Did you know that Cheltenham has a reservoir & conservation woodland you can walk around?
Dowdeswell Conservation Wood is stunning. Dowdeswell Wood spans 79.90 hectares (197 acres) and is situated on the northern slopes of the Chelt Valley. Originally part of the grounds surrounding Dowdeswell Reservoir, it was incorporated into the reserve in 1992. Most of the forest is designated as ancient woodland, indicating it has remained in existence since the 1600s.
Follow the London road, just past Dunkertons & you will find a small parking area on the left. Look for the notice board. You park in front of this.
Then through the gate and you are there! Absolutely beautiful as soon as you arrive.
It can get very muddy as you begin but then fine. Last time we visited the mud was frozen so actually made it quite clean family walk! It’s very well footpathed next to the resevoir.
There’s a smaller stream/river to paddle & wade in, lots of twisty trees to play in and loads of dens and super beautiful!
You can stand next to the resevoir but you must not go in- safety reasons.
You can walk round the Woodlands, a circular route (check the notice board). We simply spend hours playing in the streams, trees, dens and more.
Wrap up warm, take a hot flask & away you go!
- Dogs on leads
- Part of it is buggy friendly, others not at the moment in the woods.
- WATER SAFETY is paramount.
