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When visiting Watermark’s luxury lodges this summer, you may be expecting a getaway jam-packed with the various fun and thrilling outdoor activities that are readily available. Wake boarding, Paddle boarding, Cycling or a 9-hole round of golf. What more could you ask for? But this isn’t always possible with the stringent hold of mother nature, causing an imagined sunny break to suddenly twist into a wet weekend.

However, don’t let this rain on your parade. Watermark have 100% got you covered. Not only do the lodges provide a beautiful interior, fit with everything you would need to completely relax and unwind within the natural surroundings of the Cotswolds, the indoor activities at Watermark and the surrounding area can also provide a fun-filled getaway:

Get your skates on in Swindon: Only a 22-minute drive from Watermark, Link Centre provides a fantastic escape from the rain with their ice arena. This centre is noted to attract people from all over the south west, providing those damp days an exhilarating frosty spin. Whether you’re a beginner or an ice-skating pro, Swindon’s rink provides all people the chance to brush up on their skating skills.

Splash around at Cricklade: Splashing in the water isn’t restricted to Watermark’s outdoor lake activities – Cricklade Leisure Centre can also provide fun for all the family. With family swim sessions only costing £12 and fun & float activities running every weekend, there’s no stop to what joy both parents and children can experience. Of course, for the dare devils amongst us who would still like to splash about during the outdoor water sports, be our guest, but if indoor water activities are more suited for you, then Cricklade Leisure Centre may be the answer.

The De Vere, Spa6: Watermark’s neighbouring luxury spa also provides an idyllic way to dodge the rainy weather and unwind by taking advantage of the various spa facilities. Amongst the steam rooms and relaxation suites, Spa6 also provides a variety of beauty treatments and men’s grooming – but if you’re wanting to truly embody the rural feel of the Cotswolds, the ancient Rasul Therapy will guarantee to maximise your experience. And to make sure you get the best from Spa6, this June a special two for £50 offer is running Monday to Thursday, that includes access to various spa treatments and the choice of lunch or afternoon tea. You won’t want to miss out.

Wyvern Theatre and Arts Centre: if jazzing up a peaceful stay in the Cotswolds is more your style, then from the 26th of June Rhythm of The Dance is taking Swindon by storm. This event promises an evening full of Irish dance prowess, bursting with colour and energy to truly transport you from everyday life. But, if Irish dancing isn’t for you, there are many other events running through the entire summer period at the Wyvern Theatre and Arts Centre. Shows like the Rock of Ages, running from the 8th to the 13th of July and Rob Beckett’s hilarious Work in Progress on the 27th of June, guarantee that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

When the rain comes crashing down you may rightly question your decision to visit Watermark’s luxury lodges. But do not fear, this list of both fun and relaxing indoor activities will ensure that your stay in the Cotswolds is as idyllic as possible. Don’t just take our word for it, come see for yourself.

Easter at Watermark is fast approaching and the lure of a lakeside lodge has never been more appealing. Relax, recharge and reinvent how holidays should be spent; have Easter at Watermark. Watch the sun rise and set over tranquil waters and take time to enjoy experiencing how it truly feels to escape. It’s not chocolate that you crave or the sweet seduction of sugar this time of year, it’s stopping what’s expected and being open to spontaneity. And staying with us guarantees exactly that.

No two days are the same when you’re living the lakeside life. From water sports and long wild walks to toasting bubbles within the thermal springs of your private and picturesque hot tub, you choose the pace as well as the activities. Fresh air is the tonic to your wellbeing. And with so many exciting outdoor events surrounding us this season, you’ll be sure to re-set your mojo and soak it all in:

Cheltenham Festival: Hear the roars of an adrenalin-fuelled crowd as hooves pound the ground before you. You’ll soon understand why there’s no festival quite like Cheltenham. Feel the hairs rise on the back of your neck and your nerves tingle as the thundering thoroughbreds gallop to the finish line. The pinnacle jump racing event of the year boasts four days of extraordinary racing from 12-15^th March as well as live music, boutique shopping and an unrivalled atmosphere.  Take advantage of some top racing tips before your flutter at the festival preview evening on Sunday March 10^th from some of Cheltenham’s champions. Bringing a little friendly rivalry to the forefront Oli Bell and Nathan Murphy captain a panel of racing enthusiasts including trainer Paul Nicholls, Irish football legend Kevin Kilbane, Gold Cup-winning Jockey Richard Johnson, Niall Quinn and Kate Harrington for an evening promising banter in abundance.

