Do I need to book ice skating at Swindon's Link Centre in advance?

Yes, it's strongly recommended to book your ice skating sessions in advance, especially during the festive period when sessions fill up very quickly. Visit the Link Centre's official website to check session times and secure your tickets before your visit.

Is festive ice skating at the Link Centre suitable for young children and beginners?

Absolutely! The Link Centre caters for all ages and abilities. Penguin skating aids are available for younger children and beginners to help them feel confident on the ice, and trained staff are always present to ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment.

What other festive activities can we enjoy near Honeysuckle Lodge during winter?

In addition to ice skating in Swindon, guests staying at Honeysuckle Lodge can explore the Cotswold Water Park, visit nearby Christmas markets in Cirencester or Bourton-on-the-Water, and enjoy the stunning winter scenery of the Cotswolds countryside — all just a short drive away.

What makes Honeysuckle Lodge a great choice for a winter holiday in the Cotswolds?

Honeysuckle Lodge offers comfortable, self-catering accommodation set within the beautiful Hoburne Cotswold Holiday Park near South Cerney. Its central location gives guests easy access to Swindon, Cirencester, and the wider Cotswolds, making it the ideal base for a festive winter getaway packed with activities and relaxation.

Where exactly is Why Not located in Stow on the Wold?

Why Not is situated at 2 Oddfellows Row, Well Lane, Stow on the Wold — a quiet, characterful address just a short walk from the town's famous market square and all its amenities.

Is Why Not suitable for families or groups?

Why Not is a self-catering house ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for one of the top luxury Cotswold retreats. The self-catering format gives guests full flexibility and space throughout their stay.

What can guests do near Why Not in Stow on the Wold?

Guests can explore Stow's boutiques, restaurants, and pubs on foot, or take short drives to iconic villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, Burford, and Chipping Campden. The area is also superb for walking and cycling.

When is the best time to visit the Cotswolds and stay at Why Not?

The Cotswolds is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush landscapes and outdoor festivals, autumn brings stunning foliage, and winter — especially around Christmas — gives Stow on the Wold an enchanting, festive atmosphere.

How far in advance should I book Why Not?

As one of the most popular luxury Cotswold retreats, Why Not can fill up quickly — particularly during school holidays, summer, and the Christmas period. We recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred dates.

What is Cotswold Hoburne and where is the 'Why Not' property located?

Cotswold Hoburne refers to a collection of quality self-catering holiday properties in the Cotswolds. 'Why Not' is a holiday house located at 2 Oddfellows Row, Well Lane, in the historic market town of Stow-on-the-Wold.

Is the 'Why Not' holiday house suitable for families?

Yes, as a self-catering house it offers the space, flexibility, and privacy that families appreciate. You can set your own routine, prepare meals at home, and enjoy the surrounding Cotswold countryside at your own pace.

What attractions are close to the property in Stow-on-the-Wold?

Stow-on-the-Wold has excellent independent shops, pubs, and restaurants on its doorstep. Nearby attractions include Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden, Chastleton House, and the Cotswold Way walking trail.

Do I need a car to stay at a Cotswold Hoburne property in Stow-on-the-Wold?

A car is recommended if you want to explore villages beyond Stow-on-the-Wold. However, the town itself is very walkable and local bus services connect several key Cotswold destinations.

When is the best time to book a Cotswold Hoburne holiday house?

Spring and autumn are wonderful for quieter roads and beautiful scenery. Summer is popular, so book as early as possible. Winter visits offer a magical, uncrowded experience particularly around Christmas markets in nearby towns.

Are there Cotswold water park lodges with hot tubs available year-round?

Yes, many self-catering properties near the Cotswold Water Park are available throughout the year. Hot tubs are especially popular in autumn and winter when the cooler air makes a soak even more enjoyable. Always check individual property listings for seasonal availability.

How far is Stow on the Wold from the Cotswold Water Park?

Stow on the Wold is approximately 20 miles north of the Cotswold Water Park near Cirencester, making it a comfortable 30-40 minute drive. It's an ideal base for exploring both the water park and the wider Cotswolds region.

What activities are available at the Cotswold Water Park?

