If ever there was a Year of the Staycation, 2020 must surely be it. And, let’s face it, with international restrictions still in place and many of us feeling uneasy about travelling outside of the UK, it’s likely to be a while before we’re willing and/or able to venture to far-flung destinations. So why not try a Winter at Watermark?
Memorable holidays don’t always start in an airport lounge. Nestled in the heart of the Cotswold Water Park, just 90 minutes from London, Watermark is a haven of peace and tranquillity that’s easily accessible yet feels delightfully secluded.
Winter is a wonderful time to visit a Watermark lakeside retreat. Arriving for your winter staycation, you’ll feel your worries simply melt away as you take in the stunning Gloucestershire countryside, elegantly manicured grounds and natural beauty that is, quite literally, on your doorstep. The Cotswolds offers an array of attractions to explore, but the wonder of a winter at Watermark is the huge selection of exclusive activities available right here within our lakes.
Family fun is what we do best, and our on-site activities promise to keep everyone entertained, whatever the weather. Our Children’s Activity Park boasts swings, climbing frames and a super-exciting zip wire for thrill seekers of all ages! Older children and teens will love hanging out in our games room, while our youngest guests can burn off some energy in our soft-play room and sporty types can take advantage of our boules court, cricket nets, table-tennis pavilion and football pitch.
Most of our lodges have private decks that give you immediate access to the water, and we offer a variety of water sports for beginners and experts alike. Try your hand at fishing, glide out on a canoe or paddleboard, or have a go at wakeboarding or water-skiing if you like a faster pace. Fancy stretching your legs while taking in the scenery? Our lakeside paths range from a gentle 1.6km to a more challenging 18km and are all fantastic routes for walking or cycling.
However you choose to spend your day, you can look forward to returning to your cosy lodge, which will become your own secret hideaway for the duration of your stay. Hunker down in front of a film, relax with a book or bring out the board games for some good old-fashioned fun! If you enjoy cooking, our fully equipped kitchens provide everything you need to create home-cooked meals, but if you’re planning a complete break from chef’s duties you can order in from one of the nearby businesses that deliver mouth-watering food direct to your lodge. We love Jonathan’s Catering for irresistible meals prepared using the very finest ingredients, and Bibury Trout Farm for fresh trout and locally sourced groceries.
If you’re celebrating an occasion while you’re staying with us, be sure to check out Poulton Hill Estate for small-batch red, white and sparkling wines produced right here in the Cotswolds. And if you’re looking to surprise someone special, local florist Oops a Daisy can deliver beautiful bouquets and handcrafted chocolates.
When the day comes to an end and the kids are tucked up in bed, there is nothing more romantic than cosying up to watch the moon rise and the stars glow above the peaceful lake. You can even arrange your own private hot tub on the deck – the perfect setting for cracking open a bottle of bubbly and raising a glass to a day well spent.
What better way is there to escape the hurries of everyday life this winter? Have a Winter at Watermark!
