Cottage holidays

From top to tail, you’ll find holiday cottages right across the UK. But, when it comes to value and variety, there are some places that have our vote. Here’s where to consider for your next cottage holiday.

Cornwall

With over 300 hundred beaches in Cornwall, you’re pretty much guaranteed a spot on the sand all throughout summer. Surf’s up on the north coast and in towns such as Perranporth and Newquay, newbies can book lessons to learn how to catch a wave. Head further west and book a holiday cottage in the likes of St Ives and Penzance for a cup of Kernow (as the locals say) culture. It’s here you’ll also find mainland England’s most westerly point in Land’s End.

Lake District

For a quintessential British break, a cottage holiday in the Lake District will tick all the boxes. Stay lakeside in pretty Keswick or Bowness-on-Windermere for easy access to watersports such as kayaking, windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding, or challenge yourself to summit Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak. If you want to take it easy, there’s plenty of short, scenic walks around the lakes, too. For a little luxury, consider booking a holiday cottage with a hot tub and log fire (they don’t come as standard).

Norfolk

There’s over 140km (90 miles) of coastline in Norfolk but its classic seaside towns (think Great Yarmouth and Cromer) are just the beginning of what this eastern English county has to offer. Find peace and quiet away from the big hitters further west along the coast or, if you prefer a holiday cottage in Norfolk countryside, head inland to places such as King’s Lynn or Thetford. There’s also plenty of properties around Norwich, which could be a good option if you’re travelling by train.

Scotland

It’s impossible to do justice to the beauty and diversity of Scotland in just a few words. Coastal, countryside or somewhere wonderfully remote – here, cottage holidays can be whatever you need. The Highlands are awash with gorgeous properties, though in some places you’ll hardly notice: this is one of the least densely populated areas in Europe. There are many coastal cottages in Scotland too: try spots near Seacliff to be less than an hour’s drive from Edinburgh or head to the northern reaches of the mainland to really understand the meaning of secluded.

Yorkshire

From coastal retreats and rural getaways to cosy village stays, Yorkshire getaways are as varied as you like. For a beachside cottage holiday in Yorkshire, choose family-friendly Scarborough, Robin Hood’s Bay or Bridlington; for bucolic countryside, make your way inland and book a cottage in the North York Moors or the Dales. Wherever you choose to stay here, you won’t be far from a great walk and a proper pub. 

Will coronavirus restrictions affect my cottage holiday?

It’s important to be aware of coronavirus restrictions because they may affect your holiday. Read up on restrictions before your book and be prepared to stay up to date with the rules because they may change before you take your trip. For example, you may not be able to travel between tiers or countries while restrictions are in place. Be sure to read the terms and conditions before you book – our partners at Snaptrip allow you to amend your booking to a future date or accommodation, receive an e-voucher or request a refund directly with the property manager.

How do I get a refund if my holiday is cancelled?

If your cottage holiday is cancelled, contact the property manager directly in order to organise a refund.

Do I need travel insurance for my cottage holiday?

At TravelSupermarket, we always recommend buying a travel insurance policy as soon as you book a holiday, whether you’re travelling internationally or here in the UK. Many policies on TravelSupermarket now offer ‘Enhanced Covid-19 cover’, which generally covers you if you contract Covid-19 and cannot travel. 

Bear in mind that while UK travel insurance isn’t normally as extensive as cover for overseas trips (insurers expect the NHS to cover medical costs and you should already have motor insurance if you’re driving your own car), you should also be covered for things such as your possessions, delayed departures and hospital transfers. Talk to the insurer directly to understand their policies before taking one out.