Easter Wonderland at Blenheim Palace: For an Easter egg hunt with a difference – try finding your bounty at Blenheim. A four-day celebration of family fun promises giant 8ft decorated eggs hidden amongst the Pleasure Gardens. And that’s not all – find the special ‘Blenheim Egg’ and you could have a chance of winning an Easter surprise.

Cheese Rolling: Ancient traditions arouse curiosity and this one is no exception. Believed to have originated as a way to distinguish grazing rights on common land, cheese rolling is now officially an extreme sport. Attracting competitors and spectators worldwide the atmosphere alone is something to be experienced. Cheese rolling at Cooper’s Hill in Brockworth takes place on May 27^th 2019 and a new King of Cooper’s Hill will be crowned. Watch the stampede of runners chase a 9lb Double Gloucester cheese (travelling at 70mph) down the hill. The winner is the first runner to the bottom – the prize is the cheese and instant Cotswolds’ fame.

Cheltenham Jazz Festival: From 1-6 May there’ll be jazz cats worldwide coming to the Cotswolds. Join them and jam while enjoying international jazz icons from Jamie Cullum to Charenee Wade. Boasting Gregory Porter as artistic curator this is a festival of high acclaim. With free outdoor music in Cheltenham’s Montpellier Gardens, let the sweet sounds of the sax soothe your soul – surrounded by food, drink and the company you choose.

Surfing on the Severn: Here’s a date the thrill-seekers amongst you will already have marked on your calendar. March 22nd 2019. The first of three five-star bores heading to the River Severn, promising a swell for surfers and spectators alike. With waves set to reach heights of 10m plus, this natural phenomenon always attracts a crowd. Now a world-famous event it sees surfers across the globe head inland and upstream for an alternative adrenalin-fuelled adventure.

Whether you’re looking for family-fun, musical enlightenment, fast-paced adrenalin action or the safety of being a spectator, there’s something for everyone this Easter at Watermark. And there’s your home from home waiting for you with us at Watermark. We’re the Cotswold’s best-kept secret…stay with us once and you’ll want to keep us that way.

Welcome to the place where time stands still. With us. At Watermark. Planning your February half-term holiday couldn’t be easier. Put your hand on your heart and you’ll hear the Cotswolds calling. It’s time to celebrate the start of Spring. It’s time to try new experiences. To take a break from the cold morning commute, stressful school run and from being who people expect you to be. Time to relax and unwind. Time to turn off your phone without asking permission. To disconnect* from the digital world and connect to those who are most important. Time to walk barefoot. To taste the frost on your face/lips. Time to dip your toes. To get muddy. Get wet. Feel wild and refreshed. Time to wander.

Pause and clock-off from the 9-5 and take time. Quality time. On your own schedule with your loved ones in our luxurious lakeside lodges. Discover new half-term adventures in the great outdoors and pick the pace that suits your personalities. From introverts to adrenalin junkies there’s something for all the family. Feel-good family time in the fresh air. February is the month of love and you’ll feel it in the air at Watermark – watching your family make memories with us:

Cycling: bring your bikes or hire ours. Whether you fancy a relaxing ride around the country lanes and lakes or an adrenalin-fuelled off-road adventure, you’ll be spoilt for choice from Salisbury to Cirencester.

Horse riding: feel the air in your lungs on a crisp morning hack on horseback. From novice to experienced rider, the Cotswold countryside is yours to walk, trot or canter.

Children’s activities: choose from our outdoors activity park with zipwire, swings and climbing frame or our children’s playroom with cushioned floor and soft mats for toddlers through to gymnasts. Not forgetting our games room for teenagers and big kids, complete with pool tables, consoles and cyber-escapism.

Sports: From table tennis, boules and football to wakeboarding, fishing, sailing and golf – racket sports to water sports – there’s something for everyone, exclusively to our lodges, seasonally and all year round.

Photography: capture the views, wildlife and water via your lens. Or visit Wallsworth Hall and marvel at the ‘Nature in Art’  photography exhibition, from the world’s most prestigious wildlife photography competition from London’s Natural History Museum. Showcasing over 100 images of intimate animal portraits, atmospheric landscapes and revolutionary photojournalism.

Lambing live: Take a walk in the fields and see the bouncing baby lambs or visit Cotswolds Farm Park for lambing live from 16-28th February. Try bottle-feeding the lambs and goat kids or let your own kids loose in the soft play. Climb aboard the tractor safari for a trip around the farm and meet a few familiar faces along the way.

