Frequently asked questions.
Everything you need to know before staying or fishing at Lakeside Retreats. If you cannot find the answer you need, please contact our team.
How many cottages are available?
We have four self-catering cottages: Mallard Cottage, Teal Cottage, Swallow Cottage and Kingfisher Cottage. Each has its own character, facilities and guest capacity.
How do I check availability and book a cottage?
Use the booking search on our website to select your preferred dates and number of guests. You will then see the cottages available for your stay and can complete your booking online.
What time is check-in and check-out?
Your booking confirmation will include the check-in and check-out times for your cottage, along with arrival instructions and everything you need before your stay.
Is fishing included with a cottage booking?
Fishing is charged separately at a discounted rate of £20 per 24 hours for cottage guests, including two rods per angler. Match Lake is day fishing only, with no night fishing or 24-hour tickets. Please speak to our team if you would like to add fishing to your stay.
Do I need to bring bedding and towels?
Your cottage will be prepared for your arrival with bedding and towels provided. Please bring your own fishing towels and any equipment you need around the lakes.
Do the cottages have private hot tubs?
Selected cottages include access to a private hot tub. Please check the facilities listed on the individual cottage page before booking.
Are the cottages suitable for families and groups?
Yes. Our cottages accommodate different party sizes, from quieter stays for two to larger family or group breaks. Each cottage page includes its maximum occupancy and sleeping arrangements.
Are dogs allowed?
Please check the individual cottage details or contact us before booking, as the pet policy may vary between cottages.
Can I fish without staying in a cottage?
Yes. Our lakes are open to day anglers, so you do not need to book accommodation to fish at Lakeside.
Do I need to book day fishing in advance?
No. Day fishing does not need to be booked in advance. Simply arrive, choose an available peg and pay on the day.
How much does day fishing cost?
Day fishing costs £20 with two rods. A 24-hour ticket costs £30 on Carp Lake and Cat Lake; Match Lake is day fishing only. An extra rod costs £10 per day. Guests pay £10 per day, with children under 10 free. Cottage guests can fish for £20 per 24 hours with two rods.
How many fishing lakes are there?
There are three individual coarse fishing lakes at Lakeside Retreats: the Carp Lake, Cat Lake and Match Lake. Each offers a slightly different experience and selection of fish.
What fish can I catch?
Carp Lake has common, mirror and grass carp, including albino grass carp, plus silverfish. Carp and grass carp reach around 35 lb. Cat Lake has catfish to 95 lb and carp to 42 lb. Match Lake has carp around 10–15 lb, bream and silverfish. There are no chub or tench in Carp Lake or Cat Lake. See the individual lake pages for more details.
Do I need a fishing licence?
Yes. Every angler must hold a valid Environment Agency fishing licence before fishing at Lakeside Retreats.
Do I need to bring my own fishing equipment?
Yes. Anglers should bring their own rods, tackle and suitable fish-care equipment, including an adequate landing net, unhooking mat or cradle and carp-care kit.
What fishing rules do I need to follow?
Our rules are in place to protect the fish, lakes and everyone visiting the site. Barbless hooks must be used, rods must not be left unattended and all required fish-care equipment must be available. Please read the full fishing rules before arriving.
Can I reserve a particular peg?
Day anglers choose from the available pegs when they arrive. Specific pegs are not normally reserved in advance.
Are the lakes open throughout the year?
The lakes are available for fishing throughout the year, although access may occasionally be affected by maintenance, weather or exceptional conditions.
Where is Lakeside Retreats?
Lakeside Retreats is located on Cliff Lane in Marston, near Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG32 2HU.
Is parking available?
Yes. Parking is available for guests and anglers visiting Lakeside Retreats. Please follow the signs and arrival instructions when you reach the site.
What is there to do nearby?
The surrounding area offers countryside walks, welcoming pubs, market towns and attractions including Belton House, Belvoir Castle and Woolsthorpe Manor. Visit our Explore Nearby page for more ideas.
Can I purchase a residential park home at Lakeside?
Residential park homes are managed separately from Lakeside Retreats. You can find further information through the Residential Park Homes link in our website navigation.
Still have a question?
If there is anything else you would like to know before your stay or fishing visit, please get in touch.