The Wild Goose

The Cotswolds Water Park might just be Gloucestershire’s best-kept secret. Acres and acres of lakes, teeming with wildlife, stretch out across the countryside. This lodge sits right on Spring Lake, where you can spot woodpeckers, herons and great crested glebes alongside the resident geese and ducks from the private deck over the water. Those seeking a little adrenaline rush can opt for watersports on the lakes – water skiing or paddle boarding – or following the hiking and biking trails through the park. The lodge itself is a vision of pastel cladding where you’ll find an open-plan living area on the ground floor. Dining for six at the pine table can accommodate the bustle of family breakfast time and the big, squashy sofa can fit the whole group. Slide open the glass doors to the terrace on the lake, where a table and chairs are set for alfresco dining as ducks putter by. A collection of books in the living room and toys in the kids’ bedroom lets you know this place has families in mind and there are plenty of playparks across the lakeland grounds. There are loads of little villages to explore by car and Cirencester is just a fifteen-minute drive away for a day trip.

Home truths:
*There are pubs, restaurants and plenty of activities within an easy walk of the lodge but the nearest shop is just over a mile away so you may need a car
*There is parking for one car with this home
*There are a few steps up to the front door of this home so it may not be suitable for those with very limited mobility
*Perched directly on the lakeside, children should be supervised at all times
*A welcome pack of bread, butter, eggs and milk is provided to get you started
*Additional extras such as private catering, in-home spa treatments and massages can be arranged, just ask your host
*Your host can provide a cot, high chair and stair gate for infants