Perched on the water’s edge, Mallard Lodge is a chic New England-style retreat sleeping six. With a pretty clapper board-style exterior, the fantastic water-front setting makes a brilliant first impression, whilst the convenience of the location within steps of a family-friendly lakeside bar, brasserie, gym and a great children’s play area come a close second.
This contemporary and charming lodge offers light bright interiors and panoramic lake views from inside and out. Downstairs, its open plan living and dining area flows out onto a private deck via bifold doors – the perfect spot for sizzling steaks on the barbecue or simply sitting back to enjoy lakeside life. There is also a fully equipped kitchen and handy downstairs shower room.
Upstairs there is a large master bedroom with a 5' bed and full length window overlooking the lake, allowing you the same stunning views. There are two further twin/double bedrooms with 5' zip and link beds and a family bathroom. Extra care has been taken for families, and you will find lots of special touches around the house if you are planning on taking the little ones.
Located on Spring Lake, our lake house has prime position in the Cotswold Water Park, one of the best kept secrets of Gloucestershire! One of 150 lakes in an area the size of Jersey, there’s so much to explore and something for everyone.
Like the name suggests, from the deck you can feed the resident ducks that are very friendly. And you may be lucky enough to spot woodpeckers, herons and great crested grebes as well.
Along with its lakeside setting one of the house’s greatest assets is the amount that there is to see and do nearby for families and young children.
Water sports, activities, great eateries, walking, history and culture are just some of the things you will find nearby. The fact that there’s a golf course, water sports centre, bike hire and routes, plus a choice of restaurants and pubs, within a short, scenic walk really sets it apart. Although, for most young families, the fact that the UK’s largest inland beach with a purpose built toddler paddling and playground area is within a 10-15 minute stroll is the icing on the cake.
Fire the Heart Retreats, situated on the Landings nearby, offers guests in-house rejuvenation therapies and treatments. Alternatively, treat yourself to private treatments and pampering at the house from Glo Pamper. A personal chef can also be arranged if required.
If you can tear yourselves away, Mallard Lodge is ideally situated too for exploring the towns and villages of the beautiful Cotswolds region. The well-known quintessential English villages of Stow-on-the-Wold, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Moreton-in-the-Marsh, are all within easy reach and make a great day out.
Cirencester known as ‘The Capital of the Cotswolds’, is 4 miles away, giving easy access to excellent shopping, restaurants, entertainment, ancient buildings and museums. Cheltenham (20 miles), the most complete regency town in England, is famous for its horse-racing festival in March, culminating in the Gold Cup steeplechase. At other times of year, Cheltenham hosts Festivals of Jazz, Classical Music, Science, Literature, Food & Drink.
Highgrove House, one of the homes of Prince Charles, is less than half an hour’s drive as is Westonbirt Arboretum, with its stunning new treetop walkway, the longest in the UK.
Appealing to children in particular, the nearby Cotswold Wildlife Park, the numerous attractions at Bourton-on-the-Water, and Cotswold Farm Park provide plentiful entertainment.
The cities of Bath, Bristol, Cheltenham and Oxford are all under an hour’s drive away.
Located just over an hour from London, it’s the ideal place for families or a group of friends to spend time together at any time of the year. And, for larger groups of up to 36 guests, Mallard Lodge can be booked with our other Spring Lake houses, as they are all within 200 yards of each other.
"Perfectly pleasant. Lovely spot on the lake."
"Beautiful views and convenient location. The host was very responsive when there was an issue with the boiler and sent someone out immediately to rectify it. Lots to explore in the area but even better to sit on the patio and enjoy the exquisite views. Highly recommend."
"6 people / 2 dogs - we had a great stay chilling over New Year’s Eve. The house has all you need to short stay and locations is very peaceful and calming, must be even better in warm weather. Thank you!"
"Superb location and fabulous view over Spring lake - so close to so many of the various water sports available in the area."
"Great location in the heart of Cotswold Lakes. Lovely family (and dog) friendly holiday. Excellent communication throughout."
"Amazing views from the living room and bedroom. Lovely part of the world. Centrally located."
"Brilliant communication and beautiful location, thank you!"
"A fabulous first trip away post pandemic and the weather topped it all off nicely. Brilliantly placed house right on the water of a small water sports lake in the middle of all the CWP has to offer. Walks from door step, lovely restaurant on site and a clean, comfortable house to stay in. We would definitely stay again."
"The location on the water was beautiful and the renovated deck lovely."
"Amazing staying, on the lakeside, easy access to visit Cotswold area."
"Great position on the lake and lots to do for families nearby."
"Great place to stay! Great communication, dog friendly, and a great location with beautiful walks and pubs near by."
"We had a fantastic family Christmas, lovely house with amazing views. A lovely area of the country with plenty of places to visit. Kevin was brilliant with us, really kind and helpful nothing was too much trouble for him."
"Great location, really enjoyed staying right on the lake."
"Nice stay if you want to visit the Cotswolds. Go for it!"
DAYS IN
For our top 10 reasons why the Cotswold Water Park is a great place for a family holiday, click here.
Along with its lakeside setting one of the house’s greatest assets is the amount that there is to see and do nearby for families and young children.
Within a minute’s stroll is the Lakeside Brassiere which boasts a family friendly sports bar, a relaxed family restaurant with a sun terrace overlooking the lake.
A fully air conditioned gym is located above the brasserie with a range of equipment. Should you be staying for a prolonged period a monthly membership can be purchased, but the gym also offers a highly reasonable single use fee option.
Within 50 metres of the lodge is a large children’s play area with climbing frame, monkey bars and fireman pole.
Lakeside Ski & Wake offer wakeboard and waterski lessons on the lake, plus sessions as well as fun rides for all the family on their ringos and other inflatables. These all prove irresistible to most families in the summer months, not least since thanks to a special skimmer board. From beginners to experts, everyone is welcome.
