Filly Island
Cirencester, Gloucestershire, The Cotswolds, UK
Life began at Filly Island in the 1700s, when the cottage was used to store the cart which the neighbouring mill's horse dutifully pulled upstream. Flash forward to today and this luxury self-catering cottage in the Cotswolds is a beguiling melange of creative style and romantic ideologies. Sat upon a tiny island accessed by a humpback bridge, but right in the heart of a vibrant hamlet, two people and two dogs can claim Filly Island all for themselves.
Introduction
The owner's passion for upcycling and discovering use for old objects is what makes this unique homestay so special. Pre-loved finds are revivified to great effect, from the fire bucket light shades to the curtains made from old Hungarian grain sacks to the vintage mangle and cartwheel. When you step outside of this luxury cottage in Cirencester, the pretty Cotswolds scenes outside tempt exploration. Spend afternoons sauntering around picture-postcard villages following honey-coloured streets, before peeling out to uncover the rolling hills which comprise this most iconic of National Landscapes.
Inside
From your morning cup of tea to the moment you slip between the sheets, every aspect of Filly Island has been carefully and lovingly considered so your whole day is as gorgeous as possible. Look forward to home-cooked repasts crafted in the rustically stylish kitchen before taking a seat by the window to dine. In winter the woodburner merrily crackles away to create a warm, romantic ambience; sink into the sofa and unwind as the dogs snooze at your feet. Conclude the day with a soak in the fire-engine red roll-top bath before heading to the double bedroom, sprinkled with luxury touches.
Outside
Situated in the pretty Cotswolds village of South Cerney just three miles from Cirencester, Filly Island sits on a tiny triangular island betwixt a millstream and the River Churn. Stand on the tip of the ‘island’ to enjoy views upriver to the village beyond, or challenge your partner to a game of Pooh sticks. Summer afternoons sat underneath the big sycamore tree threading buttercups and daisies into a chain to press and frame will create a cherished keepsake which will last long after your holiday ends. Once the day is done, unwind in the cottage garden of your own tiny island with a G&T.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 2 guests
From £950 per week, £795 per short break - Bedrooms and bathroomsOne double bedroom, one bathroom with a roll-top bath and over-bath shower.
- PetsTwo small well-behaved dogs are welcome
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabes-in-arms up to six months are welcome; one cot and one highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesThere is parking for one car over the humpback bridge to the rear of the property. There is a fridge with freezer box, electric oven with hob, microwave, coffee machine, washer dryer and dishwasher.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper with local produce and a bottle of Prosecco, Smart TV with Netflix and NowTV, iPad, WiFi internet, linen, towels, logs and kindling to get you started...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Cirencester
This thriving Gloucestershire market town, often referred to as the ´Capital of the Cotswolds’ is steeped in history. Picnic by the river churn, wander handsome golden streets and admire the cathedral-like Parish Church of St. John Baptist at the heart of the square.
Getting there
- On the Map Filly Island sits in the village of South Cerney, near Cirencester in Gloucestershire, The Cotswolds.
- By Car Approximately one and a half hours from London, just half an hour from Cheltenham and an hour from Oxford.
- By Train Kemble is the nearest station, about 10-15 minutes by car. Oxford is an hour in the car, depending on traffic.
- By Air Both Birmingham and Heathrow airports are just over an hour's drive away.
From the owner
“Whilst my own history with Filly is in its infancy having moved to the village in recent years, falling head over heels with South Cerney´s charm and surrounding countryside, it quickly captured my heart. And then there was Filly, a beautiful part of my dog walks, drawing you in with its character, the waterways and stunning backdrop.”
The cottage was originally built around 1750 as a cart store for the Old Mill. Filly Island lies between the River Churn and the original mill stream. Its history remained unchanged until the early 1900s, when the mill became an orchard and the cart house was repurposed as an apple store.
In May 2014, the cottage was purchased by an owner who ensured that throughout its renovation, Filly Island stayed deeply rooted in its history. Everything possible was handcrafted, hand-made, or thoughtfully upcycled.
The meticulous care taken during the restoration transformed this humble cart store into a tranquil escape. Never did I think Filly Island would become part of my story, but after speaking with the previous owner who was moving on, I was delighted when we agreed that the next chapter of the island's history would unfold with myself and my little one.
We continue to honour the tradition of filling the space with handcrafted and previously loved objects, giving them a peaceful life here while adding to its rich history during our family's stewardship.
Cam
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Cirencester with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
Lynwood & Co Cafe, Lechlade
Owned by the owner´s close friends, Lynwood & Co Cafe is award-winning and brings the down-to-earth and family-oriented coffee culture of Sydney to the Cotswolds. Enjoy excellent ´proper´ coffee, lovely breakfasts and light lunches.
