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Parks #1 in Reading, Berkshire

Dinton Pastures Country Park

4.6 · 5,289 reviews
Active, family-oriented, and nature-focused.
Dinton Pastures Country Park, Davis St, Hurst, Wokingham RG10 0TH, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The park was developed from former gravel extraction pits that were flooded to create the current lake system.

2

The Black Swan Lake is home to a significant population of swans, which provides the area with its name.

3

The park features an 18-hole disc golf course that is open to the public.

4

Dinton Pastures hosts a variety of UK protected species including water voles and several types of bats.

5

The Adventure Play Park is constructed primarily from sustainably sourced timber.

6

It is a site of significant geological interest due to the exposed river terrace gravels.

7

The park connects directly to the Lavell's Lake Local Nature Reserve, a quiet sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts.

Overview

Dinton Pastures Country Park spans 335 acres of land featuring seven lakes, the River Loddon, and diverse meadows. The park hosts a dedicated Activity Centre providing equipment rentals for sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking on Black Swan Lake. A primary feature is the vast adventure play area, which includes a large wooden climbing structure designed for multiple age groups. The site contains a specialized disc golf course and over 7 miles of accessible surfaced footpaths connecting the different bodies of water. The Black Swan Lake is an active bird sanctuary known for hosting a wide variety of waterfowl throughout the year. The park serves as a habitat for local wildlife, including kingfishers and dragonflies. Several gravel pits within the park have been reclaimed and converted into landscaped wetlands and fishing spots. A nature discovery centre located on-site provides information on the local ecosystem and historical land usage.

Photo spot

The wooden footbridge spanning the connection between the main lakes at sunset.

Insider tips

Bring binoculars as the bird hides near the lakes offer excellent opportunities for spotting local and migratory species.

Check the official park website for potential seasonal flooding notifications before visiting after heavy rainfall.

Parking requires a mobile app or specific payment method; ensure you have the correct system installed prior to arrival.

What to avoid

Feeding bread to the waterfowl, as it harms their health and fouls the water; use appropriate bird feed instead.

Good to know

The park is open year-round, though specific facilities like the activity centre may operate on seasonal schedules.

Etiquette

Dogs must be kept on leads in designated areas; please dispose of litter in provided bins to protect local wildlife.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-5 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning in spring or autumn for optimal wildlife spotting and cooler temperatures.
Address
Dinton Pastures Country Park, Davis St, Hurst, Wokingham RG10 0TH, United Kingdom
51.440, -0.873
Get directions
Details
Water RecreationSailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Black Swan Lake
AmenitiesAdventure playground and nature discovery centre

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning in spring or autumn for optimal wildlife spotting and cooler temperatures..

The wooden footbridge spanning the connection between the main lakes at sunset.

Close by you'll find Country Park, Ashenbury Park, Black Swan Lake.