Next to the house is a small shingle beach area popular with the little ones for paddling. From the deck you can feed swans and ducks that are very friendly, but far enough away to stop little ones from feeling intimidated.
About a 5 minutes’ walk away, there’s a cable ski and a buzzing cafe bar reachable on pushchair friendly flat paths and roads.
Located opposite Spring Lake is the South Cerney Outdoor Education Centre which offers sailing, canoeing, and paddle boarding activities and courses.
Bike hire, angling and even the biggest inland beach in the UK are all within a mile or two.
The house is also within walking distance to the local village of South Cerney which offers a number of local amenities including a selection of pubs, takeaways, village shops, post office and a hairdressers.
HEALTH AND WELLBEING TREATMENTS
GLO PAMPER
If you wish to enjoy the luxurious delights of a Spa without stepping out of your holiday home, you can arrange to be visited in your holiday property, no matter what the weather! Glo Pamper deliver an affordable ‘at home’ Spa experience, which can be tailor-made to your requirements, and is available for the whole family to enjoy. Perfect for any occasion such as a family get-together, a romantic weekend away or some much needed me/you-time. This is the perfect holiday extra to make your break away truly relaxing. All treatments are provided by a professional team of mobile massage and beauty therapists. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy. Each treatment package includes…• Appointments available from 8am–10pm, 7 days a week
• Courtesy call 24 hrs before the booking to receive an introduction to your therapist, and to answer any questions you may have
• Local therapist/s arrive at your chosen location approx. 20-30 minute prior to start time
• Therapist/s supply required equipment, products and music
• You will be consulted about your health on the day
• 2-5 hours of treatments delivered per therapist
• Short turnaround time between treatments
• Therapist/s quietly pack up – leaving you in post-treatment bliss!
Each package can be tailored to meet your needs and shared with family and friends as required. Their 20, 30, 40, 60 or 90 minute treatments can be mixed and matched to build your perfect combination.
Please note a select number of treatments are available for 2-16 year olds and expectant mothers. Please look for the (K) and (P) symbol on the treatment list.
If you would like further information on their services and products, or to book a therapist to visit you at your holiday accommodation, please either contact a member of the Glo Pamper team direct, remembering to quote Staycation Holidays.
You can also enquire or book online – email info@glo-pamper.co.uk or call 0207 096 0385 to speak to their team who can tailor an experience to meet your needs.
FIRE THE HEART RETREATS
Fire the Heart Retreats offers guests the following in-house therapies and treatments; acupuncture, massage, reflexology, yoga classes, aesthetics, cosmetic acupuncture, singing bowls & sound therapy, on-line spiritual development and healing. Run by licensed acupuncturist and kundalini tantra yoga teacher, Claire Timmis. Located at Serenity Lodge, 2 The Landings, South Cerney GL7 5LU. T: 07746 677007; firetheheart.com for more information and prices.
FOOD AND DRINK
PRIVATE CHEF EXPERIENCE
We've partnered with Dineindulge to make hosting a memorable dinner party at your Cotswold Water Park Lodge an absolute breeze.
Their chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish. They'll bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. All you have to do is sit back, maybe enjoy a glass of wine or two, and anticipate the amazing gastronomic experience that’s on the way!
Also check out their range of delicious menus here starting at £29.99 per person. It’s quick & easy to book online, and if you’re not sure of all the details or can’t decide on a menu, don’t worry! You can simply pay a £60 deposit to secure your date and finalize all the details later with the Dineindulge team.
In light of Covid-19, Dineindulge chefs have been given more stringent operational procedures to follow to ensure your safety as well as their own. If you’d like further information on this please email Charles at stay@staycationholidays.co.uk
On the day of the event...
The chef will arrive approximately 2 hours before the start of service, along with all the ingredients needed to cook your chosen meal in your kitchen.
The chef will cook and serve each dish to you – and they’re happy to pass on some tips if you want to improve your own cookery! Before leaving, the chef will ensure the kitchen has been cleaned.
PUBS SERVING FOOD
The Royal Oak, South Cerney (1 mile, 20 minutes’ walk) is recommended and has a children's menu.
The Wild Duck at Ewen is a gorgeous Cotswold Inn dating back to 1563, uniquely situated in the quiet village of Ewen (4 miles).
Other lovely pubs serving food close by that we also recommend, include:
The Red Lion, Cricklade (4 miles).
The Bell Inn, Sapperton (10 miles).
Tunnel House Inn and Barn, Coates (7.5 miles).
The Thames Head, Cirencester (6.5 miles).
Horse & Groom Inn, Charlton (10.5 miles).
The Potting Shed, Crudwell, Malmesbury (8.5 miles).
The Red Lion Castle Eaton (8.5 miles).
RESTAURANTS
Made by Bob (6 miles), is a high quality deli and also a nice restaurant in Cirencester.
Somewhere Else, Cirencester (6 miles).
The Ancient Raj, High Street, Cricklade (4 miles) – Indian food.
Jicsaw Thai Restaurant, Cricklade (4 miles) – Thai food.
Thai Emerald, Cirencester (6 miles) – Thai food.
ACTIVITIES
See ‘Days In’ above – The lakeside house is situated on Spring Lake in the Cotswold Water Park, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Made up of 140 lakes, it offers guests a wide range of activities including boating, water skiing, fishing, cycling, walking, golf and horse riding.