To Do
The Cotswolds Way
There is no shortage of footpaths or country lanes in the area. Try out the Cotswolds Way; a historic 102-mile footpath running along the Cotswold Edge escarpment, showcasing some of the most picturesque villages and breathtaking countryside.
To Do
History and Culture
Whether it´s a visit to the Corinium Museum, Brewery Arts Centre or the Roman Amphitheatre, Cirencester has plenty to offer. You are also within easy reach of Westonbirt Arboretum and Cotswold Wildlife Park.
To See
Tetbury
This charming little town is packed full of antique shops and Cotswold history. Roam the streets or simply watch the world go by from one of the many tea rooms.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
Best Cottage we’ve ever stayed in! Individual, cozy yet comfortable style. Many beautiful details. Bathroom amenities provided. Basic grocery and kitchen items provided. Personal touch upon arrival (cupcakes). We loved sitting outside enjoying the very special location of the cottage.
I fell in love with Filly Island. What a beautiful, private, cosy, extraordinary place to just relax and enjoy, it is also the perfect spot to explore the Cotswolds. The sound of the river and the birds felt idyllic even though we were in foggy, wet and very cold weather. The owner was charming and welcoming, and I loved the individual touches and upcycled furniture and decor. An absolute gem. Thank you for your gracious hospitality!
Filly Island was ideally located as a base for exploring the Cotswolds, and it was absolutely lovely and peaceful setting. This is one of the few occasions where we are truly sorry our holiday has come to an end. In addition to the lovely accommodation and setting, the weather was absolutely perfect all week.
Thank you for letting us stay on Filly Island. We had a lovely relaxing time, the property was clean and full of wonderful little touches. Thank you once again for making it so special.
Your house is a delight! The attention to detail with the recycled/upcycled furniture is faultless. We had a wonderful week with the weather adding to the picture - perfect setting. Thank you.
Thank you for such an incredible stay, we are amazed at the creativity and attention to detail in this beautiful little house. The place was so well stocked with everything we needed, and we enjoyed visiting the towns and villages you recommended. This is our last stay before our first baby and it was perfect. Thank you.
We had a wonderful stay in this cozy little house- we were certainly sad to leave. But we hope to return to Filly Island, thank you for everything, and see you very soon.
A little patch of heaven! We´ve had such a relaxing break and spying on the kingfisher this morning was a joy. Thanks so much for such a lovely and relaxing stay, our batteries are well and truly recharged!
Filly Island was unique and had everything I needed for a quiet weekend. The facilities provided were more than enough for what I wanted. The setting was so relaxing between the river and the stream.
Thank you for having us on your beautiful little island. We´ve had a really relaxing weekend enjoying the idyllic countryside, exploring the local area and the tranquillity of the river sounds. Thank you for the delicious treats and recommendations, we had some lovely meals which were a great way to celebrate our wedding anniversary. Filly Island is one of the best gems in the Cotswolds, we hope we can visit again soon!
Our stay at Filly Island was just perfect and the owner is the best and most attentive host we have ever had the fortune of meeting!
We absolutely loved Filly Island, and it has a wonderful owner. This is the first time we have used Unique Homestays and we were certainly not disappointed. Many thanks for a great experience!
Thank you, we had such a lovely stay. We can´t thank you enough for your gracious hospitality. We walked, biked and ran for miles across the beautiful countryside and Filly Island could not be a more perfect place to put our feet up at the end of each day!
We had a lovely stay here. The cottage is perfectly decorated and has everything necessary for a cosy stay. The surrounding area is great, and we explored lots of nearby places. Now we are travelling back to the busy city of Amsterdam, where we will be recommending Filly Island to all of our Dutch friends. Thank you!
I initially booked Filly Island due to the location, but I fell in love with everything. The style of the property, how private it was, the amazing bath tub, and the fact we could bring our dog. Everything was amazing.
Recipe for the perfect weekend away: Take two moderately well behaved boys (of both four legged and two legged varieties). Add liberal amounts of water based excitement and miles of walks filled with other friendly dogs. Leave to rest. (A trip to Barnsley House Spa and nearby village pub speeds up this process). Baste with red wine, fine takeaway foods and the hospitality of the villagers of South Cerney. Heat over a traditional wood fire. Enjoy!
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Filly Island and Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
Island Weekends
Lonely Planet
January 2019Love nests: Great places for two
The Times
February 2018Design A Space With Texture
Country Homes & Interiors
December 20167 Reasons We Need to Visit this Country Cottage Right Now
Country Living
September 2016Going With The Flow
Country Living
May 2016Going With the Flow
Country Living Modern Rustic
November 2015Snow white
Country Homes & Interiors
December 2024The UK´s cosiest boltholes for Christmas
The Times
December 2024
Collections > Luxury Christmas Breaks > UK > Gloucestershire > Cirencester > Filly Island
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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
