Best 2024 UK Holiday Destinations

Looking for inspiration on where to holiday in the UK in 2024? The UK is home to some amazing holiday destinations and holidaying right here at home in Britain can make a lot of sense for ease and convenience. In our list of top picks for 2024 we have selected the best destinations based on how beautiful they are, and also on how fascinating the area is to explore. We hope we inspire you with our choice of some of the best places to holiday in the UK in 2024. This list is not exhaustive, there are of course many fabulous parts of the UK not listed here!

Best Holiday Destinations in Bonny Scotland

Be Amazed in Aberdeenshire

If you want a rural retreat break or remote cottage holiday then booking a break in Aberdeenshire can make perfect sense. Right up in the North East corner of Scotland, for many, Aberdeenshire is not a well known tourist destination. However, make the journey and this area is sure to win you over. If you want to walk along beautiful sandy beaches, see birds of prey in the countryside, and experience the true beauty of nature, Aberdeenshire is a must. Also in this area you can learn about Scotland’s heritage and take trips back in time with visits to historical castles and tower houses. The area is also rich in whisky distilleries, and whether you like the drink or not, a trip to a whisky distillery is an experience not to be missed.

Aberdeenshire is also wonderful for a great variety of outdoor pursuits including walking, golfing and fishing. This part of Scotland has some of the country’s best golf courses, and is also a great place to fish either off the coast or on one of the fine rivers that run through Aberdeenshire.

The historic castles in the area are too numerous to mention and include Balmoral Castle, Craigievar Castle, and Crathes Castle, to name just a few. Some of the most impressive castles in the area though are ruins. Visit Slains Castle in Cruden Bay and marvel at the stunning location – right on the cliff edge with the high cliffs of Bullers of Buchan close by. Also well worth a visit is Dunnottar Castle, which sits perched on high above a rocky outcrop near Stonehaven. Both of these ruined castles are hauntingly beautiful and enjoy dramatic settings. Slains Castle locally is rumoured to have inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula, visit and you’ll understand why.

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Discover Glens, Lochs, Wildlife and History in the Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands are home to some of Scotland’s best known, and best loved sights. From the Great Glen Way where you can drive through some of the area’s most majestic scenery, to Loch Ness where you can look out for old Nessie, to Eilean Donan Castle where the walls have ears, to the Black Isle where dolphin watching is the order of the day, there is so very much to fall in love with in Scotland’s Highlands.
Outdoor pursuits galore await in the Cairngorms National Park which cover a large part of the Highlands. Want to do a spot of fishing, walking or hiking? It’s all possible in the Highlands, along with wildlife watching. Even skiing can be enjoyed in season in the Cairngorms National Park.

There are also a number of fascinating whisky distilleries to discover in the Highlands too, and the area has a reputation for some of the country’s finest malts.

Highland Holiday Cottages

Best Holiday Destinations in England

Coastal Charm Awaits in Cornwall

For seaside charm, good surfing beaches, quaint fishing towns and lots of Vitamin Sea, Cornwall is a great place to holiday. Cornwall too is of course home to Poldark country where you can visit the many places featured in the TV series.

Special places to discover in Cornwall include the Lizard Peninsula; a stretch of green and lush coastline with a rugged coast, Tintagel Castle with its breathtaking setting, the fascinating small island of St Michael’s Mount, the Camel Estuary AONB with its wonderful walks, and the wonderful Eden Project with its tropical biomes!

Rent a fisherman’s cottage or coastal cottage and wake up to walks on the beach or by the coast for plenty of fresh sea air and that feel good factor that a stay by the seaside brings.

Cornwall Cottages

Experience English Charm in the Cotswolds

If you want to experience a taste of traditional England on holiday then head to the English Cotswolds. With undulating countryside, the Cotswold Hills are examples of some of England’s finest countryside and are dotted with historic houses and beautiful gardens such as Blenheim Palace and Hidcote Manor Garden.

The area is also known for its beautiful cottages and buildings which are constructed out of honey coloured stone. Visit stunning towns and villages such as Chipping Campden, Bourton on the Water, and Stow on the Wold, and discover quaint independent shops, tea shops and ample charm. The area is also home to a number of high end spas where you can book relaxing treatments on holiday. For a truly relaxing break why not book a high end luxury Cotswold cottage with a pool or hot tub?

Cotswold Holiday Cottages

Head North for Northumberland

Far up in northern England is the county of Northumberland. This northern county with its castles, sandy beaches, hills and national park is a real gem! Book a break on a Northumbrian farm and watch the sunset over the Cheviot Hills on holiday and wake to the sound of birdsong! There are few things that are better for the senses!

Experience a slower pace of life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Enjoy walking in Northumberland National Park and exploring Hadrian’s Wall Country with its Roman forts and historical sites. The Northumberland coast is rich in wildlife including seals. Take a trip to magical Holy Island and visit pretty coastal villages like Craster. Not to be missed is Bamburgh Castle which stands foreboding over Bamburgh beach.
If you want variety, coast and countryside along with wildlife watching and historical attractions, then Northumbria is a real treat to discover on a self-catering break.

Northumberland Holiday Cottages

Hills and Valleys Galore in Shropshire

If you love the English countryside and want to enjoy a rural retreat break or farmstay holiday then Shropshire could be the ideal choice. Home to the Shropshire Hills AONB, this is an ideal place to hide away in a secluded cottage or book a stay in the countryside. The Long Mynd and Carding Mill Valley are ideal for a hike and offer awe inspiring views. Another great reason to visit Shropshire is the UNESCO heritage site of Ironbridge and Blists Hill for a walk back in history.

