Woodchester Park - people walking on gray concrete pathway between green grass field during daytime
1 / 10

Woodchester Park

4.6
·579 reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover Woodchester Park's serene lakes, rolling hills, and striking Victorian mansion. Perfect for walks, picnics, and family fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blossoms and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Woodchester Park - people walking on gray concrete pathway between green grass field during daytime

Woodchester Park

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blossoms and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Woodchester Park's serene lakes, rolling hills, and striking Victorian mansion. Perfect for walks, picnics, and family fun.

4.6
(579 reviews)

"A beautiful walk with varied trails, dog-friendly spaces, and a lovely cafe."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Cash for Parking

Bring £3 cash for parking, or enjoy free entry if you're a National Trust member.

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

Some paths can be steep; wear comfortable shoes for exploring the varied terrain.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Lakes and Valley

The Lakes and Valley

Lower valley area

Wander through the serene valley to discover picturesque lakes, perfect for a peaceful stroll or family picnic.

Woodchester Mansion

Woodchester Mansion

Hilltop

Explore the striking Victorian Gothic mansion, a unique architectural gem with a fascinating history.

Scenic Walking Trails

Scenic Walking Trails

Throughout the park

Choose from various trails, including an accessible route, offering stunning countryside views and diverse landscapes.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Parking and Access

Parking at Woodchester Park requires a £3 cash payment, or it's free for National Trust members. While some paths are steep, an accessible route is available, making it easier for those with mobility concerns. Consider a backpack carrier for younger children due to some challenging terrain.

Dog-Friendly Policies

Woodchester Park welcomes dogs, with designated areas in the cafe and outdoor seating. Remember to keep dogs on leads when livestock are present. Dog poo bins are available, contrary to some older information.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Vibrant foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Dani Westphal Behind the scenes of our shoot with @👑Queen Astraea👑 at @Woodchester_mansion. We promise many royal shinanigans led up to this moment. We are also only calling it iconic because we are incedibly obsessed with it. #BookTok #filmmaking #renaissancefestival #historicaldress #bridgerton #queencharlotte #cosplay #fantasyballuk
@mysticfateuk
123K likes • 774.5K views

🚗 Cash for Parking

Bring £3 cash for parking, or enjoy free entry if you're a National Trust member. Instagram

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

Some paths can be steep; wear comfortable shoes for exploring the varied terrain. Reddit

🌿 Woodchester Park 🌿 What a wonderful walk on a sunny day! We had the best day out (see previous reel to see where we go first before our Woodchester Walks). Heads up for Woodchester: 🍃 Bring £3 cash for the car park 🌿 You can bring a pushchair - however the bigger wheels the better - we opted for the backpack as it allows us to be more mobile and not fuss with pushchairs 🌳 The terrain is gradua...
stroud_rocks
23 likes • 763 views
Autumn Photo Walk at Woodchester Park. Head over to YouTube for the full video 😁 Got a few good shots which will be posted to my feed over the next week or two so don't miss those! (YouTube link in bio) . . . . #photowalk #woodchester #gloucestershire #gloucestershiregems #yourbritain #yourcountryside #cotswolds #visitgloucestershire #landscapephotography #naturephotography #outdoorphotography #a...
courtney_victoriaphotography
163 likes • 5.1K views

🐶 Doggy Essentials

Dogs are welcome! Remember leads near livestock and utilize the available poo bins. Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture stunning shots, especially during autumn. Consider a photowalk for dedicated photography. Instagram

reddit.com

Looking for places to park and enjoy countryside views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Cash for Parking

Bring £3 cash for parking, or enjoy free entry if you're a National Trust member. Instagram

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

Some paths can be steep; wear comfortable shoes for exploring the varied terrain. Reddit

🐶 Doggy Essentials

Dogs are welcome! Remember leads near livestock and utilize the available poo bins. Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture stunning shots, especially during autumn. Consider a photowalk for dedicated photography. Instagram

☕ Cafe Delights

Enjoy National Trust cakes and pizza at the cafe. Dogs are allowed in one section or outdoor seating. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(579 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Woodchester Park for its beautiful scenery, diverse walking trails, and dog-friendly atmosphere. The cafe is noted for its pleasant offerings, and the accessible route is a welcome addition. Some paths can be steep, and the mansion requires a separate fee.

