Alastair Sawday's Special Escapes: Self-catering in the UK

Sandpipers

Sandpipers, 21 Clearwater, Lower Mill Estate, Somerford Keynes, Gloucestershire, England

On a 500-acre nature reserve in the Cotswold Water Park, criss-crossed by miles of flat foot and cycle path, is a striking lakeside house for ten. It is detached, contemporary, filled with light and immaculately presented: pale woods, neutral hues and crisp lines. The focal point of this environmentally sensitive holiday estate are the lakes, of which the first floor's living area, its main wall constructed entirely from glass, has a bird's-eye view. What bliss to recline on the balcony or decking and absorb the watery scene! A smart sweep of sofa fronts the wood-burning stove and flat-screen TV, while a wing of rich azure delineates the cook's territory, fabulous to work in and liberally stocked. Everything is done in perfect taste, with a scattering of paintings, prints, books and magazines to make you feel at home. Three bedrooms are downstairs – modern, clean-cut, comfortable – while the cosy master bedroom is on the second floor, enjoying a splendid view from its lofty position. The bunk room, peacefully at the back, is designed with children in mind, the bathroom suites are white, the showers are efficiently drenching. You can make use of the on-site facilities, which include membership of the ArtSpa (gym, sauna, spa, steam room, three pools). You can walk to the pub, while the honey-stoned loveliness of the Cotswolds is a short drive or cycle ride away. A serenely luxurious retreat for an extended family group, or a bunch of friends.

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Details

Sandpipers

Contact: Nick & Kate Plummer

• Tel: 01285 860063
• Sleeps: 10
• Rooms: 3 doubles (2 with ensuite or own bath/shower rooms, 1 with shower room); 1 twin; 1 room with bunkbeds; 1 shower room.
• Price: £1,000 – £1,950. 
• Closed: 5th Jan-5th Feb.

Checklist

• Dishwasher
• Electricity included
• Washing machine
• Microwave oven
• Central heating
• Mobile reception
• Television
• BBQ
• Beach within 3 miles
• Cooked meals available
• Restaurant nearby
• Short breaks possible
• Extra bed/cot available
• Shop within 3 miles

Points of interest

• The house is situated in 500 acres of the UKs only residential nature reserve, in addition to deer, bats, owls, swans and otters, Lower Mill is also home to the UK's only wild beaver population.
• Unlimited free access to the stunning ArtSpa with three swimming pools, gym, sauna and steam room which is located only a couple of minutes walk from the house.
• The Cotswold towns of Cirencester and Cheltenham are within an easy drive.
• Lower Mill is in the middle of the Cotswold Water Park with plenty of activities close by for all the family including sailing and waterski-ing.
• Lower Mill also offers tennis courts, trampolines, childrens playground and football pitch.
• The Perfect Place to celebrate a Special Birthday with your family and friends!

This information is provided by owners and is not endorsed by ASP. If you have questions about it, please contact the owners.