For dining out, shopping and historical charm Shrewsbury is well worth a visit.
With a strong farming tradition, don’t miss the chance to peruse the independent shops and taste some local fare when in Shropshire. There’s nothing quite like tasting locally grown food and produce whether at home or away!

Shropshire Holiday Cottages

Wonderful Holiday Destinations in Wales

Explore the Coast in Pembrokeshire

For wildlife watching enthusiasts and for those who love to holiday by the seaside, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a natural choice. Visit and discover beautiful sandy beaches, a rugged coastline and a coastal path to guide you to some of the best of the area’s scenery. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a wonderful place to explore on holiday, whether for a romantic break or a family holiday.

Not only are there are opportunities to enjoy a bit of seal spotting on holiday, but dolphin watching can also be enjoyed in the area! Great memories are what great holidays are made of and there are ample opportunities to get out and explore in Pembrokeshire with walking, cycling, surfing, kayaking and coasteering all on offer!

Pembrokeshire Holiday Cottages


Get Outdoors in Snowdonia

Keen outdoor enthusiasts should find Snowdonia National Park a godsend. Whether you want to enjoy walking, hiking or wildlife watching, Snowdonia promises it all! What’s more, you can enjoy some adrenaline-filled activities in this area too, such as zip lining, mountain biking and even white water rafting! Visit and feel truly alive again in amongst the wonders of nature.

Mount Snowdon awaits to be conquered but if climbing a mountain is not your thing then there is a train to do the hard work for you with Snowdon Mountain Railway, whilst you sit back and enjoy the view!

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Best Destinations for Rural Retreat Breaks 2024

Thinking of taking a rural retreat break in 2024? The UK with its miles and miles of fields, farmlands, meadows and valleys, is a great place for a rustic break; and let’s not forget the National Parks and AONBs too!

What are the Best Destinations for Rural Retreat Breaks in the UK?

If you want to escape to the countryside on a cottage holiday in 2024, you may be wondering which are the best areas to enjoy a rural self-catering break? Britain’s National Parks and AONBs are always a good bet (although some of the best known parks like the Lake District do attract lots of tourists in peak season). If you want peace and tranquility, the AONBs which often offer just as lovely views but less people than the National Parks, can be a great choice.

Whether you are thinking of holidaying in Scotland, England, Wales or Ireland, each part of the UK has lots of areas offering wonderful rural vibes. You can find a slice of rural bliss in most parts of Britain, away from cities and large towns. Here we’ve selected our best picks of some of the areas we have found best for rural retreat breaks.

Our Picks of the Very Best Parts of the UK for Rural Retreat Holidays

Scotland:

Go Rural in Aberdeenshire in Scotland

Largely rural, Aberdeenshire with its relaxed laid-back vibe, could be a great place to discover the road less travelled. See animals grazing in fields, catch glimpses of birds of prey and maybe enjoy a spot of sea fishing or river fishing, or play a round of golf (Aberdeenshire is rich in highly rated golf courses including Donald Trump’s International golf course in Aberdeenshire. Both the Trump International course and Cruden Bay golf course are set by the coast, so you can enjoy breathtaking views whilst doing this sport.

Being right up in the North East of Scotland, Aberdeenshire is one of the UK’s more remote holiday destinations and as such you can enjoy discovering some beautiful coastline and countryside in isolation at some places. Holiday in Aberdeenshire, reconnect with nature and get your sense of inner peace back; at least for a little while.
Enjoy lazy days relaxing at your cottage hideaway or get out and explore some of the best of Aberdeenshire. Found within Aberdeenshire are parts of the Cairngorms National Park; an area ideal for enjoying the great outdoors whether you want to enjoy walking, hiking, horse riding or wildlife watching. Discover numerous charming towns and villages in the Cairngorms including Braemar, Crathie and Ballater, where you can dine out and enjoy a taste of Scottish cuisine.

If you want to explore the area’s attractions these are bound to impress too; discover history at Balmoral Castle or one of the other many castles in the area; Aberdeenshire is Scotland’s Castle country after all, or visit one of Aberdeenshire’s whisky distilleries and indulge in a wee dram or two. Whether you book a romantic retreat, a large country house or a farm cottage, you are bound to find a slice of rural bliss in Aberdeenshire.

Book an Idyllic Rustic Escape in the Scottish Highlands

Home to the Great Glen Way, vast wilderness, as well as gems like Inverness, Loch Ness and Eilean Donan Castle, the Scottish Highlands are a joy to discover on a rural retreat break. Although no well kept secret, with miles and miles of vast expanses of countryside, you seldom feel crowded in this beautiful and expansive area of Scotland. Drive along Scotland’s Route 66 for some of the best views.

Book a crofter’s cottage, a farm cottage or a rural retreat and hideaway for a while, recharge and reconnect with your nearest and dearest. Maybe even consider booking somewhere with no Wifi where you can truly get back to nature and escape from the stresses and strains of modern living.

For holidaymakers who love walking, hiking and wildlife watching this part of Scotland is an absolute joy. You can enjoy looking out for deer, eagles and who knows you may be lucky enough to spot a Scottish wildcat!

