Draycote Water: A Magical Countryside Break

Draycote Water is a large outdoor water-based country park and reservoir that caters to leisure and recreational activities rather than amusement rides or slides. It is not a theme park or indoor facility. While not a water park in the traditional sense, it provides a wide variety of water-related and family-friendly outdoor activities, such as sailing, trout fishing, walking, birdwatching, and waterside dining. It is managed by Severn Trent Water.

Located in the heart of Warwickshire, Draycote Water is a scenic and tranquil destination built around a 240-hectare reservoir that serves both as a vital water supply and a recreational hotspot. The area encompasses a vast circular path ideal for walking, running, and cycling, as well as meadows, woodlands, and a country park with playgrounds and picnic spots. It is particularly popular with families, birdwatchers, anglers, and sailing enthusiasts.

The reservoir, completed in 1970, is a crucial part of the region’s water infrastructure but has also become one of the top Coventry attractions for its peaceful surroundings and breadth of leisure activities. It is home to the Draycote Water Sailing Club, a well-regarded trout fishery, and the Draycote Water Waterside Restaurant and café. The wide tarmac pathway looping around the water stretches approximately five miles (8 km), taking about one hour and forty minutes to complete at a steady pace.

With open skies, resident wildlife, and expansive views, Draycote Water offers one of the best family activities in Coventry for those looking to explore the outdoors without leaving the city’s reach. While swimming and paddling are not permitted, visitors can enjoy watersports such as sailing and windsurfing via the sailing club, and seasonal events hosted by Severn Trent.

Seasonal Availability

Draycote Water is open year-round, with car park gates opening at 7:30 am and closing at dusk or 6:00 pm depending on the season. It remains closed only on Christmas Day. Events and facility hours may vary by season, and some activities are seasonal, such as fishing and sailing competitions.

Draycote Water Location & Directions

Kites Hardwick, Warwickshire, CV23 8AB

🗺️ Directions to Draycote Water

Draycote Water Official Website & Contact Information

https://stwater.co.uk/our-visitor-sites/draycote-water/

General enquiries

Phone: +44 (0)1788 811 107

Email: draycotewater@severntrent.co.uk

Visitor website

https://visitdraycote.co.uk

Main Attractions

Draycote Water’s main draw is its expansive five-mile circular path, which attracts walkers, cyclists, and runners throughout the year. Smooth, well-maintained, and fully tarmacked, this scenic route offers views of open water, woodland patches, and grazing sheep across rolling fields. It is ideal for families with prams, people with limited mobility, and fitness enthusiasts alike.

The Draycote Water Country Park adjacent to the reservoir is equally popular, offering a large children’s play area, woodland trails, open meadows for picnicking, and bird hides for wildlife watching. The park’s variety of landscapes supports a diverse bird population, making it a firm favourite with birdwatchers seeking everything from little egrets to wintering gulls.

Special Rides

As an outdoor nature-based site, Draycote Water does not feature traditional amusement rides. However, it hosts a number of seasonal events, including the Draycote Water 10K run – a popular road race held multiple times a year. These well-organised runs follow the full loop around the reservoir, providing participants with a traffic-free, flat and scenic course.

For those seeking a more dynamic experience on the water, the Draycote Water Sailing Club offers dinghy sailing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). The club hosts regular races, training sessions, and taster days open to both members and visitors. While not technically “rides”, these high-energy activities provide engaging and skill-building opportunities on the water.

Kids & Family Areas

Families visiting Draycote Water will appreciate the designated children’s play area within the country park. This safe and modern space includes climbing frames, swings, and accessible equipment suited to toddlers and older children alike. Adjacent to the play area are grassy picnic spots, making it easy for parents to relax while supervising.

The broad walking path is buggy-friendly, and younger children can bring scooters or balance bikes for a smooth and easy ride. The absence of traffic, ample space, and family-friendly signage around the trail create a relaxed atmosphere where children can enjoy being outdoors.

Wildlife spotting is also a big hit with children. Visitors often glimpse swans, ducks, hares, and other animals along the trail or near the meadow and wetland areas.

