Our verdict
A solid local favourite rather than a destination walk — flat, easy, good for a lead-off run-around with the dog, and a 2.1m height barrier at the car park keeps it van-free. Cross the footbridge and you're straight into Purton Wood if half an hour isn't enough.
A former quarry turned lakeside country park on Swindon's north-west edge, with a lake, the River Ray, open grassland and a fenced off-lead dog field. Links straight into Purton Wood over a footbridge for a longer walk.
Country park — managed for visitors, usually with parking and trails.