The Joys of Group Accommodation Holidays!
My Favourite Holiday Cottages classifies large holiday cottages as properties that sleep eight or more guests in dedicated bedrooms (preferably not including sofa beds). Large holiday cottages can be suitable for two or more families or groups of friends for several reasons:
- Space
Large properties typically have ample space, with multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, and living areas. This means that both families can have their own private space and not feel cramped.
- Cost-effectiveness
Renting a large holiday cottage can be more cost-effective per person than renting two smaller ones, especially during peak season. This means that both families can save money on their accommodation costs.
- Shared facilities
Large holiday cottages often come with many more rooms and shared facilities, such as:
- Separate kitchens and dining rooms
- Conservatories
- Utility and/or Boot Rooms
- Home office spaces
- A better ratio of bathrooms per guest,
4. Entertainment
Large holiday cottages may have entertainment options such as:
- A games room
- Cinema room
- Swimming pool
- Hot tub.
Facilities such as these allow families and children to enjoy themselves together in a safe environment. They also come into their own if the weather turns bad!
- Flexibility
Renting a large holiday cottage gives both families flexibility regarding their plans and activities. Depending on their preferences and interests, They can do things together or separately.
- Privacy
Unlike hotels or guesthouses, holiday cottages offer greater privacy and seclusion. Guests can enjoy their own private garden or terrace and come and go as they please.
- Large holiday cottages often have all the amenities of a luxury holiday home, allowing guests to enjoy all the comforts they are used to at home - and more - while on holiday.
Click here to view our collection of Large Holiday Cottages in the UK ranging in size from sleeping eight to forty guests.
What should I look for in a large holiday home to ensure suitability?
- Is it a compatible size?
The obvious answer, but often overlooked, is to ensure the holiday cottage is large enough to accommodate your group comfortably. Make sure the sleeping arrangements are acceptable. It’s no use booking a cottage that sleeps 12 for a group of six adult couples only to find one of the rooms is a family room with five beds, one with bunk beds and another single room. Check the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and living areas to ensure enough space for everyone. Make a sleeping plan to ensure that everyone can be accommodated and in appropriate rooms. For example, you don’t want to have to put two elderly family members in a set of children’s bunk beds.
- Read the Reviews
Look for reviews from previous guests to get an idea of their experience staying at the holiday cottage. Pay attention to any positive or negative comments and consider how they might impact your own stay.
- More Amenities
Look at the amenities the holiday cottage offers, such as a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, and entertainment options like a TV, DVD player, or games room. Consider what is important to you and your group and ensure the holiday cottage has everything you need.
- Bigger Gardens
If you plan on spending time outdoors, look for a holiday cottage with a garden, patio, or outdoor seating area. Consider whether there are any nearby walking or cycling routes or if the holiday cottage is near the beach.
- Better Accessibility
Check if the holiday cottage is accessible for everyone in your group, including any elderly or disabled members. Look at the property’s layout, parking availability, and whether there are any stairs or steep inclines.
What garden or outdoor amenities would you find in a large holiday cottage?
A large holiday cottage's garden and outdoor amenities can vary depending on the property and location. However, here are some typical garden and outdoor amenities you might find:
- A Beautiful Garden
A large holiday cottage may have a private garden or landscaped grounds that guests can enjoy. The garden may include lawns, flower beds, trees, and shrubs.
- Patios and Terraces
Most large holiday lets have one or more outdoor seating areas, such as a patio or terrace. This is a great place to relax and enjoy the views with family or friends.
- BBQ
Some holiday cottages may have a BBQ for guests, perfect for outdoor dining on warm summer evenings.
- Swimming Pools
Some large holiday properties may have an outdoor swimming pool for guests to enjoy during the summer months. Better still, it is more likely to be available exclusively for guests in the property and not shared with others. Do check the type and size of the pool to be confident that there is enough room for all guests to swim at the same time. If you want to book a large holiday cottage in Yorkshire for the October half-term, ensure it has an indoor pool! Check that the pool will be available for the duration of your booking.
- A hot tub
A hot tub is an excellent addition to a holiday cottage, offering guests a relaxing and indulgent experience. Do read our article that offers invaluable help when booking a cottage with a swimming pool: 23 Questions That Will Help You Find A Holiday Cottage With a Perfect Pool To Suit Your Needs.
- Spaces and Equipment For Outdoor Games
Some large holiday cottages, having spacious gardens, may have outdoor games available, such as croquet lawns, badminton, tennis or volleyball courts, as well as goal nets for football, which is perfect for keeping children (and adults!) entertained.
- Facilities to Support Outdoor Activities
Depending on the location of the holiday cottage, guests may have access to a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, water sports, or horse riding. The holiday cottage may be close to walking trails or bike paths or have direct access to a beach or lake. In addition, larger holiday homes are more likely to contain additional facilities to support these activities, such as
- Storage sheds for bike and surf gear
- Drying rooms for boots and outdoor clothing
- Outdoor showers for pools or cleaning wetsuits
So, when you are seeking somewhere to stay for a large group of people to enjoy a self-catering holiday together, Large holiday cottages can, in terms of amenities and facilities, offer excellent value for money as well as ensuring a memorable holiday.
