The country park has a variety of habitats covering over 100 hectares of land and water, with some areas designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest, protecting the rare and diverse plant and animal species.

The site was a commercial limestone quarry operation owned by the British Portland Cement Manufacturers and later Blue Circle.

[2] The quarries here provided limestone for the large cement works that stood until 1970 on the site of the present Cosmeston housing estate opposite the country park.

It was during the laying of the paths, thinning of dense undergrowth and general landscaping that the remains of the former village were found, excavated, and developed into a visitor attraction.

The Eastern half of the lake is open for hire to non motorised water sports clubs affiliated with the Vale of Glamorgan Council.