Relaxation Areas

Draycote Water excels at providing calm, spacious areas to unwind. Visitors will find several picnic spots with benches dotted along the trail and within the country park. The open grassy meadows are ideal for spreading a blanket and enjoying a peaceful view across the reservoir. The Waterside Restaurant and Draycote Water café also offer comfortable indoor seating and outdoor terrace areas with sweeping views of the water.

For those seeking a moment of solitude, the bird hide is a quiet retreat with seating where visitors can observe waterfowl and migrating birds in silence. It is popular with both casual birdwatchers and keen ornithologists, offering a clear view of seasonal species such as little egrets, common gulls, and great crested grebes.

There is also a small woodland walk, separate from the main loop, which provides a shady, tranquil break from the more frequented areas.

Unique Features

One of the most distinctive features of Draycote Water is the integration of nature, sport, and conservation. Unlike traditional parks, this is a functioning reservoir with a managed fishery and ecological monitoring. The draycote reservoir fishing experience is particularly prized: trout fishing is permitted from both boat and bank, with brown and rainbow trout regularly stocked. Bookings are available for day tickets or full-season permits, and boat hire is available with prior arrangement.

Another standout is its suitability for runners and cyclists training for long-distance events, thanks to the uninterrupted, well-surfaced loop path. The reservoir is also part of a larger water management system operated by Severn Trent, adding an educational element to visits, particularly for school trips and environmentally conscious visitors.

Baby Changing Facilities

Draycote Water provides baby changing facilities within the main Visitor Hub, where toilets and other amenities are located. These are clean, modern and regularly maintained by Severn Trent’s on-site team. A Changing Places toilet is also available for those with more complex accessibility needs. It includes a hoist, adult-sized changing bench, and requires a RADAR key for access.

While not extensive in number, they are suitable for most daily visitor needs and are signposted clearly from the café and main entrance.

Bottle-Warming Stations

There is no dedicated bottle-warming station advertised at Draycote Water. However, staff at the Draycote Water café (operated by New Leaf Catering) are known to be friendly and accommodating, and may be willing to assist with heating bottles or baby food upon polite request, as is often the case in similar family-oriented cafés.

Baby Pools

As Draycote Water is a reservoir and not a swimming facility, there are no baby pools or splash zones on-site. Swimming and paddling are prohibited due to safety concerns and the nature of the water supply.

Minimum Age Restrictions

There are no formal age restrictions for general entry to Draycote Water, and the space is well-suited to families with young children and infants. However, for activities such as sailing, windsurfing, or fishing, minimum ages may apply depending on the course or session. The Draycote Water Sailing Club typically runs structured junior courses starting from age 8, while fishing from boats may have age restrictions for safety.

For families with infants, the reservoir path is pram-friendly, and the country park areas are spacious enough for toddlers to explore safely under supervision. The flat terrain also allows easy use of buggies and strollers throughout most areas.

Entry Fees

There is no fee to enter Draycote Water itself. Visitors can freely access the walking trails, country park, picnic areas, and general outdoor spaces. However, parking charges apply, and some activities such as fishing and sailing involve separate fees or memberships.

Parking fees (as of 2024) are:

• Up to 15 minutes: Free
• Up to 2 hours: £3.50
• 2 to 4 hours: £5.50
• All day: £7.00
• Motorbikes: £2.00 flat rate

An Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system is in place. Visitors do not need to display a ticket; the ANPR system logs your number plate on entry, and payment is made at the machine or online before exiting.

Discounts & Offers

There are currently no standard discounts for general visitors, but special event pricing (such as for the Draycote Water 10K or fishing competitions) may vary. Some offers may apply through third-party sites during event periods or via membership with the Draycote Water Sailing Club or fishing season passes.

Frequent visitors can benefit from an annual parking pass, though this is not always advertised clearly on the official website. It may be worth contacting Severn Trent directly for up-to-date membership or season pass options.

Draycote Water Tickets Booking

Parking: No booking required. Payment is made on-site via ANPR machines.

Fishing: Pre-booking strongly recommended. Visitors can reserve boats or bank fishing permits via flyfishstore.co.uk or by contacting the ranger team.

Sailing/Windsurfing: Bookings are handled through the Draycote Water Sailing Club at draycotewater.co.uk, where visitors can enrol in taster sessions or apply for temporary memberships.

Events: Entry for races such as the Draycote Water 10K can be booked through running event organisers such as RunThrough.

