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Cottages with cots, high chairs, stair gates and facilities for children provided on your self-catering holiday. Please click here for a complete list of family-friendly cottages and houses.

Just the very thought of going on holiday with children strikes dread into the heart of many a parent.   It's not just the mountains of essential equipment that you need to pack but also the thought of having to entertain, placate and deal with the problems that arise when taking children on long journeys. Air travel frequently involves delays, queuing to get through customs, and fretful children.

Self-catering cottages may be just the easier and less stressful option for you, especially whilst the children are young.  Many country cottage owners provide high chairs, cots, stair gates and other equipment that you may require.  Some can organise baby-sitting services so that you  get a break. It is in their interest to ensure that you have a happy holiday and return the following year. 

Some cottages will have large enclosed gardens for the children to run around, swings, slides, swimming pools and so on.  If you have toddlers and very small children you may also like to take a look at the self-catering holiday cottages listed on the toddler-friendly self-catering  page.

Self-catering cottage holidays in the Midlands

New Farm Cottage ( 3 star) in Leicestershire has an indoor heated pool and sauna, with facilities for young children.  Not far from Robin Hood country - it offers many places to visit that will appeal to children. It can sleep up to 9 adults plus one baby in a cot.  Babysitting available.  There is an additional cottage, Sycamore Lodge,  4 star, about half a mile away that can sleep 6 in 3 bedrooms.  It has  a spa or hot tub instead of a swimming pool. Very smart furnishings.  (Tel: 01949 860 640) for availability and bookings for these cottages or click on links for details of the accommodation.. 

Nottinghamshire is not the county that immediately springs to mind when considering holiday destinations, but anywhere and everywhere is an excellent destination if you want something more than just sitting on a beach. Nottinghamshire offers many home-grown attractions like Sherwood Forest and Robin Hood country, wonderful parks, interesting market towns like Newark with antique shops and open markets, Southwell with the Minster and newly opened National Trust workhouse with a personal and electronic headset  guided tour.  

Because it isn't a common tourist destination, eating out is much cheaper than in many other places.  It's also centrally located for day trips to Alton Towers, Derbyshire and the Dales. 

Check out cottages available for the summer using the menu on the left or give Heather a call about Wesley Farm Cottage (sleeps 4), with 2 en-suite bedrooms, near Southwell (for minster and NT workhouse) on 0115 965 2043, or email to book now, 

or Penny for Spruce Cottage - a 2 bedroom cottage (sleeps 4) near Retford which is in the midst of 20 acres of wonderful countryside - full of wildlife.  Telephone: 0131 447 6886 or email .

Devon cottages with excellent facilities for families

High on a hillside with magnificent views of the lovely Otter valley, Odle Farm is peacefully set within 10 acres of grounds in the Blackdown Hills, an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the Devon/Somerset border. Clustered around a pretty courtyard, the farmhouse and barns have been sympathetically converted to create four supremely comfortable and beautifully furnished Devon cottages perfect for young families.

The cottages range in size to suit anything from couples looking for a one bedroom cottage such as Honeysuckle with a four poster, through cottages sleeping, 3, 4 or 5 to a group of three cottages sleeping up to 12 people. Whatever your family size - we'll have a cottage to accommodate you.

Honeysuckle Cottage, our cottage for couples has its own private garden, decking area, and a patio with a private Hot-tub or Spa. Treat the grandparents, take them on holiday with you but provide their own separate cottage to give them some peace and relaxation.

There are lovely walks from the front door, good views and lots of interesting places to visit such as National Trust properties and gardens.

Shared recreational facilites on offer are an outdoor hot tub which is commercially filtered for safety, games rooms with table tennis, air hockey, pool and darts facilities, an outdoor trampoline, plus there is a selection of board games, books and videos together with some toys, puzzles and wooden bricks for toddlers and a DVD library. All cottages benefit from free WiFi Broadband Internet.

Peacock Barn  (sleeps 4) in Worcestershire, England is excellent for a family with two children plus a baby.  There is an acre of garden with room for football and cricket. The village has a 'Village only road' so children can be allowed a certain amount of independence.