The Cotswold Water Park offers a huge range of activities including wild swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, wakeboarding, cycling, birdwatching, and nature walks. There are also cafés, restaurants, and family-friendly attractions nearby.

Is Why Not in Stow on the Wold suitable for families?

Why Not is a self-catering holiday house located in the heart of Stow on the Wold, making it well-suited for couples and small families looking for a comfortable, flexible base to explore the Cotswolds. Contact the property directly for details on sleeping arrangements and facilities.

What's the best time of year to visit the Cotswolds?

The Cotswolds is beautiful in every season. Spring brings wildflowers and green meadows, summer is perfect for outdoor activities, autumn offers stunning foliage, and winter has a magical, peaceful quality — especially around the charming market towns like Stow on the Wold.

What is a lake pochard and where can I see one?

The lake pochard is a diving duck with a distinctive chestnut head and red eye. In the UK it's mainly a winter visitor, found on open freshwater lakes and reservoirs. Near Stow on the Wold, try the gravel pits around Bourton-on-the-Water or Farmington Reservoir.

When is the best time of year to spot lake pochard in the Cotswolds?

Pochards arrive in the UK from October and can be seen through to March. Peak numbers are usually found between November and February when migrant birds from continental Europe swell local populations.

Do I need specialist equipment to go birdwatching for lake pochard?

Not at all. A pair of binoculars (8x42 is a great all-round choice) and a free bird ID app like Merlin are all you really need. Warm, waterproof clothing is equally important given the exposed lakeside conditions in winter.

Is the lake pochard a rare bird?

The lake pochard is on the UK's Red List of Birds of Conservation Concern due to significant population declines. While you can still see reasonable numbers at good wetland sites, every sighting is worth appreciating.

Is Stow on the Wold a good base for wildlife and birdwatching trips?

Absolutely. Stow on the Wold sits centrally in the Cotswolds with easy access to numerous lakes, nature reserves, and footpaths. Staying in a self-catering property like Why Not gives you the flexibility to head out early for dawn birdwatching and return at your own pace.

How does staying at Why Not compare to a Hoburne holiday park Cotswolds experience?

While Hoburne holiday park Cotswolds offers a social, park-style environment with shared amenities, Why Not provides a private, self-catering house experience right in the village of Stow-on-the-Wold — ideal for those who want full immersion in Cotswolds life.

Where exactly is Why Not located in Stow-on-the-Wold?

Why Not is located at 2 Oddfellows Row, Well Lane, Stow-on-the-Wold — a quiet, characterful address within easy walking distance of the town square, local shops, and restaurants.

Is Stow-on-the-Wold a good base for exploring the wider Cotswolds?

Absolutely. Stow-on-the-Wold sits centrally within the Cotswolds AONB, placing you within 20 minutes of villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, Burford, and Chipping Campden, as well as excellent walking routes and nature spots.

What is the best time of year to visit Why Not in Stow-on-the-Wold?

Spring and early autumn offer a wonderful balance of good weather and fewer crowds. Winter visits are also popular, especially around Stow's festive market season, when the town takes on a magical atmosphere.

Are there good walks and outdoor activities near Why Not?

Yes — Stow-on-the-Wold is a fantastic base for walkers and nature lovers. The Monarch's Way and Heart of England Way are easily accessible, and the surrounding countryside offers excellent birdwatching and scenic countryside rambles.

What are the Lake Pochard holiday lodges?

Lake Pochard holiday lodges are self-catering accommodation units located at Hoburne Cotswolds holiday park, situated directly on the shores of a beautiful lake in the heart of the Cotswolds. They offer stunning water views and access to a range of on-site leisure facilities.

How far are the Lake Pochard holiday lodges from Stow on the Wold?

The Hoburne Cotswolds park is approximately 4–5 miles from Stow on the Wold, making it an easy drive or a scenic cycling trip through the Cotswolds countryside.

Is birdwatching good at Lake Pochard?

Yes! The lake is named after the pochard duck and is a wonderful spot for birdwatching. You can expect to see a variety of waterfowl throughout the year, with early mornings and evenings offering the best sightings.

