Cowley Manor is a contemporary-chic 19th-century manor house with renowned lake-filled landscaped gardensa and eith modern, fresh and distinctive feel, just 7.2 miles from Prinknash Abbey Park and 7.3 miles from Cheltenham Racecourse.
Each of 30 rooms was individually conceived, with custom furniture and fabrics, and plans vary widely and boldly. Some have private terraces, some sitting rooms, and at least one has its bathtub out in the main room, at the foot of the bed.
Wooden-floored bathrooms are a welcome break from boring old marble. The rooms, all quite spacious, are categorized from Good and Better through Great and Exceptional, and, in an impressive display of intellectual honesty, there is only one Best, astonishingly large, with breathtaking views of the hills and lakes. Also, all have free WiFi, iPod docks, flat-screen TVs, minibars and Nespresso machines.
The hotel has 55 acres of parkland, woods and meadows, as well as natural springs and a series of lakes. In the summer months, you can book family picnics in the grounds complete with mini-bar, giant beanbags and food-filled picnic baskets. The C-Side Spa has an indoor and outdoor pool, and new Pool-Side, with sun loungers, chilled music and a bar serving cocktails.
It’s a great base to explore the surrounding Cotswold area, or to visit nearby adventure parks and zoo. There’s a baby listening service and babysitting available.
Children are treated like VIPs at mealtimes with a separate family eating area, special cutlery and dedicated children’s menu. Hunter wellies are provided for kids to explore the grounds and try out giant Chess, Connect 4 and Jenga. The hotel also puts on supervised activities and film screenings for kids during school holidays. Family rooms from £250, including bed and breakfast (extra beds and cots £30 per night)