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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Woodchester Park
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Woodchester Park's serene lakes, rolling hills, and striking Victorian mansion. Perfect for walks, picnics, and family fun.
"A beautiful walk with varied trails, dog-friendly spaces, and a lovely cafe."
🚗 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Scenic Walking Trails
Throughout the park
Choose from various trails, including an accessible route, offering stunning countryside views and diverse landscapes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking and Access
Dog-Friendly Policies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 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.
🐶 Doggy Essentials
Dogs are welcome! Remember leads near livestock and utilize the available poo bins.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots, especially during autumn. Consider a photowalk for dedicated photography.
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.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Some paths can be steep; wear comfortable shoes for exploring the varied terrain.
🐶 Doggy Essentials
Dogs are welcome! Remember leads near livestock and utilize the available poo bins.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots, especially during autumn. Consider a photowalk for dedicated photography.
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy National Trust cakes and pizza at the cafe. Dogs are allowed in one section or outdoor seating.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, there is a car park available. It costs £3 in cash, or it's free for National Trust members.
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.
A pushchair can be used, but larger wheels are recommended due to some uneven terrain. An accessible route is also available for easier navigation.
Woodchester Park is located near the village of Woodchester in Gloucestershire. Nearby towns include Stroud and Nailsworth.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park grounds is free. However, there is a charge for parking unless you are a National Trust member.
No, Woodchester Mansion is not owned by the National Trust and requires a separate fee for entry to visit inside.
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.
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.
For group visits, it's best to contact the Woodchester Park or Woodchester Mansion directly to inquire about group rates or special arrangements.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
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.
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.
Absolutely! The park is a wonderful spot for picnics, especially by the cafe or down in the valley near the lakes.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The cafe offers delicious National Trust cakes and also has a pizza oven.
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.
Yes, bringing your own picnic is a great option, and there are lovely spots throughout the park to enjoy it.
Yes, there is outdoor seating available, some of which is undercover, making it a pleasant spot to relax.
Dogs are permitted in one side of the cafe and also in the outdoor seating areas.
📸 📸 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.
Yes, the varied terrain, from the lakes to the rolling hills, provides excellent opportunities for landscape photography.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial shoots or professional photography might require prior permission, especially if using drones or extensive equipment.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Autumn afternoons are particularly stunning.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🚶♀️ Mobility-Challenged Visitors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Walking Trails
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. The distance from the cafe to the boathouse is approximately one mile, offering a pleasant stroll along the water's edge.
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.
Woodchester Mansion: A Glimpse into Victorian Grandeur
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.
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.
Family and Dog-Friendly Adventures
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.
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.
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