Parks and Green Spaces in Swindon Where to walk, play, and picnic

Coate Water Country Park Swindon

For a complete guide including Coate Water parking charges, BBQ hire and splash water park, see our dedicated article: Coate Water Country Park Swindon.

Coate Water (or Coate Water Park) is one of Swindon's largest and most popular parks. It has a lake, woodland, meadows, and a variety of wildlife. There's a play area, café, and plenty of paths for walking and cycling. Popular with dog walkers – keep dogs under control and follow any local bylaws.

The Richard Jefferies Museum (17th-century cottage, free entry) is nearby – check opening times. The council also runs a splash water park at Coate Water during summer – check swindon.gov.uk for dates and booking.

Coate Water parking charges

Coate Water car park operates 24 hours. Current charges (subject to change): up to 2 hours £2.30, 2–24 hours £4.80. Pay and display; you can pay by phone (code 59281). Disabled parking available. Always check Swindon Borough Council for the latest Coate Water parking information.

Coate Water BBQ hire

Coate Water has designated BBQ areas. Bring-your-own BBQs are free in designated areas only – they must be off the ground and taken away after use; disposable BBQs are not allowed. For larger groups, Coate Water BBQ hire is available – family/community groups around £70 plus deposit, corporate events more. Book via Swindon Rangers (01793 490150 or swindonrangers@swindon.gov.uk). See the council website for current fees and terms.

Lydiard House and Park

Lydiard Park in West Swindon combines historic Lydiard House with extensive parkland. There are formal gardens, a lake, woodland walks, and a children's play area. Jungle Parc – treetop adventure courses for families – is at Lydiard; see our family days out guide. Dogs welcome in the grounds; check restrictions around the house and walled garden.

The Coach House Tea Rooms and Forest Café are popular stops. The house runs tours and events – check their website for details. Parking charges apply. See our full guide to Lydiard Park & House.

Stanton Park

Stanton Park, near Stanton Fitzwarren, offers woodland, grassland, and a lake. A good spot for dog walking and quieter walks – popular with locals and their dogs. Facilities are more limited than Coate Water or Lydiard. The Freke Arms pub nearby is dog-friendly for a post-walk stop – see our dog-friendly Swindon guide.

Queen's Park

Queen's Park in central Swindon is a Victorian park with lawns, flower beds, and a bandstand. It hosts events and is a convenient green space for town centre visitors. Smaller than the country parks, it's ideal for a short stroll or picnic.

Lawns Park

Lawns Park in Upper Stratton provides play areas, sports facilities, and open space. It's a local park serving the Stratton area.

Barbury Castle Country Park

Barbury Castle, near Wroughton, is an Iron Age hillfort with panoramic views. The site is managed as a country park with walking trails. It's on the Ridgeway and popular with walkers, families, and dogs. Parking is available.

Peatmoor Lake and Peatmoor Lagoon

Peatmoor Lagoon (also known as Peatmoor Lake) is a popular spot in West Swindon, off Shearwood Road (SN5 5DJ). A 0.8 mile (1.3 km) loop path around the water's edge passes through woodland – the main path is tarmac and suitable for pushchairs. Popular for walking, cycling, bird watching (swans, ducks, grebes, kingfishers) and angling. Free parking. No toilets or refreshments on the lagoon route itself – The Woodlands Edge pub and local shops are nearby. Shaw Forest Park is a short walk away.

Shaw Forest Park and Mouldon Hill

Shaw Forest Park offers woodland and paths – part of the National Cycle Network. Mouldon Hill Country Park features a lake and is used for walking and cycling. Both connect to Swindon's circular route network. See our cycling and walking routes guide.

Other green spaces

Swindon has many smaller parks, play areas, and green spaces across its neighbourhoods. For the most up-to-date information on facilities, opening times, and parking, visit Swindon Borough Council's recreation and leisure pages. For dog-friendly parks and walks, see our dog-friendly Swindon guide. For indoor activities, see our guide to leisure centres and swimming pools in Swindon.

Information correct as of February 2026. Always check individual venue websites for current opening times, parking charges, and events. Check the weather in Swindon before planning outdoor visits.