England

Discover the Garden of England on a Cottage Holiday in Kent

Dubbed England’s Garden of England, if you want lush greenery, charming historic villages and towns then Kent is the place to book a countryside holiday. Home to both the Kent Downs AONB and High Weald AONB, as well as vineyards and countryside galore, for footpaths, scenic views and natural beauty, Kent excels.

For peace, tranquility and to immerse yourself in nature, head to the parts of Kent further away from London. On a rural retreat break, you may want to stay near charming towns like Faversham, or Tenterden in the High Weald, both of which offer a rich sense of history, ample charm, as well as a choice of eateries.

If you want to enjoy days out on your rural break, visit Kent’s country houses or castles such as Leeds Castle, Hever Castle or Sissinghurst Castle Garden.

For charm and a chance to enjoy a more peaceful self-catering break, Kent has so very much to offer. Book a thatched cottage for a completely dreamy hideaway holiday or a secluded retreat where you can hide away, relax and unwind.

Northumberland for Hadrian’s Wall and Hills Aplenty

Best known for its coastline, Northumberland is also home to some beautiful and fascinating countryside. Book a rural retreat break in the Cheviot Hills and hide away for a while and recharge your batteries.

Or, book accommodation close to Northumberland National Park and Hadrian’s Wall country (a UNESCO recognized site) and explore this area with its fascinating Roman forts on days out. Northumberland National Park is also where you can find one of the UK’s largest dark sky parks for stargazing on holiday. Book a rural hideaway and don’t forget to look up at the sky at night!

For dining and eating out, the town of Alnwick is worth a visit, and is also well worth visiting for its castle which starred as the Magical Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in one of the films.

If you want to enjoy walking, hiking and wildlife watching, as well as walking back in time as you discover about key points in England’s history, there is nowhere quite like Northumberland.

Hideaway in a Shepherd’s Hut or Country Retreat in Shropshire

Home to the Shropshire Hills AONB, if you want to escape to a county with farmlands galore, magnificent high hills, vast farmlands and stunning countryside, Shropshire is the place to be. Sharing a border with Wales, you can even pop in to Wales for day trips from some parts of Shropshire too.

Discover attractive market towns like Knighton or Bishop’s Castle and enjoy some of the local fare, or discover one of the area’s delicious gastro pubs. Enjoy a good hike in Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd and soak up some of the most spectacular views to be found in the whole of Shropshire.

For days out, don’t miss the UNESCO heritage site of Iron Bridge and marvel at this magnificent feat of architecture. Blists Hill Victorian village at Ironbridge also makes for a fascinating day out where you can step back in town and let your imagination run wild.

For rural heaven, Shropshire is the place to be on holiday.

Immerse Yourself in Historic Charm, Nature and Farmlands Galore on Holiday in Suffolk

Suffolk can be an ideal choice for holidaymakers keen to escape London but not wanting to travel too far. Just an hour and a half’s drive from some parts of London, Suffolk is not that far, but with its scenic countryside and quaint historic towns and villages can feel like a world away, and as if you have stepped back in time!
Book a country retreat and discover some of the best of Suffolk’s charms on day trips out.

Not to be missed is medieval Lavenham, Sudbury with its Gainsborough Museum and beautiful water meadows, and Clare and Hadleigh with their coffee shops, eateries and quaint historic charm.

Other places to enjoy country walks are near the Bures Dragon (a well kept secret and quite a drive down windy roads but a truly fascinating place) and the Dedham Vale AONB with its riverside walks and Flatford Mill.

Wales

Discover Denbighhire from a Holiday Hideaway

With hills, farmlands and countryside galore, along with a rich history, Denbighshire is a rural retreat dream. Holiday by the Clwydian Hills or in the Dee Valley and enjoy walking, hiking and wildlife watching during your escape.

Or maybe you prefer to hide away in the Berwyn Mountains? Book a rural cabin or country cottage with good walks from the doorstep and explore the area on foot. For keen walkers, much of the Offa’s Dyke Path crosses through Denbighshire, guiding you to some of the best of the areas.

For dining out, the charming historic market towns of Denbigh, Ruthin and Llangollen await.

Get Rustic in Gwynedd

Home to Snowdonia National Park, Gwynedd is a paradise for lovers of the outdoors. Walking, hiking, white water rafting and wildlife watching are all on offer in Snowdonia National Park where you may be lucky enough to spot birds of prey like peregrine falcon whilst exploring the area. For historic attractions, Gwynedd with its castles including Caernarfon Castle and Harlech Castle has lots to offer.

Book a rural escape in the mountains, or a secluded cottage nestled in a valley or by a river, and reconnect with nature on your break away.

Quaint Welsh villages like Beddgelert and charming historic market towns like Bala are worth a visit for their quaint charm, country inns and eateries.

Wherever you opt to book a tranquil rural cottage break or farmstead holiday, we hope you find our rural retreat holiday ideas helpful in guiding you to some of the best destinations and options.

Top 10 Cottages with Inspiring Views 2023

When it comes to memorable self-catering holidays, booking a rental with stunning views can make all the difference. Here at Country Cottages Online we feature some amazing holiday homes with stunning views. Whether you want to enjoy lake views, sea views, country views or mountain views, we feature a great selection of holiday houses with inspiring settings and vistas.

