
Croft Farm Water Park: Facilities, Activities & More
Planning a family day out or a short break in Gloucestershire? Croft Farm Water Park, tucked away in Bredons Hardwick just outside Tewkesbury, offers a private lake, watersports, and on‑site accommodation with a dog‑friendly policy. Whether you’re after paddleboarding or a quiet cabin stay, this guide covers what you need to know about facilities, pricing signals, and what to expect before you go.
Location: Bredons Hardwick, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire ·
Lake: Private lake for watersports ·
Accommodation: Camping and self‑catering cabins ·
Activities: Paddleboarding, kayaking, paddle boats ·
Distance from Tewkesbury: Approximately 2 miles
Quick snapshot
- Private lake for watersports (Croft Farm Water Park – official site)
- On‑site accommodation: camping and self‑catering cabins (Croft Farm Water Park – official site)
- Lakeside Clubhouse serves food and drink (Croft Farm Water Park – official site)
- Dogs allowed on site (Croft Farm Water Park – dog policy page)
- Whether a spa is available on site
- Exact dates of any annual firework display
- Whether day visitors can use the lake without accommodation
- Specific swimming requirement at Croft Farm
- Winter opening hours – not clearly published
- Peak season runs spring to autumn; book ahead for summer weekends (Croft Farm Water Park – official site)
- Check official site for seasonal opening hours (Croft Farm Water Park – official site)
- Check live availability and book via Croft Farm website or Hoseasons (holiday booking platform)
- Review trip reports on Tripadvisor (user reviews) for real visitor experiences
Eight key facts at a glance: the essentials of Croft Farm Water Park.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Croft Farm Water Park |
| Location | Bredons Hardwick, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire (Croft Farm Water Park – official site) |
| Lake | Private lake |
| Activities | Paddleboarding, kayaking, paddle boats (Croft Farm Water Park – official site) |
| Accommodation | Camping and self‑catering cabins (Hoseasons – holiday booking platform) |
| Dining | Lakeside Clubhouse (Croft Farm Water Park – official site) |
| Dog Policy | Dogs allowed (Croft Farm Water Park – dog policy page) |
| Distance to Gloucester | 13 miles (Kingsholm Stadium) (Guest Reservations – booking aggregator) |
Is Croft Farm open to the public?
Yes – Croft Farm Water Park is open to the public as a campsite and water park. It sits in Bredons Hardwick, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire (Croft Farm Water Park – official site). Some areas, like the lake and certain facilities, may have restricted access for guests staying on site. Always check the official website for the most current seasonal opening hours.
What are the opening hours?
- Exact hours are published on the Croft Farm Water Park – official FAQs.
- During peak season (spring to autumn), the park typically opens daily; winter hours may be reduced.
The catch: opening times can shift, so booking in advance and checking the site before you travel is smart.
Is it open year-round?
- The park appears to operate mainly from spring through autumn, based on booking availability on Hoseasons.
- Some accommodation (cabins) may be available outside the main watersports season.
Why this matters: if you’re planning a winter trip, phone ahead or check the website directly.
Do you need a reservation?
- For accommodation and watersports equipment, booking is strongly recommended – especially in summer (Croft Farm Water Park – official site).
- Day visitors may be able to use the lake without a reservation, but this isn’t clearly stated on the site – another reason to call ahead.
The trade-off: spontaneity is possible but risky in peak season; a pre‑booking gives certainty.
Are dogs allowed at Croft Farm Water Park?
Yes – the park’s official dog policy page states that responsible dog owners are welcome. Dogs must be kept on a lead and must not be left unattended. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pet, and there are designated dog areas on site. The policy also says dogs are allowed in the main room of the clubhouse.
Are there designated dog-friendly areas?
- According to the Croft Farm Water Park – dog policy page, designated dog areas exist on the park.
- The Lakeside Clubhouse main room allows dogs, so you can eat indoors with your pet.
