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Let's go to the beach...

A day at the beach without hours worth of driving sounded too good to be true, but the recent heatwave seemed like the perfect time to try out the Cotswold Country Park and Beach. After packing the sun suits, towels and beach toys, we made the 40 minute drive from home to the Country Park just outside Cirencester. Entry and parking costs £5 per adult and £3 per child over the age of 3 (peak season) and there are two beaches to choose from once you're inside.

We started by paying a visit to the toddler beach, which is overlooked by a large lawn and picnic benches, as well as a small play area. Once Honey had explored, we decided to move over to the main beach for the rest of the day. We arrived about an hour after the park opened and easily found a large spot to set up camp (literally, we had a tent and everything). A quick survey of the area revealed another (larger) play area, volleyball court, plenty of picnic benches and even barbecue spots! A short walk around led us to a shop, cafe, traversing wall and water sports centre extra charges apply).

Honey had a great time paddling in the lake, which has a clearly defined swimming area and is patrolled by a team of trained Lifeguards. She also enjoyed making sandcastles on the beach which, although it was a little bit hard to sit on (being man made from compacted sand rather than a naturally occurring beach), was clean and well kept. Toilet facilities are basic but fairly clean (considering how much sand and water there is outside) and are situated at either end of the main beach but I'd recommend taking a travel potty as they are quite a hike with a soggy toddler desperate for the loo! We took our own picnic to keep costs to a minimum and had a lovely lunch listening to children chatter and play in the sunshine.

This is a great place for families or groups of friends wanting a day out together and i'm sure we will head back there next summer when we'll have a soggy toddler AND a soggy pre-schooler to contend with!

Honey wears... Whale skort by Mini Boden