Family holidays in the Cotswolds are booming, and nowhere is this more evident than around the Cotswold Lakes. Known for its scenic beauty and outdoor adventures, the region is a magnet for parents looking to give their children a break filled with fresh air, water fun, and nature-based memories. But as demand has risen, so too have accommodation prices with lakeside weekends often costing over £1,500.
This has led many families to explore nearby options that offer the same proximity and charm, without the premium price tag. Just a short drive away, Pettifers Hotel in Crudwell has become a go-to choice for savvy families looking to enjoy the best of the Cotswold Lakes while staying somewhere calm, cosy, and much more affordable.
A Quick Look at Why the Cotswold Lakes Are So Popular
The Cotswold Water Park area, made up of over 180 lakes, covers more than 40 square miles across Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. It’s become a haven for families who want a break from screens and schedules. Children can build sandcastles at Cotswold Country Park & Beach, splash in the safe swimming lagoon, or brave the inflatable aqua course. Older kids and parents can try paddleboarding or kayaking through South Cerney Outdoor, or spot wildlife along the walking and cycling trails detailed at Waterpark.
There’s plenty of choice for all ages and it’s not just about the water. From family cafes and nature reserves to off-road cycling and fishing spots, the area blends activity with calm.
The Trouble With Staying Lakeside
For many families, the idea of staying right on the lakes sounds ideal until they look at the prices. A weekend in a lakeside lodge or hotel during peak summer season can set you back anywhere from £1,200 to £4,500. Availability is limited, especially for those booking last-minute, and minimum stay requirements are often enforced.
Add to that the busier atmosphere, complex parking, and sometimes inflexible check-in policies, and the appeal can quickly wear thin for families who just want a relaxed, low-hassle holiday.
Pettifers Hotel: A Comfortable, Affordable Base Near the Lakes
Set in the tranquil village of Crudwell, Pettifers Hotel is just a 5 minute drive to the west side dominated by SSSI Nature reserves , the Thames pathway and quieter Green Lanes for a more secluded experience . 10–15 minutes and you’re in the main lakes area around South Cerney. With its warm, family-run atmosphere and dog-friendly ethos, Pettifers offers a much-needed alternative to the rising costs and pressure of lakeside accommodation.
Guests can enjoy family-sized rooms, a peaceful walled garden & terrace area for children and dogs to explore, and a relaxed on-site Pan-Asian restaurant serving both fun adult and child-friendly meals. You’ll also find free parking and Wi-Fi, bike sheds and wash down areas: small but significant perks not always guaranteed closer to the lakes.
Location Without Compromise
From Pettifers, families can reach all the most popular lake-based attractions with ease. Whether you’re planning a day at the beach and inflatable course at Cotswold Country Park , a canoeing session through South Cerney Outdoor, or a scenic walk along the Thames Path, everything is within a short, easy drive. Evenings out can be enjoyed at one of the many Cotswold village pubs, the Bakers Arms in Somerford Keynes is a local favourite, or with a relaxed bite at the Pizza Terrace and fresh doughnut stands at the Visitors Centre. Alternatively, treat yourself to a lakeside takeaway curry from Sasa’s, right here at Pettifers!
You’re also well-placed to explore Cirencester, known as the capital of the Cotswolds, which offers indoor entertainment for rainy days, child-friendly restaurants, and attractions like the Corinium Museum, Cotswold Market Days and the Great Park & Polo Club. Families often enjoy the extra freedom of being based somewhere quieter where they can plan days at their own pace and enjoy calmer evenings.
A More Affordable Way to Stay
The price gap is one of the biggest reasons families are turning to Pettifers. While lakeside options can quickly add up, Pettifers typically offers weekend stays from £300–£400, including breakfast and flexible room configurations. Compared to a lakeside hotel or lodge costing up to £1,500 for the same weekend, the savings are significant.
A stay here also includes that elusive balance of countryside charm and practical convenience, ideal for families travelling with young children, dogs, or even grandparents in tow.
A Hotel That Understands Family Travel
Pettifers offers what many families are now looking for: an authentic, welcoming experience that lets them unwind without overpaying. Staff are knowledgeable about the local area and happy to recommend nearby family spots. On-site dining means you’re not scrambling for a table after a long day. And the relaxed, down-to-earth environment is a refreshing contrast to some of the more formal, high-priced options around the lakes themselves.
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