Why Choose Gloucestershire for a Hot Tub Break?
A hot tub holiday in Gloucestershire offers a stunning contrast of landscapes. To the east, you have the open, rolling wolds of the Cotswolds, famous for their genteel tea rooms and historic manor houses. To the west, the Forest of Dean offers a completely different vibe, with its deep, ancient woodland filled with sculpture trails and wild boar, bordered by the spectacular Wye Valley.
Between these two extremes lies the Severn Vale, home to the historic Gloucester Docks and the elegant spa town of Cheltenham. Whether you are walking the Cotswold Way, exploring medieval castles, or simply watching the sunset over the River Severn from your private hot tub, Gloucestershire delivers a diverse and memorable holiday.
Gloucestershire is a highlight of the Heart of England. Explore more hot tub holidays in the Heart of England.
Gloucestershire Hot Tub Lodges and Cottages
Our collection reflects the diversity of the county, featuring everything from traditional stone cottages to unique lakeside retreats.
Luxury Country Cottages
For the quintessential English country experience, our collection features stunning stone-built properties. These cottages, often located in quiet villages or on private estates, combine historic charm with modern luxury. You can expect exposed beams, flagstone floors, and roaring log burners inside, along with private gardens and bubbling hot tubs outside. They are perfect for a sophisticated rural retreat.
Romantic Lakeside Retreats
For couples seeking something unique, discover our hidden gems in the Severn Vale. We feature quirky, romantic options like handcrafted yurts overlooking private fishing lakes. These properties are designed for intimacy and nature connection, offering features like roll-top baths, verandas for alfresco dining, and hot tubs with uninterrupted views over the water, all within reach of Tewkesbury and the Cotswold edge.
Dog-Friendly Forest Retreats
Gloucestershire is a paradise for dog owners, particularly around the Forest of Dean. Our pet-friendly properties are chosen for their practicality, offering enclosed gardens and easy access to miles of woodland trails. You can spend days exploring the Sculpture Trail or walking along the River Wye, knowing you have a comfortable, mud-friendly base to return to.
Large Group Barn Conversions
For family reunions or group celebrations, the county offers spacious converted barns that can accommodate everyone in style. These properties often feature large open-plan living areas, multiple bathrooms, and generous outdoor spaces. Located in the rural countryside, they provide the privacy and space needed for a memorable group gathering, with the hot tub serving as the perfect social hub.
Explore Gloucestershire
The Cotswolds
The jewel in the crown of Gloucestershire. Famous worldwide for honey-stone villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold, this is where you'll find the quintessential English countryside experience.
Explore our hot tub breaks in the Cotswolds →
The Forest of Dean
Ancient royal woodland on the Welsh border, perfect for walkers and dog owners seeking peaceful trails away from the crowds. Our Forest of Dean properties are included in this Gloucestershire collection above.
Top Things to See and Do in Gloucestershire
While the Cotswolds are the most famous draw, the wider county offers incredible experiences for every type of traveller.
- Explore the Forest of Dean: A world away from the manicured hills, this ancient woodland is perfect for adventure. Cycle the family-friendly trails at Cannop Cycle Centre, brave the high ropes at Go Ape, or walk the magical Sculpture Trail at Beechenhurst.
- Visit Gloucester Cathedral: One of the finest medieval buildings in the country. Fans of Harry Potter will recognise the cloisters as the corridors of Hogwarts. Afterwards, explore the historic Gloucester Docks, now a vibrant hub of museums, bars, and restaurants.
- Discover Regency Cheltenham: Known as the cultural capital of the Cotswolds, Cheltenham Spa is famous for its elegant architecture, high-end shopping in the Montpellier district, and its world-class festivals, including the Gold Cup horse racing and the Literature Festival.
- Wander Westonbirt Arboretum: Home to one of the most beautiful tree collections in the world. It is spectacular year-round but truly comes alive in autumn with a blaze of colour. The Treetop Walkway offers a unique bird's-eye view of the canopy.
- Step Back in Time in Tewkesbury: A medieval market town with a rich history. Visit the imposing Tewkesbury Abbey, one of the finest examples of Norman architecture, and explore the alleyways and timber-framed buildings that date back centuries.
- Birdwatching at Slimbridge: The WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre is a fantastic day out for nature lovers and families. Founded by Sir Peter Scott, it offers the chance to see diverse birdlife, hand-feed ducks and geese, and explore the wild adventure playgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean?
The Cotswolds are defined by open, rolling hills ("wolds"), limestone walls, and picturesque stone villages. It is generally more manicured and famous for "chocolate box" scenery. The Forest of Dean is an ancient, dense woodland between the Rivers Severn and Wye. It feels wilder, more enclosed, and adventurous, making it perfect for mountain biking and forestry walks.
When is the best time to visit Gloucestershire?
It depends on what you are looking for. Spring (April-May) is beautiful for the famous bluebells in the Forest of Dean and lambing season in the Cotswolds. Autumn (September-October) is spectacular for the changing leaf colours in the woodlands and the arboretums like Westonbirt. Winter is perfect for cosy pub lunches and visiting the Gloucester Quays Christmas Market.
Is Gloucestershire a good destination for couples?
Yes, it is exceptionally romantic. You can choose between the classic romance of a cosy Cotswold cottage with an open fire or the unique adventure of a lakeside yurt or secluded cabin. The county is also full of high-end dining options, from Michelin-starred restaurants in Cheltenham to gastropubs in rural villages.
Are there good walks for dogs?
Gloucestershire offers some of the best dog walking in the UK. The Cotswold Way offers over 100 miles of scenic trails, while the Forest of Dean provides endless off-lead opportunities on wide forestry tracks. The Sculpture Trail at Beechenhurst is a particular favourite for a family walk with the dog.
How far are the properties from Cheltenham?
Several of our Gloucestershire lodges are within 20-30 minutes of Cheltenham, making it easy to enjoy the Regency architecture, renowned restaurants, and famous racecourse as a day trip. The town is centrally located, acting as a gateway between the Cotswolds and the Vale.
Can I find properties with fishing on-site?
Yes, we have unique properties, particularly in the Severn Vale area near Beckford, that are situated directly on private fishing lakes. Guests can enjoy fishing just steps from their door or simply relax on the veranda watching the wildlife on the water.