Close to the exquisitely pretty village of Audlem in the agricultural lands of south Cheshire lies a luxury lodge development with a spectacular feature; a lively marina on the Shropshire Union Canal. These luxuriously-appointed lodges here are all bespoke-built, in Cumbria, by Retreat Homes and Lodges. You can choose your layout and specify all details of furniture and fittings – in other words, you can have your cedar-clad holiday lodge retreat created specifically for you.

We went to see OverWater marina earlier this year; at the time, a show home was there to give us a taste of the exclusive leisure lodge lifestyle alongside the water here. Now, that lodge has been snapped up; little wonder, in such an enticing location and with a log-burning stove, a magnificent kitchen and large lounge-dining area opening onto decking. We loved it – and the location. Now, on the last two plots remaining, buyers can have a similar – or different – lodge designed for them. What an opportunity!

OverWater marina is known – and recognised – for its beauty and customer service; OverWater has been Inland Marina of the Year or Runner-up for the last four years in succession. It’s also known for being a great centre for walking; a number of circular walks lead from the marina and the reception office has copies of a leaflet entitled Audlem Walks.

Audlem has three village pubs, two by the canal and one in the village centre, all of them serving food. Three cafés and a good range of shops – plus free parking – are attractions of Audlem.

Priced at £185,000, they have a 100-year licence. Pitch fees are £2750 per year. Buyers have the option to let their lodge, so using it partly as investment and partly for their own leisure use.

Café

OverWater Marina has its own café, serving lunches, and speciality cakes plus daily specials including home-made ‘scones of the day’ - served with clotted cream and jam. Delicious! It’s a great little venue, sitting alongside the canal.