The Lakes By Yoo

SUMMER 2023 SUMMER 2023

Quintessentially

Embark on a journey with Pestridge Construction Group as we craft, maintain, and transform exclusive properties amidst the idyllic Cotswolds. Whether it's your first rendezvous with the quintessential English countryside or a cherished return, we promise an experience that merges luxury with tranquillity.

COTSWOLDS Offering both a comprehensive and discrete suite of services tailored to discerning clientele in the UK and Internationally. Conservation, Contemporary Design, Landscaping, Management and Maintenance - our expertise ensures that your property, whether a private residence or part of your portfolio, remains at its finest. Pestridge Construction Group. are custodians of your lifestyle, cultivating spaces that reflect your personal taste and sophistication. Your property is not just a project, but a privilege, cared for with our exceptional standards and unmatched dedication.

Whether you're already nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds or embarking on the exciting journey of acquiring your own corner, Pestridge Construction Ltd. will be thrilled to assist and curate your perfect sanctuary, from country estates to rambling cottages brought to life with utmost care and expertise. Experience the Pestridge principles, where meticulous care and unwavering dedication, cultivated over 27 years of unparalleled mastery, place your satisfaction as the cornerstone of our approach.

PESTRIDGE

Construction Group

Curators of Cotswold Charm pestridge.co.uk | 01242 350443 | info@pestridge.co.uk

WELCOME

to our new Lakes Magazine.… It has been quite a journey from conceiving the idea of The Lakes in the early 90s to first visiting a gravel pit in 1999 to where things stand today…

N

ow you will find 11 magnificent lakes, 170 beautiful houses, a stunning spa and a fabulous restaurant, while hundreds of thousands of plants and trees have been planted, with habitats restored and created to entice animals, birds, insects and… people! To the team of thousands who over the years have helped shape and develop this thriving project, the landscapers, designers, builders, engineers, cleaners, managers, maintenance teams and many others, a huge thank you. To watch kids (and grown-ups) conquer fears, play, learn and discover nature; to watch lifelong friendships grow – this is what The Lakes is all about. The classic car collection is off to a flying start. A few Lakes’ owners have

come together to share ownership and cruise around the Cotswolds in some classics, including a red 308 Ferrari, a flower-power violet Jaguar E-Type, a classic Bentley convertible and more to come. We have enjoyed a couple of fun family adventure days out with friends and other car enthusiasts visiting the Classic Motor Hub in Bibury. Nick and Netty Mason turned heads with their Ferrari 250 GTO; Yasmin Le Bon with her fully refurbed Jag XK120. We’re planning more events in the future. The Art Park is another initiative that has emerged in recent times where a few owners have come together to invest in artworks and sculptures that brighten up our landscape.

Yoshitomo Nara’s Your Dog and the KAWS piece make many smile, while the mesmerising Hockney trip through Woldgate Woods reminds many of The Lakes in winter. There are a few more on their way… The Lakes Bar & Kitchen has now been open for a few weeks. We had a great performance by Natalie Imbruglia to kick off our music sessions. Again, more to come in the future. The beautiful cabins and apartments designed by our multi-award-winning team have proved a huge success in both sales and rentals. Now couples and small groups are able to come visit and live with us for a day, a week, a month, a year – or forever. JOHN HITCHCOX

CONTENTS

10 Spotlight on John Hitchcox

71 Cryotherapy for wellness

12 The visionary

72 Self-care for modern life

18 Things to do

74 Back to nature

28 Paradise found

76 Ready, set, explore!

34 The designer

80 Go alfresco

38 The architect

86 The ultimate sustainable road trip

42 Protecting English trees

90 Miles of smiles

46 Spotlight on estate manager

94 Classic Car Collection

50 The Cotswolds

98 One unique community

58 Art Park

104 Spotlight on accommodation

62 Sustainably yours...

110 Why you should join the community

66 Oasis of calm

113 Natalie Imbruglia

The Lakes by YOO, Lechlade GL7 3DT thelakesbyyoo.com instagram.com/lakes_byyoo

Reservations reservations@thelakesbyyoo.com (0)1367 254 260 (Option 2)

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Head of Marketing, Rose Chappell rose@thelakesbyyoo.com

Published on behalf of The Lakes by YOO

Managing Director Richard Woolliams

Editorial Director Fergus McShane

For media sales enquiries please contact gary.turner@ newhallpublishing.com

Finance Director Christine Blackford

Production Manager Alex Murphy

Creative Director Gareth Evans

Business Development Director Andy Phelan

Commercial Director Gary Turner

P8 SPOTLIGHT ON

SPOTLIGHT ON

John Hitchcox The grandson of a property developer and the son and brother of architects, a love for all things green – as well as design and property – was always in John’s blood

These influences have likely contributed to his success as an international property entrepreneur, respected around the world for his pioneering approach to design and development. As its chairman and founder, John has built YOO into one of the world’s leading placemaking, development and design brands since its inception in 1999. YOO has designed and developed over 85 projects globally and currently manages over £7 billion of development assets. Today, John leads the expansion and development of its group of businesses – comprising YOO (Branded Residences, Development and Design), YOO Capital, YOO Energy and YOO Retreats. YOO – the design and development business founded with celebrated designer Philippe Starck – operates across

Below left YOO Khun, Bangkok, Thailand Below right YOO Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka

36 countries and partners with design icons such as Marcel Wanders, Jade Jagger, Steve Leung and Sussanne Khan. With their services including interior design, architecture, development, investment, marketing and branding, YOO creates extraordinary and inspiring living spaces that are unrivalled in the property industry. Yoo Capital, the group’s real estate investment business, is currently leading the transformation of Olympia, with a £1.3 billion development of the London landmark. The 14 acre site, designed by Heatherwick Studios and SPPARC, will include the regeneration of the historic exhibition venues and the addition of two new hotels, a music arena, performing arts school, 1,500 seated theatre, offices and 25+ restaurants and bars. 2.5 acres of new public realm will be

P9 SPOTLIGHT ON

incorporated thoroughout. Yoo Capital is also continuing to expand regeneration opportunities in London with the recent acquisitions of Shepherd’s Bush Market and The Saville Theatre in Shaftsbury Avenue. Understanding the importance of sustainable development and energy-efficient infrastructure, John also founded YOO Energy, which works with landowners and key stakeholders to develop renewable projects. Covering the UK and western Europe, the business benefits from in-house expertise and extensive experience in solar and wind energy, energy from waste and battery development – currently focusing on the development of its solar portfolio in Spain and Italy, along with a number of battery storage facilities across the UK.

YOO Retreats is a business that develops rural retreat environments for second homes. Its most notable project to date is, of course, The Lakes by YOO – an £800 million rejuvenation of a gravel quarry into a landmark, multiaward-winning, environmental, 200-second-home project. This business is now deploying its skills into new projects within two hours of London. John regularly speaks, comments and writes on the topic of placemaking and the impact of development globally. A firm believer in living life to the full – preferably with a great rock soundtrack and one of his many vintage guitars at hand – he is also a keen cyclist, kite surfer and sailor, and is clearly making waves in the property industry!

Yoo Capital is currently leading the transformation of Olympia, with a £1.3bn development of the London landmark Below The London Olympia transformation

P10 JOHN HITCHCOX

THE VISIONARY Since the original idea, the concept for The Lakes has come a long way. The vision is now a reality and more is planned for a fruitful future. We took some time out with John Hitchcox to find out more

J

ohn Hitchcox’s rare combination of entrepreneurship and design savvy has had an unparalleled effect on property development worldwide. In 1992, he co-founded the Manhattan Loft Corporation, bringing to market incredible domestic living spaces carved out of post-industrial buildings, the likes of which had not been offered in London before. In 1998, with his great friend, design giant Philippe Starck, Hitchcox set up YOO, a ground-breaking property design and development company. YOO is now the largest residential design and development brand in the world, boasting many industry awards for design, development, community building, hotels and residences. YOO homes

have been designed and developed in large-scale projects with partners across 27 countries. Designers including Jade Jagger, Marcel Wanders, Kelly Hoppen, Anouska Hempel and Steve Leung have all joined the YOO family, creating a portfolio that offers luxury design in many different forms, from the cutting-edge to the most enduringly classic. The Lakes is a project that brings together the talents of YOO designers and a team focused on creating an idyllic retreat. Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, the rural luxury estate is spread across 850 acres of freshwater lakes, meadows and woodland, with spaces created for those seeking a family-friendly community and luxury sanctuary with a unique connection to nature.

P11 JOHN HITCHCOX

JOHN HITCHCOX

P12 JOHN HITCHCOX

MY LIFE’S WORK HAS BEEN TO BUILD COMMUNITIES

Conceptually, The Lakes seems a long way from 1992 and the Manhattan Loft Corporation. Did you have something like this in mind back then? It was a long time ago that the idea came to me in many different iterations. As is usual with me, it seemed to come from a practical need. I worked in London and wanted my children to have experience of the country, and broadly speaking, The Lakes is my solution. Although it is fair to say that it was, and is, very much a work in progress. The Lakes is both a new vision of a community and an innovative architectural/design project – which perspective came first? The concept came first, then we began to apply our skills and experience in design. Primarily, we were working with the ethos of structures that were sustainable, natural, simple, practical and low-level that would blend into the surrounding nature. We wanted to prefabricate the buildings to reduce disruption, increase speed and improve insulation. You’ve spoken about creating a sense of community being one of the key elements of great architecture – is The Lakes the most literal example of that philosophy? My life’s work has been to build communities from vertical to horizontal, from urban to rural, from residential to resort, from entertainment to workplace. The Lakes is a great example

of bringing together like-minded people and their families to discover common interests: to play, to learn, to grow, to celebrate, to exercise and to experience so much together. Our role is to lay out the hardware – the estate, the buildings, the design language, the mood and feeling – and then invite guests to give it a try, and from there, the seeds of a community begin to take shape. Is it true that you believe the roles of architect, developer and designer carry equal weight? Did that prove to be the case with The Lakes? I do not spend much time distinguishing between these skills; they are all important. In my case, as the son of an architect and the grandson of a carpenter/developer, it’s fair to say that DNA and childhood exposure may play a role in merging these disciplines. Sustainability is a core principle – how does this manifest itself in The Lakes project? Does sustainability always mean a degree of compromise, or does it tend to drive positive innovation? Sustainability plays a big role across The Lakes and our other businesses. YOO Energy builds wind and solar farms, along with battery-storage facilities across Europe. This activity has proven for YOO the best way to balance off our carbon footprint with all our projects. In our building choices, we attempt to take the most conscious approach to

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P15 JOHN HITCHCOX

sustainability and The Lakes is no exception, from sustainable timber and heat exchangers, to solar panels and high-value insulation. Beyond this, of course, The Lakes was essentially a brownfield site that we have completely reconstructed into a natural habitat, together with the planting of hundreds of thousands of trees. How much of a factor is the location, specifically ease of access to London given the ‘second home’ aspect? I think there is a balance for our friends and colleagues at The Lakes. You don’t want to be too far from the urban environment (mostly London), but far enough that you feel you’re in the real countryside. So, one to two hours works well. You started with an abandoned quarry – tell us about the challenges/opportunities that presented. For me, when we look at our impact on the planet at The Lakes, we have utilised the land to its fullest. We quarried the land for gravel, then clean landfill, before replanting and creating completely new lakes and water habitats for millions of plants, insects and animals. We then sprinkled a few humans and here we are. To ultimately be designated a National Site of Special Scientific Interest just goes to endorse the success of the estate’s reuse and restoration. This gives the team and myself huge pride and we hope pleasure to all those who live and experience the results. Philippe Starck is your partner – aside from interior design, did he play a wider role in The Lakes? Philippe Starck and I have been partners for more than 25 years; he is a genius and I have learnt so much from

WE SEEK TO PIONEER AND PUSH BOUNDARIES him. We have travelled the world together and have built communities on most continents. The ethos that we followed has been about ‘YOO’: improving your life, your home, your happiness and your family through our experience and learning in building the most important place for all people… their home. Your celebrated creative directors each did an interior. Who else has contributed to the interior design visions? Was it a clean sheet or were there limitations on creative freedom? This whole project has been a huge team effort from the groundsmen to the cleaners, from the security team to the builders. Along the way, we’ve been very lucky to work with some extremely talented people such as Philippe Starck, Kate Moss, Kelly Hoppen, Jade Jagger, our own YOO design studio and many more. As a design-orientated developer, we will always grow from our collaborations and seek to pioneer and push the boundaries of community, arts, culture, design. You’re known to love details – can you point out a few details of The Lakes that help define its uniqueness? I’m not sure this is correct – I love people who love details. I am the producer and conductor of this fine orchestra of extraordinary talent. They are in charge of the details. My favourite details of The Lakes that bring me great pride are its ecology, sustainability and the community here. I love to see the friendships blossom between families who did not know each other before arriving at The Lakes, the way we come together in times of bereavement or ill-health, as well as celebrating together and inviting in new members. In a few words, how do you want residents of The Lakes to feel? Happy, comfortable, inspired, relaxed, guiltless, stimulated, progressive, interested, fit and healthy.