Refund/Cancellation Policy

There is no formal refund policy for general visitors, as entry is free. For pre-booked activities (e.g., fishing or sailing), refund or rescheduling policies depend on the provider. For example:

• Fishing bookings may be rescheduled in case of poor weather or closures.
• Sailing sessions may offer refunds or credits if cancelled with sufficient notice.

It is advisable to check the terms at the time of booking, especially for weather-dependent activities.

Daily Schedule

Draycote Water is open to the public seven days a week, with the car park gates opening at 7:30 am. The closing time varies depending on the season and daylight hours:

• May to August: Closes at 6:00 pm
• September to April: Closes at dusk (approximately between 4:00 pm and 5:30 pm depending on time of year)

The Visitor Hub, which includes toilets, the café, and other amenities, generally follows the same opening hours as the car park, although the café’s hours may vary slightly depending on footfall and weather. The site is closed only on Christmas Day.

Seasonal Changes

While general access is maintained throughout the year, certain activities and facilities operate seasonally:

The Waterside Restaurant and café are open year-round but may shorten their hours during off-peak months or particularly bad weather.

Fishing is available most of the year, with peak activity typically from mid-March through late November, depending on water levels and weather. During this period, fly fishing is available from both bank and boat, subject to weather and water conditions.

The Draycote Water Sailing Club runs year-round but offers its primary sailing programmes and events between spring and early autumn.

Events, including fun runs like the Draycote Water 10K, are mostly held from spring through to autumn, taking advantage of longer daylight and better weather.

Peak & Off-Peak Info

Peak times: Weekends (especially Sundays), bank holidays, and school holidays are the busiest periods. Warm summer days can draw large crowds, especially in the morning and early afternoon.

Off-peak times: Weekdays during term time are typically quieter, offering a peaceful atmosphere for walkers, birdwatchers, and parents with young children.

Visitors planning a day out are encouraged to arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking and enjoy the most of the outdoor space before crowds build up.

Public Transport

Draycote Water is located near the village of Dunchurch, just outside Rugby in Warwickshire. The nearest train station is Rugby, approximately 6 miles (10 km) away. From there, visitors can take a taxi or drive to the site. Unfortunately, there is no direct public bus service that stops at Draycote Water, making it less accessible for those without private transport.

Local buses from Rugby stop in Dunchurch, but visitors would then face a walk of around 2 miles (3.2 km) along country roads, which may not be suitable for families or those with limited mobility.

Wheelchair & Accessibility

Draycote Water is known for its excellent accessibility, particularly around the five-mile circular path, which is:

• Fully surfaced with smooth tarmac
• Wide enough for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and pushchairs
• Level with minimal gradients, making it comfortable for those with mobility challenges

There are accessible toilets in the Visitor Hub, and dedicated disabled parking bays are located near the main entrance. Seating areas and benches are placed at regular intervals around the trail for rest breaks.

The site is listed on the AccessAble website with a full accessibility guide, outlining features such as:

• Step-free entrances to the Visitor Hub and café
• Clear signage and wide doorways
• Good lighting and accessible picnic tables in the country park

Draycote Water Parking

The car park is large and well-managed by ANPR technology, with charges based on length of stay (first 15 minutes free). Blue Badge holders must still pay unless a local exemption applies. The parking bays nearest the entrance are reserved for disabled users, with easy access to the Visitor Hub and trail.

Car Charging Stations

At present, there are no electric vehicle (EV) charging points at Draycote Water or in the car park. Visitors travelling by EV may need to use chargers in Rugby town or nearby service stations.

Shuttle Service

There is no park-owned or partner shuttle service to Draycote Water. Visitors must drive, cycle, or use local taxi services from Rugby or Coventry. The lack of direct public or shuttle transport can be a limitation for non-drivers.

Bike Storage

There are bike racks available near the main entrance and Visitor Hub, allowing cyclists to securely store bicycles while using other facilities. The five-mile loop is also popular with cyclists, especially families and leisure riders, though the path is shared with walkers and runners.

Customer Ratings

Customer Reviews

Draycote Water is consistently praised for its clean paths, peaceful atmosphere, family-friendliness, and well-maintained environment. Most visitors highlight the scenic walking route, ample wildlife, and relaxing feel of the reservoir as standout features.

