Among the delightful cafe culture and picturesque rural landscape, there are loads of things to do in the Cotwolds, UK. The area offers various lakes and river systems, many of which provide some of the most magnificent trout fly fishing in England and other English fishing opportunities in both still water and running water environments. Some Cotswold rivers have been compared to the rich chalk streams of Hampshire. These lush rivers provide a perfect, gentle habitat where plants, fish, crayfish, birds, and mammals live and grow in abundance. The clear water and peaceful locations make the Cotswolds an ideal location to get away from the hustle and bustle… plus it’s only a 90-minute drive away from London.
Bibury Trout Farm Fishing
Once described as “the most beautiful village in England”, Bibury Trout Farm is located near Cirencester and covers 15 acres of the Coln Valley. Bibury Trout Farm in the Cotswolds was founded in 1902, and up to six million trout spawn here every year. You can expect to catch various species of trout, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and many more. It opens from 8 am every day, and the great news is that there is no closed season on still water, so visitors can enjoy trout fishing throughout the year!
For more to do in Bibury, our Heart of William Morris Country Walking Tour passes through.
Ashton Keynes Angling Club
Established in 1953, Ashton Keynes Angling Club offers a versatile range of fishing in the Cotswolds, right in the heart of the Cotswold Water Park. In their largest lake, Lake 32, there is an abundance of bream whose average size has increased to around 5lb in recent seasons. Alternatively, their Thamesmead lake has significant tench and bream populations, with some carp present that weigh up to 30lbs. Pike fishing is also popular in the autumn and winter, perfect for those who love fishing on both UK lakesides or rivers.
Horseshoe Lake Fishery
Formerly a gravel pit, the 62-acre lake is renowned for the quality of its fish and is amongst the finest in the country. It is claimed there are several hundred specimens of carp in the lake, alongside other species such as bream, tench, roach, and pike. Horseshoe Lake Fishery is situated at the northern fringe of the market town of Lechlade. Many of the best fishing opportunities in the southern Cotswolds centre around the Cotswold Water Park, a system consisting of over 70 lakes that were created over the past 50 years through gravel extraction and filled with water naturally when work paused in the early 1970s. These scenic spots are some of the best locations in the Cotswolds for fishing and relaxing.
Check out our themed tours of the Cotswolds to see what other adventures await!
Weather in the Cotswolds, UK: Plan Your Trip
One great advantage of angling in the Cotswolds is that the above fishing establishments are private waters and therefore offer fishing all year; there is no closed season. For river fishing (if you wish to fish on the River Coln), the trout season runs from 1st April to 30th September, with Grayling being in season from 16th June to 14th March – day tickets are available for those who aren’t staying in the accommodation on site. The Cotswolds offer anglers a choice to explore the beautiful rural landscape, whilst fishing for several species on both open and closed waters. Most organised fishing excursions cover rod licenses and provide equipment hire, fishing tackle, and other facilities to ensure you get the most out of your stay in the Cotswolds. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned expert, the Cotswolds offer many getaway opportunities for fishermen. From the 62-acre Horseshoe Lake to chalk streams and famous spots like Troutbeck Farm or Wilbur Dam trout fishing, there are two things the Cotswolds offer: variety and natural beauty, making it a hidden gem just like the famous fishing villages in New England.
Whether you’re drawn by historic spots like Bibury Trout Farm, the tranquil Cotswold rivers, or the thrill of fly fishing in England, fishing in the Cotswolds promises an unforgettable escape into some of the most beautiful waters and landscapes Britain has to offer. To make the most of your visit, we offer tailored tours, from guided fishing days and countryside walks to exploring charming villages and historic sites. Come and enjoy the very best things to do in the Cotswolds with local expertise.