Welcome to our very first blog post! We are so excited to share our favourite local spots with you. Whether you’re staying with us for a weekend getaway or a longer break, we want to help you discover the best things to see and do in our beautiful corner of the world. This week we went on a walk nearby despite the January weather.
A Walk Through History
Today was a bit misty and cold, but we didn’t let that stop us from visiting St. James Lake. While it feels like a natural part of the landscape, the lake was actually man-made in 1976 by Anglian Water.
However, the history goes back much further! The site is believed to incorporate two smaller ponds that once belonged to Brackley Castle, which stood just to the south until it was destroyed in 1173 by Henry III. Walking through these 5 acres of grounds, you really feel that connection between the modern day and the ancient past.
Wildlife & Nature Spotting
Even on a dull January day, the park is a haven for nature lovers. The paths are surprisingly well-managed (we didn’t even need our wellies!), making it perfect for a brisk stroll. Keep your eyes peeled for:
- Water Fowl: You’ll spot everything from Ducks, Mute Swans and Herons to Greylag and Egyptian Geese.
- The Elusive Residents: If you’re lucky, you might spot an otter!
- Night Life: Look up at the trees to see the bat boxes. The area is home to Soprano, Pipistrelle, and Daubenton’s bats.
Anglers’ Paradise
If you enjoy fishing, this is the place to be. The lake is well-stocked with carp, roach, rudd, bream, tench, and pike. It’s a popular hub for the local fishing community, and it’s easy to see why.
Plan your visit: To fish at the lake, you’ll need a standard Fishing Licence plus a permit from the Brackley Angling Club. Day permits start from just £10.
Fun for Everyone
The lake isn’t just for nature enthusiasts. It’s a favourite for dog walkers and joggers alike. We even had a go on the “Green Gym” equipment dotted around the path—though we’re still not quite sure we used all of them correctly!
On warmer days, there are plenty of seating areas perfect for a picnic. Just a word of warning: the geese can be quite cheeky if they think you’re sharing your lunch!
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Category
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Details
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Opening Times
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Open 24/7, year-round.
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Parking
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Free off-street parking is available on Hinton Road (NN13 7EQ). Please park considerately for local residents! Alternatively Tesco has free 3hour parking and a short walk around the corner.
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Dog Rules
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Very dog-friendly! Dogs must be kept under control and are not permitted to swim in the lake to protect the wildlife.
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Accessibility
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Features a flat, 1km all-weather circular path suitable for wheelchairs, buggies, and joggers.
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Fishing
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Permits required from Brackley Angling Club (from £10/day) plus a valid UK Rod Licence.
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Facilities
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Outdoor "Green Gym" equipment, numerous picnic benches, and bird-feeding platforms.
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Pro Tip
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No toilets or cafes are on-site, so grab a coffee in Brackley town centre (just a 10-minute walk away) before you head down!
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A Little About Us Welcome to Meadow Lake Glamping! (formerly Love2Yurt) We are two sisters running the glampsite after moving to the area from London a few years ago. We wanted a life with more of the outdoors and are passionate about our local area and dedicated to making your stay as memorable as possible. Being dog lovers ourselves, and running a dog friendly site we ensure we point out other dog friendly sites in the area. Whether you are here for a peaceful retreat or an active adventure, we love sharing our “insider tips” on the best walking trails, local history, and hidden gems like St. James Lake.
We hope this blog helps you feel right at home before you even arrive.
Ready to explore Brackley for yourself? [Check Our Availability] | [Follow Us on Instagram/Facebook] | [Contact Us]
