Fishing lakes, a nature trail, farm animals and a legendary kids' play meadow between Calne and Devizes.
Our verdict
The all-rounder of ancient Wiltshire: fishing, wildlife and hedge-cosy paddocks with Avebury up the road.
| Distance from SN7 | 23 miles |
|---|---|
| County | Wiltshire |
| Price band | ££ what the bands mean |
| Open | All year |
| Tents | Yes |
| Campervans & motorhomes | Yes |
| Electric hook-up | Yes |
| Campfires | Yes |
| Swimming pool | No |
Blackland Lakes has been a Wiltshire family institution for decades: two fishing lakes, a wildlife sanctuary area, farm animals to visit and a big play meadow where children simply disappear until mealtimes. The site is divided into cosy paddocks by hedges, so it never feels like a big park even at capacity.
The three great Wiltshire wonders, Avebury, the Caen Hill lock flight and the White Horse at Cherhill, are all within 15 minutes. Beginner anglers are welcome on the lakes with day tickets, the site's nature trail comes with a spotting sheet, and Sam's Bar opens April to September for fireside evenings. Open all year, with hardy campers loving the frosty off-season.
Why children love it
- Beginner-friendly fishing lakes with day tickets on site
- Play meadow, animal paddocks and a wildlife nature trail
- Safe, hedged paddocks so little ones can roam
Days out nearby
- Avebury stone circle (10 minutes)
- Caen Hill Locks, Devizes (10 minutes)
- Cherhill White Horse walk
Know before you go
- Watch 29 locks in a row do their thing at Caen Hill, kids find it mesmerising.
- Bring nets for the dipping pond.
- Some paddocks allow fire bowls, request when booking.
The honest bit
The paddock layout means pitches vary a lot: some are dreamy, some are ordinary. Say what you want when you book.
Camping weather this week
Live 7-day forecast for Calne, straight from Open-Meteo.
Quick answers
Are campfires allowed at Blackland Lakes Holiday and Leisure Centre?
Yes. Campfires or fire pits are part of the experience at Blackland Lakes Holiday and Leisure Centre. Follow the site's current fire rules, keep fires off the grass where asked, and check ahead in very dry spells.
Does Blackland Lakes Holiday and Leisure Centre have a swimming pool?
No. The nearest pool site in this guide is Hoburne Cotswold Holiday Park, about 22 miles away. Blackland Lakes Holiday and Leisure Centre makes up for it outdoors.
How far is Blackland Lakes Holiday and Leisure Centre from Faringdon and Oxford?
Blackland Lakes Holiday and Leisure Centre is about 23 miles from Faringdon (SN7) and roughly 50 miles from Oxford city centre. Distances are approximate road miles.
When is Blackland Lakes Holiday and Leisure Centre open?
Blackland Lakes Holiday and Leisure Centre is typically open All year. Dates shift a little year to year, so confirm with the site before travelling.
Peg & Lantern is an independent guide and takes no commission. Details last checked July 2026; facilities and opening dates change season to season, so always confirm directly with the campsite before travelling. Photography is illustrative, not of the campsite itself.