SAILING/WINDSURFING
For beginners and experienced sailors alike, the Cotswold Water Park provides a perfect environment for wind powered & sail based watersports. Turn up and have a go, take a beginners or refresher course or bring your own boat and set sail – the choice is yours – at:
South Cerney Outdoor (Lake 12) (0.5 miles) - www.southcerneyoutdoor.co.uk
Waterland Outdoor Pursuits (Lake 32) (3 miles) - www.ukwatersports.co.uk
There are local several sailing clubs (Cotswold, South Cerney, Whitefriars and Bowmoor Sailing Clubs) who will be delighted to help with your enquiries if you want to pursue the pastime of sailing further.
KAYAKING/CANOEING
As with sailing, the wide open lakes are ideal for these paddle sports, and there are plenty of experienced and fully qualified staff at Waterland (Lake 32) (3 miles), South Cerney Outdoor (Lake 12) (0.5 miles) and Cotswold Water Park Hire (Lake 86) on hand to help you master the techniques. Kayaks and canoes are available for hire on these lakes and are a great way to explore the shorelines, reed beds, islands and the vast array extensive wildlife and natural habitats of the waterfowl and wading birds. If courses and qualifications are what you are after, again they can advise the best route for you to advance further in these activities.
South Cerney Outdoor (Lake 12) (0.5 miles) - www.southcerneyoutdoor.co.uk
Waterland Outdoor Pursuits (Lake 32) (3 miles) - www.ukwatersports.co.uk
Cotswold Water Park Hire (Lake 86) (1 mile) - www.cotswoldwaterparkhire.com
4 Lakes Waterski School, Manorbrook Lake SN6 6QY (4.7 miles) - T: 07572 113220; www.4lakes.co.uk
PADDLE BOARDING
This new and simple to learn sport is fast becoming one of the most popular watersports in the Cotswold Water Park, with everyone wanting to have a go at stand up paddleboarding – and yes, anyone can do it! A wonderful way to get out onto the water without getting wet, and what’s more its good exercise too and a great way to see the wildlife and the extent of the various lakes! Try Waterland, South Cerney or Cotswold Water Park Hire for this activity.
Cotswold Water Park Hire (Lake 86) (1 mile) - www.cotswoldwaterparkhire.com
South Cerney Outdoor (Lake 12) (0.5 miles) - www.southcerneyoutdoor.co.uk
Waterland Outdoor Pursuits (Lake 32) (3 miles) - www.ukwatersports.co.uk
4 Lakes Waterski School, Manorbrook Lake SN6 6QY (4.7 miles) - T: 07572 113220; www.4lakes.co.uk
Craig Cohoon Watersports, Whelford Road, Fairford (9.5 miles) - T: 01285 713735; wakescout.com
WATERSKIING/WAKEBOARDING/WAKESURFING
If it’s adrenalin packed adventure you are after, why not have a go at waterskiing on the smooth waters of the Cotswold Water Park lakes. Instruction from fully qualified experts is available for beginners, or for those who just need some encouragement, along with taster sessions if you want to try before you buy! Lakeside Ski (Lake 14) and Craig Cohoon (located between Fairford and Lechlade), are both great places to have a go at this exciting sport.
Lakeside Ski and Wake, overlooking Spring Lake, very close to Caterina Lake Lodge. T: 01285 860606; info@lakeside-ski.co.uk; www.lakeside-ski.co.uk
Craig Cohoon Watersports, Whelford Road, Fairford (9.5 miles) - T: 01285 713735; wakescout.com
4 Lakes Waterski School, Manorbrook Lake SN6 6QY (4.7 miles) - T: 07572 113220; www.4lakes.co.uk
INFLATABLE RIDES
For the fun seekers looking for some thrills and definitely some spills, take a ride on one of the inflatables like a Ringo, a Stingray or even a Banana boat. Fast and furious fun guaranteed for all. All equipment is supplied, all you need to do is call to book your slot.
Lakeside Ski and Wake, overlooking Spring Lake, very close to Caterina Lake Lodge. T: 01285 860606; info@lakeside-ski.co.uk; www.lakeside-ski.co.uk
4 Lakes Waterski School, Manorbrook Lake SN6 6QY (4.7 miles). T: 07572 113220; www.4lakes.co.uk
CABLE SKIING
Located at Cotswold Country Park and Beach (Lake 31), this new facility offering a constantly moving cable line around the lake offers a fun way to enjoy wakeboarding and waterskiing, without the noise of a boat. All equipment and instruction is provided, and with the speed of the line individually controlled you can be assured of a safe and enjoyable experience whatever your level of skill. There are ramps, jumps and slalom poles to challenge the more advanced.
Cotswold Country Park and Beach (Lake 31) (4 miles). T: 01285 868096; www.cotswoldcountryparkandbeach.com
BOAT TRIPS AND HIRE
The Trout Inn at Lechlade-On-Thames (11.5 miles) operates weekends and bank holidays (May to Mid September). Small open boats are available for hire by the hour which can carry up to 5 people and are either electric powered or to row. Boats are also offered for full & half days when booked in advance. A range of craft accommodating up to 8 adults are available. Or take a boat trip aboard the lovely ‘Inglesham’ on the Thames, run by the Cotswold Canals Trust, and based at Riverside Park in Lechlade.
ROWING, PEDALOS, ZORBING
For a sedate afternoon on the lake why not take out a rowing boat, or a pedalo, and just let time drift by. Cotswold Water Park Hire is a new facility next to the Gateway Centre offering rowing.
Try something quite different at the Cotswold Country Park & Beach – Zorbing is a crazy activity, rolling about inside a huge transparent plastic sphere on water, give it a go and see if you can keep upright and walk on water!
