The National Trust has announced the opening of Tinkley Gate at Woodchester Park, which opens today, Monday, July 24. 

Tinkley Gate sits at the top of the valley overlooking Woodchester Park on the recently acquired land formerly known as Thistledown Farm.

Its new name is in reference to the historic ‘Tinkly Gate’ entrance to Woodchester Park which was nearby, one of five historic entrances in the 18th century.

The site will give access into the middle of Woodchester Park near the lakes and provide additional facilities for visitors by offering a new car park and café.

Tinkley Gate is a destination in its own right, offering visitors a tranquil and peaceful space to enjoy the views over the Cotswold countryside.

For those that want to explore the surrounding area, there are signposted trails in the nearby grassland and trees.

Flat, accessible spaces are available a short walk from the café.

Families will enjoy winding paths through grass and glades and will be able to take time in nature spotting wildlife throughout the landscape.

For those feeling playful, outdoor games and toys will be available.

The café will serve a menu specifically developed for the visitors at Woodchester Park and will include wood-fired pizzas, salads, cakes, focaccias and ice cream.

The money raised in the café will support the work of the National Trust in caring for the Cotswold Countryside.

Helen Selkirk, visitor experience and programming manager for the Cotswold Countryside Portfolio said “We’re excited to open this beautiful new place to play, eat and relax in, in the countryside here at Tinkley Gate.

"There is open space, lovely food and sweeping views of Woodchester valley and the Stroud Commons.

“In the future we hope to run a variety of events here and would love to know the sort of things that people would like to see and do.

"We’ll be gathering feedback at the café, but if people would like to drop us an email we’d love to hear from them at cotswolds@nationaltrust.org.uk.”

Tinkley Gate will be open from 10am until 5pm every day, with the café open from 10.30am until 4.30pm.

Parking will be free for National Trust members, or £3 for non-members.