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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 planning to book a holiday cottage for a fishing holiday on the River Wye? You’re in for a treat, as the River Wye is one of the UK’s premier fishing destinations, known for its diverse fish species and picturesque surroundings. Here’s some of our comprehensive guide to help you plan your fishing trip from licences to places to stay.

    The River Wye is a major river in the UK, flowing through Wales and England. It’s known for its clear waters, varied aquatic life, and stunning landscapes. The river offers a mix of coarse and game fishing opportunities.

     

    Banner photo credit: Visit Dean & Wye

     

    Fishing Licenses and Regulations:

    The fishing season on the River Wye typically runs from March 3rd to October 7th for salmon and trout. Course fishing seasons usually run from June 16th to March 15th.

    However, the specific dates might vary, so checking the current fishing regulations and seasons before planning your trip

  • Dorset is a County ripe for memorable. self-catering holidays in all seasons. Nestled on the southern coast of England, Dorset stands as a timeless testament to nature's beauty and historical richness. Beyond its stunning coastline and rolling landscapes, Dorset's allure extends throughout the seasons, beckoning travellers to discover its treasures year-round. Whether you're seeking sun-soaked beaches, historical marvels, or picturesque vistas, Dorset welcomes you with open arms, inviting you to immerse yourself in its splendour in every season.

     

    Spring: Blossoming Beginnings

    As winter's chill dissipates, nature sees that Dorset awakens to a burst of colour and life. You'll find hedgerows dotted with primroses, pink campion, cow parsley and a host of other wildflowers, while beneath woodland canopies, swathes of bluebells bloom. Spring is a delightful time to explore the county's abundant gardens and nature reserves. Head to the Abbotsbury

  • Photo: Mrs Daffodil: A Cotswold County Cottage

     

    Booking a rural holiday cottage in the serene embrace of the UK countryside offers a tapestry of benefits that cater to travellers of all kinds, from couples seeking romantic seclusion to large families yearning for shared adventures. Here's why these charming rural getaways are the perfect choice for everyone:

    1. Tranquil Retreat for Couples

    Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourselves in the tranquillity of the countryside. Holiday cottages provide intimate settings, allowing couples to cherish quiet moments, take leisurely walks, and enjoy uninterrupted quality time together.

    2. Family Bonding in Nature

    Families can revel in the joys of the great outdoors while staying in a holiday cottage. Kids can run freely in expansive gardens, engage in countryside activities, and relish family picnics. It's an opportunity to disconnect from screens and reconnect

  • In the heart of the captivating Wye Valley, where nature's beauty reigns supreme, lies an aquatic playground that promises boundless exploration and serenity. The meandering River Wye weaves its way through this picturesque landscape, offering an invitation to visitors discover its enchanting wonders from a different perspective. Whether your holiday plans include a leisurely cruise, a kayaking adventure, or the thrill of navigating your own boat, the Wye Valley's waterways are a gateway to unforgettable experiences.

  • Photo credit: The Old Apple Store in Whitchurch

    Nestled within the gentle embrace of the English countryside lies a haven of tranquillity and natural beauty that beckons to the hearts of adventurous souls and wanderlust seekers. The Wye Valley, a picturesque landscape that has captured the imagination of poets and painters for centuries, stands as an idyllic backdrop for self-catering holidays that promise unforgettable experiences.

    The Wye Valley unveils a world of serenity, romance, and discovery that ignites the senses and rekindles the spirit. Picture yourself strolling hand-in-hand along meandering riverbanks, the rhythmic whisper of the River Wye serenading your steps. The Wye Valley, cocooned by the rolling hills of Herefordshire and the verdant landscapes of Monmouthshire, is a canvas painted with lush forests, enchanting meadows, and emerald valleys. As you and your partner explore this symphony of nature, the Wye Valley truly epitomizes the

  • For those who revel in the art of crafting fine meals, the Wye Valley's culinary landscape extends beyond its acclaimed restaurants. Immersed in the bucolic charm of this region, you'll discover a tapestry of food shops, farmers markets, and delicatessens that beckon with an array of local delights. Whether seeking artisanal cheeses, freshly harvested produce, or handcrafted preserves, these gastronomic havens promise to elevate your self-catering experience to new heights.

  • If you love a good book (and fancy meeting its author), enjoy seafood or appreciate visual arts and crafts, then autumn is a perfect time to enjoy self-catering holidays in Falmouth. During September and October, choose from three well-established festivals celebrating food, literature and the arts, providing a feast for all the senses.

    Falmouth Oyster Festival

    2023 Dates: 15-23rd October

    Held in mid-October to coincide with the start of the oyster dredging season, the Falmouth Oyster Festival celebrates the town’s maritime heritage and the local oyster industry. It is one of Cornwall’s largest and most popular foodie events. Visitors can enjoy fresh Fal River oysters, seafood, live music, cooking demonstrations, and various family-friendly activities over four days of feastings when its waterfront location is packed with traders. While the emphasis is on food, you cannot enjoy a good oyster without accompanying liquid refreshment, so expect to find

  • To help visitors enjoy and appreciate The Quantock Hills in West Somerset, the formidably supportive Friends of Quantock coordinate and promote a regular programme of events and activities that will appeal to all those booking holiday cottages in the Quantocks, ensuring an even more memorable holiday than initially envisaged! There's just so much to discover and love in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

    Photo credit: Railway Cottage near Bicknoller

    Here is what is on offer through August and into September:

     

    Time to Bee Friendly Trail at Hestercombe Gardens. Family-friendly Summer activities from 21st July - 3rd September. More information. Wildflower Field at Stogumber. Post Code TA4 4JF what3words: ///occupy.months.outgrown. The wonderful wildflower field at Stogumber is open once again, with all donations going to two local Stogumber charities. More information   'Become a Young Explorer' & Story Time at Coleridge Cottage,
  • Escape to Tranquility: The Prettiest Yorkshire Dales Villages For Walking Holidays

    Are you ready to embark on a journey to tranquillity? Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Yorkshire Dales lies a collection of picturesque villages that will captivate your soul. From quaint cobblestone streets to charming cottages, each Dales village tells its own unique story, inviting you to escape the hustle and bustle of city life for a walking holiday, immersing yourself in the rugged serenity of nature.

    Whether you're a nature enthusiast, hiker, history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful rural retreat, the prettiest Yorkshire Dales villages have something for everyone. Explore the winding trails that lead to hidden waterfalls, discover ancient ruins that whisper tales of the past, and indulge in the warm hospitality of local pubs. In this article, we will take you on a virtual tour of these hidden gems, unveiling the secrets that make them truly special. So,