“A perfect place for a weekend walk. The full loop is so smooth – ideal for prams or wheelchairs. Lovely café too.”

“We come here regularly with the kids. They love spotting swans and playing in the park. Easy parking and always clean.”

“I ran the Draycote 10K and it is now one of my favourite courses. Quiet, flat, and very scenic – perfect for a PB!”

Safety & Cleanliness

Visitors frequently comment on the cleanliness of the walking trails, picnic areas, and toilets. The site is managed by Severn Trent Water, which ensures that litter is collected and facilities are well-maintained. Water safety signage is clearly visible around the reservoir, and swimming is prohibited to protect both public safety and water quality.

While there are no lifeguards (since swimming is not allowed), staff presence in the Visitor Hub and activity areas helps ensure that visitors feel secure. The environment is regarded as very safe for children, with most families reporting positive experiences in terms of supervision and site layout.

Food & Drink

raycote Water has a Waterside Restaurant and café located in the Visitor Hub, overlooking the reservoir. Operated by New Leaf Catering, it offers indoor and outdoor seating with scenic views. The menu includes hot meals, sandwiches, cakes, and a selection of teas and coffees. It is a popular stop for walkers and cyclists taking a break from the trail.

There are also dedicated picnic areas within the country park, especially near the play area and meadow. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food, and many families enjoy picnicking on the grass or benches provided. However, barbecues and open flames are strictly prohibited anywhere on site.

Accommodation

There is no on-site accommodation at Draycote Water, but several options are available nearby. The closest hotels and B&Bs are located in Dunchurch, Rugby, and surrounding villages. Options range from boutique inns to larger chain hotels, such as Premier Inn and Holiday Inn in Rugby. Camping is not permitted on the site itself.

Seating & Lounging Areas

Benches are distributed along the full reservoir loop, typically every 500 metres or so, offering regular rest stops. The café has both indoor cushioned seating and outdoor patio furniture for those wanting to enjoy the view. Grassy meadows in the park provide informal lounging spots suitable for blankets and sunbathing during warmer months.

Changing & Locker Facilities

There are no locker facilities on-site. Changing facilities are limited to standard toilet areas in the Visitor Hub. These are clean, well-lit, and include baby changing areas but do not offer private changing cubicles or showers.

First Aid & Medical Assistance

While there is no formal first aid centre, staff within the Visitor Hub are trained in basic first aid and can respond to incidents or contact emergency services if required. The area is generally low-risk, with clear signage and good visibility across the site.

Toilets

Toilet facilities are located inside the Visitor Hub, including male, female, accessible toilets, and baby changing areas. These are open during visitor hours and are routinely cleaned. There are no additional toilets elsewhere along the reservoir path.

Water Fountains

There are currently no publicly advertised water fountains or refill stations. Visitors are advised to bring bottled water, especially during warm weather or long walks.

Wi-Fi Availability

There is no public Wi-Fi at Draycote Water. Visitors should expect limited digital connectivity and rely on mobile networks. Most networks receive moderate to strong signal across the site, though coverage may vary near the water’s edge.

Baby-Friendly Facilities

The café and toilet areas are baby- and toddler-friendly, with highchairs available and ample space for prams. Staff are known to be accommodating to families with young children.

Lost & Found Policy

There is no official lost and found desk, but lost items can be reported or handed in at the Visitor Hub reception. Staff will log details and attempt to reunite items with owners if possible.

Smoking Areas

The park is largely smoke-free, and smoking is not permitted in or near the Visitor Hub, café, or children’s areas. There are no designated smoking shelters, but smoking in the open areas of the car park or away from high footfall zones is not strictly enforced.

Dog-Friendly Details

Dogs are not permitted on the main reservoir path, but they are allowed on lead in the country park and meadow areas behind the Visitor Hub. There is clear signage throughout the site explaining dog access rules, and this policy is enforced to protect wildlife and water quality. Guide dogs are permitted throughout the site.

Although Draycote Water is not a conventional water park with rides or slides, it does have a number of strictly enforced rules to ensure the safety of visitors, the protection of the environment, and the smooth operation of the reservoir.

