Set on an exclusive private estate on the outskirts of the Cotswolds, this fabulous getaway welcomes friends or families for a back-to-nature holiday. The estate offers hundreds of acres of green space to explore, with lakes, rivers and rare wildlife. There’s a handy shop, a bar and a restaurant, plus a wellness spa, soft play, swimming pools, tennis courts and an activity hub – your chance to glide along tranquil waterways on a kayak, canoe or paddle board, discover the estate’s pathways on a bike or scooter, or while away the hours with a fishing rod. Various sports and organised children’s activities are on offer, too. Venture out to Cotswold Country Park and Beach (1 mile), the UK’s largest inland beach, which also offers water sports, mini golf and a climbing wall, or to the market town of Cirencester (6 miles) for shops, museums and eateries.
The charming brick-and-timber building is at one end of a group of three lodges, and is set over two storeys. Inside, the owner’s sense of relaxed style is evident, in the form of pretty lighting, soft furnishings, art works and accessories. From the hall, step into the open-plan living area, where the focus is very much on a traditional wood burner set into an exposed-stone inglenook. Soft seating is provided for seven guests, while the dining table has room for eight people to linger over hearty meals. This lovely, dual-aspect space catches the sun all day and has lake views through its French doors. Round the corner, a well-designed, compact kitchen includes everything you’ll need for a self-catering break, including a dishwasher and a Nespresso coffee machine. The washing machine is hidden behind the front door in the hall, cleverly using an unused corner. Also on this level is a shower room with WC, very handy when coming home after a day on the water or a muddy walk. On the first-floor landing, a tall bookcase is filled with books suitable for all ages and tastes. On this level you will find all three bedrooms, as well as a family bathroom with a deep bath that features a telephone-style shower attachment. The king-size and double bedrooms have beautiful lake views, and the triple bedroom includes a selection of games and books suitable for children.
Double doors from the living space open straight onto the south-facing rear deck, where you can dine al fresco – perhaps making use of the BBQ – in warm weather. Seven wooden steps lead down to the lawn, with the pontoon beyond, where you can launch watercraft onto the lake in the summer months. In winter, the lake is closed to guests to encourage wintering wildlife, making this a peaceful spot for bird watching. Another set of French doors connects the dining area to the open lawn at the side of the house. Private parking for one car is available at the property, with further parking in the site’s main car park.