The Cotswolds Manor

It’s amazing what an old quarry can be transformed into! Lower Mill Estate, in the Cotswolds, is now a beautiful nature reserve comprising eight lakes, two rivers, miles of walking trails and wonderful wildlife to spot, including otters and beavers! Families can completely immerse themselves in this natural haven, staying right on the lake shore, in architecturally award-winning holiday homes which have uber cool, minimalist interiors.

There’s no better way to relax and recharge batteries than simply gazing out across the lake from the balcony or patio deck, but there’s also plenty to do on the nature reserve to keep boredom at bay. The on-site Spa has two heated pools, a lily-filtered eco-pool, sauna, steam room and gym plus mums can be properly pampered with hot stone massages, facials, manicures and more. At the ‘Activity Hub’, kids and big kids can have a go at kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding or pick up bikes to follow the trails around the reserve. Little ones will especially love the Miss Mouse Adventure Trail, finding a host of cute characters all around the nature reserve from a specially created story – Miss Mouse Builds A House. The General Store has all the essentials for self-catering and a selection of local artisan products but when no one can be bothered to cook, there’s the Ballihoo Clubhouse and Restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks and take-aways. Throughout the Summer, all kinds of special events and activities take place at the Activity Hub and Ballihoo Clubhouse, from raft building and dusk wildlife walks, to pizza making and a Jamaican Jerk BBQ.

Accommodation Overview : Cotswolds Manor

The Cotswold Manor is an impressive family-friendly holiday home for 10-12 guests, with exceptional views over the lakes. Architect designed, this modern home has been finished to a high standard with luxurious interiors, a top of the range entertainment system (includes a Sonos music system throughout and 4k TVs across the house), double-width windows (for making the most of the view) and a beautiful wrap-around deck.

On the ground floor, there is a bright and spacious open plan living area with views out over the lake. There is a central wood burner, a cosy living area and dining table which seats 12. The kitchen area is contemporary and well-equipped. It includes a fridge freezer, dishwasher, microwave, oven, warming draw, Nespresso coffee machine and wine cooler. These rooms lead out onto the south-facing deck.

The house has a fantastic home cinema room which is accessed via sliding doors from the living space. It offers a 65 inch 4k SMART TV which is connected to high-performance speakers for quality, cinema-style sound.

There is also a utility room on this floor with a sink, washing machine, tumble dryer and American style fridge freezer. A W.C can also be accessed from the entrance hall.

On the first floor, guests will find the master suite with a super king-size bed and en-suite bathroom. This room has a private balcony. There are two further double rooms both with king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms. They also come with balconies. There is a twin bedroom which can be made up as a super-king on request. All of the bedrooms are linked to the Sonos music system. There is also a family bathroom with a large bath on this floor.

The second floor is home to a further double room with king-size bed, en-suite bathroom and private balcony. The en-suite has a double walk-in shower.

Outside, the house has a large decked area furnished with seating to accommodate 12, a BBQ and outdoor heater, all surrounded by a glass balustrade. The house is situated at the top of Mintey Lake with beautiful views and is close to the estate facilities which include the heated swimming pools and children's play park.

Two toddler beds or cots can be provided at this property on request but the owners ask guests to bring their own bedding for these.