North Meadow Cottage with water wonderland views

1. Luxuriate in Stunning River Views at North Meadow Cottage

Gaze out to the River Waveney and water meadows, with a break at North Meadow Cottage close to Harleston in Norfolk. 5 star rated and with a stunning luxury interior, this 4 bedroom holiday home is a real treat and truly idyllic. Enjoy lazy days relaxing at your home from home or explore the Norfolk Broads for more water wonderland scenery if you can drag yourself away.

Lake View with views over a fishing lake, Devon

2. Beautiful Garden and Lake Views at Lake View, Devon

Just imagine waking up on holiday here where you can sit out and gaze out over gardens and a tranquil lake. This destination is perfect for those who love to fish too as there are two fishing lakes on site, stocked with carp, rudd and tench. With 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this holiday home comfortably sleeps 6 people.



Stunning country views at the Stables Cottage near Pickering

High Quality Rural Retreat with Country Views, near the North York Moors and Coast

At Stables Cottage near Pickering, guests can enjoy a scenic rural setting close to the coast. Sit out on the patio area with a glass of wine in the evening and watch the sunset over the surrounding fields and farmlands. For days out, the coast is within easy reach too. This welcoming high quality holiday home sleeps up to 5 people in 2 bedrooms.



4. Immerse yourself in Greenery at Suran Y Coed

Nestled next to fields and farmlands, you can enjoy superb country views during a stay at this homely log cabin in Powys. Sit on the balcony and soak up the setting or enjoy a long relaxing soak in the soothing waters of the hot tub as you gaze out on the amazing rural vistas.

Holiday atop a cliff at this unique holiday home in Kent

5. Unique Cliffside Holiday Home with Stunning Sea Views

The Gun Emplacement is a wow factor holiday home is found high up on a cliff top at St Margaret’s Bay near Dover. Just take a look at the sea views from the garden! For a truly memorable holiday, this 3 bedroom cottage is a true one off!



Wake up to sea views at Seven Ocean Reach in Devon

6. Stylish 2 Bedroom Holiday Rental with Balcony and Stunning Sea Views in Devon

Set in an AONB near Salcombe, Seven Ocean Reach oozes style and with its light filled interior is a great place to relax. The setting right by the coast makes it a truly appealing place to stay and the balcony with sea and countryside views means you get a bird’s eye view of the stunning setting.



Scenic garden and estuary views at the Wobbin in Essex

7. Wake up to Tranquil Garden and Distant Sea Views in Essex

With historic homely accommodation, the Wobbin is an Essex gem. Sit out in the garden with a morning coffee and gaze out over greenery to distant sea views. Located close to Tollesbury, this is a scenic part of Essex by the River Blackwater, close to the estuary where the river meets the sea.



Holiday cabin hot tub with stunning country views

8. Book a Break at Caban Iwrch for Stunning Valley Views

This 3 bedroom holiday cabin lies nestled in Powys in a stunning valley. Just take a look at the photos to get a feel for the stunning rural setting. The views from the hot tub are particularly stunning and if you stay here you’re sure to get the type of holiday shots to make all your friends jealous.



Idyllic gardens and garden views at Acorn Retreat

9. Wake up to Stunning Garden Views at Acorn Retreat

Wake up to Stunning Garden Views at Acorn Retreat
This cosy couple’s retreat lies in the most idyllic setting, along with the owner’s property, within a whopping 10 acres of tranquil gardens, where there are 5 scenic lakes! Experience a slice of Eden at this peaceful setting in Devon.



10. Gaze out over a Nature Reserve on Holiday at Balebarn Eco Lodge

With a stunning wrap around veranda and opportunities to see wildlife galore, book a break at this stylish eco-friendly 4 bedroom holiday lodge, set around mid-way between Dartmoor National Park and Exmoor National Park.

We hope we’ve inspired you with our choice of 10 of the best holiday homes with great views on Country Cottages Online. Whether you have in mind good country views, good garden views or sea views, we hope you find a holiday home with inspiring rentals for you 2023 or 2024 break.

Best Destinations in the UK for Remote Cottage Breaks

What can be better than tranquil countryside views and bright sunshine smiling down on your break away? A retreat to reconnect with nature could be the perfect idea for your next holiday, and with Country Cottages Online you can explore the country and find an idyllic destination for your cottage break.

If you’re looking for ideas of Best Destinations for Remote Holidays then read on for some of our best picks including:

  • The Scottish Islands including Isle of Skye, Orkney and Shetland
  • Pembrokeshire and Snowdonia in Wales
  • Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula

Explore the sublime natural haven of the Scottish Isles

There isn’t anything quite as beautiful as the magnificent scenery of Scotland, where you can trek across the highlands and discover outstanding landscapes. Reconnect with your inner self and find peace as you gaze out across the country from a high peak or spot some grazing highland cattle in the distance.


Discover a Different Kind of Light on a Remote Break on the Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye coastline, photo by Derek Fogg

The Isle of Skye is a particular attraction; look out for seals and whales, jumping across glimmering seascapes. It’s a place of unique magic (voted one of the best island destinations in the world in a recent National Geographic survey!) with unbeatable scenery and celestial skies all to be enjoyed from one of our cottages, whether you want to stay in a charming boathouse or a lovely cabin.


Wildlife Watch in Orkney or Shetland

Orkney Isles
Stunning Orkey Isles

The Orkney islands are another gorgeous destination to explore, where you can head back to your roots and discover the stone circles and exquisite examples of wildlife. Orkney also has a fascinating culture if you want to reconnect with your spiritual side; it’s got plenty of ancient history, from the pagan neolithic gems to historic catholic traditions.