Opening doors to the Cotswold’s finest homes. Craig Fuller is the Stacks regional direction and buying agent for the Cotswolds, North Wiltshire, South Gloucestershire, South Oxfordshire, Bath and Cheltenham. Craig has an intimate knowledge of the area, having been brought up as a child in Wiltshire after his family moved from Zimbabwe. Well-known in the area and with an extensive network of contacts and connections in the property sector and beyond, Craig is highly driven and focused. An effective and successful negotiator, Craig has honed his skills in some of the most aggressive markets worldwide. His clients attest to Craig’s strong negotiating and people skills as well as his ability to evaluate what sort of offer to put forward. Always working on the buyer’s side, Craig prides himself on advising his clients objectively. “It’s vital to keep a cool head at all times, especially in a competitive market,” says Craig. Finding a property in a prime market can be daunting at the best of times, and Craig offers support and guidance for those who are time-poor or buying from further afield. “I listen to my clients’ requirements. My aim is to offer reassurance whilst achieving a stellar result. I guide my clients from the initial search to completion day, securing the right property that fits the requirements.” Craig also advises his clients to look at all possible options when it comes to making a new property investment. When moving from an urban area, it’s tempting to replicate something similar on a larger scale, but Craig encourages clients to consider all manner of options. “There are some superb prime and super

prime properties available that have, until very recently, been in the same hands for several generations. These stunning homes offer an incoming purchaser the chance to be creative against a solid backdrop of, for example, a period gem within its own parkland.” With world-class schooling available in the locality, good transport links to both London and the Midlands, and the easy

proximity to the stunning coastlines of both Cornwall and Pembrokeshire, a move to the Cotswolds is a profoundly attractive option. Craig firmly believes in knowing the lie of the land - not just in terms of geography but also in local contacts and proven track records. “We work with all manner of local professionals, from estate agents to solicitors, and have a good rapport with them. It is these working relationships that turn the cogs and ease the transactions. Reliability and transparency are fundamental in our line of work.”

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“Nothing could have prepared me for the current property market in the Cotswolds. There is serious competition and a strong possibility of over-paying, particularly if you have fallen in love with a property. I don’t think I would be sitting here today in my home had I not secured Craig’s services as a property finder.” - Sean H.

Having the most experienced buying agency representing your property interests can make all the difference when searching for your perfect property in a highly competitive market. In most circumstances, we ensure that our clients have access to properties before they reach the open market and that they are making a sound investment that ticks all the right boxes for location, neighbourhood and value for money.

Craig Fuller +44 (0)7767 211707 craigfuller@stacks-fuller.co.uk

P18 THINGS TO DO

THINGS TO DO Our activities offer something for everyone and are aimed at getting you out and about, exploring the natural beauty of the estate – and beyond ZIP WIRE

After donning your comfortable full-body harness and being led up to the top of the three-storey tower, you’ll step off the platform and be on your way down the 120m steel cable. Your journey to the landing area and beach will be around 30 miles per hour – slow enough for you to be able to take in the lovely lake scenery and finish with a soft landing on your feet. Instructors can provide a range of more boundary-pushing activities.

P19 THINGS TO DO

CLIMBING WALL

FISHING

C L AY P I G E O N S H O O T I N G

With a choice of three walls, colourcoded for difficulty, there is a challenge level suitable for everybody. Whether you want to race against friends or the clock, or go at your own pace, the goal for everyone at the end is to ring the ship bell at the top. Then, from there, you can let go of the rope and be brought down at a comfortable pace.

Either from the bank or on a boat, this family-friendly activity takes place at Bowmoor Lake, the biggest lake on the estate. All rods and tackle are supplied and, while there’s no guarantee that you’ll catch any fish, you will have a lovely afternoon. The lake is brimming with carp and trout, plus the occasional roach and pike, so many do manage to reel in a catch of the day.

Particularly great for teenage and adult-only groups, this activity is best suited for those aged 10 years and over. Held offsite in the nearby picturesque village of Bourton-on-the-Water, about half an hour from the estate, at Cotswold Clay Club.

P20 THINGS TO DO

GEOCACHING

BUSHCRAFT

A newer activity, this high-tech treasure hunt is a fun option for all the family to get involved. After having a map delivered to your property, and being supplied with GPS and map, your navigation skills will be tested as you are tasked with making your way around the estate, solving clues and discovering hidden boxes in its deepest depths.

Based in the lovely surroundings of the woods, this highly adaptable activity encompasses a wide range of skills, especially those related to survival – from tracking and compass usage to fire starting, whittling and building dens. All ages can be catered for, and as it ends with the camping classic of marshmallow toasting, this activity has universal appeal.

WHITTLING/WOODWORK

After two hours of learning wood carving skills, taught by your instructor, you’ll be equipped with skills enabling you to make many useful items, such as mallets and tent pegs. Whatever you create, you’ll be able to leave your session with a souvenir, crafted by your own two hands, to take home and show off!

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P23 THINGS TO DO

ARCHERY

P O W E R FA N

TENNIS

Suitable for beginners and intermediate levels alike, this sport is a great option for all the family. Learn the skill of this bow and arrow target practice, with several additional challenges thrown in by the instructors to keep the fun going.

Not unlike skydiving, here you’re attached to a rope that unwinds from a fan system as you step off the edge, slowing you down as you approach the ground so that you can land securely on your feet.

With the onsite tennis courts, the options are open. You can book a court for a leisurely game, free of charge, or book a professional coach for a lesson and competitive head-to-head challenge. These can be arranged for all ages and levels.

P24 THINGS TO DO

HORSE RIDING

Although an external, offsite activity, staff can book horse riding sessions on your behalf. Information regarding your age, previous riding experience, height and weight will need to be supplied prior to this. Lessons are 45 minutes in length, but you’ll need to arrive at Talland School of Equitation 20 minutes ahead of time. Main items of attire – trousers, boots and hat – are supplied at the stables.

POND DIPPING

RAFT BUILDING

A laidback and informative two hours will be spent exploring the aquatic spaces on the estate. Your knowledgeable instructor can give you a talk, engaging for all ages, about the insect and water life, and you’re armed with nets, buckets and observation tanks to further your exploration.

Particularly ideal for older children and adults, your group will work with the instructor to construct a raft that will be suitable to then put to use later on the water and soak up your surroundings. Should your group size be larger than six people, it’s recommended that you book a double session and split into two teams – each building your own raft – to make the activity competitive.

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SCAN ME!

P27 THINGS TO DO

SAUSAGES & S’MORES

Picture the scene – it’s dusk on the stunning Bowmoor Lake. You’re sitting in front of a roaring fire, wrapped in a blanket as you take in the breathtaking views around you with your children playing in the background. Sausages cooking and s’mores toasting on the open flames, you indulge in the luxury of a hot chocolate with board games, or kick around a football – it’s not hard to see why this is a firm family favourite for those with little ones!

TRAPEZE

H O L I D AY C L U B

Attached to a rope, jump off the edge at a height of 15m above ground and reach for the trapeze – which the instructors have control over and can move out of your way! Return for a second attempt after reaching the ground, if you miss the first time.

This Children’s Activity and Education Programme runs on most days during school holidays to offer parents some respite. Accompanied by an experienced team, this is very popular among the kids and is suitable for ages four and above. The broad range of activities includes arts and crafts, theatre, beekeeping and bushcraft, with a nut-free lunch included.

P28 EXPERIENCE

PARADISE FOUND The Telegraph ’s hotel expert, Fiona Duncan, dips her toe into The Lakes by Yoo and is captivated from the get-go

D

o you know the book by Alain-Fournier called Le Grand Meaulnes? This successful French novel was written in 1913 and set in La Sologne, a mysterious, little-visited region of France, full of lakes, ponds, woods and meadows. Here, our hero, Augustin Meaulnes, stumbles across a hidden estate where a lovely girl captures his heart and a magical party seems to go on forever. In English translation, the book is called The Lost Domain. I don’t need to go to the Sologne to find the lost domain – it’s right here, in the heart of England. It’s called The Lakes

P29 EXPERIENCE

P30 EXPERIENCE

by Yoo, and given that a century on the world is far busier, more crowded and less secretive than it was then, it’s every bit as mysterious, watery, captivating and intensely private as the one in Alain-Fournier’s book. What a wonderful find. I often drive along the A417 but had no idea what was hiding just off it, nor the extent of the 850acre waterworld that it encompasses. But the moment we were ushered into the estate and saw a couple in front of us picking up free eggs, fruit and vegetables, evidently grown there, we knew we were somewhere special. For the last 20 years or so, I have been The Telegraph’s chief hotel expert and I’ve reviewed well over 600 hotels, inns and restaurants with rooms around the country. I love hotels. But what I love even more is the freedom of my own home, but with hotel service when I want it, and that’s exactly what we found at The Lakes by Yoo, all in a totally safe, family oriented, blissfully luxurious eco-haven of sustainability. For a multi-generational party (grandparents, parents, a toddler, a baby, an uncle and a friend) we couldn’t have asked for more from our three nights in The Reserve, a glorious five-bedroom, five-bathroom dream house overlooking its own lake. Walking in was memorable. We put down our bags and said, “Wow!” in unison. The huge sitting room morphs into a shiny kitchen on one side and a wide terrace with sofas, dining table and hot tub on the other. As with the majority of houses on the estate, the mix of wood cladding on the exterior, huge windows and clean, boxy lines made for a house that felt natural, practical, contemporary and glamorous at the same time. The design of the house meant we could all do our own thing, yet be together. Some lolled on sofas, reading, others fished from the balcony with rods provided by the Estate. The playground was close to a cup of coffee at the The Lakes Bar & Kitchen for parents

watching over their young. And that wonderful pool at the spa. What fun two-year-old Olive had in it. We might happily have spent all our time chilling in our house, drinking rosé wine and eating toasted sandwiches at The Lakes Bar & Kitchen, or swimming and having treatments in the spa if it hadn’t been for the bicycles, again provided by the Estate. Without them, including a kids’ trailer for Olive, we would never have been able to take the map and discover just how lovely those 850 acres are, and we’d never have known where those free eggs and vegetables came from! We cycled past attractive contemporary yet natural-looking houses secreted in the trees and on the fringes of lakes. We

P31 EXPERIENCE

I LOVE THE FREEDOM OF MY OWN HOME, BUT WITH HOTEL SERVICE WHEN I WANT IT, AND THAT’S EXACTLY WHAT WE FOUND

P32 EXPERIENCE

BREAKFAST ARRIVING IN A HAMPER EACH MORNING WAS ALMOST THE BEST TREAT OF ALL came across tennis courts, a football pitch, golf and cricket nets, and a fearsome zip wire, not to mention the huge sculpture of a dog surveying the vast and lovely meadow. We found the splendid kitchen garden, plus free-range hens, pigs, goats, sheep and other farm animals, a bird hide, and loveliest of all, the River Coln, which passes quietly through the Estate, perfect for trout fishing. Of course, the lakes are the main draw. From the sandy beach alongside the meadow, we spent a happy afternoon canoeing and paddleboarding and, to my amazement (I don’t usually do anything so strenuous), allowing my son to persuade me to swim across Warren Cross Lake and back. It was wonderfully refreshing. But back to the business of staying in private houses with hotel service. With backgrounds in some of the best hotels in the country, the new team at The Lakes by Yoo know how to deliver hospitality and it was a joy to dip in and out of Guest Services on a whim. Breakfast arriving in a

hamper each morning was almost the best treat of all with so many mouths to feed, especially when it included the freshest eggs and the best smoked salmon I can recall. For lunch, we toddled to The Lakes Bar & Kitchen or made salads at home, while dinner either came to us pre-cooked from the Bar & Kitchen menu or – memorably – courtesy of a private chef conjured by Damian Daszynski, ex-Thyme, ex-Chiltern Firehouse, now in charge of food and beverage at The Lakes by Yoo. Our three-course dinner was earthy, inventive and superb, and the highlight – one of the highlights – of our stay. Two of our party were celebrating birthdays and what a joint celebration it was. The Lakes by Yoo secret is out – for my family at any rate. My son and daughter-in-law already plan to take a lakeside cabin for a long weekend: it’s within easy reach of London, it’s safe, luxurious and eminently child-friendly. As for me – well, I’ve found a lost domain, and unlike Augustin Meaulnes, I don’t intend to lose it again.

DESIGNERS AMD MAKERS OF EXCEPTIONALLY FINE BESPOKE CABINETWORK SINCE 1986

THE KITCHEN CONSULTANT AND SPECIALIST 31-35 WESTWARD RD. STROUD GL5 4JA 01453 753335 | www.stroudfurnituremakers.co.uk. |

THE AGA SHOP. 26 CASTLE ST. CIRENCESTER GL7 1HQ @stroudfurnituremakers.

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THE DESIGNER Renowned architect Philippe Starck is an integral part of the YOO family – we spoke to him to find out more about his creative process and inspiration

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hilippe Starck, a world-famous designer with an impressively varied CV, is always focused on his vision: that creation, whatever form it takes, must improve the lives of as many people as possible. This philosophy has made him one of the pioneers and central figures of the concept of ‘democratic design’ and the perfect person to team up with John Hitchcox to create the YOO brand. His prolific career has seen his work span all domains, from everyday products (furniture, a citrus squeezer, electric bikes, an individual wind turbine) to architecture (hotels, restaurants that aspire to be stimulating places) and naval and spatial engineering (mega yachts, habitation module for private space tourism) and his expertise is evident in every aspect of The Lakes by YOO. How did you first get involved with YOO? To have beautiful children, parents must be in love. That’s what happened with John Hitchcox. When he approached me to collaborate, he presented me with

an incredible concept that would change the way we live and encourage us to thrive in and be inspired by our homes and environment. This is how we created YOO. As a creative director, what is your role at YOO? And alongside John Hitchcox, how did you develop the concept of YOO inspired by Starck? YOO is a unique concept in the world. It allows our sentimental tribe to be helped with competence, honesty and tenderness at a very crucial moment of their life – the purchase of their apartment. I refuse to design private homes as I want to avoid the designer influence on private and personal life. I believe one has to create and make her or his own nest and not live in the head of an interior designer. I prefer to express my creativity through my work for public spaces. However, sometimes one may need some professional help from a ‘friend’ who is skilled in architecture and design. For example, for costly purchases like all the permanent fixtures – floor, bathrooms, etc. This is the concept and the role of YOO.