Editorial note: If you’re after a dog‑friendly holiday in Gloucestershire, Croft Farm ticks that box clearly.
Can dogs swim in the lake?
- The park’s policy doesn’t explicitly address dogs swimming in the lake. The focus is on keeping dogs on leads and not leaving them unattended.
- Some reviews on Dog Friendly (dog‑travel directory) mention the park is dog friendly throughout, but no specific mention of lake access for dogs.
The upshot: assume the lake is for human watersports only; dogs likely stay on land.
Dogs are welcome on site, but if you hope to let your dog swim in the lake, Croft Farm’s policy keeps you on a lead. For a true dog‑in‑water experience, look elsewhere or confirm directly with the park.
What are the rules for dogs on site?
- Keep dogs on a lead at all times (Croft Farm Water Park – dog policy page).
- Never leave dogs unattended.
- Clean up after your dog immediately.
- Use designated dog areas.
Why this matters: clear rules mean fewer surprises – and a pleasant stay for everyone.
Are there changing facilities at Croft Farm?
The park provides shower and toilet blocks for guests. According to the official FAQs, these facilities are maintained to accommodate families. Changing facilities are available for both day visitors and campers.
What shower and toilet blocks are available?
- On‑site shower and toilet blocks are standard for a holiday park of this size (Croft Farm Water Park – official FAQs).
- Accessible facilities are likely available – contact the park to confirm specific needs.
Are there lockers?
- The official FAQs do not mention lockers. If you need secure storage, it’s best to ask at reception on arrival.
Are the facilities accessible?
- The park states facilities are maintained to accommodate families, but specific accessibility details aren’t published online. Call ahead if you have mobility requirements.
The pattern: Croft Farm provides the basics but lacks detailed accessibility documentation, so proactive communication is wise.
Does Croft Farm have a cafe or restaurant?
Yes – the Lakeside Clubhouse serves food and drinks on site. The official FAQs confirm a cafe/restaurant is available, with a menu that includes options for families and children.
What is the Lakeside Clubhouse?
- The on‑site venue for meals and drinks, with lake views (Croft Farm Water Park – official site).
- Dogs allowed in the main room.
Is there on-site dining for all guests?
- The clubhouse is open to all guests, including day visitors – at least according to the official FAQs. No membership required.
Are there options for dietary requirements?
- The website does not list a specific menu. Typical holiday‑park clubs offer classic pub‑style food. Contact the park directly for allergy or dietary needs.
The trade‑off: you won’t go hungry, but don’t expect fine dining – it’s practical family fare.
Is Croft Farm suitable for children?
Yes – Croft Farm is marketed as child‑friendly. Activities like paddleboarding and kayaking are popular with families. The official site notes that life jackets are provided for watersports participants. Some watersports may have age limits or require basic swimming ability.
What activities are available for kids?
- Paddleboarding, kayaking, and paddle boats – all on the private lake (Croft Farm Water Park – official FAQs).
- Children’s play area mentioned by Guest Reservations (booking aggregator).
Are there age or height restrictions for watersports?
- The official site doesn’t publish specific age/height limits. Typical standards: children under 12 may need a parent present and a life jacket (provided). Check at booking.
Do you need to be able to swim for the water park?
- Not explicitly stated for Croft Farm. However, general water‑park safety advice from the RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents – water safety guidance) recommends basic swimming ability for all water activities.
Why this matters: if your child is a non‑swimmer, life jackets are provided – but always double‑check with the park for their specific policy.
Croft Farm is genuinely kid‑friendly, but the lack of published age/height limits means parents need to ask specific questions when booking. The park’s “family‑friendly” label is backed by equipment provision (life jackets) and variety of gentle watersports.
The park provides life jackets and gentle watersports, making it a solid choice for families.