Shetland Islands in Scotland
Amazing Shetland Isles

If you’re looking to rediscover nature then there’s no place better than the Scottish Isles – Shetland is another amazing destination, having an outstanding reputation for spotting whales (even orcas). Pick a cottage overlooking the natural scenes on this remote island and explore the sandy beaches and castles while you’re at it!

Immerse yourself in the Nature and Mountain Scenery in Remote Wales

Snowdonia National Park
Snowdonia’s stunning mountain scenery

Wales is the dream for anyone looking to walk amongst nature and explore all the highest peaks on offer; whether you’re venturing around Snowdonia National Park or the Brecon Beacons, there’s idyllic scenery to find and savour. Pick a home from home around Brecon Beacons national park and take walks around the mountains and moorlands, or catch a sighting of unique attractions such as the standing stones in Lila Valley or stunning iron age hill forts.


Snowdonia or Pembrokeshire are two more memorable locations for a remote break; Snowdonia is Wales’s largest national park, from which you can experience both the stunning Welsh countryside and the glittering waters of the coast. Pembrokeshire is home to unique coves and sandy beaches to play in, as well as several islands where you can experience beautiful hotspots for wildlife; Skomer Island is particularly well suited for bird lovers! There are plenty of self-catering cottages in and near these glorious national parks, whether you are looking for accommodation for a large party looking for a break away or an intimate retreat just for two.


Explore a Road Less Travelled along Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula

Cornwalls Lizard Peninsula Coastline
Kynance Cove along the Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall

Cornwall is a truly stunning and special part of England, but is quite remote from much of England. Cornwall is of course one of the UK’s top holiday destinations, and not renowned for remote holidays. However, visit Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula and you can escape to a road less travelled, away from typical tourist resorts. With beautiful flora and fauna, the Lizard Peninsula is somewhat of a hidden gem with a lush untouched feel where you can discover tranquil villages with locals, unspoilt beaches and lush greenery. If you want to escape from it all, even in peak season, the Lizard Peninsula makes for a great remote holiday destination.

Whatever part of the UK you’re thinking of discovering on a remote break, from the Scottish Islands to Wales or may be Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula, you can’t beat the secluded gems of the countryside. It’s the perfect space to decompress on a well-deserved break; so what are you waiting for, find your dream holiday destination!

Best Self-Catering Holidays for 2023

Book a break for 2023 and have something to look forward to this year. With the covid pandemic, cost of living challenges and global woes of 2022, now it’s more important than ever to look after yourself and ensure you have a break to look forward to this year. When it comes to UK breaks, Country Cottages Online features a truly inspiring choice of self-catering holidays for 2023.

Why Book a Self-Catering Holiday in the UK in 2023

Now that holidaying abroad is so much easier again, you may be wondering why holiday in the UK ? Well simply, there’s no place like home. Holidaying abroad can be a wonderful experience but taking a break in the UK can be comforting and truly enjoyable too. Some holidaymakers (particularly those with dogs) may just prefer to holiday in the UK so they can take the pooch away too easily, whereas some may prefer to jet off abroad and book a short break or a few days away in Britain.

Even if you only have 3 or 4 days to escape on a UK break, self-catering cottages can be a great choice as Britain has so many beautiful places to explore; from Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty to National Parks, from serene countryside to a stunning coastline, and from pretty villages to historic towns. Then, there is the choice of England, Wales, Scotland or Ireland; each with its own unique appeal and attractions. There are so many undiscovered areas and corners to discover, that you can be sure of a new adventure each time.

With budgets in mind too, for most people this year, self-catering can be a great way to keep to a budget on holiday where you can cook at your home from home rather than dining out too much which can get pricey quickly. With kitchen facilities, you can even make packed lunches to take out which isn’t always easy in hotels or bed and breakfast accommodation.


Best Choices for Cottage Holidays in 2023

Let us inspire you with some ideas for some of the best options for self-catering holiday rentals available for 2023 breaks.

Unique and Unusual Retreats

Unique Holiday Treehouse from Lavender Hill Holidays
Unique Holiday Treehouse from Lavender Hill Holidays

If your budget allows, consider booking a unique retreat. Always popular, unique retreats offer a chance to escape to somewhere truly different on holiday. Book somewhere like a holiday treehouse and reconnect with your inner child where you can enjoy being amongst nature and the great feelings that can give you. Also popular for their sense of atmosphere are options like chapel conversions and watermills where you can often enjoy idyllic settings by the river or a stream.

Search Unusual and Quirky Retreats

Holiday Rentals with a View

Sea Eden with stunning country view
Sea Eden with stunning country view

Waking up to a lovely view on holiday can be just great for the soul. Whether you’re in need of relaxation or inspiration, holiday homes with good views can be a great choice. Being able to sit out and enjoy an idyllic view on holiday can be a joy and help you reconnect with nature, as well as your nearest and dearest. Choices include holiday lets with mountain views, forest views, lake views, sea views and country views. What an inspiring array of views and choices! Choose the view that best appeals to you and feel fabulous on holiday.