• Swimming, paddling, and entering the water are strictly prohibited. This rule applies to all visitors and is in place due to water safety risks and the reservoir’s function as a drinking water supply.
• Dogs are not allowed on the main five-mile reservoir path. However, they are welcome on a lead in the country park and meadow behind the Visitor Hub. Assistance dogs are permitted throughout.
• Cyclists, runners, and walkers must share the path respectfully. The route is wide but shared-use, so overtaking should be done with care, and slower users kept to one side.
• Barbecues and open fires are not allowed anywhere on the site, including picnic areas and grasslands.
• Littering is prohibited. Bins are available at key locations, and visitors are encouraged to take their rubbish home where possible.
• Fishing is allowed only with a valid permit. Visitors must adhere to designated fishing areas and abide by seasonal regulations set by Severn Trent Fishery Management.
• No drones are allowed without prior written permission due to wildlife concerns and the proximity to utility infrastructure.
• Children must be supervised at all times, particularly near the water’s edge and in the playground.
• Noise should be kept to a minimum, especially in wildlife-sensitive zones and birdwatching areas.
• Cycling is permitted only on the designated tarmac path around the reservoir.

These rules are signposted clearly throughout the site, particularly at the entrance, in the car park, and near the café. On busy days, rangers and Severn Trent staff may be present to enforce rules and assist with visitor queries.

Water Safety

Draycote Water is a functioning reservoir and a key part of the region’s drinking water supply, which means entering the water is strictly prohibited. This includes swimming, paddling, and any unauthorised water activities. The banks of the reservoir can be steep and slippery, and sudden drops in depth make it unsafe for recreational swimming.

Numerous safety signs are placed around the reservoir path, clearly indicating the no-swimming rule and outlining the risks associated with open water. Visitors are expected to adhere to these warnings at all times.

Path & Trail Safety

The five-mile circular path is surfaced with tarmac and well-maintained, but visitors should still take care when the surface is wet or icy. During peak times, the path can be busy with walkers, runners, and cyclists, so attention and courtesy are essential to avoid collisions.

Parents are advised to keep children on the inside edge of the path, away from the water, and ensure they are supervised, especially near the dam or car park where traffic may be present.

Fishing Safety

Visitors engaging in draycote reservoir fishing must follow the health and safety guidelines provided by Severn Trent’s fishery team. This includes wearing lifejackets when using hired boats, handling fishing equipment responsibly, and staying within designated zones. Weather conditions are monitored closely, and boats may be restricted or cancelled during high winds for safety reasons.

COVID-19 and Health Considerations

While formal COVID-19 restrictions have lifted, hand sanitiser is available in the Visitor Hub, and visitors are encouraged to maintain hygiene, particularly in shared areas such as toilets and the café.

Anyone experiencing symptoms of illness is asked to postpone their visit out of consideration for others. The café and public areas are cleaned regularly, and staff maintain a good standard of cleanliness across the site.

Emergency Assistance

There is no permanent first aid centre, but Visitor Hub staff are trained in basic first aid and can assist with minor injuries or contact emergency services when necessary. In the event of an emergency, the nearest hospital with full accident and emergency services is St Cross Hospital in Rugby, approximately 15 minutes away by car.

Visitors are encouraged to carry a fully charged mobile phone, particularly when walking the full loop, as the path extends well beyond immediate assistance from staff.

Draycote Water does not feature theme park-style rides, but it does host several structured recreational activities such as sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and trout fishing. These activities are governed by specific safety and conduct rules to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Sailing, Windsurfing, and Watersports

All water-based activities are managed through the Draycote Water Sailing Club, which maintains high safety standards. Key rules include:

• Pre-booking is required for most taster sessions, training courses, and equipment hire.
• Participants must wear buoyancy aids or lifejackets at all times when on the water.
• Only approved craft may be used on the reservoir; private vessels are not permitted without prior approval and inspection.
• Children may take part in sailing courses, but minimum age requirements apply, usually starting from 8 years old for supervised youth sessions.
• Visitors must follow the club’s flag system for weather conditions and heed any cancellation or safety warnings issued by instructors.
• Personal behaviour, including no alcohol consumption before or during activities, is strictly enforced.

All instructors are certified, and safety boats are available on the water during official sessions.

