Gloucestershire is home to a stunning mix of rivers, lakes, and countryside that make it a great location for dog-friendly swimming spots. From the Cotswold Water Park to the River Severn, Gloucestershire offers plenty of safe and scenic places for dogs to enjoy the water. Here’s a guide to the best dog swimming spots in Gloucestershire. List of dog swimming spots around UK can be found here.
1. Cotswold Water Park
The Cotswold Water Park is one of the most popular destinations for outdoor recreation in the region, with over 150 lakes spread across 40 square miles. Created from old gravel pits, the park is now a hub for wildlife and water activities. Some designated lakes allow dogs to swim, making it a perfect spot for a splash with your pet.
With trails surrounding the lakes, you can enjoy a scenic walk after a swim. The lakes are relatively shallow and calm, providing a safe environment for dogs.
What’s nearby: There’s ample parking, toilets, cafes, and picnic areas throughout the park, making it a convenient spot for a full day out.
Find it: Cotswold Water Park
2. Forest of Dean – Cannop Ponds
Cannop Ponds, located within the beautiful Forest of Dean, is a tranquil spot where dogs can enjoy the water. These ponds were originally created for industrial use in the 19th century but are now a peaceful setting for wildlife and recreation. Cannop Ponds offers shallow areas that are safe for dogs to wade and swim, surrounded by forest trails perfect for a day of exploration.
The picturesque scenery and shaded walking paths make this an excellent choice for a day out with your dog. The ponds are also known for being a prime location for spotting wildlife, so it’s a lovely escape into nature.
Good to know: Limited parking is available nearby, with picnic spots and toilets around the area.
Get directions: Cannop Ponds – Forest of Dean
3. River Severn at Minsterworth
The River Severn, England’s longest river, flows through Gloucestershire, with many beautiful and accessible spots along its banks. Minsterworth is a particularly calm and scenic area where dogs can safely swim in the shallows. Known for its tidal bore, this part of the Severn offers unique views and is perfect for a quiet day by the river.
Minsterworth’s countryside setting makes it a peaceful location for you and your dog to explore, with gentle river currents that allow dogs to wade and paddle comfortably. Just be mindful of the tides, as the Severn can change rapidly in certain areas.
What’s nearby: Limited parking is available in the area, and local pubs in Minsterworth offer refreshments nearby.
Find it: River Severn – Minsterworth
4. Cotswold Country Park and Beach
Located within the Cotswold Water Park, the Cotswold Country Park and Beach is a lovely spot for a walk with your dog, though it’s not a swimming destination for them. The operator’s own rules state dogs must be kept on lead at all times and are not permitted on the beach or in the water. The sandy shores and calm lake are lovely to look at from the path, even if your dog has to admire them from a distance.
With beautiful surroundings and plenty of open space, it’s a pleasant lead walk for dog owners after a beach-style day out without heading to the coast — just remember the lead stays on and the water and beach itself are off-limits to dogs.
Good to know: The park offers parking, a café, toilets, picnic areas, and even equipment rentals, making it a convenient place for a full day of activities.
Get directions: Cotswold Country Park and Beach
5. Stratford Park Lake
Stratford Park Lake, located in Stroud, is a small but charming lake within Stratford Park, offering a safe spot for dog-friendly water play. The lake and surrounding parklands are well-maintained, and the park has a long history, once being part of a private estate dating back to the 13th century. Dogs are welcome to swim in the lake’s designated areas, and the gentle slope into the water makes it easy for dogs to get in and out.
The park has several trails to enjoy, with beautiful gardens and plenty of open space for a walk after a swim. Stratford Park Lake is a quiet option with scenic views and is easily accessible from Stroud’s town centre.
What’s nearby: Stratford Park has parking, toilets, and picnic areas. There are also cafes and shops in Stroud within walking distance.
