Orion Holidays

If your ideal holiday involves peaceful lakeside views, plenty of fresh air and somewhere your dog can come along too, Orion Holidays is worth exploring.

This independent, family-owned holiday business specialises in self-catering accommodation around the Cotswold Lakes, a distinctive landscape of freshwater lakes, nature reserves and countryside in Gloucestershire. Formerly known as the Cotswold Water Park, the area offers a different take on a traditional Cotswolds break, with waterside walks and outdoor activities alongside the region’s familiar villages, country pubs and historic towns.

Orion Holidays manages a varied collection of holiday homes, from smaller cottages and contemporary lodges to spacious properties suited to larger families and groups. Some overlook the water, while others offer private outdoor space, hot tubs or access to fishing and leisure facilities. The style and facilities differ from one property to another, so there’s room to find a stay that suits your plans rather than trying to make one type of accommodation fit every occasion.

For dog owners, the appeal is easy to see. There are miles of walking routes around the lakes, wooded paths to explore and plenty of opportunities to get outside together. After a good walk, you can find dog-friendly pubs and places to eat in the surrounding area, making it easy to build a day around the things you and your dog enjoy most.

Many Orion Holidays properties accept pets, although not every home is dog-friendly. Individual listings set out the number of pets permitted and any additional charges, so it’s important to check these details before booking. Some homes have enclosed outdoor areas or secure decking, which can be especially useful for guests travelling with dogs, but these features are property-specific rather than guaranteed throughout the collection.

There’s plenty to do beyond walking, too. The Cotswold Lakes are popular for watersports, cycling, fishing and wildlife watching, while nearby Cirencester offers independent shops, cafés and a taste of local history. The surrounding Cotswold villages make worthwhile day trips, whether you fancy a country pub lunch or a wander through traditional stone-built streets.

Orion Holidays also caters for guests looking for a little extra indulgence. Selected properties have hot tubs, spa access and other luxury touches, making the collection suitable for everything from relaxed weekends away to family celebrations. Larger homes can be particularly useful when several generations are travelling together and nobody wants to leave the dog behind.

Behind the collection is a local team based at South Cerney, with more than 27 years of experience in the area. Guests can contact the team for help choosing accommodation and finding out more about the surrounding lakes and activities.

Whether you’re after a quiet cottage with waterside views, a roomy family house or a lodge with a hot tub, Orion Holidays offers plenty of options to explore. Choose a dog-friendly property, pack the walking leads and make the most of a part of the Cotswolds where time outdoors is very much part of the experience.