What makes Why Not in Stow on the Wold a good base for exploring the area?

Why Not is a self-catering house centrally located in Stow on the Wold, giving guests easy access to the town's shops, restaurants, and walking routes, as well as quick road links to nearby attractions including Hoburne Cotswolds and the surrounding villages.

When is the best time to visit the Cotswolds for a lake or nature holiday?

Spring and early autumn are particularly lovely — the countryside is lush, crowds are smaller than in peak summer, and wildlife activity around the lake is at its most vibrant. However, the Cotswolds is a year-round destination with its own seasonal charms in every month.

Where is Why Not holiday house located?

Why Not is located at 2 Oddfellows Row, Well Lane, Stow on the Wold in the Cotswolds — a prime position in one of the region's most beloved market towns.

How close is Why Not to Hoburne Cotswold Holiday Park?

Why Not is conveniently situated near Hoburne Cotswold Holiday Park, making it easy to enjoy the park's leisure facilities while benefiting from the privacy and flexibility of your own self-catering house.

What attractions are near Stow on the Wold?

Stow on the Wold sits at the heart of the Cotswolds, with Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden, Batsford Arboretum, and the Oxfordshire Way all within easy reach.

Is Why Not suitable for families?

Yes, Why Not is a self-catering holiday house ideal for families, couples, and groups seeking a comfortable and flexible base in the Cotswolds.

What is the best time of year to visit Hoburne Cotswold Holiday Park and the surrounding area?

The Cotswolds is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and outdoor activities, while autumn brings rich colours and quieter crowds. Winter is magical for cosy pub breaks and festive markets.

Where exactly is the Why Not holiday house located?

Why Not is located at 2 Oddfellows Row, Well Lane, Stow-on-the-Wold, in the heart of the Cotswolds. It's within easy walking distance of the town's market square, shops, pubs, and restaurants.

What is Cotswolds Hoburne?

Cotswolds Hoburne refers to self-catering holiday properties in the Cotswolds managed under the Hoburne brand, offering high-quality accommodation with the freedom and flexibility of home-from-home living.

Is Stow-on-the-Wold a good base for exploring the Cotswolds?

Absolutely. Stow-on-the-Wold sits centrally within the Cotswolds AONB, making it an excellent base for day trips to villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden, Burford, and Moreton-in-Marsh.

What activities are available near the Why Not property?

Guests can enjoy walking trails including sections of the Cotswold Way, visits to Batsford Arboretum, antique shopping, local food and drink experiences, and exploring the many historic villages within easy driving distance.

How do I book a stay at Why Not in Stow-on-the-Wold?

You can check availability and book your stay at Why Not through the property listing on this site. We recommend booking early, especially for peak seasons, as this popular Cotswolds Hoburne property tends to fill up fast.

How does staying at Why Not compare to Hoburne Cotswolds?

While Hoburne Cotswolds offers a holiday park experience, Why Not provides a private, self-catering house in the centre of Stow on the Wold — ideal for travellers who prefer an independent, immersive stay with direct access to local life.

Where exactly is Why Not located in Stow on the Wold?

Why Not is located at 2 Oddfellows Row, Well Lane, Stow on the Wold — a quiet, characterful lane just a short walk from the town's famous market square and amenities.

Is Stow on the Wold a good base for exploring the wider Cotswolds?

Absolutely. Stow on the Wold sits centrally within the Cotswolds, making it easy to reach Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden, Moreton-in-Marsh, and many other iconic villages within a short drive.

What is the nearest train station to Why Not in Stow on the Wold?

The nearest train station is Moreton-in-Marsh, approximately 5 miles away, with direct rail links to London Paddington making it accessible for city visitors without a car.

When is the best time to visit Stow on the Wold and stay at Why Not?

The Cotswolds is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn are ideal for walks and avoiding peak crowds, summer brings festivals and markets, and winter offers a truly magical atmosphere with Christmas events in Stow.

Is South Cerney a good location for stargazing in autumn?

Yes! South Cerney and the surrounding Cotswold countryside benefit from relatively low light pollution, making it an excellent spot for autumn stargazing. Clear autumn nights reveal the Milky Way, bright planets, and meteor showers like the Orionids in October.