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P H I L I P P E S TA R C K

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How do you approach the creative process at YOO? YOO is a philosophy. We started by spending our days dreaming of a kind of utopia, where all our friends could coexist harmoniously. And as creators, we imagined extraordinary places where we could live happily and have fun. This gave birth to YOO, like ‘you’ in English, because it is literally about ‘you’. YOO is not about determining a style for a target customer. I don’t focus on concrete, stone or glass; I only care about the impact of our designs on the end user. YOO buildings are created, designed and built for you, based on your personal needs and your own tastes. We have created a great game: if a person wants to buy an apartment at YOO, we show the person some pictures of a tree, a landscape, a mirror, etc, and they say: “I love this one or I hate that one.” After a few minutes, you see if the person is part of one of our style families: Nature / Culture / Classic

YOO IS LIKE ‘YOU’ IN ENGLISH, BECAUSE IT IS LITERALLY ABOUT ‘YOU’

/ Minimal. This means that above all, YOO helps you know yourself better, helps you recognise your own style. Then we can determine all the basics such as countertops, floors, door handles… In the end, everything you cannot move now fits with your family. And after that, you do what you want because it is your life. What makes great design? It is never about design, but always about humanity. I believe that every person who is born signs a contract with his or her community, family, village, society, civilisation or animal species. This contract can take many forms, but in all cases, the basis of the contract is to help one’s community in order to help the evolution of our animal species. Everyone’s role is political, social and human. For a designer, it is more vital, because he is a producer of ideas. We also have to take into account the ecological urgency by respecting the following parameters: longevity, transmission and heritage. When we buy something, it should be used for ourselves, for life, for our children and grandchildren. And not last three months because the trend has changed. Today, a good design must be intelligent, honest and durable.

Below YOO buildings are created, designed and built based on an individual’s personal needs and their own tastes

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TODAY, A GOOD DESIGN MUST BE HONEST AND DURABLE

Above and right YOO aims to help buyers recognise and understand their own style so that every aspect of a YOO property fits with them and their family

Who or what are you inspired by? I love and admire the most beautiful specimens of human intelligence, such as the great scientists, especially from the beginning of science. Those who, like Eratosthenes with very few means – a camel, a well, a stick of a few centimetres – were able to measure the size of the earth with only four per cent error. What were your considerations in design and building a team to design? I am more like a lonely creator; I admire people who can create in a group, what we call now collaborative work, but it is not my nature. I dream alone. I draw everything alone with my tracing paper and pencil in a very quiet environment in the middle of nowhere. Then I have a very close team to develop – there are very few of us, so we work a lot.” Do you follow any particular styles or is it more about working with the space and finding a new way of looking at it? I believe that you should not follow trends, and above all, not confuse your flat with a showroom. I advise buying

what you want when you want, and remaining totally free. The only acceptable fashion is freedom and the recognition of one’s own difference. Everyone should be allowed to have his or her own bad taste. Looking at The Lakes by YOO specifically, can you elaborate on your role and any specific properties? The Lakes by YOO is a dream. When you close your eyes and think of where you want to be with your loved ones and your family, you are at The Lakes by YOO. Do you have any favourite properties or spaces? I prefer mental journeys. What are you working on next? Always working towards more dematerialisation and dream. Is there anything you would like to add? Let’s go and dream.

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THE ARCHITECT Wasya Awori has been a part of The Lakes by YOO for almost 15 years, so we sat down with him to discover more about his background and how The Lakes by YOO has taken shape

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easoned architect Wasya Awori is an integral part of The Lakes by YOO and has been involved almost from the start. His experience is wide-ranging. Completing projects in sectors spanning education, commercial, heritage, residential and game park lodges, Awori names the Met Office headquarters in Exeter and the remodelling of the Woodstock Museum in Oxford as the projects he is particularly proud of. “Realising both filled me with intense pride and an unrivalled sense of accomplishment”, he says. Awori joined YOO 14 years ago. When asked about his motivations behind accepting the offer from YOO, he says: “This opportunity would see me join their world-renowned stable of designers, with a focus on The Lakes by YOO project in the Cotswolds. I never looked back.” It’s clear that this decision has greatly benefited both Awori and YOO –

to date, the architect has designed and overseen the delivery of over 130 luxury homes for the company. With The Lakes’ projects each having their own distinct style and feel, how would Awori describe his design ethos? “Something that strives to be timeless through its reductive approach, the ‘less is more’ view,” he says, describing his overall approach as “minimalist.” The natural beauty of the environment The Lakes is nestled in serves as inspiration for Awori’s designs, as well as the clients intending to buy one of the properties. He says: “Some describe architecture as frozen music, so it is about composing notes that create a beautiful melody – a home, a building that one can continually enjoy.” He approaches design as a problem-solving exercise and aims to avoid “preconceived idealised forms,” preferring

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W A S YA A W O R I

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working organically to the timescale, budget and individual requirements of each project and the clients he’s working with: “The process is a journey that starts with making a connection with the person who the home is about,” he says. The construction process for a home at The Lakes has two main elements – the actual sale of the apartment or ‘pod’ and the construction of the property. After the initial stage of choosing a templated design and obtaining planning consent, the client purchasing the property works with designers to create a bespoke design based on their lifestyle and the design and layout are then signed off and priced. Once a signed-off layout has been priced, drawings are prepared to define the size of the plot, the planting regime, buildable area and methodology of the plot creation. This is followed by the plot sale being agreed and the land transfer completed, which passes ownership of the plot or property to the client. A contract, known as a development agreement, is then signed and the building stage begins in

Above Each property is a bespoke design based on the lifestyle of the client purchasing the property

THE PROCESS IS A JOURNEY THAT STARTS WITH MAKING A CONNECTION WITH THE PERSON WHO THE HOME IS ABOUT

earnest. The stage starts with design and build contractors, architects, mechanical and electrical subcontractors being engaged and the architecture team working collaboratively with the interior design team to realise their overall vision for the property. Awori says there is an 18-month target for each build, but that the keys are typically handed over 15 months after the development agreement is signed. One of the biggest challenges during the development of The Lakes has been the demand for the product the group provides. Following the pandemic, Awori describes the interest in buying a property at The Lakes as “off the charts.” This brings another set of problems, as post-pandemic supply chain shortages have also affected YOO’s ability to provide a property for everyone that wants one. “The demand has grown but the people and product to satisfy these have not,” Awori says. The group is also facing the challenge of managing growth in a sustainable fashion as they expand The Lakes’ offering. In terms of sustainability, Awori says: “The

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WE PLANT AND CREATE NEW HEADLAND, AND LEAVE THE EXISTING LANDSCAPE AS INTACT AS POSSIBLE 1

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Below The designers procure building fabric from sustainable sources

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adage of ‘build tight, ventilate right’ is important.” The team aim to minimise reliance on carbon fuels and works with the building frame suppliers to ensure the building ‘envelope’ isn’t prone to losing heat and is airtight. They also procure the building fabric from sustainable sources and homogenise the base DNA of the buildings, so it can be manufactured in an “efficient, precise and quality-controlled fashion.” This means the construction largely takes place offsite, as the qualitycontrolled manner of manufacturing materials means it’s best done under factory conditions. Construction of The Lakes also strives to be as sustainable as possible in terms of minimising the physical impact of

the build on the land it will sit on. Awori says the team works to “plant and create new headland, and leave the existing landscape as intact as possible.” They also use lowcarbon technologies for heating, ventilation and electricity generation to further reduce the impact on the environment. In 2021, The Lakes won an International Design & Architecture Award, which Awori enjoyed celebrating with the team. “We were over the moon because it was a collective win for all involved – the build team, the interior design team and the architectural team,” he says. “A proper pat on the back for a job well done. Nothing beats that collective joy.”

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P42 THE ARBORETUM

PROTECTING ENGLISH TREES The creation of an arboretum to safeguard species indigenous to the UK is a top priority for The Lakes by YOO, discovers Kathryn Fielding

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estled in the heart of the Cotswolds, The Lakes by YOO is a destination where nature is prioritised and given the freedom to flourish. Spanning 850 acres, The Lakes by YOO is an estate of freshwater lakes, meadows and woodland. Protecting natural beauty is central to The Lakes, where a leading team of experts implement sustainable thinking in every aspect of this enchanting longterm conservation and restoration project. Tree conservation is a priority that led to the creation of an arboretum, where young trees are managed within a wildflower meadow. Once matured, these tree species will develop into a woodland area, which will be carefully maintained to ensure optimal levels of biodiversity. Safeguarding trees that are

indigenous to the United Kingdom is at the cornerstone of The Lakes’ arboretum. The estate also participates in The Queen’s Green Canopy, a unique tree-planting initiative to honour the Platinum Jubilee and to increase and protect the UK’s native tree cover. A heritage parkland oak has been selected from a 400-year-old tree named Triple Trunk. The vision is that it will become a specimen oak tree like its parent. Another contribution to the movement includes the planting of a sweet chestnut and a sycamore in the arboretum, which will be added to the Green Canopy database. Ancient trees define the British landscape and deserve to be kept safe. Sustainably managed woodland at The Lakes by YOO ensures natural beauty that can be enjoyed for years to come.

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Woodland wonders Here are some of the specific species being planted within the arboretum

ELM

YEW

ENGLISH OAK

From being one of the UK’s most common trees before the 1960s, the English elm is now one of the UK’s rarest. All because of Dutch elm disease (DED), which has killed more than 60 million trees in the UK since it arrived. As the elm trees on the state are free from DED, samples are taken to Kew Gardens, where they are propagated to ensure the population is restored back to a healthy existence.

The leaves and seeds of the yew are notoriously lethal if eaten. However, the poisonous alkaloid contains some very useful chemicals that help stop new cancer cells forming. Pruning of yew trees on the estate occurs every September to ensure all the year’s growth is captured, with offcuts being sent to a cancer research charity where they are used to make life-saving breast cancer medication.

Ash dieback has been rampant since 2012 and a sad consequence of this disease is the widespread decline of ash trees. To offset this loss, robust English oak trees have been planted in the arboretum.

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P46 SPOTLIGHT ON

SPOTLIGHT ON

Estate Manager

Passion and perfectionism are traits embodied by the team behind The Lakes by YOO. Estate Manager Rebecca Davies tells Kathryn Fielding more about the day-today responsibilities undertaken to manage 178 properties located within 850 acres As a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), The Lakes by YOO is a formal conservation designation. Protecting the flora and fauna on the estate is at the forefront of all land management initiatives. What does the SSSI accreditation mean for the day-to-day running of the estate? It means that all activities undertaken, either for leisure or by our landscaping and maintenance teams, have had to be formally documented and approved by Natural England. We have provided details from our Landscape & Ecology Masterplan, along with a full breakdown of the schedule of all works. We are not allowed to deviate from the agreed plan without approval from Natural England.

R E B E C C A DAV I E S

Rebecca Davies has been a member of the team for over 20 years. Being part of the project from its infancy, along with her vast experience within the property management sector prior to joining The Lakes – Rebecca worked for The Raven Property Group Ltd, a property investment company – places Rebecca in a unique position of being a true ambassador for The Lakes by YOO.

Seeking ways to improve sustainability is a core value of the estate. What actions are being taken to ensure the estate coexists harmoniously with the local environment? We have always adopted a holistic approach to land management at The Lakes. Where we have areas of farmland that include hay meadows, we have invested in farm machinery to allow our team to manage the land as it should be. As part of our planning consents over the years, various areas of wildlife habitat have been created to support rarer species like masonry bees and nightingales. There is a conservation lake with eco ponds that are allowed to fill and propagate their own flora and fauna naturally over time. We even have our own arboretum, which was planted eight years ago as a wedding present to our group chairman and his wife. This is surrounded by a natural wildflower meadow that nourishes our honeybees during the summer, while cuttings are used as winter bedding/feed for our animals. There is a small farm with some rare-breed animals,

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Below Beekeeping is a popular outdoor activity at the Kids’ Club

VARIOUS AREAS OF WILDLIFE HABITAT HAVE BEEN CREATED THAT ARE MAINTAINED TO SUPPORT RARER SPECIES LIKE MASONRY BEES AND NIGHTINGALES

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all of which have been adopted or rehomed. They are used to help control our vegetation and boundary hedges. As a mother of three, you are no stranger to importance of creating an environment where children can explore, be creative and learn from nature. What are the team doing to encourage this freedom within the estate? Our group chairman’s original vision for the estate was that he wanted to create a space where children are free to be children, they can build dens in the woods, sail, wild swim and essentially roam freely in a safe environment – hopefully, with a group of their peers. I really do believe that we have managed to achieve this vision. From our tailored Kids’ Club, which offers lots of outdoor-skill workshops, including woodworking, stream walking, beekeeping, pond dipping, bat walks, to our 5mph child-friendly speed limit.