Find it: Stratford Park Lake
Essentials for a Day Out in Gloucestershire
For a smooth day out with your dog, remember to bring these essentials:
- A long line: on Gloucestershire’s open riverbanks or unfenced parkland, a 5–10 metre long line lets a water-loving dog range and swim freely without you losing control before his recall is watertight. Most of our training bits come from Calmshops.
- Fresh Water and Bowl: It’s important to have fresh water, especially after a swim.
- Towel: Drying off your dog after a swim is a must, especially before they hop back into the car. For a proper wash and brush-out, our UK dog groomers database covers Gloucestershire too.
- Dog Car Seat Cover: keeps the car clean and dry on the way home, which matters more than you would think after a proper swim.
Another 5 Dog Swimming Spots in Gloucestershire:
River Coln at Fairford: Follow the footpath along the River Coln from Fairford town centre to find gentle slopes into the river, ideal for dogs to paddle. The area opens into expansive fields where dogs can run freely — which is lovely if you have a recall you can rely on in open country, and stressful if you haven’t. Be cautious of water levels, as they can rise in winter.
Stroudwater Canal near Felt Café: Walking along the canal from Felt Café offers scenic routes where dogs can enjoy shallow spots in the river. The café often hosts weekend wild swimming events, making it a pleasant stop during your walk.
Stream near Tetbury Goods Shed: Stroll along the old railway line from Tetbury Goods Shed to discover a stream at the bottom of an open field, perfect for dogs to splash in. The area provides a serene environment for both dogs and owners.
Mallards Pike Lake: Located in the Forest of Dean, Mallards Pike offers a designated swimming area for dogs within its picturesque lake. Surrounded by woodland trails, it’s an excellent spot for a day out with your canine companion.
Sandford Parks Lido (Seasonal Dog Swim Events): In Cheltenham, Sandford Parks Lido hosts annual dog swim events at the end of their season, allowing dogs to enjoy the outdoor pool. These events are popular and provide a unique swimming experience for dogs.
Final Splash in Gloucestershire
From scenic lakes in the Cotswold Water Park to tranquil riverbanks along the Severn, Gloucestershire provides a variety of options for dog-friendly swimming. Each of these spots offers something unique, whether you’re exploring the woodlands of Cannop Ponds or the tidal stretches of the River Severn. Pack your essentials, pick a spot, and enjoy a day of water-filled fun with your dog in Gloucestershire’s natural beauty. Before you set off, it is worth knowing which of the county’s vets sits nearest the water you are heading for. And if recall is the only thing standing between your dog and an off-lead swim, a Gloucestershire dog trainer will get you there quicker than another summer of hoping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the safest swimming spots for dogs in Gloucestershire?
The Cotswold Water Park and Cannop Ponds in the Forest of Dean offer shallow, calm waters ideal for dog swimming. These locations have gentle conditions that reduce risks for dogs, making them perfect for a safe and enjoyable splash.
Are there facilities available near dog swimming areas in Gloucestershire?
Yes, spots like the Cotswold Water Park provide amenities such as parking, toilets, cafes, and picnic areas. Cannop Ponds also has limited parking and picnic spots, allowing you to comfortably spend a full day out with your dog.
What should I be aware of when taking my dog to swim in the River Severn at Minsterworth?
The River Severn at Minsterworth features tidal currents, so it’s important to be cautious of changing tides and water conditions. Always supervise your dog closely to ensure their safety and avoid areas with strong currents.
Can I combine swimming with walking trails in Gloucestershire dog spots?
Absolutely. Many swimming locations, such as the Cotswold Water Park and Cannop Ponds, are surrounded by scenic walking trails. This allows you to enjoy a refreshing swim followed by a scenic walk, making for a perfect day out with your dog.
Is it necessary to bring any special equipment for dog swimming in these spots?
While not essential, bringing items like a towel, fresh water for your dog, and a throw toy can enhance the experience. It’s also wise to have a lead handy for areas where dogs need to be under close control.
