Nestled between the southern edge of Swindon and the small hamlet of Hodson, Coate Water is one of the town's most popular country parks and is also one of the largest bodies of water in Wiltshire. It was originally constructed in the 1820's as a feeder reservoir for the Wilts and Berks Canal. However, with the coming of the railways and the subsequent demise of the canals, Coate Water reservoir was sold to the Swindon Corporation in the early 1900's and turned into a leisure and recreation park, for which it has remained ever since.

Just outside the main reserve, near the Sun Inn, is the birthplace of Coate's most famous resident - Richard Jefferies. Born in 1848, Jefferies penned many essays on natural history and composed several novels; the surrounding countryside providing inspiration for much of his work. His former residence is now a museum dedicated to his legacy.

In the 1920's a diving board was constructed at the northern end of the lake. Originally a wooden structure it was later replaced by a more permanent concrete one, which is still there today. Diving was stopped, however, in the late 1950's, due to health concerns.

A well surfaced path runs around the entire grounds and offers a lakeside vista for almost the entire route. The path diverts off south near the bridge by the woodland area and heads towards Hodson Woods. If you follow the path in this direction, and bear left after a few hundred yards or so, you eventually reach a viewing platform and bird hide which both give good views of the lake and a chance also to catch a glimpse of some of the more elusive species which often inhabit this part of the grounds. Another bird hide is located in the copse by the bridge. Permits, and a key, are required for access to the hides, and these can be obtained from the Pitch and Putt hut.

The area boasts an impressive bird list, including: Great Northern and Red-throated Divers, Mediterranean and Yellow-legged Gulls, Common Scoter, Garganey, Reed and Cetti's Warblers, Bittern, Little Egret, Osprey and Hobby. The usual wildfowl and waterbird species, such as Grey Heron, are always present, with Goosander and Teal being particularly abundant in the Winter. Wading birds, such as Green and Common Sandpiper, are regular visitors in Spring and Autumn. Grey and Pied Wagtail are year round residents. In the wooded areas, including the arboretum, you may come across Nuthatch, Bullfinch, Chiffchaff, Treecreeper and various tit species. A visit at any time should produce a good number of birds from all the various habitats.

The main entrance and parking area is just off the Coate roundabout on Marlborough Road. Quicker access to the hides and viewing platform can be gained by taking the footpath eastward through the field near Nightingale Cottages or by taking the slightly longer walk through the woodland, where you pass a bird feeding area on the way.