Discover Cottages with Good Views

Group Rentals

Dancing Hill Large Group Holiday Home
Dancing Hill Large Group Holiday Home

Now could be a great time to spend time reconnecting with friends and family who you might not have seen so much of over recent years. Booking a large holiday home can be a great choice for anniversary parties, reunions with old friends, birthday parties, family breaks and other special celebrations. Although large holiday rentals can look expensive with the headline price, if you club together with family and friends, sharing the cost of a large rental can work out much better value than you expect! Whether you want to rent a large country house, a mansion, a big lodge or a sizeable barn, CountryCottagesOnline.Com has an exciting choice of big holiday homes to choose from.

Search Group Holiday Accommodation

Choose the Best Self-Catering Holiday Accommodation to Meet your Needs

Above we have outlined some great choices for 2023 holidays. However, finding the best 2023 holiday accommodation will very often depend what is best for you and your own particular needs. For families, options like rentals with play facilities to keep the kids entertained could well be the best possible choice. For couples, romantic retreats with a four poster can add that extra special touch, and for holidaymakers with pets, finding a dog-friendly rental will obviously be key.

Wherever you choose to rent for your 2023 break, and whether for a week’s stay or a short break, we hope you have your best self-catering holiday yet this year and that you let the good times roll!

Self-Catering Escapes for New Year Breaks

Planning a last minute escape this New Year? 2022 has been full of ups and downs, and if you want to end on a high note, then escaping for a New Year break could be a great choice. Raise a toast to 2023 with a glass of bubbly, from the comfort of your chosen holiday home and add a touch of magic to the new year.

Find the Best Holiday Rental for your New Year Break

When it comes to New Year breaks, there is a great choice of holiday accommodation rentals to choose from, from beautiful barns to cosy cabins, family cottages, big group holiday homes and romantic retreats. Ideally choose a holiday home decorated for Christmas, where you can enjoy good times amongst the tinsel and festive decorations.

If you want to spend quality time with friends or family huddled up at your chosen rental, then why not book a cottage with a warming woodburner or an open fire for that all important cosy atmosphere in the winter months?

Festive Cabins and Lodges

Celebrate New Year at a Holiday Lodge

Imagine seeing in the New Year from the comfort of a log cabin, cocooned in the wood-clad walls with that wonderful holiday feeling all around. When it comes to enjoying that special holiday feel, few things compare to lodges and cabins. Many lodges and cabins enjoy a scenic setting too, such as next to a lake or woodlands, which can help to make festive holidays all the more special. Some are on lodge parks where there may be shared leisure facilities such as a games room or even a pool to keep you occupied and happy during holidays.

Remember to pack the party poppers and plenty of Prosecco or champagne (if your budget allows) to ring in the New Year at your chosen holiday lodge.

Cabins and Lodges for New Year Breaks


Large Houses for New Year’s Celebrations

Large Houses for New Year Celebrations

New Year is the time for a big party, so whether you want to gather with friends or family, or both, renting a large house can be a great choice for partying it up at New Year. Country Cottages Online features a great choice of large holiday rentals, ideal for big groups of friends and family. From mansions to big barns and large lodges, the UK is home to a great choice of big holiday rentals. For that real party feel, look out for properties with features like a disco room, a games room or may be even an inviting warm bubbly outdoor hot tub where you can truly feel pampered and relaxed on your break away.

Search Large Group Holiday Houses for New Year Breaks

Escape to a Rural Retreat for a Festive Break

Escape on a rural retreat break for New Years

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful escape for a New Year’s break, then renting a rural retreat could be the ideal choice. There are so many quaint and pretty holiday homes dotted throughout the UK countryside, from secluded retreats to remote cottages where you can truly escape from It all. Whether you want to hide away, far from others, stay in a picture-perfect thatched cottage, or wake up to views of fields and farmlands, there is a choice to suit you on Country Cottages Online. For somewhere truly inspiring, cottages with country views are a joy to wake up to in winter time where you may be lucky enough to see the landscape blanketed in snow, icicles shining in the sunshine and frost glistening in the sun. Choose a holiday home with both a country view and a warming woodburner or open fire, for the ultimate in atmosphere and bring in the New Year in an absolutely charming retreat.

Rural Retreats for New Year Breaks

Romantic Retreats

Escape with the one you love to celebrate New Year

Escape with your partner to a charming cottage where you can relax, unwind and enjoy celebrating the New Year with the one you love. Options include charming historical retreats with exposed beams in pretty counties like Suffolk where you can stay in a holiday home with an olde worlde feel, and log cabins with lake views, for inspiring views on holiday. Or may be you like the idea of renting a coastal cottage in winter where you can wake up to a sea view which can be a truly special and memorable experience, even in winter time. Make the start of 2023 extra special with a break and celebration with the one you love.

Browse Couple’s Cottages for New Year’s Breaks

The Best Cosy Cottages for Winter Breaks

When it comes to winter holidays, renting a cosy cottage can be a popular choice. When the weather is colder, it can make you want to cuddle up indoors and feel snug and cosy. Whether you like to snuggle up to your partner, next to your pet or your friends, feel cosy and warm indoors when you rent a cosy cottage this winter.

You may have certain favourite snuggly blankets that you want to take away on a break with you (and possibly for your pet too!). Certain property features at your home from home can help create that cosy holiday mood too!

Features that will help to bring an element of warmth and appeal to your winter cottage break include characteristics like; exposed wooden beams, open fires, woodburners and romantic features like hot tubs and four poster beds. Perhaps your dream winter holiday home would have all of these features altogether for the perfect escape!
Here at Country Cottages Online we love to help people find the best places to stay, so read on for ideas and inspiration for your perfect cosy winter break.