ANGLING
The lime rich clear waters of the Cotswold Water Park lakes are home to many fish and many differing species to, from tench, trout to giant carp, to test anglers of all abilities. Fishermen come from all over the UK to fish these waters, taking part in competitions or just having a relaxing day by the water. For those wanting to fish, either coarse or fly, head down to the Tackle Den near South Cerney (Lake 11) where they can offer plenty of advice, bait and other equipment. Centrally in the Cotswold Water Park try Lake Pochard (Lake 15), Watermark Lakes (Bradleys Lake, Little Horseshoe and The Pike Lakes), Whelford Pools (nr. Fairford), and Bushy Leaze (Trout fly fishing) are all perfect places to do some day fishing, just don’t forget to book or get your day ticket!
CYCLING
Bike hire with child seats/trailers can be pre-booked for your stay.
GOLF
South Cerney Golf Club (1.7 miles).
CLIMBING/HIGH ROPES
Rising high above the beauty of the Water Park is the thrilling Head4Heights high rope adventure park filled with aerial challenges ideal for a family day out.
Far Peak Climbing, Northleach (14 miles) offers indoor climbing facilities as well as outdoor archery, tree climbing and adventure courses. This beautiful site spans 25 acres and is also connected to some of the Cotswolds finest walking trails.
SWIMMING/PADDLING
With all these lakes and all this water, there’s bound to be plenty of splashing on offer! From a toddler’s first experience of paddling, to full on open water swimming there is something to suit everyone. There is a large man made paddling and sandy bathing beach at the Cotswold Country Park & Beach, along with a fenced off playground and smaller paddling area for very young children.
The thing to mention is that swimming is only allowed in certain places – many of the lakes are extremely deep and dangerous, so please stick to where getting into the water is permitted. For paddling and bathing, go to Cotswold Country Park and Beach. For open water swimming take a look at what Waterland, South Cerney Outdoor and Cotswold Country Park have to offer – times and conditions vary.
Cirencester Open Air Swimming Pool, located on the edge of Cirencester Park (5 miles). There is a 28 metre main pool with slide, separate children’s paddling pool, sunbathing patio as well as hot and cold refreshments, picnics welcome. Open May – September.
ACTIVITY CENTRES
Combat Splat Outdoor Activity Centre (1.8 miles) – paintballing, archery and air rifles.
ARCHERY & RAFT BUILDING
Waterland Outdoor Pursuits (Lake 32) (3 miles) - www.ukwatersports.co.uk
TOWNS AND VILLAGES
CIRENCESTER (6 miles), known as ‘The Capital of the Cotswolds’, boasts a rich and well-preserved heritage with a Roman Amphitheatre, Corinium Museum and St. John the Baptist Church. The Brewery Arts Centre offers visitors a unique arts and crafts shopping experience or visit The Bathurst Estate & Cirencester Park, home to Cirencester Polo Club where some of the highest levels of polo can be seen.
BIBURY (10 miles) is a picture perfect Cotswold village, set in a conservation area, nestling on the River Coln and home to Arlington Row, the most photographed and beautiful cottages in the country, now owned by the National Trust, as well as Bibury Trout Farm and the Saxon Church, the Church of St Mary.
TETBURY (13 miles) is one of the most beautiful Cotswold towns with its elegant buildings creating a real sense of timeless beauty – a delight for those who visit this jewel of the Cotswolds. It is a thriving market town built around its outstanding 17th century Market Hall. As well as offering a unique retail experience with many individually owned shops, it is also a major centre for antiques.
MALMESBURY (13 miles), is rightly called the “Queen of Hilltop Towns” being England’s oldest borough with a rich history over 1000 years. Set on a hill, circled by the River Avon, the skyline is dominated by the imposing Norman Abbey. The historical sites of the town, the fine 15th century Market Cross, the Old Courtroom and Almshouses, narrow medieval streets, quaint alleyways and the riverwalk can easily be discovered on foot. Internationally renowned, Abbey House Gardens offer a romantic and unique oasis in the centre of town. Many of the town’s restaurants and shops serve succulent, locally produced produce in atmospheric surroundings. Unusual, independent retail outlets offer plenty of shopping opportunities.
BAMPTON (19 miles) is a pretty village and the setting for the filming of the exterior scenes of Downton Abbey.
BOURTON-ON-THE-WATER (19.5 miles), known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ as the River Windrush runs through the centre, is one of the most popular Cotswold villages. Attractions include a Model Railway, the Model Village, the Dragonfly Maze, Birdland Park & Gardens and the Cotswold Motoring Museum.
BURFORD (20 miles) one of England’s prettiest small medieval towns. The Tolsey Museum is on the High Street.
CHELTENHAM (20.5 miles) is a Regency spa town, with Georgian architecture and an extensive range of shops, theatres, restaurants and visitor attractions, including Cheltenham Racecourse, famous for the Gold Cup horse racing, Parks & Gardens, The Wilson Museum & Art Gallery, Pittville Park Pump Room & Lakes and the Holst Birthplace Museum.
UFFINGTON village (20.5 miles) is in the middle of the Vale of the White Horse. This picturesque village is home to Tom Brown’s School Museum which contains exhibits devoted to the author Thomas Hughes (1822-96). Hughes set the early chapters of his Victorian novel ‘Tom Browns Schooldays’ here. The famous White Horse of Uffington is believed to be Britain’s oldest hillside carving, dated at around 1000 BC. Nearby is the iron Age hill fort, Uffington Castle and a mile west along the Ridgeway is an even older monument, a large Stone Age burial mound wich is known as Wayland’s Smithy.
LOWER SLAUGHTER (21 miles) is a quaint village beside the little Eye stream with several footbridges and a 19th century Corn Mill. The museum in the village owns one of only three unused millstones left in the country.
UPPER SLAUGHTER (22 miles) is half a mile from Lower Slaughter, along the River Eye. Upper Slaughter is different in character and offers picturesque scenes with its Manor, Church and its wonderful cottages.
AVEBURY (21.5 miles). Attractions include Avebury Stone Circle, the world’s largest prehistoric stone circle (National Trust), the Alexander Keiller Museum (National Trust), Avebury Manor and Garden (National Trust) and Windmill Hill (English Heritage).
