Firecrest, Cotswold Water Park - sleeps 10 guests in 4 bedrooms

Tranquil views and snug furnishings welcome you to Firecrest, a place that feels very ‘hygge' (the Danish concept of contentment in cosy surroundings). Whether you take that as your cue to play board games around the fire, enjoy dinner at the banquet-style table or step onto the balcony to soak up the sounds of nature, this spot feeds the soul in every way.

Set over three floors, Firecrest's magnificent open-plan living area is the hub of the home and all centered around its finely crafted woodburner, which has a knack for bringing everyone together in one place. After putting your phone on airplane mode, settle down on one of two comfortable sofas, clink a glass and enjoy nibbles to the ambient sound of the crackling fire. When tummies rumble, prepare dinner in the well-equipped kitchen that overlooks the tennis courts while the kids have fun drawing on the chalkboard. Make sure to place a few bottles in the spacious wine fridge before choosing to dine either inside or al fresco where there's seating for 10 people. As bellies draw full and eyes tired, slink off for a restorative sleep in one of the four bedrooms located both upstairs, and down on the ground floor, not forgetting to catch a glimpse of the stars from Firecrest's plethora of glass doors and skylights.

Once outside, tune in to the peaceful sounds of the surrounding wetlands composed by the orchestra of unique wildlife that call this freshwater paradise home (think swans, herons and coots!) By morning, watch the sun rise over the lake and commence your day with a dip in the natural outdoor pool, or try a workout at the gym courtesy of the two complementary spa passes that come with your stay at Firecrest. There is also designated parking for one car at Firecrest, and additional parking located at the overflow car park on site.

Ground Floor

Bedroom One:
Featuring a luxurious king-size bed, en-suite and access to a private outside area, bedroom one is a sanctuary to itself. As the sun rises over the lake, open the sliding doors to enjoy the gentle sound of birdsong on waking.

En-suite:
After a day of activities, bedroom one's en-suite provides a welcome oasis for TLC. It's complete with a WC, hand basin and shower over the bath.

Bedroom Two:
Bedroom two engenders the same sense of serenity as the lakes outside. With its plump double bed and access onto wooden decking via sliding doors, it makes both waking up and bedding down a relaxing affair.

Bedroom Three:
Whether they've been out cycling, swimming, or splashing about, bedroom three is a haven for tired little ones. Equipped with twin beds and a built-in wardrobe, there's enough room for two kids and their belongings.

Bathroom:
Light and airy, the ground floor bathroom is equipped with a shower, wash basin and WC for freshening up after outdoor activities.

First Floor

Open Plan Kitchen/Living/Dining Room:
Firecrest's light-drenched living area makes togetherness a priority. Gather around the charming wood burner, flick on the TV or pull out a board game to really make the most of this expansive space.

A place for eating, drinking and connecting, Firecrest's kitchen is equally as communal and fully equipped with an oven, fridge-freezer, and that all-important Nespresso coffee machine.

Wander over to the dining area with nibbles and a drink in hand and take a seat at one of the dining table's benches, perfectly placed for chatting with loved ones busy in the kitchen or kids hanging out on the sofas.

Cloakroom:
Firecrest's first floor cloakroom is equipped with a handy WC and sink.

Utility Room:
The utility room comes complete with a washing machine, tumble dryer and ironing equipment.
Second Floor

Bedroom Four:
Perched above the living space, this mezzanine bedroom features a capacious double bed and two single beds making the options for sleeping endless. The room has a pair of glorious skylights and is lined by an elegant glass balcony that gazes down onto the living space - especially useful for keeping watch over furry friends.

Outside

The ground floor terrace features wooden decking, seating for a plethora of guests and a grassy area for kids and pets to play. On warmer days, light the BBQ and serve up a delicious feast whilst gazing across to the nearby lake. With a magical view stretching across the wetlands, the balcony is undoubtedly the highlight of this special spot. Framed by a gleaming glass panel fence, it's ripe for pulling out a rattan chair and unwinding with a glass or two as the sun sinks over the water's edge.

This cottage offers its guests a sauna, barbecue grills, and a garden. The front desk is open around the clock.

This Cirencester cottage is smoke free.