Cottage holidays

Cottage holidays cover all bases, whether you’re looking for luxury beachside digs or a place where your pooch can stretch its legs.

Cottages with hot tubs

Grab some bubbly and get among the bubbles. When you book a holiday cottage with a hot tub, ramping up the romance on your couple’s escape is as easy as turning on the jets. Of course, a little pampering isn’t just for couples – cottages with hot tubs are just as great for a getaway with a group of friends.

Before you book, remember to check the size of the hot tub, its location (is it inside or outside?) and any extras that are important to you, such as additional outdoor seating.

Dog-friendly cottages

Pet owners will know that taking your pup on holiday isn’t always easy. But when it comes to cottage holidays, you’re in luck: many cottages in the UK are now dog-friendly and will have plenty of room for your dog to roam.

Do read the T&Cs of your cottage before you book. ‘Dog-friendly cottages’ can mean different things to different property owners, so it’s important to be aware before parting with your cash. Equally, it may pay to research dog-friendly attractions in the area so you don’t end up leaving your pooch at home while you explore.

Luxury cottage holidays

A holiday is a treat in itself, but who doesn’t like a little extra luxury while away? When you compare holiday cottages with our partners at Snaptrip, you can filter your results for luxury stays, and search for other luxe touches that will elevate your holiday.

For example, think about whether you might want a games room to keep the brood busy or a heated indoor pool or sauna. Pay special attention to bathroom features (is a rainfall showerhead the epitome of extravagance for you?), as well as the views and furnishings. Extra research into the little things will pay off here.

Beachside cottages

Enjoy long coastal walks, get your sea legs on for marine life-spotting boat trips, bring buckets and spades for some serious sandcastle building, or give surfing a go: on a beachside cottage holiday, you’ll have no shortage of things to do.

From Scotland’s most secluded shores to the busy coastal resorts we all know and love, you’ll find a huge range of beachside boltholes all over the UK. And, whether you prefer beachy digs seconds from the shore or a clifftop cottage complete with photo-worthy ocean views, a self-catering beachside cottage will become your home away from home for the summer.

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.

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.

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.