Birmingham's Closest Inland Beach Announces Opening Date for Summer 2026
The picturesque Cotswold Country Park and Beach, renowned as the UK's biggest lakeside beach, has officially revealed its opening date for the 2026 summer season. Located just 90 minutes from Birmingham, this destination offers a perfect escape for sunbathing, sandcastle building, and beachside barbecues without the need for lengthy coastal travel.
Opening Details and Seasonal Highlights
Cotswold Country Park and Beach will reopen on Friday, March 27, 2026, aligning perfectly with the Easter holidays. A spokesperson for the park expressed excitement, stating, "Want to enjoy an incredible day at the beach in the heart of the Cotswolds? Purchase your admission ticket now for entry to the beach, swimming area, playgrounds, and lake walks, as well as access to our food outlets, onsite shop, and activity areas!"
Visitors can look forward to a variety of activities, including wild swimming, paddling in the lake, pedalo rides, and mini-golf. For 2026, the AquaVenture inflatable aquapark has been completely redesigned with eight new obstacles, adding to its existing 20 action-packed features like bouncing pillows, rolling balls, and tunnels.
Facilities and Attractions at the Park
The park boasts two beaches: Main Beach on the South Lake and the Children's Beach Lagoon, complemented by an adventure playground and junior climbing walls. Additional amenities include:
- Boat rentals such as rowing boats and mini port electric boats
- Pedal karts available for hire
- Three dining options: the Beach Shack and Café, Roma’s Pizzeria, and the Ice Cream Hut
- Picnic areas and barbecue hire for a festive atmosphere
With over 150 lakes on-site, water sports enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, zorbing, and more, making it an ideal spot for family outings and adventure seekers.
Ticket Information and Conservation Efforts
Tickets must be booked in advance through the Cotswold Country Park and Beach website, where season passes are also available for the entire summer. Each ticket grants access to the beach, swimming areas, playgrounds, lake walks, food outlets, shops, and activity zones.
Entrance prices start from approximately £3.50 for pedestrians and cyclists and £10 for a car of up to five people, varying based on low, mid, or high season. Notably, at least 10% of admission fees support the Cotswold Lakes Trust, a charity dedicated to conserving and enhancing the Cotswold Water Park for wildlife and community benefit.
Travel and Accommodation Options
Situated at Spratsgate Lane, Shorncote, Gloucestershire, GL7 6DF, the park is about 80 miles from Birmingham via the M5, passing through Worcester and Cheltenham—potential stop-offs for a scenic return journey. The drive typically takes around 90 minutes, traffic permitting.
For those wishing to extend their visit, nearby accommodations include Corinium Cottage in Cirencester, featuring a continental-style courtyard and wood burner, and Hayloft Cottage, a renovated stables sleeping up to four guests with an enclosed courtyard.
As summer approaches, Cotswold Country Park and Beach stands out as a premier inland destination, combining natural beauty with recreational diversity for Birmingham residents and beyond.