Supervising the maintenance and repairs to the grounds and buildings, along with managing a team of 24, will come with its demands and challenges. What traits do you see as integral for all employees working on the estate? We set extremely high standards that all team members must embody. Not only are we developing and creating a new environment with each house that is built, we’re also responsible for the lakes, roads, gardens, landscaping, security, bees and pigs. Our team ensure good decisions are made now for the long-term benefit of the next generation of owners at The Lakes. Everyone understands and reveres the natural beauty of the estate and they are proud to be involved in such a unique project. The majority of our team live locally and have grown up in the surrounding villages, probably having walked their family dogs around what is now our estate. I often walk our public footpaths and

Above Farm machinery makes it possible to manage the land as it should be Right Cycling is a great way to explore The Lakes by YOO estate

WE ENCOURAGE OWNERS AND GUESTS TO FEEL THAT THEY ARE HOME FROM HOME AND CAN UNWIND IN UNSPOILT NATURE

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common areas with my Springer Spaniel, Bramble, who is often found exploring our estate with me or one of our team. Properties on the estate are designed to harmoniously blend in with the countryside, built around several large lakes and screened by woodland for privacy. How do you encourage tenants to use the estate? ‘Time Well Spent’ is the tagline we use. Time at The Lakes is time to be spent with friends and family. We encourage owners and guests to feel they are home from home and can unwind and recharge in unspoilt nature. You won’t find any boardrooms here. Guests are encouraged to explore, to use our zip wire, to swim, kayak or paddleboard in our lakes, maybe spend an evening out on a boat fishing or at our bird hide, or cooking a BBQ over one of our fire pits – ‘Time Well Spent’, creating special memories with our special people.

The estate grounds are maintained to exacting standards. The lakes are regularly tested and the water quality has Blue Flag status, international recognition of exceptional quality. What wildlife can be found in the lakes? We have an abundance of wildlife here on the estate – free-roaming deer and wild boar, hares, rabbits, weasels and mink. If you are super-lucky, you may even spot one of our resident otters fishing or basking in the lake. There are many species of butterfly, dragonfly and moth, which come in all colours, shapes and sizes. We actively stock both trout and coarse fish throughout our lakes, with each lake being designated as either a trout fishery or a coarse lake. We have our own section of the River Coln, which we stock with brown trout – rumour has it there may even be some barbel in there. You are welcome to go fishing on your own for the day or take one of our experienced ghillies with you.

CHILDREN ARE FREE TO BE CHILDREN AND ESSENTIALLY ROAM FREELY IN A SAFE ENVIRONMENT Maintaining the value of the properties is central to the estate. What measures are undertaken to ensure investments are protected? The estate is maintained in line with our agreed Landscape & Ecology Masterplan and the scope of works agreed with Natural England for the protection of the environment here in the Cotswold Water Park. It’s always a balancing act between the original design intent and the aspirations of the developer versus our owners’ aspirations and the annual budget, which is just under £2.5 million and is funded by our owners. The estate team are very careful to ensure that we manage our budgets carefully, making certain that large projects are undertaken as and when necessary and that money is well spent at the appropriate time without compromising on the standards that keep our estate looking its best, thereby helping our owners to protect their longerterm investment in their homes.

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THE COTSWOLDS An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Cotswolds is a hive of activity, whether you want to get creative, feel a rush of adrenaline or soak up some culture. Here are some ideas to inspire you…

B R O A D W AY T O W E R

A climb to the top of Broadway Tower in Worcestershire will give you breathtaking views of up to 16 counties. At the heart of the estate lies Morris & Brown cafe – which not only serves delicious drinks and dishes, but has a shop with great gift options, accessories and food products. In Tower Barn, you’ll find a visitor centre offering e-bike hire and a range of courses, as well as an elegant espresso bar and a shop selling clothing and homewares. Fifteen feet below ground there is also a nuclear bunker with its own museum. Open April to October on weekends and bank holidays, the Nuclear Bunker Museum offers guided tours of this Cold War relic.

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B R I S T O L B A L L O O N F I E S TA

From 10-13 August, enjoy four free days of family fun as excitement reaches new heights at Europe’s biggest ballooning event. Magical morning ascents make the 6am starts worth it. Then the days are fully inflated with great goings on – from a children’s entertainment area and a whole programme of activities, talks and performances, to a bandstand playing live music and hundreds of traders. From 9pm on Thursday and Saturday, when the dark begins to draw in, watch in wonderment when up to 25 balloons tether and light up to music, as the iconic Nightglow takes flight.

BICESTER MOTION

VICTORIA ART GALLERY

Immerse yourself in the breadth of international automotive and aviation culture and technology – past, present and future – at this unique destination. Learn about classic automotive endeavours, RAF history and engineering expertise, as well as testing your driving skills on over three miles of tracks and exploring parkland, beautiful lakes and nature trails.

Opened in 1900, this gallery boasts an outstanding collection of paintings, sculptures and decorative arts – with more than 1,500 works on show, from the 15th century to the present day, including pieces by artists who lived and worked in the area of Bath, such as Thomas Gainsborough and Walter Sickert. Enjoy a relaxed visit or engage in the many events on offer for all ages.

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C H E LT E N H A M F E S T I V A L

With four extraordinary days of racing featuring 14 Grade One races as the best horses, trainers and jockeys go head to head, the Cheltenham Festival is an event you don’t want to miss. And though horse racing may be the main attraction for most, it certainly isn’t the only entertaining element to this event – with the shopping village and various catering outlets, you’ll also be spoilt for choice when it comes to fashion, food and drink.

HONEYBOURNE POTTERY

Welcoming everyone from individuals to groups, beginners to more experienced and adults to children, the couple behind this family-run business offer a range of workshops – one-off taster sessions to longer courses – in the tranquil setting of their studio.

T H E T H E AT R E CHIPPING NORTON

Not just a theatre, but an arthouse cinema, gallery and concert hall too, this unique venue in Oxfordshire welcomes over 55,000 visitors every year. By hosting, co-producing and supporting some of the most exciting and accessible culture in the region, this mixed-arts venue will undoubtedly offer something to entertain everybody all year round.

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BICESTER VILLAGE

Bicester Village is home to over 160 boutiques of luxury fashion and lifestyle brands and, as an outlet village, offers exceptional year-round savings. So, if shopping is your superpower, this is the place to be. Then, once you’ve worked up an appetite, there is a wide variety of food venues to cater to everybody’s taste – whether you’re after a locally sourced light bite or a sit-down meal, you’re guaranteed to find it here!

LARKSWOLD

GIFFORDS CIRCUS

With a diary full of craft workshops – for the individual or groups – this business, run by two best friends in Adlestrop, Gloucestershire, also boasts beautiful countryside views and offers freshly baked cakes and bottomless tea and coffee. So, if you want to get creative – and whether ink, wood or glass is your preferred medium – there’s something for everyone at Larkswold.

A vintage village-green circus that tours the UK – and visits many Cotswold towns – during the summer, Giffords offers a magical world of acrobats, jugglers, musicians and dancers – as well as animals trained by the team and Tweedy the Clown. It is a humorous show that appeals to all ages and has a following of local farmers, rock stars and A-list celebrities.

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CORINIUM MUSEUM

C O T S W O L D W AT E R S

Located at the heart of the town of Corinium, now known as Cirencester, is the award-winning Corinium Museum. Discover thousands of displays – from prehistoric tools and Roman mosaics to Anglo-Saxon grave items and medieval sculpture. Explore the light and modern galleries that offer an exceptional interactive experience and fun events for the whole family.

An extension of The Lakes, the neighbouring estate at Cotswold Waters will have 77 lakeside homes and 63 lake-fronted apartments in keeping with the style of The Lakes. Set in over 110 acres, with four freshwater lakes, The Lakes at Cotswolds Waters is a secure and idyllic estate.

B L E N H E I M PA L AC E

A beautiful palace and country estate in Oxfordshire, Blenheim Palace is the seat of the Dukes of Marlborough and the only non-royal, non-episcopal country house in England to hold the title of palace. With seasonal events throughout the year, there is a lot for all the family to see and do, both indoors and outdoors, at this Unesco World Heritage Site and birthplace of Winston Churchill.

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COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PA R K & GA R D E N S

Cotswold Wildlife Park in Burford, Oxfordshire not only has events on during seasonal periods, it also has a range of activities that run daily throughout the year – from feeding penguins, lemurs and big cats, to a children’s farmyard, adventure playground and narrow-gauge railway. What’s more, a Victorian manor house at the hub and a wonderful collection of trees mean the animals aren’t the only beautiful sight to behold. It’s also worth taking time to appreciate the large walled garden, too.

P O U LT O N H I L L E S TAT E V I N E YA R D

The 9,750 vines planted on this familyrun vineyard can produce up to 20,000 bottles of wine a year. Tours of Poulton Hill run from June to September and are a great way to experience the estate for yourself. Ticket prices also include a tasting of their produce and a voucher towards purchases!

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Art Park A stay at The Lakes by YOO offers a taste of culture alongside the relaxation and luxury of your break

During a stay at The Lakes by YOO, guests have the opportunity to absorb themselves in culture with a visit to the estate’s immersive Art Park. Currently home to four pieces by some of the world’s finest artists and sculptors, the Art Park is always expanding, so you’re likely to find something new on every visit as you explore the grounds. The Lakes by YOO director, Giles Baker, said: “It has always been our wish to encourage new experiences at The Lakes, primarily through outdoor experiences such as swimming, fishing, cycling, climbing, sailing and bushcraft. We are also keen to encourage learning and education with our conservation initiatives, sustainability goals, and more recently, with our new farmyard and beehives. The Art Park is a cultural extension of these initiatives and we hope that this outdoor live exhibition will further enhance the overall experience for families and young people on the estate.”

KAWS – GONE

Created in 2019, GONE is a sculpture of one of KAWS’ well-known characters, Companion, holding his friend, BFF, in his arms. The thought-provoking piece is a depiction of loss and encourages reflection and contemplation from the viewer. Companion is a clown-like figure based on Mickey Mouse with bones sticking out of his head. Both Companion and BFF have crosses for eyes and on their hands. KAWS started his career as a graffiti artist and has since produced paintings, murals, graphic and product design, street art and large-scale sculptures. KAWS has had his artwork exhibited across the world in renowned institutions and is well known for his wit, irreverence and affection for our times. His style is characterised by an emphasis on colour and line and distinctive graphics, such as the repeated use of an ‘x’ symbol on the hands, nose, eyes and ears.

YO S H I M OTO N A R A – YO U R D O G

This larger-than-life sculpture of a huge white dog embodies the spirit of a child’s playmate, but also invokes the impression of a menacing creature. The scale of the sculpture encourages viewers to imagine the world through the eyes of a child and takes adults back to childhood where everything is so much larger than you. This piece is appropriately on display at The Lakes by YOO as it’s a dog-friendly area.

Yoshimoto Nara was born in 1959 in Japan and his artwork has garnered worldwide acclaim. Nara’s work takes many forms, including stuffed animals, sculptures, paintings and drawings, and is influenced by popular music, current events and memories of childhood. He has had nearly 40 exhibitions since 1984 and his work has been on display at MoMA in New York and Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

D AV I D H O C K N E Y – W O L D G AT E W O O D S , W I N T E R 2 0 1 0

This immersive piece is one of the latest to join the Art Park collection at The Lakes. A remarkably vast panorama of spatial depth, Woldgate Woods, Winter 2010 is part of Hockney’s continued exploration of time, landscape, perception and memory at a site that has proved a profoundly important subject for the artist throughout his much-acclaimed career. In a pivotal creative reinvention, Hockney’s first multi-camera video carefully recorded the effects of sunlight and shadow and the ephemeral consequences of weather on the expansive snowy landscape of a forest near Hockney’s hometown of Bridlington in East Yorkshire, transforming the north of England into something visionary. The piece, made up of nine separate canvases, is on display in the spa at

The Lakes by YOO. It’s particularly apt that Woldgate Woods has found a home here, as the beautiful forest landscape is in perfect harmony with the serene, nature-focused atmosphere and stunning surroundings of the area. Renowned artist David Hockney is considered one of the most influential British artists of the 20th century and has experimented with many techniques, including oil painting, drawing, printmaking, watercolour and photography, and many media, including a fax machine, paper pulp, computer applications and iPad drawing programs. Hockney has had his work, encompassing portraits as well as landscapes, photocollages and theatre works, shown at more than 400 solo exhibitions and 500 group exhibitions worldwide.

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01476 550 191

www.intothewilduk.com

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SUSTAINABLY YOURS… As more couples seek eco-friendly ways to get married, The Lakes by YOO can accommodate your sustainable wedding without compromising on quality and style…

THE SETTING

Hidden within 850 acres of stunning freshwater lakes, woodland and rambling meadows, this awardwinning private country estate has everything you could wish for in terms of location, accommodation and facilities. Sustainability is integral at The Lakes by YOO and a huge investment has allowed areas of the estate to be left to develop naturally, with more than 500,000 trees planted, natural ponds and a mini farm offering shelter to rescue animals. With a diverse choice of venues available, this is the ideal place for couples who enjoy the great outdoors and being at one with nature in an area of outstanding natural beauty.

