ABOUT US
Habitat First Group is a family-run company dedicated to creating exceptional holiday home communities that live in harmony with nature. Our mission is to blend architecture, ecology and luxury to offer families a place to relax, reconnect and thrive.
The story began 25 years ago when Jeremy Paxton spotted a lakeside location in The Cotswolds from his helicopter. A chance lunch led to the purchase of the land, now known as Lower Mill Estate. Inspired by the joy his family found there, Jeremy envisioned a community where others could experience the same connection to nature.
With a masterplan that preserves two-thirds of the land as untouched nature reserve and lakes, permission was granted to build 575 holiday homes designed to coexist with the environment.
Since launching Lower Mill Estate in 1999, Habitat First Group has expanded with Silverlake in Dorset from 2011 and
continues to grow with exciting new projects like Birchwood in North Devon.
Habitat First Group combines thoughtful design, state-of-the-art facilities and a deep respect for the natural world to create places where families can make long lasting memories.
OUR ESTATES
Sustainability
Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Our communities are designed to work in harmony with the natural environment, preserving habitats and promoting biodiversity across hundreds of acres of lakes, woodland and protected nature reserves.
We actively support native wildlife through careful ecological planning, including rewilding initiatives, habitat restoration and conservation zones. From otters and kingfishers to deer and rare butterflies, our estates are home to a rich variety of species that thrive in these safe, undisturbed landscapes.
Through our Habitat Zero initiative, we are committed to becoming a carbon-neutral business by 2030, reducing emissions, enhancing green infrastructure and encouraging sustainable living practices among our residents and guests.
Stay with us
Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a family adventure, or a getaway with friends, Lower Mill Estate, The Cotswolds and Silverlake, Dorset offer exceptional destinations designed for rest, reconnection and exploration.
Each location offers a blend of outdoor activities, wellness facilities and locally sourced food and drink, all set within carefully protected environments that celebrate sustainability and biodiversity.
Book your stay through our official booking agent, Habitat Escapes and experience the perfect balance of comfort, nature and community.
Own with us
From securing a freehold plot to stepping into your fully finished holiday home, we make the journey as seamless as possible. Our luxury homes at Lower Mill Estate and Silverlake, Dorset are more than just properties, they're sanctuaries where families can relax, revive and reconnect with nature.
Whether you’re drawn to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds or the coastal charm of Dorset, our estates offer a variety of homes to suit every lifestyle and budget. From traditional cottages to contemporary lodges and innovative houseboats.
Our property designs
Habitat First Group has partnered with some of the world’s most renowned architects to lead the way in innovative holiday home design. Our developments feature a striking blend of architectural styles and materials, creating a level of diversity rarely seen within a single location.
Join the team
If you share our passion for creating something uniquely special, then we want to hear from you!
We’re a family business with roots in the South West, since we purchased our first estate in 1996. The Paxton family are at the helm, working alongside a committed team who are all considered to being ‘part of the family’.
We love to celebrate our people and watch as they grow, whether they’ve been with us for a few weeks or since we launched 25 years ago.
Our workplaces are fun and professional, providing opportunities for people to be individual, listened to, and most importantly, flourish.