Fishing Rules

Draycote Water is home to a renowned trout fishery offering both bank and boat fishing. The rules for anglers are clearly defined by the fishery management:

• Fly fishing only is allowed – bait fishing is not permitted.
• Anglers must carry a valid fishing permit or day ticket, which can be purchased online or in-person.
• Catch limits apply, depending on the type of ticket purchased. A standard day ticket includes a set number of fish that can be taken home, with further catches requiring release.
• Boat hire rules require that all participants wear lifejackets and remain within designated areas of the reservoir.
• Fishing from boats may be restricted during bad weather or high winds, and solo boat fishing is discouraged for safety reasons.
• All visitors are expected to follow environmental guidelines, including correct handling of fish and disposal of litter or fishing line.

These rules are enforced to maintain a healthy fish stock, protect wildlife, and ensure fair access to all anglers.

If you are planning a visit to Draycote Water, you might find yourself asking some common practical questions. From walking times to pet policies, the most frequently asked queries help new visitors prepare for a smooth and enjoyable day out. Here are some of the top questions people ask when researching Draycote Water.

How long does it take to walk around Draycote Water?

The circular path around Draycote Water is approximately five miles (8 kilometres) long. It is a fully surfaced, tarmac trail that takes the average walker around 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete at a gentle pace. Runners and cyclists often complete it more quickly, while families with young children or those stopping for views and picnics may take longer. The path is flat and accessible, making it suitable for all levels of fitness.

Do you have to pay for parking at Draycote Water?

Yes, parking at Draycote Water is not free beyond the first 15 minutes. The site uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) to calculate charges based on your length of stay. Current rates are:

• Up to 15 minutes: Free
• Up to 2 hours: £3.50
• 2 to 4 hours: £5.50
• All day: £7.00
• Motorbikes: £2.00
  Payment is made before exiting, and Blue Badge holders are also required to pay unless eligible under specific local schemes.

Can you walk dogs around Draycote Water?

Dogs are not permitted on the main five-mile path that loops around the reservoir. However, they are allowed on leads in the country park and meadow areas behind the Visitor Hub. This policy is in place to protect wildlife and ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors, especially those using the trail for exercise or mobility purposes. Guide dogs are permitted across the entire site.

Can you swim in Draycote Water?

No, swimming and paddling are strictly prohibited at Draycote Water. The reservoir is a working water supply site with steep sides, deep water, and strong currents that make it unsafe for swimming. Clear signage around the site warns against entering the water, and this rule is enforced year-round for public safety.

Draycote Water is a refreshing change of pace from traditional water parks, offering natural beauty, space to breathe, and a slower rhythm that suits families, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. It is not built for thrill-seekers or indoor entertainment; instead, it offers something more timeless – the chance to walk, fish, sail, or simply sit by the water and enjoy the views.

What sets Draycote Water apart is how well it balances recreation with tranquillity. The tarmac trail provides a satisfying loop for walking or cycling without ever feeling crowded, and the country park adds a dash of family fun with its playground and meadows. Facilities like the Waterside café, clean toilets, and accessible parking show that comfort has not been overlooked, even in such a natural setting.

If you are looking for water activities in Coventry that combine wellbeing, outdoor enjoyment, and minimal hassle, Draycote Water is a strong contender. It is particularly appealing for locals seeking regular outings or for visitors wanting a peaceful stop on a Midlands road trip. Its proximity to Rugby and Coventry makes it accessible, and its mix of sailing, trout fishing, and walking makes it a destination worth revisiting across the seasons.

For those expecting loud rides and splash zones, this is not the place. But for anyone who values calm waters, fresh air, and a bit of gentle adventure, Draycote Water delivers.

Explore the natural beauty, facilities, and unique features of Draycote Water through our curated photo gallery. From tranquil sunset views and peaceful walking trails to the bustling sailing club and friendly wildlife, these images capture the essence of one of the top outdoor destinations in Warwickshire.

Whether you are planning a family walk, a fishing trip, or simply a relaxing visit to the countryside, our Draycote Water photos offer a glimpse into what makes this reservoir and country park so special. Use the gallery to visualise your day out, discover highlights like the Visitor Hub and bird hide, and get inspired by the wide-open skies that make Draycote Water a favourite among nature lovers and local explorers alike.