"Beautiful walk, can be challenging on certain parts. But there are a couple of different walks to choose from. Accessible route available as well.
Lovely helpful staff, dog friendly. Requires dogs on leads when livestock around as normal.
Cafe was nice, delicious National Trust cakes as well and they have a pizza oven there as well, however we didn't try this on our visit."

Kirsty Ferguson

"Lovely place for a dog walk - paths were steep but there was a recently added accessible route which was nice to see. We did the 'blue walk' which involved some hills but was not too challenging and had a cold drink at the cafe after. Noticed an earlier review said there are no dog poo bins - this is incorrect information as we used one while there. Dogs are allowed in one side of the cafe or there is outdoor seating, some of which is undercover. I was also able to fill our dogs water bowl at an outdoor tap labelled as safe drinking water."

Fiona Keleher

"Such an awesome place.
Great for families to chill by the cafe and play sports or wander down to the valley for the lakes

The views are amazing when the sun is out

Highly recommended and you only have to pay for parking or free for NT members

Note: path to the lakes is steep. Not ideal for old folk!
Its approx 1 mile from cafe to boathouse"

Gary Traisneau

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Dog-friendly environment
Varied walking trails

What People Dislike

Steep paths
Mansion entry fee

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Woodchester Park is accessible by car, with parking available on-site. For public transport options, it's best to check local bus routes as direct services might be limited. Reddit

Yes, there is a car park available. It costs £3 in cash, or it's free for National Trust members. Instagram

While the park is best explored on foot, the car park offers some immediate access to the surrounding countryside. For dedicated car-picnics with views, you might need to explore nearby designated lay-bys or viewpoints outside the main park entrance. Reddit

A pushchair can be used, but larger wheels are recommended due to some uneven terrain. An accessible route is also available for easier navigation. InstagramReddit

Woodchester Park is located near the village of Woodchester in Gloucestershire. Nearby towns include Stroud and Nailsworth. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the park grounds is free. However, there is a charge for parking unless you are a National Trust member. Reddit

No, Woodchester Mansion is not owned by the National Trust and requires a separate fee for entry to visit inside. Reddit

The park grounds are generally open daily, but it's always advisable to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date opening times, especially for the cafe and mansion. Reddit

Information on purchasing tickets for Woodchester Mansion, including online options, can typically be found on its dedicated website or through the National Trust's event listings if they are hosting any joint activities. Reddit

For group visits, it's best to contact the Woodchester Park or Woodchester Mansion directly to inquire about group rates or special arrangements. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Woodchester Park offers several walking routes, including a popular 'blue walk' with some hills and an accessible route. The path to the lakes can be steep but rewarding. Reddit

Yes, it's great for families! Children can enjoy playing by the cafe and exploring the valley. The accessible route is also a plus for families with strollers. Reddit

Yes, dogs are very welcome in Woodchester Park. They need to be on a lead when livestock is present, and there are dog poo bins available. Reddit

Absolutely! The park is a wonderful spot for picnics, especially by the cafe or down in the valley near the lakes. Reddit

There's a cafe serving cakes and pizza, outdoor seating, and toilets. Dog water bowls and an outdoor tap for safe drinking water are also available. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The cafe offers delicious National Trust cakes and also has a pizza oven. Reddit

While specific menus can change, National Trust cafes often have vegetarian options. It's best to check with the cafe staff directly for current vegan offerings. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own picnic is a great option, and there are lovely spots throughout the park to enjoy it. Reddit

Yes, there is outdoor seating available, some of which is undercover, making it a pleasant spot to relax. Reddit

