Overview

Caversham Lakes is a natural open space with a freshwater lake in the heart of the Thames Valley. It offers a variety of outdoor activities such as open water swimming, stand-up paddle boarding, aqua park, beach, nature trails, and more. Bring your family and enjoy a perfect day out.

Things to do

The Caversham Lakes offer a unique open-water swimming experience that all swimmers should try at least once. Without lane ropes or walls, freedom is liberating and adventurous. Most people find the lack of chemicals and the liberty so invigorating that they come out of the water feeling happy and relaxed. Whether new to this fast-growing sport or have experience, visitors can enjoy the best open-water swimming experience.

Families can also take on the Main Aqua Park and have a fun-filled day out. It’s a real chance to be adventurous and cool off this summer. The sessions last 50 minutes and are suitable for all ages (6 years and above).

Stand-up paddleboarding (S.U.P. Boarding) is an increasingly popular water sport that’s a fantastic way to stay fit and have fun. Visitors can hire many boards, from single boards to a 6/7 person mega S.U.P., and try something new or explore the lake with their family.

The brand-new mega S.U.P. board can hold up to 7 people, and visitors can enjoy 60 minutes of unsteady fun on the lake. Visitors can also bring their inflatable S.U.P., kayak, or canoe to explore the beautiful freshwater lake. With two islands to paddle around and a large lagoon full of untouched natural waterways, there are more than 80 acres of water to enjoy.

The family beach is a great place for relaxation and one of the most extensive inland beaches in the South of England. Entry to the family beach allows access to all general areas, including the food court and seating areas. Sunbeds and parasols can be hired online to enhance the beach experience. Light paddling and limited swimming are available from the family beach for those aged three years and above (all children under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult).

Visitors can also experience the great outdoors by taking a 3.5 km out-and-back nature trail following local permissive paths around Caversham Lakes and the neighbouring fishing lake. The permissive paths around part of this fantastic venue are accessible all year round from dawn till dusk, allowing visitors to connect with nature and discover all the local wildlife and bird diversity in the area. Visitors can see Jurassic Island in the middle of the lake. It is a natural haven for local birds and wildlife to congregate, and an excellent place for kids to hear the Jurassic sounds to inspire their imagination.

Free parking is available at Caversham Lakes during site opening times, along with an on-site café for visitors to start and finish their walk with refreshments. Visitors should note that dogs may not be allowed on-site during busy periods, so it’s advisable to check before arriving if they wish to use the café and on-site facilities.

Food & Drink

Ava’s cafe perfectly blends delicious homemade treats and breathtaking lakeside views. Visitors can choose from various food options ranging from breakfast, brunch, lunch to quick snacks. The cafe offers mouth-watering smoothies and ice creams, along with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate to warm up with.

For those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, the Beach Club is the perfect spot. The Club offers a rotating selection of delicious food options, including stone-baked pizzas, loaded nachos, meze platters, burgers, hotdogs, bar snacks, and more. Visitors can enjoy a cold drink from the bar while listening to chill-out music.

Families looking for a serene place for a picnic can bring food and drinks and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.