Inside Lakes by Yoo & The Lakes Bar & Kitchen: Phoebe Vela-Hitchcox takes us on tour
“Open, inspiring, interesting, warm, friendly and comfortable.” These words could all describe Phoebe Vela-Hitchcox, Managing Director of The Lakes by Yoo, but are her choice words she uses to define the exclusive Cotswold retreat she has been instrumental in running for the past three years alongside her husband, founder John Hitchcox. A former media professional with a 30-year career in publishing and event management, working alongside prime ministers’ journalists and the glitterati, Phoebe talks community, design, and why The Lakes keeps here centred.
The Lakes by Yoo is a 1,000-acre private estate featuring The Lakes by Yoo Hotel, rental residences and second family homes. Envisioned by property developer John Hitchcox in collaboration with world-renowned designers, including Philippe Starck, Marcel Wanders, Jade Jagger and Kelly Hoppen it offers a serene escape designed for community and contemplation. At the heart of the estate is The Lakes Bar & Kitchen offering picturesque views and a tranquil dining space. We’re excited to hear more.
Q&A with Phoebe Vela-Hitchcox
Q: Firstly, congratulations on the creation that is The Lakes by Yoo. Can you tell us the ethos behind The Lakes by Yoo concept.
A: The idea for The Lakes by Yoo came about when my husband John was searching for the perfect setting for his own countryside family home. What began as a small enclave of bespoke private homes for those who wanted a sustainable sanctuary of peace and privacy in the heart of the Cotswolds, has now developed into an extraordinary lakeside rural estate surrounded by 850 acres of woodlands and 11 beautiful tranquil lakes. We now have a collection of cabins, apartments and private homes, but also an award-winning hotel, restaurant, Spa & Wellness Centre, Kids Club, on-site farm and Activities Centre complete with high-ropes and zip-line. Our homeowners, hotel residents and local resident guests are a hugely integral part of The Lakes by Yoo’s fabric, and what connects them is a commitment to sustainable living and an innate love for nature and spending time amongst the great outdoors.
Q: What brought you to Yoo?
A: With a strong foundation in communications and events, my journey with Yoo began as an Advisor to Yoo Studio, the international residential and hotel design company behind The Lakes by Yoo, where I provided strategic guidance on communications and marketing. Before joining the company, I was a Partner and Group Director of Communications at Bell Pottinger, following 15 years in conference and events production. Now, as Managing Director of The Lakes by YOO, I lead our sales and marketing initiatives while also developing our brand partnerships and events programming.
Q: It’s fair to say The Lakes has enjoyed a cult status since it opened in 2008 that’s as relevant today. What’s the secret to it not being ephemeral?
A: I think from the offset, The Lakes by Yoo has offered a lifestyle that has only become more and more aligned with what the modern consumer craves – a connection to nature, plenty of open space, a strong sense of community, and ultimately – low-key yet beautiful living.
That being said, we have worked hard to ensure we continue to evolve, and we don’t rest on our laurels. We added the hotel rooms, cabins and apartments to The Lakes by Yoo in 2021, and the restaurant and spa followed in 2022, which opened the estate up to day visitors for the first time. Since then, we’ve welcomed influential thought leaders and innovators to host remarkable events at the estate, including wellness pioneer Deepak Chopra, manifesting expert Roxie Nafousi, and skincare authority Dr. Barbara Sturm, helping us maintain a really dynamic atmosphere.
Q: The design of Lakes by Yoo challenges the traditional Cotswold aesthetic. How do you view the role of design and the natural environment?
A: Each property at The Lakes by Yoo has been brought to life by Yoo Studio in partnership with world-leading designers. Whilst we’ve prioritized luxury amenities and indulgent details throughout, each property (whether that’s the three-bedroom lakeside apartments or the new Manor Farm Barns) blends our signature contemporary design with sustainable touches and natural materials. Energy efficiency is a core component of our design and local materials such as Cotswolds stone bring a sense of place. Soft furnishings and bespoke staging draw on natural elements such as water, earth and air to bring emotion and depth whilst remaining deeply respectful of the surrounding natural environment, which lies at the heart of the project. We’ve planted over 500,000 trees on site with the aim that over time they will develop into a mature woodland area. There’s no greater luxury than being outdoors in nature.
Q: What is it about The Lakes that captivate so many people?
A: Creating a vibrant, like-minded community that has access to a nostalgic ‘Swallows and Amazons” lifestyle with nature at its core has always been integral to The Lakes by Yoo ethos, and this way of living continues to resonate with our discerning homeowners and hospitality clientele. One minute guests can be taking on our treetop high ropes course, the next they can be ziplining over a lake, experiencing the healing benefits of our cryotherapy chamber or just taking a calming meditative moment on a walk in our wildflower meadows. The possibilities are endless.
Q: Your projects often reflect a blend of big names and small artisans. How do you balance the global and the local within your spaces and products, and how does that impact the guest experience?
A: They really go hand in hand. One of our projects that showcases this best is Spa by Yoo, which opened its doors in summer 2023. The Lakes by Yoo is a haven for wellness lovers with an abundance of freshwater lakes for wild swimming, paddle boarding and kayaking, and plenty of local running and cycling routes – so opening the spa was a natural next step for us. We launched the spa in partnership with COSMOSS – the wellness brand by supermodel Kate Moss, who is a close friend of the estate, and we were the very first spa in the world to partner with the brand. We also have facials from Dr Barbara Sturm and signature treatments by MOSS of the Isles and Wildsmith Skin. We regularly host wellness retreats and have partnered with a range of guests from global household names such as Dr Deepak Chopra and Roxie Nafousi to new kid-on-the-block disruptors like Halen Strength to provide the crème de la crème of experiences.
