Cowley is a luxury, stylish stately home fit for the modern family who like the finer things in life.

In the heart of the Cotswolds, only 15 minutes from the quaint town of Cirencester lies Cowley Manor. As you roll up to the grand manor house you might expect a rather grand interior, however, whilst Cowley’s exterior is traditional and in keeping with what you would expect from an English stately home the interior is very different indeed. Chic, contemporary design is at the heart of the hotel and set within 55 acres of picturesque countryside (which we think little ones will love to explore) complete with a modernist spa and boutique it’s clear to see why it has a host of awards to its name.

Mid-century design is teamed with bold vibrant colours to create an impressive interior like no other. However, it is not only the hotel’s design that makes it so unique, the service like the decor is relaxed, informal and welcoming.

Complete with billiard room, private TV room, a chic and sleek bar and relaxing drawing room there is no shortage of space to kick back, relax, read the papers and look out over the beautiful grounds.

Whilst the hotel is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway it is equally welcoming (if not more so) for families with children. In fact when we visited, the playroom was full of balloons, toys and cupcakes for a birthday party that adults could enjoy as much as little ones. There is even a pink dining room for little ones adjoining the main wood-panelled dining room.

Cowley has 30 bedrooms, all complete with the same modern, contemporary interior that runs throughout the hotel. The rooms all boast stunning views over the lakes and grounds. Each room is graded; Good, Better, Great, Exceptional and Best but we think all are pretty fabulous.

If relaxation is what you’re after then look no further than Cowley’s C-side spa. This sleek modernist spa offers the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life. With its slate pool and award wining treatments the spa is a destination in itself. Children are welcome in the spa and pool, however there are times where it is a grown-ups only zone. If you happen to visit during the warmer summer months take advantage of the outdoor pool complete with poolside bar.

In the evening head to the bar for a cocktail, or two, before dining in the comparatively more traditional wood-panelled dining room. Whilst the decor might be a little more formal, service and atmosphere is still as relaxed as the rest of the hotel.

Finally, we have to mention Cowley’s very own range of products, Green & Spring. Inspired completely by the British countryside, Green & Spring products are created using herbs and flowers native to the British Isles. We’ve long been fans of their bath and body range so were thrilled to see it in our bathrooms and spa side. If you haven’t tried the range yet, trust us, once you do you will want to stock up in the hotel’s boutique.

All that’s left to say is Cowley is a must-visit. The only down side is that luxury and style like this doesn’t come cheap. Perhaps we could raid those piggy banks?

For more info and to book your stay visit Mr and Mrs Smith.

Need To Know:

• Rooms 30.
• Rates Double rooms from £108.00 (includes full English breakfast)
• Facilities 55 acres of land, billiards room, spa (the C-Side) with four treatment rooms, gym, sauna.
• Poolside C-Side spa has two pools: a 17m, slate-lined indoor pool and an elegant outdoor pool with a bar, waiter service and rows of sleek sun loungers. Both are heated year round.
• Check-out Midday. Earliest check-in, 3pm.
• Children Babysitting is available by arrangement. A children’s supper is served between 5.30pm and 6.30pm.
• Also CD and DVD library. Wellington boots are provided. Pets welcome in one of the two dog-friendly rooms; £25 charge per pet, a night. Two-night minimum stay at weekends.