Properties with Exposed Wooden Beams

Often associated with pubs and barns, there’s something so very comforting about properties with exposed wooden beams. Perhaps it’s something primal that makes being around natural wood so very appealing. Whatever it is, rent a holiday cottage with exposed beams for charm, warmth and character on your next cottage break.

Search Cottages with Exposed Beams

Cottages with Warming Woodburners and Open Fires

When it comes to winter holidays, feeling warm and cosy is essential. Enjoy treats like hot mulled wine when on a winter break or perhaps a hot cup of hot chocolate if you have a sweet tooth. Another great pleasure is just to be by a real log fire. Whether you want to be warmed by a woodburner or by an open fire on holiday, relaxing by the fireside whilst the logs crackle and burn can be good for the soul. Discover why some of the simplest things are the most pleasurable on your next cottage break.

Cottages with Woodburners and Open Fires


Hot Tub Holidays

When it comes to feeling warm all over, then a relaxing soak in a hot tub has got to be one of the very best of experiences. Whether you want to rent a holiday home with an outdoor hot tub where you can watch the stars at night, or want to book a cottage with an indoor hot tub where you can enjoy the warmth from the indoors, Country Cottages Online features an excellent choice of properties for hot tub holidays.

Hot Tub Breaks


Four poster bedrooms for romance and atmosphere

Draw the curtains in a four poster bed, and you can feel super cosy enveloped in the drapes. If you want romance and atmosphere on a winter cottage break, and to feel snuggly and warm, a four posted bedroom is hard to beat.

Search Rentals with a Four Poster Bed

Whatever type of cosy break you have in mind for your getaway this winter, we hope you find the perfect rental for you.

UK holiday rentals with features where you may feel like you are holidaying abroad

For many holidaymakers, renting a British holiday home that feels like home is truly appealing and is part of the charm of taking a break in the UK; where you can stay in a welcoming home from home, with all of the charm and home comforts you are used to in your own abode. Country Cottages Online features a fantastic range of homely cottages.

Some people though, dream of renting a British holiday home with the feel of an overseas holiday rental, with features usually associated with breaks in sunnier climates. Features associated with foreign stays are often things like:

Balconies

Rooftop terraces

Outdoor Pools

Holiday rentals that are in the UK but feel like they could be in sunnier climates can be particularly appealing for summer breaks. Avoid airport queues and the stress of flying and simply jump in your car for a break in a British holiday cottage where (if you get sunshine) you could well feel as if you have gone abroad after all.

Below are a selection of some of the holiday homes listed on Country Cottages Online where in sunny weather you could enjoy alfresco living and truly easily imagine that you were overseas and not holidaying at home in the UK. If you like the idea of holidaying in Britain but want the feel of being abroad, then booking a stay in one of the below properties may be the perfect choice for your 2022 or 2023 holiday.

From the garden with its exotic looking plants to the white-washed interior, Ancarva looks very much like a holiday villa often associated with holidaying abroad. The glass balcony, huge ceiling to floor windows, sleek interior and amazing estuary views too, all give this property plenty of holiday appeal. Set in Cornwall, yet with the feel that you could be a million miles away.

Feel like a star when you book a break at Dancing Hill. The fabulous roof terrace with its bubbly hot tub would not be out of place in the most glamorous of foreign holiday destinations, but is in fact in Somerset, in England’s West Country. The interior is more traditionally British with its beams and cosy interior, but head up to the roof terrace and you could truly feel as if you had escaped on a foreign holiday whilst holidaying at home in the UK, in Somerset.

One of the most sought after holiday homes on Country Cottages Online, and with good reason too, this 5 bedroom holiday rental has not only an outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers, but also an amazing first floor balcony with more sun loungers. In summer time, you could truly imagine lying back on a lounger at Foxhill Lodge by the pool with your shades on, in the sunshine, and imagining that you were somewhere way more exotic, whilst enjoying all of the convenience of a home from home stay in Devon.

With its light and airy interior, and stunning sea views, Harbour Sands is a superb Northumbrian holiday home but with its amazing coastal location, stunning balcony and stylish interior, this holiday home has a truly European feel.

Sea Eden with its bold colourful interior, exotic indoor plants and amazing garden with outdoor hot tub and exotic plants has the sort of cool vibes associated with places like Mexico, Ibiza and the Canary Isles, yet is right home here in the UK, close to Sennen in Cornwall.

Hot Tub Cottages with Lush Country Views

Are you planning your 2022 break and thinking of renting a country cottage with a hot tub in the UK? If so, what could be better than staying in a holiday home where you can lie back, relax and soak up views over fields and farmlands? Just imagine, enjoying relaxing soaks whilst jets and warm waters massages your cares away on holiday.

Whether you want to holiday in England, Scotland, Wales or Ireland, take a look at Country Cottages Online’s Top 5 Cottages with Hot Tubs and Country Views for ideas and inspiration.

Top 5 Cottages with Hot Tubs with Country Views

Escape to Bubble Bath Bliss at Orchard Hideaway in the Scottish Borders

Orchard Hideaway Hot Tub with Country Views

Just take a look at the views out to fields and farmlands from the inviting wood fired hot tub at Orchard Hideaway. With country views out to the Cheviot Hills to die for, both inside and outside, this 2 bedroom light bright and airy stylish holiday lodge enjoys an idyllic setting on an organic farm in the Scottish Borders.