There is a picturesque cricket ground. The thatched pub has a real village character where the children can play while their parents can have a quiet drink. Tel: +44(0)1386 750 570 

Wrea Head Country Cottages - Scarborough, Yorkshire

4 star country cottages with sea views in Scarborough	Heated indoor pool on site

National winners of the English Tourist Council's "England for Excellence" Award. 9 lovely award winning cottages (sleeping 2 to 9 guests) on the edge of the North York Moors National Park, enjoying magnificent panoramic sea views. The superb indoor heated swimming pool, sauna and jacuzzi await for your total relaxation.  Adventure playground, 3 Teddy Bear's house and other attractions for the children.

Telephone  01723 375844,  or 01723 375844

Luxury house just 6 miles from Bath, to sleep up to 10 in 5 bedrooms

Sayres House is a period, detached Cotswold stone house situated in a quiet hamlet with far reaching views and indoor swimming pool.

The property was formerly a schoolhouse, but now with it’s manicured gardens that will satisfy the discerning gardener, and a kitchen extensively equipped for the serious cook, Sayres House is the ideal venue to either entertain or simply just work away from home.

There is a large lawned garden with swings making the house ideally suited to a family with children.

Beautiful kitchen	Heated indoor swimming pool

Click on photograph to find out more about this luxury cottage with own private swimming pool.

Telephone 0870 620 1066 or click on one of the photographs for more information.

Family friendly country cottages in East Anglia

Kingfisher Lodge in Hoveton, Norwich is within 30 minutes of seaside resorts such as Great Yarmouth and Cromer with funfairs, wildlife parks and many other attractions suited to families with young children.  

Hire  a boat for the day for some family fun.

Telephone Debbie or Steve on 01603 782 309

Self-catering cottages in the Cotswolds - west of London

Glebe Farm Cottages near Cirencester, Gloucestershire in  the Cotswolds, offer baby sitting, maid service, cots and other equipment for small children.  

Wonderful Cotswold countryside with pretty villages to explore.

Pets are also welcome. Telephone: 01285 659 226, Fax: 01285 642 622

Sudeley Castle Country Cottages is a small, attractive complex of thirteen cottages on the edge of the Sudeley estate, in the Heart of the Costwolds. All cottages are comfortably furnished to a three star standard, with well equipped kitchens, shared gardens, ample parking and a laundry facility on site. Travel cots, stair gates and high chairs are also available upon request.

The cottages are just a short walk from the historic town of Winchcombe, which offers an interesting mix of restaurants, pubs and retailers as well as being ideally placed for visiting the many and varied attractions within the Cotswolds, from gardens, to farm parks and historic houses. Guests can also enjoy complimentary admission to the Castle and Gardens (during normal opening hours) for the duration of their stay.

For more information, telephone 01242 602308, email or visit our website. 

Self-catering holiday cottages in the West Country - south west England

Kennacott Court in Bude Cornwall has a wealth of facilities for families.  The 18 luxury 5 star cottages (each sleeping 2-6) share an indoor pool, superbly equipped games room with table tennis and table football, gym, sauna, full sized snooker table and golf. Babysitting and maid service available. 

Tel: 01288 361 766

Beautiful country cottage in Ledbury, Herefordshire, with family suite

The Woodhouse is a beautiful early fifteenth century timber-framed building, set in tranquil countryside at the foot of the Malvern Hills. Limewashed in a traditional pink pigment, this is a unique opportunity to spend a peaceful few days in a luxurious but historical setting.

Sleeping 8, there are two double bedrooms and a separate family suite of two rooms, all with stunning medieval-style beds. All rooms are ensuite. A small snug downstairs can be used as an extra bedroom if required.

Downstairs you will find a fitted hand-made oak kitchen, designed specifically for the room with replica medieval encaustic-tiled floor. Appliances to make your holiday easier include an Aga, and Miele fridge, freezer, dishwasher, microwave, washing machine and tumble dryer. Separate larder.

The dining room is perfect for your family reunion and can seat up to 16. The antique table, a Jacobean court cupboard and large fireplace in what was originally the Great Hall provide a wonderful backdrop for a banquet.

Click on the photograph of the cottage to view the beauitful interior of this country cottage and owner's contact details for enquiries and bookings.

