A Journey of Discovery – Cotswold Water Park (Our Home)
The allure of the tranquil water and deep connection with nature was enough to convince us this was the perfect place to relocate. We’d travelled the world after retiring, but were now keen to discover new sights and thrills and find a different place to call home.
How It All Started
We stumbled across the Cotswold Water Park by accident. After spotting a sign for the water park on our way to Cornwall, our curiosity got the better of us and we decided to pay a visit. We were blown away by the lakeside homes with their New England-style architecture and stunning surroundings and kept returning whenever we could, when our busy schedules would allow, always finding something new to see or do.
Planting Our Roots
After we retired from our busy careers in the NHS (and spent a year travelling the world), we took the plunge and bought our first holiday home on Windrush Lake. We loved it so much we wanted to let others experience our beautiful abode, so we decided to rent it out to guests. This was so successful that we expanded our business to represent other lakeside property owners, with one clear mission: to provide the very best end to end service for our guests. We also opened our own commercial laundry and cleaning service to support our growing business.
As well as on the Cotswold Water Park, we now have properties in South Cerney, Upper Minety, Malmesbury, Burford and Stow on the Wold and we are happy to report that our retreat showcase is growing all the time.
Why We Love the Cotswold Water Park
Since 2016 we’ve lived on Waters Edge Lake; it feels more like home than anywhere else we’ve ever lived. The sense of belonging we feel here and the thrill of living in harmony with nature is unparalleled.
The Cotswold Water Park is the largest lake system of its kind in the UK, with 180 lakes spread over 42 square miles spanning the Wiltshire/Gloucestershire border. Former gravel pits, they now provide a haven for all kinds of wildlife (over 20,000 winter birds make it their home). Watching bats dart under our deck at dusk, otters playing in the water and roe deer grazing around Waters Edge Lake from the comfort of our own home is truly special.
This year there has been some focus on changing the name of the Cotswold Water Park to Cotswold Lakes which takes us almost back to the start of our journey where the name on the sign had intrigued us enough to make a trip to the area. The new name, Cotswold Lakes, gives a clearer picture of the area and certainly helps our future guests understand what to expect when they come and see us.
And there’s so much to explore and do – sailing, water sports, cycling, open water swimming, walks and fishing…the list is endless. There’s also a country park and beach, nature reserves, play areas, cafes, bars, restaurants, a visitor centre and fabulous holiday accommodation, meaning there’s something for everyone.
Click here for more information about the Cotswold Water Park.
Food lovers are spoilt for choice at the water park. From lakeside brasseries and traditional pub fayre to street food cafes, there’s something to suit all tastes. We love the Waterside Kitchen and Bar on Wickwater Lane where you can enjoy fantastic food and stunning lakeside dining. Dogs are welcome too!
While many of our guests prefer to relax and unwind during their Cotswold staycation, others take full advantage of the adrenalin-fuelled activities on offer at the water park. Check out our experiences page for more exciting things to see and do during your holiday with us.
Looking Ahead
It’s been an amazing journey so far and we’re proud of what we’ve achieved with the help of our fantastic team.
The Cotswold Water Park is not just a place; it’s a community, an adventure, and for us, it’s home.