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P R E LO V E D B R I D A LW E A R

L O C A L LY S O U R C E D

Local food and drink are a must for eco-friendly catering, and offering a seasonal menu is a simple way to cut down on processed or artificially ripened foods. The Lakes by YOO has compiled a list of local caterers for you to create a bespoke wedding menu. Facilitating local suppliers will have a major impact on the carbon footprint of your wedding. Incorporating local organic produce will also help smaller farming communities thrive, and this way you’ll know exactly where your food is coming from!

There are many reasons why a bride might opt for a second-hand dress, and one is that it’s environmentally friendly to give a wedding dress that’s in good condition another trip down the aisle. You may want to hold on to tradition by wearing your mother’s or grandmother’s dress. Keeping it in the family will add a touch of nostalgia to your wedding theme and you’ll have that special connection on your wedding day. The tradition of wearing your mother’s wedding dress dates back to ancient times, when it was thought that the dress would absorb some of her good luck and pass it on to you. It’s a lovely sentiment and a beautiful way to honour your mum, while doing your bit to save the planet! There are lots of worn-once dresses available online, and with fashions constantly changing, you could bag yourself a beautiful dress at a bargain price and have a dressmaker customise it to your own bespoke design. Want a new dress made with sustainable fabrics? There are stockists of ethical wedding gowns made with mindful fabrics that have a lower impact on the environment, such as hemp silks and organic ‘peace’ satins. Whether you’re an eco-conscious brideto-be or maybe vegan and looking for a dress that sits well with your values, there are beautiful styles available at several bridal couture outlets.

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ALL INCLUSIVE

Here at The Lakes by YOO, we’re experts at hosting exclusive events. Having your ceremony and reception in one place removes the need for guests to travel from one location to another, which can make a massive difference to your carbon footprint. We offer spectacular accommodation, including a stunning five-bedroomed manor house, as well as lakeside apartments and cabins.

AT T I R E F O R H I R E

Finding the right formalwear for the groom and groomsmen is important, but if you’re not generally suit wearers, it makes sense to hire rather than buy. It will make it easier to be coordinated, plus hiring is the environmentally friendly option, especially for a traditional morning suit, as it’ll likely only be worn once.

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THINGS TO CONSIDER

TIME OF YEAR

In summer, the natural heat and light will keep your guests comfortable without the need for artificial heating and lighting – very eco-friendly! GROUP TRANSPORT

Fewer cars will help reduce emissions, so why not organise a bus or a coach to transport guests to your wedding? FLOWER POWER

FAV O U R S

When choosing flowers, consider the carbon footprint of transporting them from overseas, not to mention exploitation issues in the supply chain. We can help you find reputable florists who supply local, seasonal, freshly cut flowers. For centrepieces, why not opt for potted orchids, roses and other flowering plants? These can be reused in the home or gifted after the event.

I N V I TAT I O N S

If you prefer traditional handwritten invitations, consider using recycled paper and vegetable-based inks. Some brands even offer paper containing seeds. Or go paperless and work with a graphic designer to create email invitations. There are also free wedding websites that provide updates for your guests, saving both time and money.

Give a gift to help the environment, such as packs of wildflower seeds or home-made birdseed favours, vegan candles, eco-friendly wedding favour crackers and pretty lotus flowers made with organic seed paper. CONFETTI

Biodegradable confetti is easy to make using tissue paper, dried-flower petals or fresh rose petals, or try seasonal leaves such as oak – anything as long as it’s dye-free and compostable!

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OASIS OF CALM

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THE CONCEPT

The Lakes Spa & Wellness Centre, set in the heart of the estate, has everything needed to ensure residents and guests can relax in stunning surroundings with lakeside views

Shelley Hepburn, a wellness and spa expert with more than 20 years’ concept and commercial experience in positioning and optimising wellness offerings, was delighted to work with The Lakes by YOO team to develop a unique offering, with the underpinning mantra of being present, connected and living. Shelley tells us: “The Lakes by YOO wellness concept has a space of its own, the core concept is to support longevity by taking inspiration from the blue zones, where people live longer and have fewer diseases. The Japanese secret to a long and happy life is to be connected, do what you love and keep our minds active, which means a healthy body, being mindful about reducing stress, getting enough sleep, being with nature and improving immunity. “By balancing our clients’ wellness pillars – Physical, Mental, Emotional, Spiritual and Connection – they will have a much greater capacity to flourish and grow, to endure life’s challenges and stressors with ease. “Regardless of the season, The Lakes by YOO wellness offering includes countless activities and adventures to fulfil our clients’ every desire. Escaping from urban living is a sentiment woven into the essence of The Lakes by YOO community, with a philosophy that is the antithesis of a stale hotel/spa experience. “Our innovative approach and methodologies have been curated to support and balance emotional, physical and mental well-being for our clients.”

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This page Escaping from urban living is a sentiment woven in the essence of The Lakes by YOO community

FA C I L I T I E S

The Spa boasts an outdoor pool, as well as a state-of-the-art 17m indoor heated pool. There are two beautiful contemporary treatment rooms, plus a sauna and steam room – must-haves for guests to relax and recuperate. The fitness suite features state-of-theart TechnoGym Skill equipment and Escape Fitness rig equipment, ensuring guests have the highest-quality fitness facilities available. There’s also a specialist studio for group practice. There’s something for every level of fitness, including personal training and a good selection of classes, including yoga and tennis lessons.

W E L L- B E I N G W A R D R O B E

AT O N E W I T H N AT U R E

With the belief that clothing should not only make you look good, but feel good too, The Lakes has partnered with model and Wellwear founder David Gandy to offer Wellwear Restore clothing. When worn, tactile, mineralinfused fabrics and sustainable fibres are given technical treatments to enhance the wearer’s physical wellbeing and aid post-workout recovery.

Reconnect with family and friends amid gorgeous gardens, woodland trails and freshwater lakes. Likened to a modernday Swallows and Amazons, at The Lakes by YOO guests can partake in a variety of watersports in beautiful surroundings. Wild swimming improves circulation, reduces body pain and boosts brain power – why not try it with your loved ones? It’s exhilarating!

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Treatments The spa offers an extensive collection of restorative treatments, developed by The Lakes by Yoo’s exclusive spa partners, COSMOSS, MOSS of the ISLES and Dr Barbara Sturm S I G N AT U R E # S T U R M G L O W

MOSS OF THE ISLES MASSAGE TRILOGY

60 MIN, £200

60/90 MIN, £110/£160

Created by renowned German aesthetics doctor, Dr Barbara Sturm, this revitalising facial will cleanse, nourish and awaken the skin. Light-reflecting pigments in GLOW DROPS will reduce any irregularities in skin tone, resulting in a youthful and radiant complexion.

From the Irish wellness brand, this therapeutic experience has been developed using the practices and philosophies of ancient healers. It is in three parts: Quiet to promote overall rest and well-being; Warm to help improve flexibility and aid recovery; and Cleanse to reset the body to regain energy, relieve stagnation and improve skin tone.

M E N ’ S FA C I A L 60 MIN, £200

COSMOSS DAWN RITUAL

Customised to the specific needs and challenges of men’s skin, which differs dermatologically to women’s, this anti-ageing facial exfoliates, calms and comforts the skin, especially after shaving. It removes dry skin and helps to soothe under-eye discolouration and puffiness.

120 MINS, £250

Inspired by the brand’s ethos of Dusk and Dawn, this ritual encourages guests to switch off and connect with themselves. The treatment commences with a cup of alkalising Dawn Tea followed by an invigoration body brush, a mind-boosting ice plunge and a full body massage. A nourishing and hydrating facial follows, culminating in a spritz of Sacred Mist to restore emotional balance and improve the mood.

Photo by Ivan Rohovchenko on Unsplash

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WELLNESS AND BEAUTY

Cryotherapy for wellness Cryotherapy involves the use of freezing or near-freezing temperatures to help with skin problems, muscle and joint pain and general recovery after exercise

Whole-body cryotherapy is where the body is exposed to extremely cold temperatures for a short period of time. The cold will help with any inflammation and can reduce pain or other symptoms, like applying ice to reduce swelling following a sprain or injury. Regular treatments can improve the physical appearance as the skin tightens, and when used in conjunction with other non-invasive and aesthetic treatments, the results can be favourable.

LIFESTYLE

For those who partake in sports and leisure activities on a regular basis, whole-body cryotherapy can be an integral part of daily life. Known to improve concentration and focus the mind, there are lots of reasons to make cryotherapy part of a healthy, wellness-led lifestyle.

P R E V E N T I O N A N D H E A LT H

A whole-body cryo chamber has been introduced to the spa by The Lakes by YOO, so that this effective therapy can be integrated into a wellness-led lifestyle.

SINGLE SESSION £85 10 SESSIONS £650 2 0 S E SS I O N S £ 1 ,1 0 0

Feelings of well-being are enhanced through cryotherapy, and posttreatment clients have expressed feelings of euphoria and positivity. With a long history in the medical field, this therapy can aid physical and psychological ailments and is renowned for its health and prevention benefits.

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Self-care for modern life

With an incredible modelling career spanning more than 30 years, Kate Moss is a fashion icon who has collaborated over the years to release her own clothing, make-up and fragrance ranges. Her most recent venture is holistic wellness brand COSMOSS, which draws on her extraordinary life experiences with a range of carefully curated products created from natural ingredients. Kate’s career and image has touched on and influenced many, and COSMOSS is a celebration her life’s journey of self-acceptance and learning to freely be herself every day. Kate enjoys yoga and discovered a love for her garden and flowers during the pandemic. She is also fond of meditating

With a new unique collection of products and treatments to soothe and rejuvenate the mind, body and soul, we give you the low-down on this exclusive brand and what it has to offer guests at The Lakes by YOO

outdoors in the early morning before the world awakes. Known for her innate privacy, nonetheless, Kate has shared snippets of her personal wellness journey. Her brand draws on her extraordinary life experience and perhaps, in so doing, challenges the belief that wellness and living life to the full can’t coexist. COSMOSS has been created for our own journeys, to bring balance, restoration and love to our lives. The Lakes is proud of its partnership with Kate Moss, founder of COSMOSS, and excited to offer a host of special retreats and signature rituals inspired by the brand’s ethos of Dusk and Dawn to encourage guests to switch off and relax to get the most from their stay.

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G O L D E N N E C TA R W I T H CBD & PRO-COLLAGEN

RITUALS

COSMOSS products have been created inline with three simple rituals, Dawn, Day and Dusk, to enable you to adjust to the rhythm of nature. They’re

SACRED MIST E AU D E PA R F U M

With a mesmerising scent, the mist contains a blend of bergamot, tuberose and grounding woods to uplift your spirit, and carefully chosen essential oils to restore emotional balance and enhance your mood.

designed to protect the body and mind from stresses, pollutions and toxins, and to help find inner peace while opening a door to balance, restoration and love.

Kate’s hero product and the ultimate in antioxidant oil. Containing cannabidiol, rosemary, vitamin E and Mythical Tears of Chois (a resin from the mastic tree that is known for its detoxing powers), it helps fight inflammation and starts the natural process of skin rejuvenation.

DAWN AND DUSK TEA

Inspired by an English garden, Dawn Tea helps you to awake gently to a new day and all that it has to offer. The Dusk Tea helps you to settle after

a busy day and aids sleep. These teas contain flowers, herbs and spices to regulate the body and stimulate or soothe the mind, day and evening.

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Below MOSS of the ISLES products embrace holistic wellness and respect for the environment

Back to nature We caught up with the founders of Irish wellness brand, MOSS of the ISLES, to learn about its company ethos, inspiration and profound connection to nature

Nigel Franklyn, also known as The Spa Whisperer, is a renowned wellness consultant whose work has taken him to 111 countries out of 193 and all seven continents, including Antarctica. He tells us: “It’s been quite a journey, but my cofounders, Maria Herrera, Fiona Byrne and I, are lucky in the sense that, because we’re consultants, we had the luxury of creating something very specific. MOSS of the ISLES is much more than a wellness product and we hope that it ties people to the heritage, the ancestry and the history of the landscapes.

“We’ve had an enormous amount of interest in our brand, both here and overseas, but at the moment, we are concentrating on the UK, as we wanted to celebrate the wild healing heritage of the British Isles. We did our research and discovered that it was hard to find something that hadn’t already saturated the market. We did a deep dive into Celtic healing, more than just the ingredients found in the UK and Ireland, but the healing philosophies and rituals to support them. My partners and I untied forces, put this unique brand together and created the formulas and treatments in unison.”

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T R E AT M E N T S

INGREDIENTS

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y

Maria Herrera, operations director, explains: “We wanted to create treatments that worked with the products. Our treatments have evolved and we understand that they are only as good as the therapists who deliver them. Our therapists have been trained to offer our contemporary massages and functional treatments. We have treatment protocols, and each massage treatment has a specific purpose, but we encourage the therapist to feel free to adapt the treatment to each guest’s personal requirements. The three massages that we offer at The Lakes are designed to soothe the guest into a state of meditation, because when you’re balanced and in this state, your body starts to heal. We have worked hard to combine tradition and wellness.”