Lavenders is a three bedroomed, well equipped bungalow (sleeps 6) in the unspoiled village of Holme-next-Sea on the North Norfolk Coast in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Very close to an extensive sandy beach and in a quiet location backing on to the golf course, the property and its surroundings provides an ideal opportunity to unwind and relax. Conservatory, patio with garden furniture, barbecue. Telephone 01206230332

Longcombe cottages has 8 superior quality character cottages set in a secluded valley in the heart of South Devon, sleeping 2-8 persons. On-site leisure facilities include an indoor heated swimming pool and sauna, outdoor full size tennis court, indoor games room and outdoor children's play area. We provide toys and a book and video library to keep both toddlers and teens amused when they are not using the leisure facilities. Many tourist attractions aimed at children in the area. Near many beaches too!  Open all year.

The owners live on the estate, and can recommend all sorts of activities, from pony-riding to canoeing, biking to cruising on the Derwentwater launch. Or just the best walks and picnic spots. Tel: 017687 72258/75304.

Perfect for the large family group when you want to include the extended family.  16th Century Stonebarrow Manor is the ideal self catering venue in a perfect location for a holiday. A large comfortable well equipped House with 13 bedrooms (11 en-suite 1 House bathroom) in large grounds on the edge of the lovely Dorset village of Charmouth. It's the perfect base for relaxing , or walking or fossiling on the beach on the World heritage Coast, just 5 minutes walk away. The village centre is also five minutes walk and has a range of shops, a GP surgery and a couple of pubs. The larger resort of Lyme Regis is two miles away and there are many interesting Houses & Gardens to visit locally . We are also on the edge of "Hardy" country. There is a huge range of local outdoor activities to keep everyone happy plus our games room with pool , table tennis & darts. View details and prices.

Bakehouse Cottage is a luxury self-catering cottage in the village of Langton Herring, Dorset, lying between Weymouth and Abbotsbury on the south coast of England. It will be available for holiday letting for the first time during 2005.

The cottage can accommodate up to 8 people in 4 bedrooms. Bakehouse Cottage is next door to St Anthony's Cottage (q.v.) and for larger parties the two cottages combined offer accommodation for 14 adults plus two cots.

To the rear of the cottage there is a paved patio area and garden. The garden abuts one of Higher Farm's fields. Patio chairs, a table and a barbecue are all provided. Garage parking is adjacent to the property with additional parking available by the farm entrance. The cottage is a stones throw, literally, from the church and the local village pub. Please click on image for details.

Telephone 01458 274 767 for cottage bookings and availability or click on the photograph of Bakehouse Cottage for more details.

Spacious newly refurbished luxury apartment for family holidays

Have you ever visited Worcestershire - home of Worcester sauce, apples, cider, Malvern spring water and excellent cheese as well as olde worlde villages?  You might be interested in staying in a luxury apartment at Barrington House where your comfort and pleasure is paramount.  This is a 5 bedroom apartment with a gourmet kitchen, and can accommodate up to 10 - perfect for the extended family.  It's a great base for walking and getting away from it all.  Ideal for families and small groups!  

Spacious 4 bedroom family house in the Lake District

The Mount in the Lake District is a superb family house with many original features, in addition to modern touches for your convenience. There are 3 open fires downstairs as well as full central heating.

There are 4 bedrooms 2 doubles and 2 that can either be super king size or twin bedded rooms. The bathroom has the original roll top bath. All linens (except cot) and towels are included. The House has a living room and lounge separate dining room and kitchen. There is also a drying/utility room and shower and toilet downstairs. There are 3 rooms downstairs that you can have open fires.

Telephone Suzanne on 015396 20252 or click on photograph for more images and details of this high quality house in the Lake District.

Woodend House, cottage and bothy - for versatile family self-catering accommodation

Located in a remote location high up on Birker Fell, in between Eskdale and Ulpha in the Lake District, the House and Cottage can be opened up to form one large house offering spacious and comfortable self catering accommodation for up to twelve people. - perfect for families with grandparents in tow.

Many rooms have exposed beams, most have views towards Scafell Pike and all are furnished with care and and thought.

Please visit our comprehensive website www.woodendhouse.co.uk for further details

More self-catering accommodation for families.....

Self-catering holidays in Scotland

For an activity holidays beside water, 5 Star Melfort Pier and Harbour offers facilities that are hard to beat.  Luxury houses overlook Loch Melfort on the west coast of Scotland, just south of Oban.  Free boating and fishing are available.  There are a numerous sports and activities for all the family in this scenic area.  Cots, stair gates and high chairs are supplied on request.  Babysitting is also available for both your children and pets! 