Pack your wellies: The South West puddle jumping championships takes place at Slimbridge on 18-24^th February. Style your splash in the perfect puddle and practice lakeside in advance.

Of course, this list doesn’t cover everything. Inspired by your surroundings, the artists amongst you may wish to write, draw or paint from the comfort of your lakeside living room. Or maybe you’d prefer to feed the ducks from your private jetty or relax in the hot tub with a glass of bubbly after bedtime. It’s your time and your choice.

However you spend your stay, one week is never enough. You’ll want to return again and again. We recommend staying with us to experience every season…then pick your favourite month – starting with February half term.

Half-term? Turn your question mark into Watermark.

*(of course, there’s Wi-Fi for those who don’t remember life without it)

Picture a winter wonderland at Watermark; a cosy lodge with a bubbling hot tub overlooking a frozen lake on a winter’s evening. Marshmallows fall like snowflakes into steaming mugs of hot chocolate before family members, young and old, race to pick their seat on the sofa ready to watch the Polar Express. Cushions tumbling. Laughter chortling. Now open the door and join them.

Hunker down and spend quality time together this Christmas. With your loved ones.  Away from the stresses of home. There’s room for all the family in our luxurious lodges. And plenty of space to still enjoy time to yourself away from the celebrations. With country walks, waterside views and Wi-Fi – there’s something for all the family.

If distance is what divides you all, why not meet in the middle? Create your own village in the heart of the Cotswolds and use us as the perfect base for your festive celebrations. Including all the pre-Christmas preparations:

Step inside a fairy-tale

Wander through a winter wonderland at Blenheim Palace in a search for Cinderella. Promising to be bigger and better than ever, this year’s experience is truly magical. With hidden surprises both indoor and outdoor, the Palace State Rooms stage your own adventures as the estate’s evening illuminations ignite your imagination. From December until January 13th this dreamland is on your doorstep for the duration of your stay with us.

All aboard the Santa Express

Travel to the north pole by steam train with the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway’s Santa Special.  From Cheltenham Racecourse to Winchcombe this festive treat will guarantee a little magic. Sit back and enjoy a slower pace while elves entertain the children with colouring activities, jokes and surprises. Visit Santa’s grotto on arrival in Winchcombe and enjoy time with the man himself before enjoying a complimentary mince pie and hot or cold beverage in the platform café. Every child receives a quality present and experiences an adventure they’ll never forget. Seats sell out fast, with just four trains each day (Sat-Sun) so be sure to book your tickets in advance.

Christmas markets in the Cotswolds

From our quaint villages to bustling towns you’ll be spoilt for choice to grab your mulled wine and warm mince pie this year. Whether daytime or evening you can soak up the season with carol singers, street entertainers and an abundance of twinkling Christmas lights across a variety of Christmas markets. Broadway, Cheltenham and Cirencester and all promise traditional homemade gifts, delicious artisan food, unique arts and crafts, live music and fair rides from mid-November – 16 December.

Special effects at Sudeley Castle

Experience hypnotising illuminations with vibrant colours and special effects against the back drop of Sudeley Castle’s glorious gardens. Savour festive food as you stroll around the grounds with mulled wine or hot chocolate warming your hands. Taking place in the evenings of December 8 – 9, December 12-23 and December 27-30, let Winchcombe’s finest bewitch you.

Whether you’re planning a Christmas retreat, New Year reunion or winter hibernation, celebrate the season and have a winter wonderland at Watermark. Relax, refresh and recharge. Discover life undiluted and unadulterated. Discover Watermark.

It’s that time of year again…you can feel it in the air. Adrenalin building as you hear the thundering charge of hooves pounding the ground, the smell of tweed and excitement on the autumn horizon. There’s only a few weeks to go until Cheltenham Racecourse hold their Showcase Meeting to start the season on 26^th/27^th October.

With its backdrop of the rolling cotswold hills, Cheltenham is the theatre of dreams for many this time of year. Maybe not for the bookies but for the grooms, trainers, breeders, owners, jockeys and punters alike – the dream of a winner is constant. It steals their sleep and sharpens their focus for months leading up to October. And you can feel the tension building. The excitement and drama of the new season waiting to start.

Like you, we can’t wait               

The National Hunt season will welcome the rising stars of Cheltenham as top trainers and owners showcase their new talent. Each year reputations are forged from the terraces to the paddock and are celebrated in the winning circle – and this year will be no exception.

