Morning coffee overlooking the water, an afternoon exploring the countryside, and an evening spent relaxing on your own decking… there’s something so very lovely about a lakeside holiday. And with 5% off for Cotswolds Concierge readers using the code “Concierge5%”, there’s an extra reason to plan your escape to the Cotswolds.

For a family adventure, a romantic few days away or a gathering with friends, Orion Holidays offers more than 60 self-catering holiday homes across nine lakeside locations in the Cotswold Lakes. With waterside settings and plenty to discover nearby, it’s an invitation to enjoy the Cotswolds at your own pace.

Find your favourite spot by the water

Choosing a holiday home is about more than the number of bedrooms. Perhaps you’re picturing long lunches outside with friends, somewhere comfortable for a family weekend, or a peaceful retreat where the view does most of the entertaining.

Orion’s collection includes two- to five-bedroom properties, with options accommodating between two and 11 guests. Many enjoy lake views and outdoor decking, while selected homes offer private hot tubs, spa access or on-site leisure facilities. There are pet-friendly choices too, so the dog can join in the holiday fun.

For an extra treat, explore the hot tub collection. After a day out, the prospect of a leisurely soak makes heading back to your holiday home all the more appealing. Facilities vary between properties and locations, so you can choose the combination that suits your stay.

Adventures on the doorstep

With more than 180 freshwater lakes, nature reserves and the River Thames, the Cotswold Lakes offers plenty of reasons to spend time outdoors.

Walking and cycling are wonderful ways to explore, with opportunities to pause, watch the wildlife and enjoy the landscape along the way. For those who prefer getting out on the water, the area offers activities including paddleboarding, kayaking and waterskiing, alongside designated swimming opportunities and fishing.

You can fill your days with activities or keep things wonderfully simple: a gentle walk, lunch in a country pub, and a quiet afternoon beside the lake. Check individual venues for access, seasonal availability and booking requirements when planning activities.

Time together, room to relax

One of the pleasures of self-catering is the freedom to settle into your own routine. Breakfast needn’t happen at a particular time, dinner can be a shared cooking effort, and there’s space to spend an evening catching up.

For families and friends, that flexibility is part of the appeal. A weekend celebration can become a few proper days together, while a longer holiday leaves time for both adventures and afternoons with very little planned.

Local people, local knowledge

An independent, family-run business, Orion Holidays has been welcoming guests since 1997. Its locally based team knows the area and can help visitors choose a holiday home and make the most of their time in the Cotswold Lakes.

That personal advice is especially useful when you’re balancing different wish lists, from dog-friendly accommodation to activities for the children or somewhere to unwind with friends.

Book your lakeside escape and save 5%

Ready for a little time by the water? Browse the collection at Orion Holidays, choose your favourite lakeside retreat and enter “Concierge5%” when booking to receive your 5% Cotswolds Concierge reader discount.