A self-catering cottage near Edinburgh - sleeps up to 6

If you're looking for somewhere a little more central in Scotland than the west coast, then you may be interested in Rosebank Cottage  which sleeps 6, just 10 miles from Edinburgh. It's close enough for trips to to the city using Park and Ride but still rural.  Edinburgh Zoo is one of the best in the country - children will adore it.  Take comfy shoes because it's very well spaced out!

Lots of attractions in the city of Edinburgh.  More details here.

Hollybush House, for the holiday of a lifetime in Speyside in Scotland

A comfortable and modern 4 bedroom bungalow (sleeps 8-9) on the banks of the River Spey is available for dates during the summer holidays. It's set in a superb location for wonderful holiday full of outdoor activities.  The scenery is spectacular - hills, forests, rivers and not far from fantastic beaches.  Lots to do, great wildlife.  The perfect summer holiday for a family with young children but you will need a car to get around and make the most of this beautiful unspoilt area.   

View website for more details or phone Bill on 01651 851 485 or email to book now.

Self-catering holidays in Royal Deeside,  Scotland

Sleeps 2-6: Stranduff Lodge Croft is a delightful detached country cottage situated in an idyllic location, just outside the charming village of Kincardine O'Neil , in the heart of Royal Deeside.

Built out of granite in the 19th century, Stranduff Lodge Croft was originally a working croft, since upgraded to provide superior and spacious accommodation for tourists and visitors, the croft is an excellent base for exploration, adventure or relaxation. With the addition of the superb views (see the peak of Lochnagar on a fine day) and the spacious garden grounds (over half an acre) with barbecue and garden furniture, a stay in Stranduff will be a stay to remember.

Please click on the photograph to find out more about a stay in this country cottage with views of Lochnagar.

Luxury self-catering in Wales

The three St. Nons Bay Luxury Cottages are set in a quiet location a short distance from the sea and the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. All are rated as 5 star by the Welsh Tourist Board.

Each cottage provides luxury quality accommodation with cleanliness being a top priority and all are well equipped. They all have enclosed sheltered gardens with a patio and garden furniture and a games room with table tennis or a pool table. A mere 5 minutes walk takes you to the shops, restaurants, local beauty spots like Bryn y Garn and the historic cathedral itself. 

Exciting pursuits can be arranged at the local Outdoor Centre such as windsurfing, sea canoeing, abseiling and climbing. Sea fishing is a popular pastime and there is also a large boat park. A beautiful setting for a perfect holiday. The cottages are all family friendly - cots, highchairs and stair gates are provided. There is also a babysitting service to allow for evenings out.

Telephone 01437 720 616 or click on a cottage photograph for more images and details.

Gwynfryn Farm Holiday Cottages in north Wales

Gwynfryn luxury cottages converted from stone farm buildings plus a leisure complex with an indoor pool, sauna, jacuzzi and games room. The cottages are of varying sizes from 2 person up to 8, making them ideal for romantic weekends or a venue for a larger group holidaying together.  

The location is perfect for walking, cycling and sightseeing. If you wish to play golf, there are 7 golf courses within 20 miles. 

Wonderful clean sandy beaches and coves are just 4 miles away. Snowdonia with spectacular mountain scenery, and the railway to the summit of Snowdon, is 20 miles away. The cottages are pet-friendly with a small extra charge for dogs.

Telephone 01758 612 536 or click on cottage photograph for details.

Barlings Barn, for family self-catering in Powys, Wales - sleeps 14 to 16

This is truly superb holiday let for any large-ish family. Plenty of space for everyone, excellent entertainment facilities and a lovely setting. What more can you ask for?

ENJOY EXCLUSIVE USE OF:

• Heated indoor swimming pool
• Squash court
• Sauna
• Pool table

Ideal for relaxing, short breaks and holidays.

Explore Mid Wales - enjoy rural activities:Fishing (salmon / trout), Golf, Bird Watching (red kite country), Sandy Beaches, Sailing.

Peaceful, secluded location, set in pretty grounds of 18th century cottage in beautiful Mid Wales Hills.

Please click on the photograph to find out more about this wonderful place for a family holiday.

Click here for much more self-catering accommodation for families.....

Find more self-catering accommodation suited to families with cottages categorised by baby-sitting services, high-chairs, stair gates and other essentials for easy self-catering family holidays with children.

Click on the cockerel at the top left of the page to return to the Country Cottages home page and extra self-catering accommodation options at any time.