Since the first race meeting took place here in 1815, Cheltenham Racecourse has grown in popularity year on year. Boasting a £45 million redevelopment in 2015, the venue now welcomes over 700,000 visitors each year.

Home of jump racing, and one of 14 prestigious courses owned by The Jockey Club, Cheltenham is famous for its Festival and The Gold Cup. Racing enthusiasts will already have 12-15 March 2019 highlighted on their calendars and accommodation booked before the madness of March approaches. The months ahead are the warm up and will entice you to visit again and again.

When it comes to luxury you’ll like our odds

The race to find accommodation in Cheltenham has started but that doesn’t mean you have to jump at the first overnight deal you find. Why not treat yourself to a little luxury, extend your stay and reside in style with us at Watermark. Wake up refreshed, relaxed and ready for the racing after a night in one of our lakeside lodges. Enjoy post-race dining and come down from your sporting high in the neighbouring spa. Relieve the stress from the tensions of the day and take in the beauty of the Cotswolds countryside from your sofa.

Entertain your clients, colleagues and corporate guests dining at Chez Roux at the racecourse or for a more informal gathering, welcome them all to a lakeside BBQ back at your lodge. You’re welcome to stay with us for the season, not just for the first meeting. We’re at your disposal from October to April, including New Year’s Day, and beyond the racing calendar.

Celebrate the start of the racing season, and your winnings, at Watermark.

There’s so much to love about autumn in the Cotswolds. To us, it’s a season that should be celebrated. Bright blue skies and crisp mornings with the first frost crunching underfoot. A wintery chill in the air but with the lingering whisper of the summer’s kiss still teasing our days. With our favourite season we invite you to enjoy some of our favourite pastimes: sip hot chocolate from steaming mugs and welcome the darker nights curled up with those you love in your luxurious lakeside lodge.

Leaf-kicking, conker-picking, forest exploring, marshmallow toasting, fresh-air inhaling, pumpkin carving days. Followed by firework watching, oohs and aahhs of an autumn sky, bonfire crackling, sparkler-writing names-in-lights nights. All wrapped with the hug of chunky scarves, oversized knits and the warm welcome from your home-from-home haven at Watermark.

With its pink evening skies and golden leaves, autumn paints using every colour from nature’s palette and its Cotswold canvas is no exception. Slow down the pace and indulge in some quality time away from the hustle and bustle of your 9 to 5 in a paradise where pumpkin picking is as strenuous as it gets.
You’ll be spoilt for choice for things to do this October – in fact, you’ll wish you were staying for longer. With Watermark as your base you can embrace all the magic of the season on your doorstep:

Batsford Arboretum

Your intimate and romantic adventure with nature starts here. Experience the autumn in the Cotswolds confetti and a carpet of colour. From deep yellows to burnt oranges, reds and crimsons, this spectacular show is not to be missed throughout autumn. With forest school, guided walks and photography workshops available there’s something for all the family at Batsford.

Closer in proximity to Watermark, is Westonbirt, The National Arboretum which is home to some of the world’s most beautiful, rare and extraordinary plants. Autumn is the perfect time to take to the spectacular Treetop Walk, amongst a canopy of red and orange leaves.

Half-term fun and frolics

From Halloween farm trails to pumpkin picking and Freaky Friday evening entertainment, you can choose between child’s play and tricks of terror this October 31st. Cotswold Farm Park tempts you with two ticketed events with Halloweenland turning from fun activities into a Fright Night experience for ages 12-adult.

Witches, Wizards and wellies

Berkeley Castle invites you on a wild walk in the grounds beneath the castle’s shadows to enjoy tasty treats around the fire. Toast marshmallows, get creative with Halloween crafts and be bewitched by spooky storytelling in the great hall.

Ghostly goings on

Think you’ve seen it all? Think again. Walk with the ghosts of Cirencester’s past and experience a tour of the town with a difference.

Festival on-foot

Why not experience the changing colour of the season on your own two feet – with the walking festival running throughout October. From the lantern way and beyond, you can let nature guide your next steps. Tailor-made walks and organised tours are scheduled most days across the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Sit, relax and watch the world go by…

If ghouls and ghosts aren’t for you and you prefer to savour the scenery from the warmth of a window, why not take advantage of the Gateway on your doorstep? With breath-taking lakeside views, delicious homemade delicacies and a serene yet sociable atmosphere, relish the moment and a well-deserved rest in good company. Or simply enjoy your time at leisure in luxury with us and spend autumn in the Cotswolds.