Category Archives: Holiday Tips and Advice

Late Deals for Spring Self-Catering Getaways

Spring is officially here and there are some great savings to be made with numerous last minute cottage breaks and late deals available. Last minute cottage deals can represent excellent value for money and can be found throughout the country. We feature an inspirational collection of country cottages, log cabins, pet-friendly cottages and unique self-catering accommodation. With such great choice available, has there ever been a better time to book a last minute deal? Find out more information by taking a look at special offer cottages and late cottage offers.

Top 10 Rural Retreat Destinations

If you have in mind a country holiday for 2013 and are in need of some inspiration then we can help with our top 10 recommended destinations for rural retreat holidays.  We have featured destinations in England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland.  Our guide takes you through some of the best places in the UK and Ireland for a tranquil, relaxed getaway.  Don’t forget that not only can we help with providing you with information on some amazing places to visit but we also feature a fantastic collection of rural cottages and retreats, ideal for a stress free holiday.  Find out more and read our Top 10 Destinations for Rural Retreats.

Inspiration for your self-catering holiday in 2013

Dreaming of your ideal cottage holiday for 2013?  We can help.  It isn’t always easy deciding where to go and how to spend your time.  Read our area guides for information and inspiration on some of the best places in the UK for self-catering cottage holidays.  From the Cotswolds to the Highlands of Scotland, there is plenty of choice and many beautiful places to discover.  If you don’t mind where you visit, why not save with a last minute cottage deal?  Being flexible on location may mean that you are likely to get the best possible price.

We’ve also compiled a list of best picks of the most inspirational cottages and self-catering accommodation that we feature.  To find out more information, take a look at our top 10 cottages for inspirational self-catering breaks.

Tips on Free and Cheap Days Out on Cottage Breaks this Winter

If you’re taking a cottage holiday this winter and are on a budget or just want to get the best available deals then you may want to optimise on free days out.

For members, the National Trust offer a host of fascinating country houses and gardens which can be visited for free.  Although some houses are closed for the winter season, the gardens are open at many and special events are on at some such as special Christmas evenings and guided tours at some properties where the houses are decorated especially for the season.

Other great free attractions include country parks and gardens.  Wrap up warm and enjoy the changing scenery in parks and gardens.  Frosty and snowy days can really add that something special to your experience.  If you need to warm up why not pop in to a local café for a good value lunch or cup of tea.  A number of galleries and museums up and down the country are also free.

We also recommend that you do your research on 2 for 1 offers.  Many offers are available nowadays online and with a little bit of searching you can reap great rewards and save money on your cottage holiday.   Wherever you go for your self-catering break, we hope you find that the best things in life are indeed free and that you have the very best of times.  If you haven’t yet booked your cottage getaway take a look at last minute cottages for some of the best late deals.

The British Travel Awards Results

The results of the British Travel Awards nominations are now out.    Websites voted best as travel information providers and for the deals they offer include the Mail on Sunday, the Daily Mail, the Sunday Times Travel, Trip Advisor and the World Travel Guide.  Some people like to be guided by award winners whereas others have their own favourites that they know and trust when they want information, inspiration and advice on travel.

If you are looking at where to take a cottage holiday in 2013 why not look up our free area guides for hints and tips on some of the best places on offer in the UK?

Since it’s not the end of the world after all, look forward to 2013

The prediction about the end of the world on the 21st of December did not come true after all. We can now look forward to yet another wonderful year of holidays in self catering cottages. Browse to your heart’s delight and find that perfect spot in the UK countryside. We are so fortunate to have so many stunning  rural locations. One prediction that would come true is that you would be delighted with a country cottage stay in the Welsh Marches, the scenery is simply stunning. Rent a cottage or log cabin for a holiday in either mid Wales or Herefordshire and enjoy a relaxing self catering break next summer.

Christmas and New Year Cottages 2012

There are some great cottage offers available this Christmas and getting away from it all at this time of year can be simply the best.  Why not do something special to celebrate the festive period and have quality time to look forward to with friends or family?  Or you may prefer to plan a break for the New Year, 2013.  Click for more information about cottages for Christmas or New Year offering availability for this time of year.  We don’t just specialise in Country Cottages, we also feature a fantastic range of cottages from romantic retreats to award winning country cottages, many of which have been quality graded.  We recommend booking early for 2013 too for the best possible choice.

Book ahead for 2013 to secure the best cottage holidays

It is anticipated that an increased number of people will holiday at home in 2013. It is often possible to pay a small deposit to secure your ideal self-catering cottage ahead of the crowds. The highest demand is for cottages with those little extras such as swimming pools, saunas and spas. These may be independent rural cottages or part of a cottage complex or holiday park. Activity holidays with self-catering accommodation ensure that children are safely occupied all day long.

Autumn Cottage Breaks

Autumn seems to be earlier this year and following unsettled weather, the longer term weather forecast is good. Now is an excellent time to book self catering cottages near woodland and have a few days away to make the most of the countryside whilst the leaves are taking on red and gold hues. People picking mushrooms can be spotted foraging in meadows and in the woods. Rental prices are lower and plenty of good value self-catering breaks abound in the UK and Ireland. Browse through our last minute cottages for a surprise autumn break.

Special Offers and Late August Deals

When it comes to finding great deals on cottages we’re here to help.  Take a look at our last minute offers section and you may just pick up a self-catering getaway at a truly excellent price and make big savings.  Don’t miss our Special offers section too!  For more information or advice on individual cottages, get in touch with independent owners or agencies.   With the August Bank Holiday and September fast approaching why not take a look and see if you can grab a bargain.