Bee Cottage (HM75) Lower Mill Estate The Cotswolds

Discover ‘Bee Cottage’, a detached and cosy 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom cottage, nestled discreetly at the secluded end of Howells Mere overlooking a picturesque waterway.

‘Bee Cottage’ is one of only two similar properties that stand as a testament to the original style of Lower Mill’s Cotswold charm. Surrounded by the modern grandeur of its neighbouring lakefront residences, this cosy cottage is a pleasant 10-minute stroll to access the outer nature reserve, along with onsite facilities such Lower Mill Spa, Ballihoo restaurant and the tennis courts at Millstone Park.

With a warm, homely atmosphere reminiscent of a childhood family cottage escape, ‘Bee Cottage’ is well suited for families, accommodating up to six guests, including two couples and two children. While the single bedrooms are set up with children in mind, they can accommodate adults if needed.

Flanked by the gentle embrace of nature and the surrounding waterway that flows under the little wooden bridge into Howells Mere Lake, ‘Bee Cottage’ enjoys the benefit of a quieter setting.

All our properties at Lower Mill Estate, The Cotswolds and Silverlake, Dorset have strict rules to ensure a family friendly atmosphere. Our properties must strictly be used for holiday purposes only and not for working in and or using to commute to and from a place of work. Stag and Hen parties are strictly not allowed at any of our properties, and we reserve the right to cancel your booking if you break the estate rules.

GROUND FLOOR
As you step inside through the welcoming front door, you’ll find yourself in a cosy entry hall, complete with shoe rack and adjacent cloakroom with laundry. This room boasts a separate Bosch washer and dryer with elevated hanging space, providing practicality at your fingertips.

The heart of the home unfolds into an open plan living room enhanced with dual-aspect windows and glass doors, offering picturesque views of the seasonal reeds and foliage along the waterway. Imagine dining with loved ones at the table for six, with nature as the backdrop.

Internal French doors lead to the charming kitchen nook, featuring an all-white and grey functional workspace for crafting family meals. You’ll find a fridge-freezer, NEFF single oven, 5-burner gas cooktop, a convenient microwave, coffee percolator and French press for those leisurely mornings, a Bosch dishwasher, and a good old-fashioned radio to set the mood for some culinary dancing.

The lounge area boasts soft comfortable sofas and a striking wood-burning fireplace that takes centre stage in the room. Flanking either side of the fireplace are bookshelves stocked with an impressive collection of DVDs and books for the entire family, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for winter gatherings and relaxed entertainment.

OUTSIDE
French doors lead to the south facing patio, where an outdoor dining table for six and a couple of sun lounges await. Here, you can relax amidst the swaying reeds, accompanied by the gentle sounds of our Lower Mill ducks frolicking on the water. Fire up the coal BBQ for delightful evenings under the starlit Cotswold sky.

While there are neighbouring properties across the waterway, this cottage enjoys a tranquil location at the quieter end of Howells Mere, which backs onto Lower Mill’s expansive 450-acre nature reserve. Spend your days exploring bike and walking trails, paddle boarding, or try your hand at casting a rod into one of the many accessible fishing lakes.

With the waterway embracing Bee Cottage on two sides, there is a small patch of lawn to the side of the property with space for children to play. For those hiring watercraft, there’s a convenient space for storage along either side, or the back of the cottage.

FIRST FLOOR
Ascend the naturally lit, carpeted stairs, and you’ll arrive at a landing that guides you to the sleeping and bathing quarters.

Two single bedrooms feature drawers beneath the beds to unpack clothes and toys. Both rooms offer peaceful views over the waterway adjacent to the cottage, teeming with wildlife.

A charming double bedroom, complete with small balcony offers glimpses towards Howells Mere.

The family bathroom welcomes you with a shower over the bath and is equipped with a Velux window, inviting natural light to filter in.

The verdant, nature inspired king bedroom at the rear of the cottage boasts a built-in hanging robe, an en-suite shower room, and a small south facing balcony overlooking the waterway. There is even a radio for those personal tunes, or simply let the soothing sounds of nature serenade your senses.

At ‘Bee Cottage,’ create cherished memories against the backdrop of Lower Mill Estates unique beauty. Whether you’re unwinding by the wood burning fireplace, savouring al fresco meals amidst nature’s symphony, or exploring the estates trails, lakes and waterways, ‘Bee Cottage’ offers a holiday where each moment is etched in tranquility and warmth.

--------------------
PROPERTY SPECIFICS
Not Pet Friendly
One designated parking space – please use the overflow car park for additional cars.
--------------------
What's included:
Bath and hand towels, Tea towels, Bed linen, Bin liners, Kitchen pack of cloth, sponge, dishwasher tablets and washing-up-liquid.
Property is self-catered. The house is fully equipped with cutlery and crockery

Spa use included but subject to availability (contact Spa directly for opening times). Pool towels can be rented from the Spa, please contact the Spa directly to arrange this. (01285 862640)

On-site restaurant and small market shop with seasonal opening hours. Availability can book up in peak weeks so contact Ballihoo prior to arrival to not miss out. (01285 840181)

Bike and watercraft hire are available at the Activity Hub as well as lessons. Please follow the link for more information: https://lowermillestate.com/activities/

Not all properties have direct lake access even though they are listed as lakeside. If you are unsure whether this property has lake access please check with our team.

Please be aware that the vegetation surrounding the property is subject to change according to the time of year. This may mean that the views represented in the photos above may vary depending on the season in which you stay with us.

Normal check-in is from 4 pm. Out of peak season, early check-in of 2 pm may be available (at an additional fee). Please contact our office team to enquire.

Check out during off-peak dates is by 10 am on the day of departure. During peak dates (school holidays) check out is at 9 am.

£500 refundable damage deposit is due the week before your arrival. You will be contacted regarding this.

Travel cot and highchair are available for £10, subject to availability. Please advise at the time of booking. Guests to provide their own linen and mattress for the travel cot.

There is a strict 11 pm noise curfew on the estate.

There are 3 electric vehicle charging points on the estate that operate on a first come first use basis.

All our properties are non-smoking.
--------------------
SEASONAL CLOSURES
Somerford Lagoon Lake is closed from October – March due to nesting birds. The nearest canoe launch point is located near Mill Village as marked on the Estate Map.

The Somerford Nines (Clearwater 1-9). The private outdoor pool closes after the October half term and does not re-open until Easter.

The outdoor Mill Village pool closes after the October half term and does not re-open until Easter.

The Miss Mouse Trail, run by the activity hub closes for the winter months. This is from 1st November to the Easter holidays.



Pets - not allowed
Smoking - not allowed