Enjoy a Spa Bath at Suran Y Coed in Powys

Suran Y Coed Hot Tub, Powys

Nestled on an unspoilt private valley in Powys, on a working farm, Suran Y Coed is a welcoming Scandinavian Finlodge, ideal for relaxing and unwinding on holiday. With a truly appealing hot tub, what could be better than a relaxing soak whilst also soaking up the stunning valley views and surroundings on holiday?


Bathe in Warm Waters and Soak up Stunning Views in Devon at Gitcombe Retreat

Gitcombe retreat hot tub with country views

Guests staying at this 4 bedroom award winning architect designed holiday home can enjoy a relaxing spa bath in bubbly warm waters whilst immersing themselves in stunning views out to the South Hams countryside.

Guests also benefit from access to excellent shared leisure facilities on site including an indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room for complete pampering and relaxation.


https://www.countrycottagesonline.com/england/devon/washbourne/gitcombe-retreat-cc-4255.html


Enjoy Time in the Tub at Tubbs Delight in Devon

Tubbs Delight in Devon

The inviting outdoor hot tub at Tubbs Delight is a great spot where you can bathe in warm bubbly waters whilst immersing yourself in outstanding country views. This good value holiday home has plenty to recommend it. Drench yourself in the warm waters whilst soaking up superb views out to the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Pet-friendly and with an excellent location just 5 minutes’ drive from the coast, this 3 bedroom dog-friendly holiday home could be ideal for a relaxing break in the South West of England.

Immerse yourself in Warm Waters and Country Views at Grouse Lodge in Denbighshire

Grouse Lodge with rural views

Set on a working farm where there is unspoilt countryside galore, Grouse Lodge is one of two holiday lodges at this beautiful location in Denbighshire, just a short drive from the coast.

Imagine drenching yourself in the warm waters of the hot tub whilst thejets massage you and your eyes immerse themselves in the lush views out to fields and farmlands. What could be more relaxing and invigorating on a cottage break?

The above are just some of the hot tub cottages featured on Country Cottages Online.

Best Cottages for Cosy Festive Breaks

Come winter time, who doesn’t like to snuggle up on holiday, and enjoy quality time with friends and family in a lovely cosy atmosphere? Christmas and New Year are great times of year to enjoy a cosy festive break away in Britain.

Collect memories not things on a winter festive break

If you are searching for a festive holiday cottage you will want to find a holiday home befitting the occasion. For many people, the best kind of cottage for a festive break is a cosy welcoming holiday home.

Certain holiday homes lend themselves to cosy festive holidays. Here are some of our best picks.

Cottages with Warming Woodburners or Open Fires for Festive Breaks

Relax by the fireside on a festive cottage break

One of the top choices when it comes to festive breaks has got to be holiday homes with warming woodburners or open fires. Both people and animals love to snuggle up by the warmth of an open fire and watch the logs crackle and burn, or sit by the warming glow of a warming woodburner. It’s a simple pleasure but an important one in winter time that can make you feel all snuggly and warm inside.

Cottages with Open Fires or a Warming Woodburner for Festive Breaks

Christmas Cottages with a Woodburner or Open Fire

Cottages with a Woodburner or Open Fire for New Year Breaks

Log Cabins with Warming Woodburners for that Special Holiday Feel

Escape to a cabin by a forest perhaps this winter?

There’s something romantic about staying in a log cabin in winter time. Maybe it’s because so many Christmassy films feature snow clad wooden lodges, but there’s something special about winter log cabin breaks that give them extra festive appeal and can give you that special holiday feeling.

Many lodges are nestled next to forests or lakes which can look particularly beautiful in winter time, particularly when trees have been giving a dusting of snow or lakes have frozen over.

Festive Log Cabin Break Ideas

Log Cabins for Christmas Breaks

Wooden Lodges for New Year Breaks


Charming Cottages with Exposed Wooden Beams for Festive Charm

Holiday homes with wooden beams exude charm and warmth. Whether barn conversions or character cottages, there’s something so welcoming and homely about houses with exposed wooden beams. Some of us just love them. Particularly in winter time, these types of holiday homes can be particularly welcoming, particularly when teamed with an open fire or warming woodburner.

Cottages with Wooden Beams for Charm and Warmth


Cottages with Country Views for Festive Holidays

Whatever the time of year, renting a holiday home with a countryside view is an appealing notion. Holiday homes with countryside views can be popular year-round as each season leads to different kinds of vistas. In winter time you might be able to gaze out to snow covered hills and fields or see the frost glistening over the surrounding landscape in the morning light. Holiday homes with country views can really help to uplift you and help you tofully appreciate the beauty of wintertime as you relax and unwind with friends or family on holiday.

Cottages with Country Views for Festive Breaks


Pretty, Quaint and Olde-Worlde Country Cottages for Christmassy Appeal

Picture perfect Bee Cottage in Rutland

Maybe it’s because of the picture-perfect holiday cottage featured in the winter blockbuster ‘The Holiday’ that makes the notion of taking a break in a quaint and olde-worlde cottage at Christmas or New Year so very appealing. Usually, the prettier the cottage the better, and ideally your chosen holiday home would be kitted out with sparkly Christmas decorations and feature a door with a festive wreath to really give you that fabulous festive holiday feel.

Pretty Country Cottages for Festive Breaks

Pretty country cottages for Festive Breaks

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