CASTLE COMBE (24 miles), called ‘The Prettiest Village in England’ and well known for its car racing track, and the quaint National Trust village of Lacock (22 miles) famous for its picturesque streets, historic buildings, Abbey and Museum and more recently as a TV and film location.
MARLBOROUGH (22.5 miles) market town is well worth a visit and has a wealth of shops and restaurants in its High Street. Do make time to take tea in The Polly Tea Rooms. Market days are Wednesdays and Saturdays. Marlborough was an important staging post on the road from London to Bath and attractions include The Merchant’s House.
STOW-ON-THE-WOLD ancient market town (23 miles) plays host to many festivals, craft fairs and a monthly Farmers’ market. The vast market square is surrounded by an elegant array of Cotswold stone townhouses, antique shops, tearooms, traditional pubs and award-winning restaurants.
GLOUCESTER (24 miles) is an historic waterfront city with a bustling centre boasting an incredible range of shops, markets, restaurants and pubs. Attractions include a magnificent Norman Cathedral (whose cloisters were used as a location in the Harry Potter films), the House of the Tailor of Gloucester, Gloucester Quays, the historic Victorian Gloucester Docks and the Gloucester Waterways Museum.
WITNEY (26.5 miles). Nearby is Cogges Manor Farm museum, a popular filming location and featured as Yew Tree Farm, where Lady Edith’s child was looked after by the Drewes, in the ITV drama series Downton Abbey.
MORETON-IN-MARSH (27.5 miles) offers good shopping, including antiques and the very popular Tuesday market. There are several good eating places.
CHIPPING NORTON (30.5 miles) boasts a popular weekly market, numerous book and antique shops, many cafes, restaurants and pubs serving excellent food and local ales, art galleries, a museum and a thriving theatre. There are many walks and cycle trails from the town centre.
BROADWAY (32 miles) is often referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds’, with attractions including Broadway Tower and Country Park.
CHIPPING CAMPDEN (33 miles) is a quintessential Cotswold town, boasting an elegant terraced high street dating back to the 14th century. Here you can discover old inns, specialist shops, tea rooms and a splendid 17th century market hall.
BATH (35.5 miles) is a beautiful, cosmopolitan city, a World Heritage Site which offers something for everyone. No matter the time of year you visit, you are likely to find events catering for all tastes, from the well-loved Christmas market to music, food and cultural festivals and world-class theatre productions on offer at the Theatre Royal. The streets are lined with every kind of restaurant and a wide range of quality bars and shops. The stunning and well-preserved architecture of the Georgian terraces such as The Royal Crescent are famous. A visit to the celebrated Roman Baths and wonderful Bath Abbey are a must. The American Museum at nearby Claverton Manor makes for an interesting visit, or you could hire a bike or take a gentle boat trip and explore the gorgeous scenery along the Avon and Kennet canal towpath.
WOODSTOCK (37 miles) is a picturesque, historic market town with access to Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.
OXFORD (38.5 miles), the oldest university city in England and sometimes called ‘The City of Dreaming Spires’, has an abundance of prestigious attractions, including the 38 colleges of the university (half of which date back before 1600), the Radcliffe Camera, the Bodleian Library, Ashmolean Museum and Pitt Rivers Museums, and Botanic Gardens. Christ Church Cathedral and College is famed for its connections with ‘Harry Potter’ & ‘Alice’.
BRISTOL (42 miles)is world renowned as a port and has a wide range of museums highlighting the city’s history. Bristol can boast some impressive historical landmarks, too, in the shape Brunel’s awe-inspiring Clifton Suspension Bridge and his beautifully restored steamship, the SS Great Britain in Bristol’s historic Harbourside. Visit Bristol Museum & Art Gallery which features outstanding collections of art and archaeology, geology and natural history the interactive At-Bristol Science Centre. Bristol Zoo Gardens is an adventure into an exciting animal kingdom, all set within 12 acres of beautiful award-winning gardens.
HOUSES & GARDENS
The Bathurst Estate & Cirencester Park (6.5 miles), home to Cirencester Polo Club, where some of the highest levels of polo can be seen.
Rodmarton Manor, Cirencester, attractive Arts and Crafts House (9.5 miles).
Cerney House Gardens, The Garden House, North Cerney (10 miles) is a romantic English garden.
Lydiard House & Park, Lydiard Tregoze (12 miles).
The Abbey House Gardens, Malmesbury (13 miles), is a peaceful 5-acre plantsman’s ‘Millennium’ garden adjoining Malmesbury Abbey (open from late March until late October).
Chavenage House (15 miles) is an Elizabethan house containing furniture, pictures and relics of Cromwellian period, amid the tranquil Cotswolds. There are spacious gardens with unspoilt views and tours are conducted by owner or his family. Featured in BBC2’s Curious House Guest and as Candleford Manor in the costume drama Larkrise to Candleford, amongst many others, it is a hidden gem of the Cotswolds.
Buscot Park (National Trust), Faringdon (15 miles) is a late 18th-century house, set in enchanting landscaped grounds.
Kelmscott Manor, Kelmscott (15 miles), a Jacobean country house and grounds.
Sezincote House & Garden, near Moreton-in-Marsh (15 miles).
Westonbirt Arboretum (17 miles), managed by the Forestry Commission, is one of the finest collections of temperate trees and shrubs in the world. The 600 acre arboretum is home to 3,000 different species of trees and around 15,000 individual specimens. Westonbirt is known internationally for its spectacular autumn colour display, but offers an unforgettable day out all year round. There are 17 miles of paths throughout the arboretum and dozens of leafy glades with levels of accessibility to suit a range of visitors and you can fire your children’s imaginations with an adventure into the trees along the play trail.