The company prides itself on painstakingly sourcing the best-quality native ingredients for its products from Ireland and the British Isles. Maria tells us: “The seaweed, for example, comes from Scotland. It’s collected by hand and dried naturally in the sun. Atlantic sea salt is from a small family business in Cork, English chamomile and lavender come from Hampshire and white poppy seeds from Lincolnshire. The horse chestnuts in our Cleanse Body Oil derive from the Welsh border and are hand-gathered and macerated in organic sunflower oil. These stories were important to us as we were building the DNA of MOSS of the ISLES. We don’t mass produce and partner with boutique-style properties so as to preserve the integrity of our ingredients and our brand.”

Nigel explains: “Our products are made just outside Dublin, and when we started the company, it was all hands on deck, but now Fiona leads that department. We made a decision early on that our sustainability should stretch to the sustainability of the businesses we work with. Community support is integral, and if you look at our supply chain, you will see that we have used smaller, family-owned British and Irish companies to accomplish this. We’ve kept the supply chain of our products transparent and all our sustainably sourced ingredients have a story to tell.” Products are packaged in beautiful glass bottles and jars, the dyes used are water-based to make them recyclable, and the caps, which can be recycled separately, are made from sustainable beechwood.

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READY, SET, EXPLORE! Explorer Club at The Lakes by YOO allows children the perfect opportunity to enjoy nature, while learning and developing essential skills

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O

ne of the wonderful activities families can take advantage of during their stay at The Lakes by YOO is Explorer Club, run by Amber Averre, a trained bushcraft and climbing instructor. Children take along a packed lunch and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities for four hours, with a focus on them learning about and having fun in nature. The idea for the club was born from Amber’s passion for nature and wanting to evolve the bushcraft and nature sessions she was already running into an ‘outside day’ for children. Her aim was for Explorer Club to be “not just a kids’ club, not just childminding. I wanted it to be a really goodquality session, based around learning skills and the facilities we have at The Lakes,” she says. The club is generally run for five to ten-year-olds, but sessions are tailored to each group, so older children are catered for too. Amber says: “We evolve the day around the weather, around the children and around their interests,” and describes the day as “a huge spectrum of activities, but really based around being outside.” Sessions have one adult for every six children, so if the group has planned to do more high-adrenaline activities such as high ropes and some children don’t want to take part, they can go with one of the other supervisors to make clay monsters, for example, from materials found in the forest. By enrolling their children in Explorer Club, parents staying at The Lakes can “have time for themselves, knowing that the kids are having fun in a beautiful environment, but the sort of fun that isn’t on their iPads – it’s fun that’s healthy for them physically and mentally,” Amber says. Aside from knowing their children are having good, healthy fun, parents can also enjoy the fact that they’re learning

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THE CHIDREN ARE HAVING FUN BUT ALSO LEARNING LOTS OF THINGS ABOUT NATURE, ECOSYSTEMS, POLLUTION more about, and experiencing the benefits of, being in nature, something Amber is passionate about. “They’re having fun but also learning lots of things about nature, about ecosystems, about pollution, and it’s garnering a lifelong interest in nature and how important it is,” she says. Something like Explorer Club is also the perfect way to build resilience in children, particularly children who have grown up during the Covid-19 pandemic. “It’s OK if we get a bit muddy, because I want them to have the freedom not

to worry,” Amber explains, “We need to get back to more carefree times. If we’re never letting our children get slightly uncomfortable, then they’re never going to become resilient. And sometimes things are difficult – we might not get to the top of the climbing wall this time, but we’ll keep trying.” Children can learn essential survival skills during Explorer Club, such as fire lighting. The club takes place in all weathers, so if the group needs to warm up, they might be taught how to use strikers or flint and steel to create a fire. The bird hide is also available if shelter is needed, but the focus is on the children being outside, building resilience and learning that “it’s OK to be out in the rain. That’s sort of fun – nothing bad is going to happen.” Amber says that Explorer Club helps kids build a connection with nature that’s easy to lose when they’re living in a city. “I absolutely believe in spending time just being quiet in the forest among the trees. Just stopping and listening,” she says. “When you spend time in nature, you’re aware of the seasons. It’s really good for our biorhythms. I believe fundamentally it’s good for us to be in nature and connect with nature.” Explorer Club also builds skills that benefit children well after their break at The Lakes has ended, especially in terms of building confidence. “If you are able to give your children the experience of regularly being more daredevil, I think it really helps,” Amber says, “It really does help them

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I BELIEVE FUNDAMENTALLY IT’S GOOD FOR US TO BE IN NATURE AND CONNECT WITH NATURE

throughout their lives – just having the opportunity to be able to do those things as a child and get over all the fears.” She encourages children in the club to push themselves for the benefit of their future selves, telling them when they’ve completed something challenging – “Remember that feeling because there will be other things in your life that are scary and you’ve got it in you.” This confidence is something children can take back with them to school and their daily lives and build on as they grow up and mature. Important social skills are also built in the club, such as learning to get on with children outside their family who are from different backgrounds, as well as giving them more responsibility. “You get children who may on the surface seem quite silly. Sometimes, it’s because they’re feeling a little under-confident, so you give them a bit of responsibility and it helps them a lot.” Enhanced by Amber’s passion for children learning about nature, Explorer Club really offers kids the chance to build skills, benefit from being outside and, importantly, just have fun during their break at The Lakes by YOO.

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GO ALFRESCO Discover more about The Lakes Bar & Kitchen, which is offering guests the perfect environment to relax and recharge during their stay

F

ollowing the launch of The Lakes Bar & Kitchen at the end of May, homeowners, holidaymakers and locals now have a space to come together to socialise, relax and enjoy delicious cuisine alongside gorgeous lakeside views. Tucked among a grove of trees between the shores of Marley Lake and Sailing Lake, two conjoined tipis comprise the new community hub offering alfresco dining provided by The Relish Group. Georgina Downton from the team says the benefits of alfresco dining are great: “Eating outside provides a more sensory experience, from breathing in fresher air to hearing the wind through the trees or the sound of water, it all affects the senses often making the food taste fresher. It’s important to remember that while we live our busy modern lives, we originated from nature and there is nothing more healing than reconnecting with the natural world.” The food on offer is inspired by local, seasonal produce and, with traditional, hearty breakfast options to get you ready for the day, there’s also a selection of brunch and lunch dishes to keep you energised. For those just feeling peckish, The Bar & Kitchen serves luxurious, homemade cakes and delicious Right With all the comforts of a restaurant, the double tipi embraces nature rather than detracts from it and brings a little of the outside in

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EATING OUTSIDE PROVIDES A MORE SENSORY EXPERIENCE, FROM BREATHING IN FRESHER AIR TO HEARING THE WIND

This page The Lakes Bar & Kitchen is committed to using locally sourced ingredients and supporting suppliers in the area

deli items along with ethically sourced coffee or fair trade tea. Dinner sees an array of large and small plates along with wood-fired pizzas and tasty desserts to end the day in style. Children have their own play area to enjoy along with their own menu options to choose from and the entire establishment is dog friendly, so there really is something for everyone. Georgina says that The Bar & Kitchen is a unique location that goes beyond the traditional: “The clear-span double tipi embraces nature rather than detracts from it, with its waterproof fabric softening into the trees surrounding it. With all the comforts of a restaurant, it has succeeded in bringing a little of the outside in, providing the perfect place to rest, relax and recharge.” However, alfresco dining isn’t without its challenges – more in terms of practicality and logistics, rather than how the dishes are created. “A key focus is keeping both visitors and food warm while outside. With summer round the corner, nature makes this a little easier, but we still need to be conscious that an evening

summer breeze can add a chill to an otherwise perfect evening,” Georgina says. Blankets, heaters and windbreaks are all available to keep diners comfortable during their time at The Bar & Kitchen when it’s subject to the great British weather we all know and love, but in times of warmer weather, the team is also prepared for insect visitors, using eco-friendly bug repellent in the form of bags of sweet water to entice the insects away. This keeps guests bite-free, but also prevents damage to the local insect population. The Lakes Bar & Kitchen is committed to using locally sourced ingredients and supporting suppliers in the area.

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“Food tastes best when it’s at its freshest and what better way to guarantee that than by using independent local suppliers? We’re passionate about what we create and aim to serve the best food possible – to achieve this we think carefully about where and who our ingredients come from,” Georgina says. “Keeping it local benefits the surrounding economy by supporting small farmers and businesses who, unlike bigger suppliers, care deeply about what they produce. It may not seem like a lot, but it all adds up, with our diners getting to experience the very best we can offer.” As well as trying to keep produce local, it’s important to The Lakes’ team to also use seasonal produce where possible. Georgina explains: “As the name suggests, seasonal food isn’t

LOCAL SUPPLIERS

Mark’s Cotswold Bakery in Chipping Norton Clifton Coffee Roasters in Bristol Cacklebean Free-Range Eggs in Cheltenham Dunkertons Cider in Cheltenham Ruby & White Butchers in Bristol MOOSE Liqueurs in Wiltshire Cotswolds Distillery in Shipston-on-Stour

WE’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT WE CREATE AND AIM TO SERVE THE BEST FOOD POSSIBLE

This page Using seasonal ingredients means our chefs are constantly kept on their toes reinventing dishes

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around for long periods of time and while this guarantees you get produce when it’s at its best, it means our chefs are constantly kept on their toes reinventing dishes. While regularly changing menus can feel a shame when that dish you’ve fallen in love with disappears, you can rest assured it’s worth it to keep flavour at its peak and that you’ll soon find a new favourite dish to enjoy.” With The Bar & Kitchen, The Lakes aims to bring people together and create a sense of community among homeowners, holidaymakers and locals, and wants to be a destination, rather than just a place to eat and drink. The team believes good food can bring people together and, as Georgina perfectly sums up, they want The Lakes Bar & Kitchen to become “known not only for excellent food but as somewhere fun to wind down on a Friday after a long week, the location to hire for those special occasions, a hub for families and friends to get together and a hot spot for couples looking for a romantic evening. Grown from humble beginnings, The Lakes Bar & Kitchen has expanded, allowing us to cater to so many more, all the while providing a relaxing yet glamorous space to gather in.”

LOCAL INGREDIENTS

Cotswold honey Evesham asparagus Dolcetti Ice Cream, Cirencester Hereford strawberries

This page The Lakes Bar & Kitchen not only has excellent food but will be somewhere fun to wind down on a Friday, get together with family and friends and a hot spot for couples looking for a romantic evening

Eden flowers started from humble beginnings in a tiny shop in Burford in August 2000. Since then, we have steadily grown and increasingly expanded our reputation as the Cotswolds preferred florist. We specialise in creating custom floral arrangements, from elegant bouquets to large floral displays, our flowers will add a touch of luxury and sophistication to any event. Our team of florists will work closely with you to bring your vision to life, using only the freshest and most beautiful seasonal blooms available. 216 The Hill, Burford, Oxon OX18 4HX | 01993 822827 | edenflowersburford@hotmail.co.uk | www.eden-flowers.co.uk

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Dedicated to finding you your dream home 07977585716 tania@cotswoldhousehunter.co.uk www.cotswoldhousehunter.co.uk

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THE ULTIMATE SUSTAINABLE ROAD TRIP

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The Lakes by YOO was the final destination for Jaguar’s exhilarating road trip, with a focus on sustainability

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n October 2022, Jaguar curated an event to offer a specially selected group of media the ultimate road trip across three days, focusing on the synergy between sustainability, luxury and taking time to relax and recharge. The Jaguar I-PACE is the world’s first premium all-electric performance SUV and has won more than 90 global awards, including World Car Design of the Year, World Green Car and World Car of the Year at the 2019 World Car of the Year Awards. The car blends unrivalled balance of performance, refinement, agility and technology with impressive real-world range and day-to-day usability. It offers sustainable luxury and is environmentally aware, so was the perfect vehicle for

the guests to use to explore the exquisite British countryside on their journey to The Lakes by YOO. The journey started in London as guests were chauffeured in Jaguar I-PACEs to the Stratford Hotel in east London, enjoying drinks on the terrace overlooking the London skyline before experiencing a meal at Silo, the world’s first high-end, zero-waste restaurant. They then enjoyed a luxurious night at the hotel, before the road trip began the next day. Participants drove I-PACEs from London through the beautiful Cotswolds countryside on a two-and-a-half hour journey that took in picturesque villages and beautiful landscapes. One of the participants, Juan Luis Gallego from Gentleman magazine, described his journey as a “surrender to the contemplation of the green landscapes offered by the Cotswolds from the cabin of the I-PACE, converted into a sanctuary of tranquillity isolated from the outside and surrounded by elegant trims, handmade details and contrasting stitching.” They arrived at Daylesford Organic Farm, where they were treated to a lunch created with ingredients either grown onsite or locally sourced. Daylesford Organic Farm offers guests a peaceful space to escape the ordinary and enjoy natural surroundings, while being served food grown and produced according to sustainable organic principles. After lunch, the guests were shown to their F-PACE PHEVs to complete the second part of their journey – a drive through stunning countryside to The Lakes by YOO. The Lakes is situated only an hour and a half outside of London, but this road trip really allowed participants the opportunity to relax and recharge, while taking time out to appreciate the beauty of the British countryside and the luxury of the car. Following their arrival at The Lakes, guests took part in a wellness and yoga session with lifestyle guru Hannah Barrett

“THE LAKES OFFERS LOVINGLY AND BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED LUXURY HOMES… PERFECT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY” MAGDALENA BLASZCZK, FAQ MAGAZINE

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in one of the lakeside cabins as the sun went down. The Lakes is set across 850 acres of freshwater lakes, meadows and woodlands and offers a calming, serene sanctuary, so provided an idyllic setting for this session focusing on the guests’ wellbeing and taking time out for themselves. The session included an introduction to mindfulness, some simple mindful breathing practices and a mindful yoga flow. Now sufficiently relaxed, guests indulged in a three-course fine-dining experience in the tipi at The Lakes that is usually home to The Lakes Bar & Kitchen. The tipi was festooned with soft lighting that beautifully complemented the roaring fire pits and natural materials to create a relaxing, calming atmosphere for the evening. Food was provided by Feed Me Cotswolds, who use seasonal, locally produced organic food to create delicious meals. Guests also enjoyed cocktails provided by a nearby distillery to end the evening. Guests spent the night in the luxurious lakeside cabins and apartments at The Lakes by YOO, experiencing the serene views across the lakes, spacious interiors and comfortable furnishings that make The Lakes perfect for a romantic couples’ getaway or a larger gathering of family or friends. Before heading home the next day, they enjoyed a delicious breakfast hamper to perfectly round off their experience. Every element of the trip was crafted with sustainability in mind and the ethos of allowing guests to relax and recharge, while enjoying the luxury of the cars, the dinner locations and the accommodation at The Lakes by YOO.