Pros and cons of Croft Farm Water Park
Upsides
- Dog‑friendly with clear policy (Croft Farm Water Park – dog policy page)
- Private lake with a range of watersports (Croft Farm Water Park – official FAQs)
- On‑site dining at Lakeside Clubhouse
- Variety of accommodation – camping and self‑catering cabins (Hoseasons – holiday booking platform)
- Children’s play area and family‑friendly atmosphere (Guest Reservations – booking aggregate)
Downsides
- Spa offered by some booking sites (Hoseasons mentions beauty treatments) but not confirmed by official site – unclear if spa is available
- No clear public pricing displayed – visitors must contact or check booking platforms
- Day‑visitor lake access policy not stated online
- Winter operation uncertain – best to check before planning a cold‑weather trip
The implication: Croft Farm’s strengths are clear, but the gaps in pricing and winter access require extra planning.
What we know and what’s unclear
From the research gathered, here’s a calibrated summary with sources where available.
Confirmed facts
- Croft Farm Water Park operates a private lake for watersports (Croft Farm Water Park – official FAQs)
- On‑site accommodation includes camping and self‑catering cabins (Croft Farm Water Park – official site)
- The Lakeside Clubhouse serves food and drink (Croft Farm Water Park – official FAQs)
- Dogs are allowed on site – with lead and supervision rules (Croft Farm Water Park – dog policy page)
- Free WiFi is available on the park (Croft Farm Water Park – official FAQs)
What’s unclear
- Whether a dedicated spa is present – Hoseasons mentions beauty treatments (Hoseasons) but Croft Farm’s own site does not list a spa
- Exact dates of the annual firework display (mentioned in some user reviews)
- Whether day visitors can use the lake without booking accommodation – no clear statement on official site
- Specific swimming requirement for watersports participants – not published by Croft Farm
- Winter opening hours – not published on official site
The pattern: Croft Farm’s official site is strong on basic facts but leaves several operational details to caller inquiry.
Quotes from visitors and the park
“Would definitely recommend, beautiful quiet place to relax for a few days, cabin exceeded my expectations, very happy!”
“Dive into action with our private lake, thrilling watersports, and more!”
“Lovely family/dog friendly campsite with plenty of water based activities.”
What this adds up to: Croft Farm earns genuine praise for its peaceful setting and dog‑friendly ethos, but the official tagline shows it’s also keen to position itself as an action‑oriented destination. The two sides – relaxation and adventure – coexist, but the experience depends on how you plan your day.
Summary – is Croft Farm Water Park right for you?
Croft Farm Water Park delivers a solid, family‑focused holiday offering in the Cotswolds: a private lake, decent watersports, dog‑friendly policies, and on‑site dining. The gaps in public pricing and day‑visitor policies mean you’ll need to do some legwork before arriving. For families looking for a dog‑friendly holiday in Gloucestershire, the choice is clear: book a cabin or pitch, pack your paddleboard, and plan to eat at the Lakeside Clubhouse – or risk missing out on the best of what’s available.
tripadvisor.com, ukwaterpark.org, groupaccommodation.com, tripadvisor.com
For a detailed breakdown of prices and activities, check out this Croft Farm Water Park guide from another local source.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Croft Farm Water Park?
Late spring through early autumn offers the best weather for watersports and camping. Summer weekends book up quickly.
Are life jackets provided for children?
Yes, the park provides life jackets for watersports participants – check availability when booking equipment.
Is there a minimum age for kayaking?
The official site doesn’t specify an age. Typical practice: children under 12 may need adult supervision. Ask at booking.
Can I bring my own paddleboard?
The park’s FAQs do not explicitly address this. It’s best to phone ahead and ask about bringing your own equipment.
Is there parking on site?
Guest Reservations lists parking as available. The official site doesn’t detail parking, but a holiday park of this size likely offers free parking for guests.
Does Croft Farm offer group discounts?
GroupAccommodation mentions Croft Farm caters for school trips and groups of 10–160. Contact the park for group rates.
Is the water park open during winter?
Watersports are typically seasonal (spring to autumn). Some accommodation may remain open, but check the official website for winter availability.
For specific circumstances, always verify directly with Croft Farm to avoid surprises.