Our Junior Editor review sees Amelie and Philip visit The Lakes by YOO (aka Our ‘Secret’ Lake)
We just got back from the best weekend…and we’re already asking when we can go again!
The Lakes by YOO is about 90 minutes from London (mum checked), and it’s this ginormous place in the Cotswolds with lots of cool houses right on the lakes – and sooo many lakes everywhere. It looks super fancy, like one of mum’s magazines, but you can still run around, explore on your bike like the Stranger Things kids and get muddy (in all fairness mostly our six-year-old brother does this).
Actually our top favourite thing was spending the day paddleboarding and we had it all to ourselves. It felt like our lake (even if it wasn’t). There’s even a tiny sandy bit that made it feel like a mini beach break.
Lucas, 12 years-old
“I found a secret entrance to a narrow river while on the paddleboard which made me feel I was actually IN THAILAND! It was an amazing adventure and I highly recommend the place.
Look up the Marley lake, it’s one of the smaller lakes and I think it’s perfect for young kids like us experimenting with water sports – if paddling your way around ducks can be considered a sport!”
Amelie, eight years-old
“We cycled through the woods on what felt like secret trails, played pool right next to the swimming pool (yes, both kinds), and watched ducks and ducklings from our massive balcony – they acted like they owned the place, and I think they did as we were just visitors.”
In the morning, we had brunch by another lake (that comes with a playground, which is very important!).
Pancakes, hot chocolate, and a full English. Mum went for a huge pot of hot tea as she went swimming in the lake just before that…They apparently call it wild swimming. Nothing wild about that though! We chose paddleboards. Warmer and way more fun at least before summer fully hits heheh!
There’s loads to do as a family: a spa for the grown-ups, pop by the restaurant/cafe for snacks, swimming in the lakes or the pool, or just relaxing/doing nothing by the water (dad’s favourite). You could bring everyone, friends, grandparents, even pets.
Junior Editor Top Tips
Go early, grab a paddleboard, and pretend the lake is yours, or look for the activity tower, we heard stories about it – that’s what we are going to do next time!
Amelie: “This didn’t feel just a hotel, but as a whole mini world.”
Philip: “Look for the mini beach and play with sand.”
About the stay at The Lakes by YOO
Amelie, Philip, Lucas and their parents Aly and Justin stayed in a three bedroom apartment at The Lakes by Yoo.
Set on the edge of Marley Lake, the Lakeside Apartments offer a polished, design-led base for families looking to switch off in style. Each three-bedroom apartment is thoughtfully laid out, with en-suite bathrooms, private balconies and uninterrupted lake views that instantly set the tone for a slower pace. Inside, open-plan living makes it easy to settle in: a well-equipped kitchen, dining space for six and a comfortable lounge complete with a log burner create a space that feels both elevated and easy.
Designed by the award-winning team at YOO Studio, the interiors display just enough detail to feel considered without ever trying too hard. Location-wise, it’s equally well judged, moments from The Spa by YOO, The Lakes Bar & Kitchen and the children’s playground, making it an effortless option for families who want everything within easy reach.
A classic room at The Lakes by YOO Hotel & Residences starts at £229 per night with three bedroom apartments from £1125 per night.
Activities at The Lakes by YOO
The perfect place to stay with friends and family, The Lakes by YOO has embraced its location and offers a range of activities. Families can enjoy bushcraft, zip wire, archery, a teddy bear hunt, tree top adventure, air rifle shooting and a climbing wall. For those less active the spa and estate’s greenery are perfect for a reset.
During May half-term, children can enjoy activity camps and School of Wild, an inspiring outdoor learning experience. For more information:
The Lakes by YOO, Coln Park, Nr Lechlade, GL7 3DT
T: +44 (0)1367 254 260 (option 2)
@allmumstalk @alldadstalk enjoyed a PR visit organised by The Lakes by YOO