“ONE OF THE BEST ORIGINAL HOTELS I HAVE EVER BEEN TO” MARIO HERRAIZ, CARUNPLUGGED

G E T TO K N OW T H E I - PAC E

The world’s first premium all-electric performance SUV Winner of over 90 global awards, including World Car Design of the Year, World Green Car and World Car of the Year at the 2019 World Car of the Year Awards 0-60mph in just 4.5 seconds

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MILES OF SMILES Taking the family to The Lakes by YOO in the fully electric Cupra Born means we all get to recharge our batteries, discovers Tom Howard

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here’s something truly magical about escaping the hustle and bustle of city life and retreating to the countryside, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of rural living. And what better way to do it than in style and comfort, with zero emissions? Some 80 miles west of London sits the calming oasis, The Lakes by YOO, nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds and perfect for a luxury family getaway – which is exactly what we’ve done with Cupra’s fully electric Born. The Cupra Born is the latest offering from the Spanish carmaker, Cupra, and it is the perfect embodiment of electric

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“THIS FULLY ELECTRIC VEHICLE HAS BEEN DESIGNED WITH THE MODERN, DISCERNING DRIVER IN MIND, WITH SLEEK LINES, AERODYNAMIC CURVES AND A BOLD, FUTURISTIC LOOK”

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luxury and performance. This fully electric vehicle has been designed with the modern, discerning driver in mind, with sleek lines, aerodynamic curves and a bold, futuristic look that stands out, even in today’s crowded marketplace. Powered by a 77kWh battery that provides an impressive 335-mile range, long distances can be covered with ease, while the 150kW (204 PS) motor delivers the thrills and responsive driving experience you’d expect from the Cupra brand. This car, therefore, is the epitome of modern luxury. It’s not just a car – it is a statement. The Lakes by YOO is a luxury private estate that offers the ultimate escape from city life. The estate boasts several contemporary lakeside homes, designed by some of the world’s leading architects, surrounded by natural beauty that provides a tranquil haven for families looking for an exclusive retreat. It’s not far from the city, but you certainly notice when you’ve left the concrete jungle behind and

This page The Lakes by YOO is the perfect family getaway, the chance to escape city life, embrace the natural environment and have some us-time

you’re approaching the greenery of the Cotswolds. Some of my favourite roads are in the Oxfordshire/Gloucestershire region, and if you’ve ever driven a go-kart around a track, you’ll understand what I’m about to say next. As with all electric vehicles, the Cupra Born offers instantaneous power delivery and one-pedal driving. Add to this the precise steering and responsive handling, and you’ve got quite a few miles of smiles ahead – making navigating the winding country roads an absolute joy. Well, the kids certainly seemed to enjoy it! Arriving at The Lakes by YOO is an experience in itself. Set in 650 acres of idyllic countryside, this collection of stunning holiday homes and luxurious amenities is paired with a spa, tennis courts and an on-site lakeside restaurant serving delicious, locally sourced food. As we settled into our stunning lakeside apartment, we were enveloped in a sense of peace and calm.

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THE CUPRA BORN OFFERS PRECISE STEERING AND RESPONSIVE HANDLING – AND QUITE A FEW MILES OF SMILES AHEAD Overlooking one of the several swimming lakes on the estate, our three-bedroom apartment was furnished with everything you could need for a family getaway, while the real magic lay in the natural beauty of the area. There are endless opportunities for outdoor activities here, whether you’re feeling like a leisurely stroll along the lakeside or a more adventurous exploration of the nearby woodlands with the kids – or perhaps even fishing, kayaking or swimming – there is something at The Lakes for everyone. That said, there’s so much more to do here, and despite the long list of activities supplied in our apartment, it was a cake from The Lakes Bar & Kitchen that peaked my son’s interest. The Lakes Bar & Kitchen is the residents’ cafe, adjacent to the spa and pool, that offers freshly made, locally sourced food – all of which is conveniently located next to

a comprehensive outdoor play area. Cake in one hand and local wine in another, it was a refreshing perspective from which to view the sunset over The Lakes’ incredible timber residences, while the kids played until bedtime. The next morning, there were no concerns for range anxiety, either, as charging points are spread widely across the estate, allowing for hassle-free charging for all electric vehicles on site. Before packing up and leaving – and knowing there was zero environmental impact in doing so – we headed out in the Cupra Born to the on-site farm, checking in on the animals and the kitchen garden. You could spend weeks here, months perhaps, but the few hours we had together as a family were more than enough to allow some us-time and to recharge our own batteries, while The Lakes by YOO took care of the Cupra Born’s.

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CLASSIC CAR COLLECTION The sense of community that underpins The Lakes by YOO is epitomised by the Classic Car Collection, the first of many initiatives to bring residents together, says John Hitchcox

The age of environmental imperative is fast-tracking a sea change in automotive thinking. The internal combustion engine is no longer sustainable. But, somewhat against the odds, classic cars have become something of a phenomenon. Instead of representing discredited power and performance, they now fuse an appreciation of design, engineering, history and even investment potential. Unsurprisingly, many residents of The Lakes by YOO share a discerning taste for classic cars, which is why John Hitchcox set up a club on site. We asked him to articulate the plan.

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Tell us a bit about your classic car plan Residents have been asking about classic and sports car storage for years and there seems to be a real interest in the romance, beauty and history of cars. So, we decided to start a Classic Car Collection that will not only bring together some of our owners and enthusiasts, but also reflect our true sense of community at The Lakes. Is it intended to be a bit of extra sparkle, or would you like to create something The Lakes is renowned for? The Lakes is renowned for bringing people together who have shared interests, whether that be simply a love of the outdoors or, in this case, a classic car collection. It’s not something I would have done alone, but we have already attracted half a dozen members and have started to acquire some exceptional classics, which is exactly what we had in mind when a few of us first got together to discuss it. Could it become a brand extension? Track days, road trips, owners’ clubs… Yes, we hope to host all these, and we

are already planning the inaugural Lakes Classic Car Collection Rally. What’s your relationship with cars over the years? Are you a keen driver? Is there a model/badge that always stops you in your tracks? I’ve always been a great lover of design and technology, which I think come together in the beauty and heritage of classic cars. If I had to choose a favourite, it would have to be a Jaguar E-Type. With sustainability in mind, are you thinking modern hybrid supercars? Or a bit of old-school classic guilty pleasure? There are lots of arguments around sustainability and cars. These classic cars are from a different era, they are virtually all museum pieces and will only be driven occasionally, not for our daily commute (as much as we may wish we could!). As such, they pose very little threat to the planet.

Obviously, these cars wouldn’t be driven on the estate – how do you envisage guests making the most of them? They will be available to view and admire within the Lakes Classic Car Barn and for local driving around the beautiful Cotswolds. If a car club proves attractive, are there other similar ideas that could further enrich the sense of community? It has always been our wish to encourage new experiences at The Lakes, primarily through outdoor experiences such as swimming, fishing, cycling, climbing, sailing and bushcraft. We are also keen to encourage learning and education with our conservation initiatives, sustainability goals, and more recently, with our farmyard and beehives. We have the growing Art Park, which is a cultural extension of these initiatives, and we hope that this outdoor live exhibition, together with the Classic Car Collection, will further enhance the overall experience for everyone on the estate.

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Below The futuristic-looking Jaguar E-Type was first revealed at the Geneva Motor Show of 1961

J A G U A R E -T Y P E

Right Today, the E-Type is still celebrated for its innovative engineering and exquisite design

When beauty met technology There’s a good reason why John Hitchcox’s favourite classic is Jaguar’s achingly beautiful, game-changing sports car legend

In 1961, nobody drove as fast as 70mph. The first section of the M1 had only just opened, and most family cars would be stretched to the limit at such speeds. But the Jaguar E-Type, first revealed at the Geneva Motor Show of 1961, was capable of 150mph. To the motoring world of the 1960s it may as well have been a space rocket – fitting, as the body was designed by former aeronautics engineer Malcolm Sayer. He created a shape described by Enzo Ferrari as ‘the most beautiful car ever made’. The E-Type simply had no unflattering angle, no clumsy proportion. And for a car that looked so futuristic, it remains an enduring icon of automotive design 61 years later, one of only six cars in the collection of the New York City Museum of Modern Art. The E-Type was also an innovator in its construction and engineering, pioneering independent suspension,

racing-style monocoque and subframe construction (when most cars were built on a ladder frame chassis), and disc brakes for every wheel. Initially powered by the 3.8-litre straight-six engine from Jaguar’s previous XK, with 265bhp and a fourspeed manual gearbox, the E-Type lived up to its 150mph billing, averaging 150.4mph and 0-60mph in 6.9 seconds when tested by UK magazine Autocar. The final iteration of the E-Type in 1971 featured a torque-rich 5.3-litre V12 engine, which served until 1975 when Jaguar, now part of British Leyland, replaced the E-Type with the XJ-S. Aside from its looks and engineering provenance, there was one more ace up the E-Type’s sleeve: the price. In 1961, when an Aston Martin DB4 cost around £4,000 and a Ferrari 250GT nearer £6k, Jaguar asked just £2,160 for the E-Type roadster, and pennies more for the coupé. This car was not the sole

domain of the rich and famous – but the glitterati courted it all the same, with Frank Sinatra, George Harrison, Tony Curtis and Donald Campbell among a long list of famous owners. Ironically, despite £2k being equivalent to around £46,000 at today’s prices, the E-Type’s affordability back in 1961 doesn’t quite translate to used prices in 2022. You’ll need around £200k for a clean Series 1, although the later models can be found for less than £100k, depending on condition. And values have risen again since Jaguar re-energised the E-Type bloodline by building six brand-new Lightweight E-Types in its classic workshop – completing a run of Special GTs that was begun, but never completed, in 1963. Innovative engineering, exquisite design and a vision to be shared and enjoyed by all: no wonder John Hitchcox loves the Jaguar E-Type.

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ONE UNIQUE COMMUNITY Family man Robert Diamond built a house at The Lakes by YOO in 2013, sold it, and then returned to buy another one two years later. What drew him back?

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mong the many fabulous properties at The Lakes by YOO, The Great Escape is one of the finest examples. A three-storey lodge with six bedrooms and five bathrooms, its floor-to-ceiling windows and 23m-wide patio offer unbroken panoramic views over the mile-long Bowmoor Lake. Beautiful though it is, however, it wasn’t merely the house that brought entrepreneur Robert Diamond back to The Lakes by YOO, just two years after selling his original property on the estate. “What we missed was the community,” says Robert. “We live in London and have neighbours and friends, but I wouldn’t say we have a community. The Lakes by YOO is not just the physical environment, it’s how it feels while you’re there. Yes, it’s a physical built environment and it’s all very lovely, but it’s more than a property development. It’s a community, a group of people. “It would be wrong to say they’re all friends, but they’re much more than just neighbours or owners. And I think you choose to be there because you want that type of

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community. It’s kind of inclusive – the more you put into it, the more you get out.” Keen to be part of that once more, Robert acquired The Great Escape in 2019, and his wife Caroline took the lead in remodelling it, creating an amazing living space for themselves and their four children, as well as a highly attractive property to let out when they are not using it. The result is simply sumptuous, including a stunning openplan living space, Bulthaup contemporary designer kitchen, gourmet Napoleon barbecue, seven-person hot tub, six double bedrooms and private dock complete with eightperson powered sailing boat, kayak and paddleboards. This connection with the water underlines the unique bond between Lakes living and nature, a key quality unmatched by any comparable location in the Cotswolds. “The Lakes by YOO is kind of unusual, because you’re in the countryside but you’re in a very structured environment,” says Robert. “It’s just this unique, ‘big sky’ experience. It’s pretty hard to find that in the UK. Essentially, you’ve got nothing to the horizon – it’s the adjoining of the water and the sky. That’s just really unusual. Yes, you may get it on certain coasts, but you’ve got lots of development around you. Houses can be breathtaking, but they rarely also offer a breathtaking view.” From an owner’s perspective, The Lakes by YOO offers a ‘best of both worlds’ proposition, blending a full-service infrastructure with total independence. “We wanted something that was very low maintenance from an

ownership perspective,” says Robert. “We had a beach house, but that was really a summer place and a lot of work to look after, whereas this is all year round, and a lot less work because essentially, there’s an infrastructure to manage everything for you. “You’ve got incredible facilities – the infrastructure is there, the utilities are there, security’s there, site maintenance, landscaping, wildlife curation, all of the events and activities

This page The open-plan living area combined with detailed design touches creates a versatile space with a luxury feel

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and the spa – everything is just there. But at the same time, it’s not like a hotel – you’ve got your own private space.” To Robert, the appeal of The Lakes by YOO extends to the way it fuses the classical delights of traditional country living with the benefits of 21st-century design and technology, including every modern environmental and sustainability advantage. A big car fan, Robert likens the concept to the voguish practice of recreating original classic cars using modern mechanicals. “It’s almost the look of a Jaguar E-Type but with the engine and underpinnings of a modern performance car,” he says. “From a physical perspective, it looks very modern, but there’s something iconic about it.” Himself a self-made businessman and entrepreneur with a wide variety of interests, Robert is quick to credit John Hitchcox for the vision to create The Lakes by YOO. “I’m a massive advocate. Unless I’ve missed it, I don’t think that a comparable community exists in the Cotswolds,” he says. “I think creating a community is hard. I think what John’s done is visionary, and commercially, unbelievably brave. It’s a classic case of ‘if you build it, they will come’. And it took a while, but eventually we came. And it is a very special space.”

