The Lakes by Yoo, a luxury Cotswolds retreat set on an 850-acre estate, offers an idyllic lakeside setting with a wealth of family-friendly activities. This exclusive countryside enclave features 11 stunning lakes and pristine parkland, providing a serene backdrop for a high-end staycation.
Location and Accessibility
Neighbouring the site are the charming village of Bibury, known as the "capital of the Cotswolds," and the picturesque market town of Fairford. Families with toddlers can visit Roves Farm, a 20-minute drive away, to feed animals, while Jeremy Clarkson's Diddly Squat farm shop is 30 minutes by car. The nearest train station is Swindon, a 30-minute taxi ride from Yoo, offering fast services to London. For those driving, all accommodation options provide two or more parking spaces.
The Vibe
The retreat boasts a homely feel with a modern country aesthetic. High-end accommodation options are perfectly arranged around each lake, offering impressive views across the estate. The tranquil setting, once disused quarries, now features freshwater lakes, meadows, and dense woodlands. The spa and wellness hub is an inviting communal space with a cosy fireplace, sunbathing area, pool table, and yoga classes.
Service
Accommodation is self-catering, but friendly staff guide guests to their lodgings, designated parking, and electric vehicle charging points. While room service is unavailable, apartments and lakehouses come fully equipped with essentials like dishwasher tablets, washing powder, and bathroom toiletries. A complimentary locally-sourced hamper of sourdough bread, butter, jam, and cake is provided. Groundskeepers are on hand to assist with directions during nature walks.
Bed and Bath
There are 165 properties, including two-bedroom cabins, three-bedroom apartments, and six-bedroom lodges, some with private lake access, swimming pools, hot tubs, and saunas. Three-bedroom apartments are most common, featuring a super king bed, one king-size bed, and two twins. Each bedroom includes robes, slippers, a Nespresso coffee machine, and a private outdoor veranda. Sustainable values are highlighted by refillable Wildsmith toiletries and plastic-free cleaning products. Parents should note there is no microwave, which may be inconvenient for sterilising bottles or heating baby food. All rooms have modern en suites, with master suite bathrooms offering a free-standing bath, his and hers sinks, and a rainfall shower. The master suite also includes a welcoming living room with a log burner and large TV.
Food and Drink
The Lakes Bar & Kitchen serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea, and Sunday roasts in a fairy-lit tepee or garden overlooking a lake. The tent features rustic furnishings, cosy sheepskin rugs, and knitted blankets. Hawkstone lager and cider are on tap, and a mixologist creates cocktails and mocktails. The menu, though not extensive, caters to various tastes and dietary requirements, using farm-to-table ingredients. Options include grazing platters, vegan pizza, braised beef, and cured cod. Seasonal supper clubs with world-class chefs like Jean Delport and Sally Abe are available. Breakfast includes healthy options like granola and chia overnight oats, as well as indulgent buttermilk pancakes or full English and veggie breakfasts. A takeaway menu offers antipasti platters, wood-fired pizzas, tapas, burgers, and fish and chips. Ocado deliveries can be arranged.
Facilities
Guests can enjoy miles of private nature walks, a spacious gym, tennis court, cricket nets, football pitch, steam room, and a 17-metre indoor swimming pool with floor-to-ceiling views of a willow orchard. The spa bar offers fresh smoothies, detox teas, and prosecco. Adventurous activities include sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, a high ropes course, climbing wall, and zip wire. Lake fishing is encouraged, with rods available for hire. The kids' club (ages 5-14) offers crafting and campfire experiences, while younger children can enjoy a lakeside playground and teddy bear picnics. An on-site farm has chickens for fresh eggs. Activities and equipment hire can be booked via the hotel's app.
Accessibility and Pet Policy
There are no fully adapted rooms, but lift access is available to step-free apartments with wide corridors and low door handles. Shuttle services can drive guests around the grounds. The Lakes by Yoo is highly pet-friendly, with ample grounds for dog walks and welcoming animals in the Lakes Bar & Kitchen. Select cabins and lakehouses are dog-friendly, with complimentary beds and bowls provided.
Check-in/Check-out
Check-in is from 3pm, check-out by 11am.
Family-Friendly Features
The retreat is ideal for families, with outdoor play areas, watersports, and child-friendly activities. Safety bed rails, travel cots, and highchairs can be added upon request. Bikes with trailers are available for transporting little ones.
At a Glance
Best thing: The glorious lakes for watersports, fishing, and wild swimming. Perfect for: Nature-loving families, couples, and large groups. Not right for: Those seeking nightlife or fine dining. Instagram from: One of the lakes as you step in for a wild swim.
Booking Information
Address: The Lakes by Yoo Hotel & Residences, Coln Park, Nr Lechlade, GL7 3DT. Phone: 01367 254260. Website: thelakesbyyoo.com. The Lakes by Yoo offers seasonal packages for overnight spa breaks and stay-and-dine deals for two.
