Cotswold Water Park has become one of the UK’s most in-demand family destinations, and with good reason. Its scenic lakes, cycling routes, wildlife reserves, and action-packed water activities draw families seeking a balance of adventure and relaxation.
But with popularity comes premium pricing. Weekend breaks at lakeside resorts can now cost upwards of £1,500, especially in peak summer months. That’s where Pettifers Hotel offers a smart alternative: charming, family-friendly accommodation just minutes from the heart of the Cotswold Lakes region, at a much more accessible price point.
Just Minutes from Cotswold Water Park
Pettifers Hotel is located in the quiet village of Crudwell, around 10-15 minutes by car from top Cotswold Water Park attractions including the Cotswold Country Park & Beach and South Cerney Outdoor.
This proximity makes it easy for families to enjoy organised Wild Swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, inflatable aqua courses, nature walks, and lakeside picnics, without the stress or premium cost of staying directly on site.
For reference, the hotel is around:
- 6.5 miles from Cotswold Country Park & Beach (approx. 14 min drive) – https://www.cotswoldcountryparkandbeach.com/
- 7 miles from South Cerney – https://www.southcerneyoutdoor.co.uk/
- 9 miles from Cirencester – https://www.cirencester.gov.uk/
A Family-Friendly Base That Feels Like Home
Unlike many resorts that charge extra for every added convenience, Pettifers offers a relaxed, all-inclusive experience that suits both parents and kids.
The hotel features:
- Comfortable family rooms and pet-friendly options
- Free on-site parking and Wi-Fi
- Onsite restaurant with breakfast included in the room rate and opportunity to have a family dinner without needing to drive
- Village location boasting 2 fabulous pubs
- Large walled gardens, adorned on occasion with a croquet pitch and surrounded by sofa seating and terrace for “al fresco” dining.
- Safe area for children to play and dogs to explore
- Easy access to outdoor activities, walking routes and picnic spots
- Bicycles for rent and many walking trails around for an active time together.
For families with dogs, the surrounding countryside is perfect for walks, plus the hotel is 100% dog-friendly. More about the hotel’s facilities: https://www.pettifershotel.co.uk/accommodation/
Comfort Without the Cotswolds Price Tag
Cotswold Water Park lodges and cabins frequently cost £300–500 per night in high season. In contrast, Pettifers often offers family room rates at less than half that with no compromise on charm or convenience.
Staying just outside the lakes also means avoiding resort crowds and inflated on-site food and drink prices. Guests can enjoy better value in nearby market towns like Malmesbury or Tetbury, both a short drive away.
Find things to do nearby: https://www.pettifershotel.co.uk/malmesbury-must-see-attractions-hidden-gems/
Explore the Wider Cotswolds with Ease
Cotswold Water Park may be the main draw, but Pettifers also puts you within easy reach of other family favourites, such as:
- Bourton-on-the-Water with Birdland and Bibury with the Trout Farm
- Cotswold Wildlife Park ( Dogs allowed!)
- Slimbridge Wetland Centre
- Bowood House & Gardens with Adventure Park
- Cotswold Farm Park – https://cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk/
- Westonbirt Arboretum with the Gruffalo trail and Trees walks – https://www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt
The hotel sits on the edge of the South Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, making it an excellent base for exploring rural villages, wildlife spots and outdoor attractions across the region.
A Smart Choice for Savvy Travellers
With high occupancy rates in the lakeside resorts and increasing demand for affordable family breaks, Pettifers fills an important gap: well-located, family-accommodating, and sensibly priced accommodation within easy reach of Cotswold Water Park.
If you’re planning a Cotswolds lakeside escape but want to avoid the inflated price tag, consider a stay at Pettifers Hotel where charm and convenience meet genuine value.
