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News, Information and Ideas for Managing or Booking UK Holiday Cottages

View articles for holiday cottage owners and bookers. Many of these articles are mentioned in The Holiday Homefront, a monthly newsletter for holiday cottage owners published free of charge. 

Other articles help anyone interested in planning a self-catering holiday with advice on planning and booking different types of property to information on cottages offering discounts. These are published in a Newsletter for people interested in booking holiday cottages and wanting to know more about booking procedures, discounts and holiday ideas. To receive a copy, click the Newsletter button at the bottom of the page.

Contents vary but will include the following:

  • Tips on getting it right when finding and booking a particular type of holiday cottage - such as one with 'the right kind of pool' pool, or what to expect to be included in the rental price. 
  • Inspiring articles on our 'favourite holiday cottages' for holidays on a theme or particular location, such as holiday cottages for walkers' best luxury beach holiday cottages in Cornwall.
  • When to discuss (and when not to discuss discounts) and some great deals available at the time of writing. 

  • Are you tired of the same old routine for your family holidays? Are you looking for a unique and unforgettable experience that will create lasting memories for you and your loved ones? Look no further! In this article, we will take you on a journey to explore the top holiday cottages that are sure to make your family retreat truly special. Whether you prefer a cosy cottage nestled in the countryside, such as Alysas, a charming Cotswold holiday cottage or a beachfront getaway with stunning views like Sunnycliffe House in Woolacombe (pictured above), we have handpicked the best options just for you. From charming traditional cottages with rustic charm to modern and luxurious accommodations with all the amenities you could ever dream of, these holiday cottages offer something for everyone. Get ready to plan the perfect holiday with the family and create memories that will last a lifetime in these top holiday cottages.

  • Escape to the picturesque beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and uncover a world of hidden gems with our handpicked selection of must-visit holiday rentals. Nestled amidst breathtaking North Yorkshire landscapes, these charming properties offer an unforgettable getaway for those seeking tranquillity and adventure. From quaint stone cottages with roaring fireplaces to luxurious modern retreats with stunning views, each property has been carefully curated to provide the perfect home away from home. Explore the winding trails that lead to cascading waterfalls, meander through quaint villages brimming with history, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of this enchanting region. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, these five holiday cottages in the Yorkshire Dales will captivate your heart and leave you longing for more. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey and discover the hidden treasures that await you

  • When you holiday in Sidmouth holiday cottages with well-equipped kitchens, it must be very tempting to eat and drink at home. To do so would be to miss out on some glorious culinary experiences. So, persuade your in-house chef to down tools and check out some of our favourite places to eat in the beautiful little seaside town in East Devon. From ‘Thunder and Lightning’ Cream Teas to plates of Lyme Bay Scallops with Shallot Puree, you’ll find that a holiday in Sidmouth is a wonderfully delicious experience! Here are some of our favourite places to titivate your taste buds, from cream tea cafés to award-winning restaurants.

     

    Dukes

    Located on Sidmouth’s Esplanade, Dukes is a well-regarded seaside inn offering a diverse menu that includes seafood, steaks, and other British classics. Wash down a plate of muscles from the Exmouth Mussel Company with a glass of Sandford Cider.

    Orchards. It also boasts stunning sea views across Lyme Bay.

     

  • Dreaming of a tranquil escape to a sleepy seaside paradise?

    Look no further than Sidmouth, a hidden gem nestled on the stunning Jurassic Coastline in East Devon and known for its picturesque Regency esplanade, clifftop walks, public gardens and charming, easily walkable town centre.

    Sidmouth offers the perfect destination for a luxurious getaway. And what better way to experience this idyllic coastal town than by staying in one of the ultimate luxury holiday cottages? From charming thatched cottages to contemporary apartments, Sidmouth boasts a wide range of luxurious accommodations catering to your every need. Sidmouth’s luxury holiday cottages are the perfect haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat for two or a fun-filled family adventure, Sidmouth’s cottages have it all. Immerse yourself in the lap of luxury with state-of-the-art amenities, spacious living areas, and exquisite interior designs that blend

  • The Pennines is an excellent destination for walking holidays, with its rugged landscapes, rolling hills, and stunning scenery. The area has several well-established walking routes, including the Pennine Way, one of the most popular long-distance walks in the UK. Here are some of the best walking holidays in the Pennines:

    The Pennine Way: This 268-mile trail stretches from Edale in the Peak District to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland, passing through the heart of the Pennines. The route takes in some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK, including the Peak District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the Northumberland National Park.

    The Coast to Coast Walk: This 192-mile trail starts on the west coast of England and finishes on the east coast, passing through the heart of the Pennines. The route includes several iconic landmarks, including the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North York Moors.

    The Hadrian's Wall Path: This 84-mile trail

  • Treat yourself and your partner to a taste of luxury with a weekend break or longer holiday on one of these beautifully romantic luxury holiday cottages for couples in East Sussex. One property sleeps two guests, while the other two can accommodate four in two bedrooms. They are all beautifully furnished with outdoor terraces that will appeal to sun worshipers. While you may be tempted to shut yourself away from the world in your little rural bolthole, talking, reading, eating and chilling out with a romantic movie classic in the evenings, we have also suggested a nearby pub or restaurant for a romantic dinner.

    Click on a property title to view more about the property and contact/booking information.

  • The Northern Pennines

    An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (ANOB), the Northern Pennines span Cumbria and Northumberland and are known for their rugged landscapes, including moorland, hills, and valleys. The area embraces the picturesque Tees Valley, Eden Valley and Durham Dales from Barnard Castle and Kirkby Stephen at the southern end to Haltwhistle and Hexham in the North. It's an excellent Pennine location for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting, with several nature reserves and birdwatching sites. Here are some highlights and activities to enjoy on self-catering holidays in the Northern Pennines:

  • The Cumbrian town of Appleby, also known as Appleby-in-Westmorland, offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some notable places and things to fill your holiday in Appleby:

     

    Visit:

    Appleby Castle: One of the town’s highlights is Appleby Castle, a medieval fortress that dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can explore the Castle’s grounds, take guided tours, and learn about its fascinating history. Explore the Castle’s romantic setting, with its rich history and beautiful grounds. Take a guided tour to learn about the Castle’s past, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the views.

    Appleby Horse Fair: Appleby is famous for hosting the annual Appleby Horse Fair, which takes place in early June. It is one of the world’s largest and oldest horse fairs and attracts both locals and visitors who come to see the spectacle of horses being paraded, traded, and

  • The West Yorkshire section of The Pennines lies between The Peak District and Yorkshire Dales. It’s a land of river valleys and mill towns from the Industrial Revolution. If you think that towns and villages of the West Yorkshire Pennines are a cluster of grimy, decaying industrial communities, it’s high time you took a holiday in the area and have your outdated perceptions utterly transformed by their beauty and rich culture. Gone are the soot-blackened walls, the mines and mills – although many of the buildings still remain but have been re-invented to offer delightful and impressive visitor experiences. It’s an area that attracts more visitors year after year. Here are some notable destinations and reasons to visit them: