Nestled just beyond the stone bridge on Howells Mere, ‘Cygnet Lodge’ is the epitome of lakeside bliss. Welcoming you onto the front deck with storage for bikes and boots, it holds a secret - a private jetty offering access to enjoy a spot of fishing, launch your paddleboard, or canoe and explore the tranquil waters of Howells Mere.
With the feeling of being tucked away, Cygnet Lodge is also never far from the action. Onsite facilities such as Ballihoo restaurant, Millstone tennis courts, and the award-winning Lower Mill Spa are only a 5-minute walk away from the property.
Another special touch – your furry friend is welcome to join you, as the owner is happy to allow one cherished dog during your lakeside holiday.
Ideal for families or friends gathering, ‘Cygnet Lodge’ is suitable for three couples, and four children, or 10 guests in total, including infants.
Learn more about this beautiful property in the ‘Accommodation’ section below.
Ground Floor
Cross the threshold into a world of elegance, where tasteful décor meets the natural warmth of timber floors and white walls.
The ground floor hosts a utility room that moonlights as a family bathroom, complete with rejuvenating shower over a bath and a discreet washing machine, a lifesaver after a day of exploration on Lower Mill Estate and surrounds.
Descend into slumber in the thoughtfully designed twin room, positioned at the front of the house, just a whisper away from the family bathroom.
Discover a king bedroom with built-in robes, offering not just comfort but also an en-suite shower room with a walk-in shower. Throw open the glass sliding door and step onto the deck, where each morning you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking views across Howells Mere.
Another king bedroom awaits, complete with built-in robes and direct access to the deck also, ensuring you’re always just moments away from the tranquil outdoors.
Outside
The impressive overwater deck, drenched in early morning sun, invites you to linger. A coal BBQ, plush outdoor lounges, and an expansive dining table that can extend to seat 12 people, providing the ideal setting for alfresco feasting. This deck is completely enclosed which creates peace of mind for wandering children or your dog. A convenient external spiral staircase offers a discreet ascent to the living area and kitchen, sparing you the need to traverse the bedrooms during your outdoor dining indulgences.
First Floor
Ascend the carpeted stairs to a world bathed in light and character. To the left, you’ll discover yet another twin bedroom, complete with built-in robes.
The kitchen is spacious and functional equipped with NEFF appliances, including an oven and separate grill, a 5-burner gas cooktop, and a convenient microwave. Integrated dishwasher and fridge freezer ensure meal preparation for your guests is effortless. The kitchen extends further, offering a breakfast bar for those cosy morning moments.
Step through the sliding glass door to an enclosed balcony on the front (westerly) side of the house, where a bench table and lounge seating invite you to bask in the afternoon sun.
Gather around the substantial dining table, comfortably seating eight guests, and indulge in epicurean delights from your undercounter wine fridge.
The lounge is your sanctuary, boasting two luxurious deep sofas you won’t want to get up from. A coffee table hides an array of board games, ready for family competitions. On cooler evenings, the wood burner crackles to life, and the TV provides further entertainment.
Here, a double height vaulted ceiling with full height glazed glass windows bathes the space in natural light and reveals sweeping vistas of the lake, other award-winning holiday homes, and the changing sky. Slide open the glass doors and step onto a balcony with chairs, the perfect stage for sunrise spectacles. The spiral staircase leads you back to the large, enclosed deck below, completing the seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living.
Second Floor
Journey further upward and uncover unexpected spaces. A sophisticated seating area for parents and beanbags with a bright wall backdrop for children capitalises on the mesmerising lake view from the mezzanine level.
A convenient shower room adds to this floor's allure and through the further doorway you will find a grand double bedroom, characterised by quality timber furnishings and stylish décor. Vast windows usher in natural light, and abundant drawers and hanging space invite you to unpack and settle in. This bedroom provides a quiet space away from the rest of the family in the lounge area and is a unique feature of the property.
‘Cygnet Lodge’ exudes an air of familial warmth, elevated by top tier furnishings and a complete array of amenities, ensuring your lakeside escape is marked by comfort and luxury.
Estate Rules
House Rules
Whats included
Property is self-catered. The house is fully equipped with cutlery and crockery
Spa use included but subject to availability (contact Spa directly for opening times). Pool towels can be rented from the Spa, please contact the Spa directly to arrange this. (01285 862640)
On-site restaurant and small market shop with seasonal opening hours. Availability can book up in peak weeks so contact Ballihoo prior to arrival to not miss out. (01285 840181)
Bike and watercraft hire are available at the Activity Hub as well as lessons. Please follow the link for more information: https://lowermillestate.com/activities/
Not all properties have direct lake access even though they are listed as lakeside. If you are unsure whether this property has lake access please check with our team.
Please be aware that the vegetation surrounding the property is subject to change according to the time of year. This may mean that the views represented in the photos above may vary depending on the season in which you stay with us.
Normal check-in is from 4 pm. Out of peak season, early check-in of 2 pm may be available (at an additional fee). Please contact our office team to enquire.
Check out during off-peak dates is by 10 am on the day of departure. During peak dates (school holidays) check out is at 9 am.
Travel cot and highchair are available for £10, subject to availability. Please advise at the time of booking. Guests to provide their own linen and mattress for the travel cot.
There are 3 electric vehicle charging points on the estate that operate on a first come first use basis.
Seasonal Closures
Somerford Lagoon Lake is closed from October – March due to nesting birds. The nearest canoe launch point is located near Mill Village as marked on the Estate Map.
The Somerford Nines (Clearwater 1-9). The private outdoor pool closes after the October half term and does not re-open until Easter.
The Miss Mouse Trail, run by the activity hub closes for the winter months. This is from 1st November to the Easter holidays.
If you are looking to book multiple properties with us we have some lovely properties that are close to Cygnet Lodge.
The Summer House - Situated just opposite Cygnet Lodge | Sleeps 8
Swans Rest - Situated just opposite Cygnet Lodge | Sleeps 8
Please contact a member of our team if you have any questions on booking multiple properties.
The following information will help you to locate Cygnet Lodge upon your arrival at Lower Mill Estate.
Village
Your property Cygnet Lodge is based in Howell's Mere
Property Number
Howell's Mere 97
Finding your Property
From the main entrance where the security hut is positioned, drive through the gate and bear left, drive through the car park ahead and exit right when you get to a four-way crossroads for Clearwater and Howells Mere properties.
Continue forward over the bridge taking the immediate right towards Howells Mere and Clearwater properties. Continue along this road and you will get to a point where the road splits off either left or right. Bear left and continue along the road passing the Spa and Tennis courts on your right and houses on your left. At the end of this road, you will see a bridge in front of you. Cross over this bridge into Howell's Mere and go right through a couple of gates. The parking spot for Cygnet House is immediately on your left-hand side labelled with the number 97. The parking spot is right in front of your property.
To assist you during darker evenings, you would be advised to bring a torch with you as there is no street lighting permitted on the Estate other than low-level lighting.
Co-ordinates
Please use the below links to see the exact position of Cygnet Lodge on what3words and google maps.
what3words: https://w3w.co/reeling.riding.encrusted