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Festive Ice Skating at Swindon's Link Centre This Winter: The Perfect Day Out from Honeysuckle Lodge

Q: Where is Swindon's Link Centre and how do I get there from Honeysuckle Lodge?

The Link Centre is located in West Swindon, approximately 20–25 minutes by car from Honeysuckle Lodge at Hoburne Cotswold Holiday Park in South Cerney. It's an easy and straightforward drive via the A419, making it a very convenient day trip from your lodge.

October 23, 2026

Lace Up and Glide Into the Magic of Winter at Swindon's Link Centre

There's something truly enchanting about gliding across an ice rink as the festive season wraps the world in twinkling lights and holiday cheer. If you're looking for an unforgettable winter experience in the heart of England, festive ice skating at Swindon's Link Centre this winter should be right at the top of your to-do list. And what better way to make the most of your visit than by staying in the cosy, welcoming comfort of Honeysuckle Lodge at Hoburne Cotswold Holiday Park in South Cerney?

Why Swindon's Link Centre Is the Go-To Winter Destination

The Link Centre in Swindon is one of the region's most beloved leisure venues, and during the winter months, it truly comes alive. The ice rink transforms into a dazzling festive experience, drawing families, couples, and groups of friends from across Wiltshire and beyond. Whether you're a seasoned skater or wobbling on the ice for the very first time, the atmosphere is electric — full of laughter, music, and the unmistakable scent of winter in the air.

Festive ice skating at Swindon's Link Centre this winter offers sessions suitable for all ages and abilities. Penguin skating aids are available for little ones just finding their feet on the ice, and the friendly staff are always on hand to make sure everyone has a safe and joyful time. It's the kind of experience that creates memories your family will talk about for years to come.

Top Tips for Your Ice Skating Visit

Book in advance: Sessions during the festive period fill up fast, so secure your slots early to avoid disappointment.
Dress warmly in layers: The rink can be chilly — gloves are a must, and wearing thick socks will make your skate hire much more comfortable.
Arrive early: Give yourself time to get your skates fitted and warmed up before your session begins.
Try the café: Warm up after your skate with a hot chocolate or festive treat at the centre's café facilities.
Check the schedule: The Link Centre offers public skating sessions as well as dedicated family sessions and disco skates — check their website for the latest timetable.

Stay at Honeysuckle Lodge: Your Cosy Winter Retreat

After a exhilarating session on the ice, there's nothing better than returning to a warm, comfortable home away from home. Honeysuckle Lodge at Hoburne Cotswold Holiday Park in South Cerney is perfectly positioned to serve as your winter base in the Cotswolds. Just a short drive from Swindon, this charming lodge offers everything you need for a relaxing and memorable holiday escape.

Nestled within the beautiful surroundings of Hoburne Cotswold — a stunning holiday park set alongside tranquil lakes and open countryside — Honeysuckle Lodge provides a peaceful sanctuary after your day of adventure. The park itself offers a wealth of on-site facilities, making it an ideal choice for families and groups who want to combine festive fun with a proper holiday experience.

The Perfect Location for Winter Exploration

South Cerney places you right in the heart of the Cotswold Water Park, a landscape of shimmering lakes and natural beauty that takes on a special quality during the winter months. From here, you're also within easy reach of the charming Cotswold towns of Cirencester, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Burford — all of which host wonderful Christmas markets and festive events throughout December. Combine a morning exploring a Cotswold market town with an afternoon of festive ice skating at Swindon's Link Centre this winter and you've got the makings of a truly magical day out.

Plan Your Winter Getaway Today

Whether you're planning a family holiday, a romantic winter break, or a fun-filled group escape, festive ice skating at Swindon's Link Centre this winter paired with a stay at Honeysuckle Lodge is a combination that simply can't be beaten. The memories made on and off the ice will stay with you long after the festive lights have been packed away for another year.

Don't miss out on the magic — book your stay at Honeysuckle Lodge at Hoburne Cotswold Holiday Park today and get ready for a winter adventure in the heart of England's most beautiful countryside.