I’ve been lucky enough to fish Horcott Lakes many times over the years, and without exaggeration, it’s one of my favourite fisheries in the country. I’ve caught plenty of 30lb-plus carp from here, and every trip reminds me why I keep coming back.
The first thing that stands out is just how picturesque the venue is. Set in the Cotswolds, it’s a peaceful place to spend a few days. The banks are well maintained, there’s very little noise, and it genuinely feels like somewhere you can switch off from the outside world. Whether you’re there for a quick overnight or a full weekend session, it’s a pleasure to fish.
The fish themselves are the real stars of the show. Horcott is home to one of the best-looking stocks of carp you’ll find anywhere in the UK. Deep-bodied mirrors, immaculate commons and fish with incredible scale patterns make every capture feel special. It’s one of those lakes where you never quite know what might pick up your bait next, and almost every fish is a camera-worthy capture.
One thing I really appreciate is the amount of water each angler gets. Although there are around 45 pegs available, the fishery limits the lake to just 35 anglers at any one time. That means you’re never fishing shoulder-to-shoulder with other people, and if the fish show elsewhere, you’ve often got the opportunity to move swims and stay on them. That flexibility can make a huge difference during a session.
The bailiffs deserve a special mention too. They’re some of the friendliest and most helpful I’ve come across. They’re always happy to have a chat, offer advice if you need it, and they clearly care about both the fishery and the anglers fishing it. Good bailiffs can make a massive difference to the atmosphere of a venue, and Horcott has that nailed.
Value for money is another huge plus. At £30 for three rods over 24 hours, it’s actually cheaper than many of the country’s better-known day ticket fisheries, yet the quality of the fishing easily matches, and often exceeds, venues charging significantly more.
If I had to mention one downside, it’s the portaloo. During the warmer months it can become pretty unpleasant and the smell isn’t great. It’s hardly a dealbreaker, but it’s probably the one area I’d like to see improved.
Overall though, that’s a very small criticism of what is otherwise an outstanding fishery. Clean, peaceful, affordable, packed with stunning carp and run by people who genuinely care about the place. If you’ve never fished Horcott Lakes, I’d genuinely put it on your bucket list. It’s one of those venues every carp angler should experience at least once, and there’s a good chance you’ll end up planning your next trip before you’ve even packed the van.
Overall Ratings
Stamp of Fish: 
(10/10)
Cleanliness: (10/10)
Value for Money: (9.1/10)
Pros
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Outstanding stock of stunning, healthy carp
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Plenty of 30lb+ fish with incredible scale patterns
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Beautiful, peaceful Cotswold setting
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Excellent, knowledgeable and friendly bailiffs
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Well-maintained and clean fishery
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£30 for three rods per 24 hours offers excellent value
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Low angler numbers compared to available pegs, giving room to move
Cons
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The portaloo can become unpleasant during hot weather
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Can get busy at weekends