Dogs are permitted in one side of the cafe and also in the outdoor seating areas. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lakes and valley offer beautiful reflections and serene landscapes. The Woodchester Mansion itself is a striking subject, especially with its Gothic architecture. Autumn foliage provides vibrant colors for photographers. Instagram

Yes, the varied terrain, from the lakes to the rolling hills, provides excellent opportunities for landscape photography. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial shoots or professional photography might require prior permission, especially if using drones or extensive equipment. TikTok

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Autumn afternoons are particularly stunning. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in National Trust properties to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors and to protect wildlife. It's best to check the specific drone policy for Woodchester Park. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Woodchester Park is a wonderful outing for families. The open spaces are perfect for kids to run around, and the cafe provides a convenient spot for snacks and meals, including pizza. Reddit The accessible route makes it easier to navigate with strollers, and the lakes in the valley offer a scenic spot for a family picnic. Reddit Keep an eye out for any special family events that might be organized throughout the year. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

This is a dog-friendly paradise! Your furry friends are welcome throughout the park and even in designated areas of the cafe. Reddit Remember to keep them on a lead when livestock are around, and you'll find dog poo bins readily available. Reddit The varied terrain offers great sniffing opportunities for your canine companions. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Mobility-Challenged Visitors

Woodchester Park has made efforts to improve accessibility with a recently added accessible route, which is a significant plus. Reddit While some of the natural paths can be steep, this dedicated route allows more visitors to enjoy the park's beauty. It's advisable to check the specific details of the accessible route before your visit to ensure it meets your needs. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Walking Trails

Woodchester Park offers a variety of walking routes catering to different fitness levels and preferences. The park is known for its picturesque lakes and rolling hills, providing a beautiful backdrop for any walk. One of the most appreciated features is the recently added accessible route, which ensures that visitors with mobility challenges can also enjoy the natural beauty of the park. Reddit

For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, the 'blue walk' is a popular choice, involving some inclines that offer rewarding views. However, it's important to note that the path leading down to the lakes can be quite steep, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Reddit The distance from the cafe to the boathouse is approximately one mile, offering a pleasant stroll along the water's edge. Reddit

Whether you're looking for a gentle wander or a more invigorating hike, Woodchester Park's trails provide a fantastic way to experience the Gloucestershire countryside. Remember to check the weather and wear appropriate clothing and footwear for your chosen route. Instagram

Woodchester Mansion: A Glimpse into Victorian Grandeur

Perched on a hill overlooking the park, Woodchester Mansion is a magnificent example of Victorian Gothic architecture. This unfinished masterpiece, built in the late 19th century, offers a unique glimpse into the past. Unlike the park, the mansion is not managed by the National Trust and requires a separate admission fee to explore its interiors. Reddit

The mansion's history is as intriguing as its design, with stories of its construction and eventual abandonment adding to its mystique. Visitors often remark on the impressive stonework and the sheer scale of the building, even in its incomplete state. It's a popular spot for photographers and history enthusiasts alike, with its imposing facade and atmospheric interiors. TikTok

Visiting Woodchester Mansion provides a different perspective on the Woodchester Park estate, complementing the natural beauty of the valley with a rich architectural and historical experience. It's worth planning your visit to include both the park's natural landscapes and the mansion's historical significance. TikTok

Family and Dog-Friendly Adventures

Woodchester Park is a fantastic destination for families and dog owners. The park's grounds are spacious, offering plenty of room for children to play and explore. The cafe area is a great spot for families to relax, and the valley with its lakes provides a scenic setting for picnics and gentle activities. Reddit

For dog owners, the park is a true haven. Dogs are not only allowed but welcomed, with specific areas in the cafe and outdoor seating available for them. It's important to keep dogs on leads when livestock are present, a standard practice in rural areas. The availability of dog poo bins is a welcome convenience for responsible pet owners. Reddit

Furthermore, the park's commitment to accessibility, with its dedicated route, makes it easier for families with strollers or those with mobility aids to navigate and enjoy the surroundings. The provision of an outdoor tap for safe drinking water for dogs is also a thoughtful touch that enhances the visitor experience. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2