The Lakes by Yoo

The food tasted good, but the pancakes were a very small portion with just six blueberries, especially for the price. We waited 5-10 minutes to be seated even though the place wasn’t full, and several staff saw us without greeting or helping. Our order was taken fairly quickly, but the food arrived before our coffees. A queue built up at the bar while we waited, though it hadn’t been there when we arrived. It seemed people were going there because service was so slow. Several staff were around cleaning tables, but only one or two were making coffee. I asked three times about ours and was told there was a long queue, which wasn’t true when we came in and wasn’t our problem. When they finally arrived, the two coffees were in takeaway cups and the oat milk allergens weren’t clearly marked. Luckily, it was only a preference for us, not an intolerance. Very poor service for somewhere that presents itself as an exclusive, high-end Cotswolds venue.

For all the care put into the resort and its experiences, dinner was a real letdown. The pizza, promoted as a standout, was poor and tasteless; the other things we tried felt like pub food. That would be fine at pub prices, but two pizzas, two glasses of wine and a child’s pasta came to just under £80. Almost everything also cost extra, including cleaning after a few days and fresh towels, things we’d expect to be included in a hotel. Still, we’d return, though we’ll cook dinner ourselves next time. We spent our honeymoon at The Lakes by Yoo, and the lakeside cabin was beautiful, cosy and so thoughtfully designed. The grounds and lakes were lovely for cycling and easy walks, and the spa and buildings were fantastic. Most staff were very friendly and attentive.

I’m already thinking about going back! My partner surprised me with a stay at Lakes by Yoo for my 23rd birthday in March, and I loved it. They upgraded us to a suite, a huge step up from what we’d booked, and decorated the room for my birthday, which was such a sweet touch. The food and drinks were 10/10, especially the matcha, some of the best I’ve had. Staff were warm and welcoming, and the other guests added to the relaxed, friendly feel. Couldn’t recommend it more 💛

The resort was understaffed, and the restaurant couldn’t fit everyone in. We had to order takeaway and carry it through poorly lit areas with a young child, which wasn’t ideal. Although the staff on site were helpful, my email to the Director, James Hall, got a response that felt short on empathy and personal consideration. The team didn’t offer an adequate full or partial refund despite the distress and health effects of our stay. We booked Lakes by Yoo for Mother’s Day and were disappointed from beginning to end. I had clearly stated on the booking that I have severe pet allergies and asked for a pet-free cabin, but the one we got had clearly housed pets. No alternative was available because it was a busy weekend, and nobody warned us beforehand that the request couldn’t be met. I had allergic reactions and slept poorly. The experience didn’t live up to what the resort promises, and the price doesn’t reflect what guests receive. I wouldn’t recommend it at all.