Q: How do you keep a happy relationship between The Lakes being a place for quiet contemplation and a vibrant social hub at the same time?
A: What’s so wonderful is that this comes naturally at The Lakes by Yoo. Like-minded people who are seeking a space to relax, recharge and reconnect in nature have always flocked to the estate. We have a lot of business leaders from a variety of industry sectors, from finance and business to creatives, who are looking to completely switch off from the bustle of the daily grind. Lots of outdoor enthusiasts like hikers and birdwatchers are drawn to the scenic trails and wildlife around the lakes, and families seeking a space to reconnect and spark joy play a huge part in this. We have a fantastic community hub in The Lakes Bar & Kitchen where members of the wider and surrounding community come together for coffee and dining experiences, too. Our estate spans 850 acres of woodland, flowering meadows and lakes meaning there’s always plenty of privacy and escape for those looking for it.
Q: How do you keep the estate moving forward…what do you have planned?
A: Over the next couple of months, we’ll be launching The Lakes Club – a family-first members club that will open up parts of the estate to non-residents/homeowners for the very first time. We’re also working on some exciting new additions to the estate, including new in-room hotel experiences, a brand new MUGA space and padel courts. Over at The Lakes Bar & Kitchen, we’ll soon be unveiling our very own Afternoon Tea as well as a roster of very exciting supper clubs, with the first from renowned chef Tom Aikens taking place in spring.
Q: What inspired the creation of The Lakes Bar & Kitchen?
A: Nestled within the heart of the luxury Cotswold hotel experience at The Lakes by Yoo, The Lakes Bar & Kitchen was born out of a desire to provide a unique dining destination that seamlessly blends modern British cuisine with the serenity of its lakeside surroundings. All of our apartments and cabins come with state-of-the-art kitchens, but we also wanted to create a space where both hotel guests and day visitors could enjoy laid-back all day dining while enjoying the tranquility of the Cotswold countryside.
Q: What can guests expect from the menu?
A: At The Lakes Bar & Kitchen, our philosophy is rooted in quality and seasonality. Our menu showcases the best locally sourced ingredients, with dishes inspired by modern British culinary traditions. Guests can indulge in everything from hearty wood-fired pizzas to refined three-course meals, all complemented by an extensive wine list. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the flavours of the great British countryside, making it a highlight for those searching for the best places to stay in the Cotswolds.
Q: How does The Lakes Bar & Kitchen enhance the overall experience of The Lakes by Yoo Hotel & Residences?
A: Dining at The Lakes Bar & Kitchen is more than just a meal, it’s an integral part of the lifestyle experience that defines The Lakes by Yoo Hotel & Residences. Whether guests are staying in one of our lakeside residences or visiting for the day, the restaurant offers a moment of connection and relaxation. Set against the backdrop of our tranquil estate, it also serves as the perfect complement to our wellness retreat ethos, providing nourishing meals after activities like yoga, paddleboarding, or countryside walks.
Q: Can you tell us about the atmosphere?
A: The ambiance at The Lakes Bar & Kitchen is effortlessly inviting. With interiors inspired by the surrounding natural beauty, guests are welcomed into a space that feels both luxurious and laid-back. Think: cosy corners and exposed wooden beams, spaces flooded with natural light, and panoramic views over Bowmoor Sailing Lake. For summer days and balmy evenings, we also have a beautiful outdoor terrace for al fresco feasting.
Q: What makes The Lakes Bar & Kitchen stand out in the Cotswolds dining scene?
A: We believe it’s the harmony of exceptional cuisine, unparalleled location, and our commitment to sustainability. Unlike many other dining options, The Lakes Bar & Kitchen offers a truly immersive experience within the grounds of a luxury Cotswold hotel. Additionally, our focus on locally sourced ingredients and reducing our environmental footprint ensures that every meal is not only delicious but also meaningful.
Q: Are there any special highlights for families or larger groups?
A: Absolutely! The Lakes Bar & Kitchen is designed to accommodate everyone, from families seeking casual dining to larger groups celebrating special occasions. Our spacious layout, children’s menu, and group booking options make it a versatile destination for creating cherished memories – and our woodland playground tucked behind the restaurant means little ones are always entertained. Guests staying at The Lakes by Yoo Hotel & Residences can also enjoy exclusive dining perks, further enhancing their experience at one of the best places to stay in the Cotswolds.
Q: Why plan a visit?
A: Whether you’re a guest of The Lakes by Yoo Hotel & Residences or simply exploring the Cotswolds, The Lakes Bar & Kitchen invites you to experience dining at its finest. Easily accessible from London and located in one of the best places to stay in the Cotswolds, this lakeside gem is a must-visit destination for lovers of great food and stunning scenery. It’s a welcome space for all ages, with options to suit everyone.
Q: And I guess, if you’re dining and then choose to stay, you can?
A: Of course! We have a wonderful variety of accommodation options to suit groups of all sizes. Our hotel rooms and one-bedroom apartments are ideal for couples, while our two-bedroom lakeside cabins, three-bedroom apartments or larger private homes are perfect for accommodating families or larger groups.
The Lakes by Yoo, Nr. Lechlade, Gloucestershire GL7 3DT
Luxury Restaurant Club
Luxury Restaurant Club is delighted to partner with The Lakes by Yoo. Club members are invited to enjoy exclusive privileges when dining at The Lakes Bar & Kitchen alongside advanced invitations to select upcoming events. Not a member of LRG? Join from £8 per month. See details.