Ashdown House (National Trust), Lambourn, Newbury (19.5 miles).
Avebury Manor and Garden (National Trust), Avebury (22 miles).
Painswick Rococo Garden, Painswick (22 miles).
Bowood House & Gardens, near Calne (24 miles).
Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum and Village (National Trust), Lacock (26 miles).
Corsham Court and Gardens, Corsham (26 miles).
Batsford Arboretum, Batsford Park, Moreton In Marsh (29 miles).
Bourton House Garden, Bourton-on-the-Hill (29 miles).
Snowshill Manor and Garden (National Trust), Snowshill, near Broadway (29 miles).
Stanway House & Fountain, Cheltenham (30 miles).
Mill Dene Garden, Blockley (30 miles).
Blenheim Palace, Woodstock (38.5 miles) a World Heritage Site often referred to as Britain’s greatest palace, and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Blenheim Palace has a full and exciting events calendar.
COUNTRY PARKS/NATURE RESERVES
Cotswold Country Park and Beach (3.8 miles) is open Feb-Dec offering: the largest inland beach in the UK, boat hire, water zorbing, bouncy castles, crazy golf, a climbing wall, adventure playgrounds, open water swimming, cafes, wonderful lakeside walks, and many more.
Stanton Country Park, Stanton Fitzwarren (11.5 miles) is a 74-hectare country park and Local Nature Reserve.
Coate Water Country Park, Marlborough Rd, Swindon (15 miles). A large 54 acre reservoir, wildlife reserve with bird hides and has plenty of other activities for the family to enjoy. There is a pitch and putt, splash park, play area, mini golf, miniature railway, cafe and more.
Wychwood Wild Garden is a beautiful woodland and garden, close to the centre of Shipton-under-Wychwood (23 miles).
Chimney Meadows Nature Reserve, Bampton (24 miles).
Broadway Tower Country Park, Broadway (30 miles). This unique Capability Brown Folly Tower is one of Britain’s most recognised icons. Displaying history from William Morris, exhibitions from the Cold War and a viewpoint over a woodland of Red Deer, Broadway Tower is great for looking out upon the rolling hills of the Cotswolds with unrivalled views over a 62 mile radius and as many as 16 counties.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS
Butts Farm, South Cerney (5 miles). You can milk a goat, feed the pigs even give lambs and goat kids their bottles. Keep the children entertained in this fun day out on the farm!
Roves Farm, Sevenhampton (14 miles).
Studley Grange Craft Village and Butterfly World, Wroughton, Studley (15 miles).
Farmer Gow’s Activity Farm, Longcot, Faringdon (18.5 miles).
STEAM – Museum of the Great Western Railway (12.5 miles) is housed in a beautifully restored Grade II railway building in the heart of the former Swindon railway works, located right next to the Swindon Designer Outlet.
Cotswold Wildlife Park, Burford (17 miles). Mingle with Ruby and Ian, the parks famous rhinos, watch the penguin talk and feed, get up close and personal with the giraffes or view the oversized manes of the Asiatic lions.
Birdland Park & Gardens, Bourton-on-the-Water (20 miles). Birdland’s inhabited by over 500 birds including pelicans, flamingos, penguins, parrots and owls.
The Model Village, Bourton-on-the-Water (20 miles).
The Dragonfly Maze, Bourton-on-the-Water (20 miles). This hedge maze offers plenty of brainteasers to get those cogs working, in order to seek the hiding place of the Dragonfly.
Cotswold Motoring Museum and Toy Collection, Bourton-on-the-Water (20 miles). Home to the legendary Brum, the museum offers a tour around vintage car collections, motorcycles, and many other intriguing motoring assortments.
Crocodiles of the World, Brize Norton (22 miles). The UK’s only crocodile zoo. There are over 30 different species of animal including over 60 crocodiles.
Cotswold Farm Park, Bemborough Farm, Kineton (24 miles). Owned by one of the faces of BBC’s Countryfile, Adam Henson, the Farm Park brings farming to life introducing youngsters to goats, pigs, sheep and many other breeds of animals. Discover live lambing shows, milking demonstrations and pony rides.
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, Toddington (26.5 miles): The ‘Friendly Line in the Cotswolds’ offers a scenic 20 mile round trip between Toddington and Cheltenham Racecourse.
Wychwood Brewery Centre, Eagle Maltings, The Crofts, Witney (26.5 miles) run tours most Saturday and Sunday afternoons throughout the year.
Cotswolds Falconry Centre, Batsford (29.5 miles) demonstrate birds in flight in many specialist shows and events. Book a course to experience these magnificent creatures for yourself or explore the Owl woods, where the birds can be seen in their natural habitat.
Combe Mill, Blenheim Palace Sawmill, Combe (34 miles).
WWT Slimbridge (34.5 miles). Winner of Cotswold Large Visitor Attraction of The Year 2014 WWT Slimbridge offer an unforgettable day out for families, birdwatchers and wildlife lovers.
Oxford Bus Museum, Long Hanborough (36.5 miles).
HISTORIC SITES & ATTRACTIONS
Wayland’s Smithy (English Heritage), Ashbury (19 miles) is a large Stone Age burial mound. It is immersed in legends that Sr Walter Scott used in his novel ‘Kenilworth’.
The Uffington White Horse, Uffington (21 miles) is a huge chalk horse, 100m from nose to tail, carved into the hillside above Uffington. It is believed to be Britain’s oldest hillside carving and has sparked many legends. It is dated around 1000BC. Nearby is the Celtic earth ramparts of the Iron Age hill fort, Uffington Castle.
Avebury Stone Circle, Avebury (National Trust/English Heritage) (21.5 miles).
Long Barrow Chambered Tomb, West Kennet (23.5 miles).
