has been recently improved and includes accessible spaces. The car park is open year-round during daylight hours.
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Walking from Lechlade-on-Thames
From Lechlade town centre, head southwest following signs toward the Thames and nature reserve. The walk covers approximately 1.5 kilometers and takes 20–30 minutes on generally accessible paths. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as terrain can be uneven in places, particularly after wet weather. The route is suitable for most fitness levels.
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Bus from Swindon
From Swindon Station, take regional bus services (routes 63 or 66) toward Lechlade, a journey of approximately 45–60 minutes depending on service frequency and stops. Services operate less frequently on weekends, so check schedules in advance. Upon arrival in Lechlade, walk approximately 1.5 kilometers to the reserve (20–30 minutes).
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Cycling from Lechlade-on-Thames
Lechlade is well-positioned for cycling access to the reserve. From the town centre, cycle southwest following local roads toward the Thames. The route covers approximately 1.5 kilometers and takes 5–10 minutes. The Cotswold Water Park region has several cycling routes connecting nearby attractions and villages.
Roundhouse Lake Nature Reserve location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Roundhouse Lake Nature Reserve
A Wetland Sanctuary in the Heart of the Cotswolds
Roundhouse Lake Nature Reserve stands as a testament to successful habitat restoration and wildlife conservation in Gloucestershire. Designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) within the broader Cotswold Water Park SSSI, this reserve represents one of the region's most important natural spaces. The lake itself, surrounded by lush reed beds and carefully managed grasslands, creates a mosaic of habitats that support an extraordinary diversity of plant and animal life. The reserve's name echoes the historical significance of the Cotswold Water Park area, where flooded gravel extraction has been transformed into thriving ecological zones.Wildlife and Seasonal Spectacles
The reserve is particularly renowned for its exceptional birdlife. Throughout the year, visitors encounter species including Great Crested Grebes, Water Rails, and Cetti's Warblers, with spring and summer months (March to August) offering the most vibrant wildlife activity. The open water and reed beds provide critical breeding and feeding grounds for migratory birds, making the reserve a crucial stopover point along important flyways. Winter brings its own magic, as overwintering waterfowl arrive from northern Europe, creating dynamic scenes of natural activity. Dragonflies and damselflies patrol the water's edge during warmer months, while amphibians and aquatic invertebrates thrive in the protected wetland environment.Access and Visitor Facilities
The reserve welcomes visitors throughout the year with open access to its walking trails and viewing areas. Recent improvements have enhanced accessibility, including upgrades to the car park and wheelchair access to the first bird hide, ensuring that visitors of varying mobility levels can experience the reserve's natural beauty. Well-maintained pathways wind through the landscape, offering multiple vantage points for observation and photography. The reserve's design balances visitor enjoyment with wildlife protection, with designated routes that minimize disturbance to sensitive habitats and breeding areas.Conservation and Habitat Management
Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust actively manages Roundhouse Lake through evidence-based conservation practices. Habitat restoration projects have significantly improved conditions for key species, transforming the reserve into a thriving ecological hub. The trust's management approach focuses on maintaining favorable conditions for wetland specialists while protecting the broader ecosystem integrity. These efforts reflect the reserve's importance within the Living Landscape programme, a regional recovery plan for nature that encompasses multiple sites across Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds Rivers project.The Broader Cotswold Water Park Context
Roundhouse Lake exists within the remarkable landscape of the Cotswold Water Park, a unique environment created from decades of gravel extraction. What might have been viewed as industrial scarring has been transformed into one of England's most biodiverse regions, with over 150 lakes supporting exceptional wildlife communities. The reserve's position within this network amplifies its conservation value, creating stepping stones for wildlife movement and providing refuge during environmental pressures. The Cotswold Water Park Trust and partner organizations work collaboratively to ensure that these former industrial sites continue to deliver ecological and recreational benefits for generations to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Colesbourne Gardens
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North Leigh Roman Villa
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St Edward's Church
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Kelmscott Manor
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Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
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Bibury
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Bibury Village
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Bibury Antiques Fair
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Bridge and footpath to Arlington Row
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Arlington Row
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Groundwell Ridge Roman Site
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Burford
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The Oak Tree Restaurant
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Restaurant 56
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The Gallery Restaurant
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Modern European dining in the heart of Bibury, blending local Cotswold produce with elegant country charm at The Swan Hotel.
The Catherine Wheel
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The Old Boathouse
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The Old Smokery
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A lively Cotswolds hub blending rustic dining, vibrant events, and welcoming atmosphere at Far Peak Camping.
MBB BRASSERIE
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The Garden Restaurant
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The Feathered Nest Country Inn
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The Croft Restaurant
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The Mason Arms
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The Rose Tree Restaurant
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The White Hart at Fyfield
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The Potting Shed Pub
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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The Parade
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Primark
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Rowans Closet Arcadia
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The Cotswold General Store
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#now_vintage
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Crown @ Cerney Wick
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The Cotswold Arms
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Longs Bar
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1101 Cocktail Bar
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The Vault
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Eighteen Bar & Lounge
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The Tuppenny
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THE STUMP
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The Hop Inn
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Bee's Knees
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The Bear Inn, Cirencester
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Mad Hatter Wine Bar
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The Marlborough Arms
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Venue Five-0 Night Club
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The Bridge Nightclub
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Kiss Bar
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Oxford Leisure Ltd
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ATIK Oxford
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Fever Oxford
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Plush Oxford
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The Mad Hatter
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MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
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Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Popworld - Cheltenham
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The 21 Club
33.7 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Coco
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Under the Prom
33.8 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
2 PIGS
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Historic
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Eco-Friendly
- Wildlife Habitat
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Meditation Spot
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