NOT JUST A HOME, AN INVESTMENT

This page The Great Escape property offers fabulously unspoilt views over Bowmoor Lake

Holiday let? Holiday home? Commercial investment? Family asset? Full-time residence? Buying a home at The Lakes by YOO can mean something different to every individual owner. Investing in a furnished holiday let (FHL) is one of the options, and is becoming more attractive with so many additional benefits compared to the traditional buy-to-let, including the ability to still offset your mortgage interest payments and costs from your rental income prior to calculating your tax liability. With legislative changes, it is thought that over just a four-year period, a furnished holiday let will outperform a traditional buy-to-let investment by more than 100 per cent. FHLs will likely become a crucial part of any property-based investment portfolio,. Further benefits enable owners to proportion profit and qualify for various capital gains tax relief, making it a tax-efficient investment that works now and for your future.

The best place to wakeboard, waterski and fun inflatables in South West England... On a sheltered private lake set in the beautiful Cotswold Water Park at South Cerney, from beginners to experts, we offer wakeboard, waterski and wakesurf lessons plus our fun inflatable rides at one of the most prestigious watersports centres in the country. Everyone is welcome. Our waterski and wakeboard lessons are designed to give you the best possible experience on the water. We provide everything you need: safe, professional expert tuition, the latest equipment and wetsuits. We also offer our fun inflatable rides, these are great for families, birthday parties, hen and stag parties and corporate events. Designed just for fun, all we ask is that all participants can swim 25 metres. With our lakeside restaurant offering freshly ground coffee, home-cooked food, and a well stocked bar, it is the perfect complement to your watersports experience. Come sit by the lake and enjoy some al fresco dining whilst watching your family hit the water! We have a wonderful terrace, some breath-taking sunsets and a warm friendly welcome waiting for you. To book, please visit our website lakeside-ski.co.uk, alternatively talk to one of our friendly watersports team on 01285 860606.

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Below Cabins enjoy terraces with views of the lake, woodburners and luxury bathrooms in each bedroom

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Lakeside Cabins Discover everything the lakeside cabins at The Lakes by YOO have to offer

For groups of family or friends looking to get away from it all in a luxurious, idyllic location, a lakeside cabin at The Lakes by YOO is perfect. The majority of the cabins sleep four people, but some sleep up to six. Each cabin has two bedrooms, one with a super-king-size bed and one twin room, set on the mezzanine floor, that can be configured as a double bed or two singles. Each room has its own bathroom, with both a bath and walk-in shower. The open-plan living area is double height, giving a dramatic first impression when you enter the cabin. There’s also a woodburner to add to the cosiness, as well as a

folding kitchenette – the perfect way to satisfy your culinary needs without imposing upon your space. To make the most of the stunning lakeside location and to allow you to truly soak up your surroundings, the doors leading on to the split-level outdoor entertaining deck fold back to really allow the outside in. To round off the perfect location for a break away, each cabin has WiFi and its own private front garden and is close to the spa, The Lakes Bar & Kitchen and the children’s play area.

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Below Each cabin has its own private front garden

C O N D É N A S T T R AV E L L E R

“In the storybook village of Lechladeon-Thames, book into a woodland cabin for the ultimate English countryside weekend”

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Below The Lakes by YOO’s spacious interiors have the high-spec fittings and decor you would aspire to in your own home

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Apartments The Lakes by YOO has apartments to meet a range of demands – here’s what to expect and what one visitor thought…

Set on the shores of the stunning Marley Lake is a range of luxurious one- and three-bedroom apartments, suitable for up to six people. The one-bedroom apartments sleep two people, and the bedroom features a comfortable super-king bed. There’s an ensuite bathroom that includes a bath and walk-in shower, so it’s perfect for whatever mood you’re in – whether you want a quick shower so that you can get going and explore all The Lakes has to offer, or you want to relax for a while in an indulgent bath. This is the perfect space for couples looking for a romantic getaway, offering stunning views of the lake from the outdoor terrace. The doors from the terrace open into the open-plan kitchen, diner and lounge area, complete with smart TV and a Nespresso machine, giving you the

option to enjoy your morning coffee overlooking your idyllic surroundings. For larger groups of family or friends, a three-bedroom apartment sleeps six people across three bedrooms – one room with a super-king-size bed, one with a king-size bed and a twin room with two single beds that can be joined to create a super-king if desired. Each room has its own bathroom, so you can enjoy privacy away from the rest of the group while you take care of yourself each day. As in the one-bedroom apartments, they each have a walk-in shower and bathtub and come stocked with Wildsmith Skin toiletries. The open-plan living area features a TV and log burner, so it’s perfect for relaxing in cosy and comfortable surroundings, while enjoying the view on to the terrace and across the lake.

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Some three-bedroom apartments are even dog-friendly, if you want your canine friend to join you on your break. The Lakes by YOO apartments really are a home away from home and all feature WiFi if you need to stay connected to the outside world. They are also situated close to the amenities, including a children’s playground, the spa and The Lakes Bar & Kitchen, where you can pick up a bite to eat or enjoy dinner with a glass of wine.

N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C T R AV E L L E R

“The perfect spot for simply unwinding by the water or exploring the area” Left/below Apartments are equipped with smart TVs and log burners and have terraces with views over the lake

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Below The Reserve is spacious enough for up to 10 people, with a floor-to-ceiling wood burner in the living area and beautiful views from all the rooms

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The Reser ve For larger groups looking to get away from it all, The Reserve is the perfect place to stay

Perfect for groups of up to 10 people, The Reserve at The Lakes by YOO is a luxurious home away from home. Featuring five bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, this is the ideal retreat for large groups of families or friends. Away from the bedrooms, there is a large, open-plan kitchen and a separate lounge area with a snug that features a floor-to-ceiling wood burner. The layout of this accommodation allows you to spend time as a group when you want to, but also lets you have your own space when necessary.

From the living area, you can enjoy stunning views across the lake from the windows that look out on to the deck area, perfect for gathering the group together to celebrate, or to just appreciate your surroundings. The Reserve benefits from its own private garden and WiFi, and is ideally placed to access all the amenities The Lakes has to offer, including The Lakes Bar & Kitchen and the spa.

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Below The Reserve has been designed to feel like a home away from home

MARIE CLAIRE

“The Lakes by YOO offers nature-loving families a luxury, wild oasis without compromising on its environmental values”

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WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN THE COMMUNITY James Hall, head of sales at The Lakes by YOO, discusses the opportunities for investing in property and the lifestyle of The Lakes by YOO

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rom existing properties to new developments being planned for the future, now is the perfect time to invest in The Lakes by YOO. With a dedicated team on site, you can plan, build and invest in your future home away from home at The Lakes by YOO, with renowned design by award-winning YOO Studio and sustainable living in a safe and serene family setting in the Cotswolds. This is an exceptional lifestyle investment for those seeking a second home to add to your portfolio. James Hall explains more: Why should people invest in The Lakes by YOO? The Lakes by YOO offers its owners the perfect lifestyle investment opportunity. Our owners have the benefit of an onsite rental management and guest services team to service all needs of the owners and guests alike. The rental management team offer a complete and full service to the owners should they wish to rent out their property and benefit from the highly sought-after rentability of the homes onsite while they are not using the property.

Is now a good time to invest? Property has always been a relatively safe bet in terms of investment. However, The Lakes by YOO has proven to be one of the healthiest and most consistent property investments for buyers. Values across the estate have grown at approximately 8.5 per cent annually for the last 16 years, with average pound per square foot rates now exceeding parts of Mayfair. What can people expect in terms of returns on investment? With incredible holiday rental rates being achieved, several owners are now experiencing net returns in excess of six per cent annually. The apartments and cabins that were recently launched have proven to be very popular for both buyers and guests, so much so that we have the confidence now to offer investors a net guaranteed yield. Please speak to the sales team for further information. Are there any upcoming investment opportunities at The Lakes by YOO? The Lakes by YOO will be continuing its expansion to other sites across the UK in years to come, offering buyers and guests a luxury retreat and lifestyle investment.

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M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N

Please speak to the sales team for further information on our other sites that are available and upcoming. thelakesbyyoo.com/own

THE LAKES BY YOO HAS PROVEN TO BE ONE OF THE HEALTHIEST AND MOST CONSISTENT PROPERTY INVESTMENTS

No place like Beaufort Everyone is welcome at Beaufort Polo Club, whether you’re playing or learning, watching or socialising, supporting charities or doing business

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BEAUFORT POLO CLUB Westonbirt, Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8QW T: 01666 880510 E: enquiries@beaufortpoloclub.com W: beaufortpoloclub.com

SUNDOWN SESSIONS At the start of June, Natalie Imbruglia kicked off a series of intimate evenings at The Lakes Bar & Kitchen

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s the sun went down over the Sailing Club Lake on Friday 2 June, guests at The Lakes Bar & Kitchen were treated to an intimate performance from pop icon Natalie Imbruglia, while enjoying luxurious cocktails and a delicious tasting menu. This was the inaugural instalment of The Lakes by YOO’s Sundown Sessions – events held at The Lakes Bar & Kitchen that aim to “add a real weekend vibe for those escaping the rat run on a Friday night, allowing them to go full ‘Lakes mode’. It’s pure escapism,” says Rose Chappell, head of marketing at The Lakes. She says founder, John Hitchcox, “is a lover of music and a keen guitar player himself, so it was a natural next step to introduce music to our food and beverage offering.” As Hitchcox is a personal friend of Natalie Imbruglia, it was a “no-brainer” to invite her to open the series of Sundown Sessions. Rose says the event was a great success: “It was a real 90s revival feel, with guests

enjoying renditions of hits like Torn. Natalie was buzzing, singing among the crowd – inside and outside – while guests enjoyed delicious cocktails.” So what can visitors to The Lakes Bar & Kitchen expect from future Sundown Session events? The focus is on great music, delicious drinks and food, and creating a familyfriendly evening for visitors staying at The Lakes, but also

Left Natalie Imbruglia joined the first of many Sundown Sessions to come

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people from the local area and beyond coming to visit The Lakes Bar & Kitchen for the evening. Guests are treated to a sumptuous feasting menu during the evening, with dishes chosen based on products that are in season, in keeping with the general ethos of The Lakes Bar & Kitchen and its focus on sustainability and supporting local suppliers. On arrival, guests receive their choice of cocktail or a glass of champagne, before enjoying a sharing board at their table, which could include such delicacies as butterfly tiger prawns, garlic pizza bread and tomato and burrata salad, depending on the season. Main courses are just as enticing, with choices including dishes like the YOO burger, fish and fries and risotto, again dependent upon what’s in season. To round off this

A REAL WEEKEND VIBE FOR THOSE ESCAPING THE RAT RUN ON A FRIDAY NIGHT

This page The intimate performance was enjoyed along with a seasonal tasting menu and cocktails

delicious feast, guests are invited to choose two flavours of ice cream from the DIY sundae station, finishing it off with their choice of sauce and toppings, perfect for enjoying a summer’s evening, relaxing while you’re listening to an intimate music performance in stunning surroundings. Following the success of the Natalie Imbruglia event, The Lakes Bar & Kitchen has several more musical icons lined up to provide guests with the opportunity to enjoy this incredible way to relax and wind down with your family and friends after a busy week at work. The combination of enjoyable music and delicious food and drink, alongside the amazing lakeside setting, really does create the perfect evening.

Bringing responsible investment to the Cotswolds

Wherever you’re based, investment expertise should never be a distant option. That’s why Rathbones is right here on your doorstep. We believe it’s our responsibility to invest for everyone’s tomorrow — we can help you achieve more sustainable results from your investments — and make a wider contribution to society. So when it comes to investment management here in the Cotswolds, there’s only one name you can trust.

For more information please contact Tim Hurst on 0124 230 7001 or email Tim.Hurst@rathbones.com

The value of investments and income arising from them may fall as well as rise and you might get back less than you originally invested. Rathbones Investment Management Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

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