Silbury Hill Burial Mound (English Heritage), Beckhampton (23.5 miles).
Sudeley Castle & Gardens, Winchcombe (24.5 miles).
Hailes Abbey (English Heritage) near Winchcombe (25 miles).
Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote (English Heritage), Minster Lovell (24.5 miles).
Rollright Stones (English Heritage), near Chipping Norton (31 miles).
EVENTS
JANUARY
Big Batsford Christmas Hunt, Batsford Arboretum (29 miles).
Christmas at Blenheim, Blenheim Palace (38.5 miles).
Marmalade Fair, St John the Baptist Church, Burford (20 miles).
Bath on ice, Royal Victoria Park, Bath (35.5 miles).
FEBRUARY
Folk Three, previously known as Cheltenham Folk Festival, Cheltenham (20.5 miles).
MARCH
Daffodil & Early Magnolia Month, Batsford Arboretum, Batsford Park, Moreton In Marsh (29 miles).
Gifford’s Circus, Fennells Farm, Stroud (17.5 miles).
The Cheltenham Festival, Cheltenham Racecourse (20.5 miles).
Cheltenham Gold Cup, Cheltenham Racecourse (20 miles).
Bristol Jazz and Blues Festival, Bristol (42 miles).
Lemur Week, Cotswold Wildlife Park, Burford (20 miles).
APRIL
Bath Comedy Festival, Bath (35.5 miles).
Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts, Chastleton House (The National Trust), Chastleton (29 miles).
Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts, Snowshill Manor and Garden (The National Trust), Snowshill, near Broadway (29 miles).
Easter Weekend at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock (38.5 miles).
Eggsciting Easter at Birdland Park & Gardens, Bourton-on-the-Water (20 miles).
The Great Chicken Challenge, Cotswold Farm Park, Bemborough Farm, Kineton (24 miles).
The Big Batsford Chicken Hunt, Batsford Arboretum, Batsford Park, Moreton In Marsh (29 miles).
Hop to it, Easter family fun, Bristol Zoo (42 miles).
The Easter Eggspress, Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, Toddington (26.5 miles).
Cheltenham Jazz Festival, Cheltenham (25.3 miles).
Bristol Folk Festival, Bristol (42 miles).
MAY
Cheltenham Jazz Festival, Cheltenham (20.5 miles).
Tetbury Wacky Races, Tetbury (13 miles).
Cheltenham Poetry Festival, Cheltenham (20.5 miles).
Chipping Campden Music Festival (33 miles).
Stow Horse Fair, Stow on the Wold (23 miles).
Burford Levellers Day, Burford (20 miles).
Scruffs Dog Show, Cotswold Wildlife Park, Burford (17 miles).
Gifford’s Circus - various locations.
The Bath Festival, Bath (35.5 miles).
VegFest UK, Bristol (42 miles).
Winchcombe Festival of Music & Arts, Winchcombe (25 miles).
Bath Fringe Festival, Bath (35.5 miles).
Lechlade Music Festival, Lechlade-on-Thames (12 miles).
The Great Original Shirt Race, Bampton (19 miles).
Cotswold Festival of Steam Gala, Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, Toddington (26.5 miles).
Half term activities, Avebury (National Trust) (22 miles) – children’s crafts and activities. 11am – 4pm.
Blenheim Palace Food Festival, Blenheim Palace (38.5 miles).
Half term activities, Cotswold Farm Park, Bemborough Farm, Kineton (24 miles).
Cheese Rolling at Coopers Hill, Near Brockworth (20 miles). Competitors hurl themselves down the steep banks of Cooper’s Hill, chasing the giant Cheese!
Morris Dancing, Bampton (19 miles).
Tetbury Woolsack Races, Tetbury (13 miles).
JUNE
Half term activities, Cotswold Farm Park, Bemborough Farm, Kineton (24 miles).
Half term activities, Avebury (National Trust) (22 miles) – children’s crafts and activities. 11am – 4pm.
Bath Fringe Festival, Bath (35.5 miles).
Robert Dover’s Cotswold Olimpick Games, Chipping Campden (33 miles).
Wychwood Festival, Cheltenham Racecourse (21.5 miles).
Lechlade Collectors Club Rally, Lechlade (12.5 miles).
Broadway Arts Festival, Broadway (30 miles).
Chadlington Beer Festival, Chadlington (30 miles).
World Pooh Championships, Langel Common, Witney (27 miles).
Cheltenham Science Festival, Cheltenham (20.5 miles).
Gifford’s Circus - various locations.
Cheltenham Food & Drink Festival, Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham (20.5 miles).
Bristol’s Big Green Week, Bristol (42 miles).
Blenheim Palace Flower Show, Blenheim Palace (38.5 miles).
Nocturne, Blenheim Palace, Woodstock (38.5 miles).
Charlbury Beer Festival, Charlbury (29 miles).
JULY
Bristol Shakespeare Festival, Bristol (42 miles).
The Cotswold Show & Food Festival, Cirencester Park (6 miles).
Cheltenham Music Festival, Cheltenham (20.5 miles).
Royal International Air Tattoo, Fairford (8.5 miles).
Cornbury Music Festival, Great Tew Park, Chipping Norton (33 miles).
Bristol Harbour Festival, Bristol (42 miles).
The Marlborough Jazz Festival, Marlborough (22.5 miles).
Battle Proms Picnic Concert, Blenheim Palace (38.5 miles).
Gifford’s Circus - various locations.
Avebury summer of play, Avebury (National Trust) (22 miles) – children’s crafts, trails, garden games, activities in the Old Farmyard and lots of immersive experiences in the Manor. 10am – 5pm.
WOMAD, Charlton Park, Malmesbury (11 miles).
Falconry Week, Cotswold Farm Park, Bemborough Farm, Kineton (24 miles).
