Weaving our way down an enchanting lane after our drive from Cornwall, we finally found the gorgeous Spellbound, tucked away at the end of a bridleway.
Approaching what felt like our very own Cotswold estate, we parked in the large parking area and made our way inside to explore our beautiful homestay, which sleeps up to ten guests. As we walked in past the utility room and snug, we entered the spacious main living room with a stunning dining area and gorgeous double sided wood burner. We then wandered through to the large, elegant kitchen and breakfast room, before finally uncovering the ‘piece de resistance’, the heavenly garden!
It was early evening, so the light was perfect as we walked out onto the surprisingly spacious lawn, just the perfect size for little ones and dogs alike. The Ibiza-esque pool area was to the right, along with a fabulous hot tub nestled in the corner. We kept exploring and discovered a cute little lounging area tucked behind a weeping willow tree - the perfect spot for our morning coffee.
After throwing the ball for our Cockapoo Rio and our two-year-old Freddie (who did about thirty laps of the garden in excitement), we decided to unload the car and find our bedrooms. Upstairs, we discovered four generous bedrooms, the Master bedroom had a stunning ensuite with a nickel rolltop bath, whilst opposite was the twin room, just wonderful for keeping the little ones close to the grown-ups. Further along the corridor was a double room, which fitted the travel cot for Freddie. The final bedroom of the main house had gorgeous, vaulted ceiling and ensuite shower, so we chose this room so we could be next door to our little one. Those looking for some privacy can find another bedroom settled within its own annexe in the garden.
Our Ocado order arrived right on time, and we packed away all the shopping before settling Freddie into bed. It was now time for a glass of wine and a delicious dinner. By the time we’d eaten, Ellen arrived with her partner, their two children and Rio’s best friend, Dexter the second Cockapoo. The kids were so excited to see the garden space and the pool, however it was a little late for swimming, so we settled in for the evening and watched a movie in the wonderful cinema room - we felt spoiled with so many things to do.
The next morning, we woke up and gave the kids an early breakfast as they were eager to get in the pool. We all got changed and went for our first dip, the pool was perfect, complete with luxe, non-slip pool liner. The whole pool is the same depth, which makes it super family friendly, and it was a heavenly temperature too. Once the kids had splashed around for a few hours, unfortunately it started to rain so we abandoned ship, popped the very easy electrical pool cover back on and took shelter in the games room.
This space was a dream on rainy days as it continued to pour for the rest of the day, but we had everyone entertained with The Ashes on the TV, endless games of pool/darts, comfortable chairs, and a very cute rocking horse for Freddie. The older kids were happy cosied up with their iPads and there was enough space for all of us to relax as a group still with plenty to do in the dry.
Later that evening, we began to prepare a delicious chilli con carne for the adults. The kitchen was well equipped with everything we needed, and we were very impressed by the stunning range of glassware too – one for every type of tipple. We savoured our dinner at the beautiful main dining table in the living room which felt very special, discussing how amazing Spellbound would be for a wholesome family Christmas getaway. We finished our lovely evening with a few drinks and lots of chatter and laughter.
The next morning, we hoped for some sunshine as we were all desperate to get back out in the wonderful gardens to make the most of our last full day. We got up early and opened the curtains to find blissfully blue skies. After breakfast we got ourselves ready and were straight in the pool, the kids had the best time and pretty much spent the whole day splashing about with the inflatables. The boys enjoyed the hot tub and Freddie was quite taken with the many garden games on offer. Despite Saturday’s weather we still had the best time - even Dexter found it relaxing and made himself comfortable on one of the loungers.
Later in the afternoon we decided we should get the doggies out for a walk in the countryside, we chose to continue down the bridleway, which was a stunning walk between two golden fields. We then followed a loop around nearby woodland before arriving at a turning, a stone’s throw from Spellbound. It was a great medium length walk, which was just what we needed.
When we got back it was pizza-making time for the kids, so we set them up on the rustic outdoor dining table and they began crafting. The kids adored making their own tea and found the experience so enjoyable.
After tea we set up the older kids in the cinema room with a movie and they enjoyed a chilled evening watching Spiderman on Sky Movies. They had a large sofa each along with some popcorn, so they were very happy indeed. Now was time for the adults’ pizza making alongside a glass of wine.
Following dinner we decided to have one last dip in the hot tub before packing up all our things ready to leave early the next morning. The house was the perfect size for two families, everyone had plenty of space and could go off for some quiet time if they needed. Even in rain, there was so much to do, and all three little ones were easily entertained during their Cotswolds escape. We had a wonderful weekend and would recommend this gorgeous homestay to anyone looking for a great family space with endless things to do without even having to leave.
Feeling inspired? Escape to the Cotswolds to create magical memories at Spellbound.
