Nestled amid the scenic Mendip Hills in Somerset, Mad Swans is a groundbreaking countryside retreat that seamlessly merges sport, socializing, and fine dining. Just 40 minutes from Bristol and 30 from Bath, this vibrant new destination is shaking up traditional leisure by offering an enticing mix of activities and culinary excellence in one stylish venue.
Mad Swans boasts an impressive array of amenities, including a 12-hole golf course that pays homage to the sport’s heritage. Designed by acclaimed architects Tom Mackenzie and Martin Ebert, the course can be enjoyed over 6, 12, or 18 holes, delivering a faster, more social golfing experience suited to contemporary lifestyles. This format enjoys growing support from legends like Sir Nick Faldo, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods.
Sports enthusiasts can also indulge in padel and pickleball on three high-quality courts, with coaching available to enhance skills. For varied fun, there’s augmented reality darts, shuffleboard, and a modern gym equipped with Matrix machines, group classes, and memberships starting at £45 per month.
Mad Swans shines equally in its culinary offerings, guided by the expertise of multi-Michelin-starred chef and investor Ollie Dabbous. The Potting Shed restaurant reimagines countryside classics with flair, while The Hangout serves handcrafted pizzas, creative cocktails, and decadent desserts—all with inviting views of the sport and social areas.
Accommodation is thoughtfully designed with 16 eco-friendly cabins featuring spacious layouts, large windows, queen-sized beds, walk-in showers, and premium amenities from British brand Bramley. These cabins, available in twin and double options or paired for larger groups, provide a tranquil retreat immersed in nature.
Sustainability is at the heart of Mad Swans. The venue plans to integrate solar power, EV charging points, eco-bikes, and is committed to environmental initiatives like wildflower meadow restoration, beehives, tree planting, and on-site kitchen gardens supplying fresh herbs and edible flowers to its kitchens. Local, responsibly sourced ingredients also play a major role in the menus.
Mad Swans welcomes families and guests of all ages, with activities suitable “from eight to eighty,” plus an ice-cream bar, boardgame room, and shared social spaces designed to foster genuine human connections away from screens. Dogs are also warmly welcomed.
Stays start at £195 per night and include full access to the gym, making Mad Swans an ideal destination for those seeking an active, luxurious, and sustainable countryside escape.