AUGUST
Gifford’s Circus - various locations.
Falconry Week, Cotswold Farm Park, Bemborough Farm, Kineton (24 miles).
Rhino Month, Cotswold Wildlife Park, Burford (17 miles).
Avebury summer of play, Avebury (National Trust) (22 miles) – children’s crafts, trails, garden games, activities in the Old Farmyard and lots of immersive experiences in the Manor. 10am – 5pm.
Wilderness Festival, Charlbury (29 miles).
Gloucestershire Vintage and Country Extravaganza, South Cerney Airfield, Cirencester (2 miles).
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, Ashton Court Estate, Bristol (42 miles).
Bath Folk Festival, Bath (35.5 miles).
Bristol International Kite Festival, Durdham Downs, Stoke Road, Bristol BS9 1FG (42 miles).
The Big Feastival, Cotswold Farm Park, Bemborough Farm, Kineton (24 miles).
Winchcombe Country Show, Winchcombe (25 miles).
Donkey Derby, Bampton (19 miles).
SEPTEMBER
Gifford’s Circus - various locations.
Moreton-in-Marsh Show, Moreton-in-Marsh (27.5 miles).
The Jane Austen Festival, Bath (35.5 miles).
Northleach Steam & Vintage Show, Northleach (14.5 miles).
Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials, Blenheim Palace (38.5 miles).
Combe Mill in Steam – Country Crafts & Skills at Combe Mill, Blenheim Palace Sawmill, Combe (34 miles). Plus Millie-the-Mill-Cat Trail for children. 10am – 5pm.
Hobgoblin Cheltenham Comedy Festival, Cheltenham (20.5 miles).
Tetbury Music Festival, Tetbury (13 miles).
Bath Children’s Literature Festival, Bath (35.5 miles).
Marlborough Literature Festival, Marlborough (22.5 miles).
Malmesbury Carnival, Malmesbury (13 miles).
OCTOBER
Tetbury Music Festival, Tetbury (13 miles).
Marlborough Literature Festival, Marlborough (22.5 miles).
Bath Children’s Literature Festival, Bath (35.5 miles).
Cheltenham Literature Festival, Cheltenham (20.5 miles).
Combe Mill in Steam – Woodcrafts at Combe Mill, Blenheim Palace Sawmill, Combe (34 miles). Plus Millie-the-Mill-Cat Trail for children. 10am – 5pm.
Annual Open Exhibition at RWA, Royal West of England Academy of Art, Queen’s Road, Clifton, Bristol (42 miles).
Stow Horse Fair, Stow-on-the-Wold (23 miles).
Halloween ‘Steam and Scream’ Special, Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, Toddington (26.5 miles).
Christmas Gift and Fashion Fair, Cheltenham Racecourse (21.5 miles).
Great Bath Feast, Bath (29.3 miles).
Marlborough Big & Little Mop Fairs, Marlborough (22.5 miles).
Circus City Festival, Bristol (42 miles). A biennial contemporary circus festival across Bristol.
NOVEMBER
Annual Open Exhibition at RWA, Royal West of England Academy of Art, Queen’s Road, Clifton, Bristol (42 miles).
Bath Film Festival, Bath (35.5 miles).
Santa Specials! Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, Toddington (26.5 miles). Selected weekend dates.
Bath Rotary Club Fireworks Display, Bath (35.5 miles).
Bath MozartFest, Bath (35.5 miles).
Bristol German Christmas Market, Broadmead, Bristol (42 miles).
Bath on ice, Royal Victoria Park, Bath (35.5 miles).
Gloucester Quays Victorian Christmas Market, Gloucester Quays (27 miles).
Living Crafts for Christmas at Blenheim Palace (38.5 miles).
Bath Christmas Market, Bath (35.5 miles).
Cheltenham Christmas Market, The Promenade, Cheltenham (20.5 miles).
Christmas at Blenheim, Blenheim Palace (38.5 miles).
Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt (Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings), Westonbirt Arboretum (17 miles).
A Night of a Thousand Candles, Woodstock (37 miles). Turn on of the town’s Christmas illuminations with music, candles, mulled wine, chestnuts etc.
Cirencester Christmas Market, Cirencester old town centre (6 miles).
Made in Bristol Gift Fair, Colston Hall, Bristol (42 miles).
DECEMBER
Bath Christmas Market, Bath (35.5 miles).
Christmas at Blenheim, Blenheim Palace (38.5 miles).
Bath on ice, Royal Victoria Park, Bath (35.5 miles).
Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt (Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings), Westonbirt Arboretum (17 miles).
Cheltenham Christmas Market, The Promenade, Cheltenham (20.5 miles).
Bristol German Christmas Market, Broadmead, Bristol (42 miles).
Big Batsford Christmas Hunt, Batsford Arboretum (29 miles).
Cirencester Christmas Market, Cirencester old town centre (6 miles).
Made in Bristol Gift Fair, Colston Hall, Bristol (42 miles).
Winchcombe Christmas Festival, Winchcombe (25 miles).
Oxford Christmas Market, Oxford Castle (38.5 miles).
Christmas Market at Combe Mill, Combe Mill, Blenheim Palace Sawmill, Combe (34 miles). Free admission.
Santa Grotto, Batsford Arboretum (29 miles).
Made in Bristol Gift Fair, Colston Hall, Bristol (42 miles).
Bath Artisan Christmas Market, Green Park station, Bath (35.5 miles).
Things you need to know about Mallard Lodge if you’re thinking of booking a holiday there:
*Internet access is offered at this property for recreational purposes only and is not meant for business use. Speed/service may vary depending on the package obtained by the owner which is provided to guests free of charge. Should guests experience difficulties or loss of use, neither the owner nor the agent will be held responsible.
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