The festive season may be fast approaching, but there’s still time to find a glorious retreat and enjoy a delightfully different break this Christmas or New Year.
Among the selection of appealing countryside and coastal properties, perfect for families, couples or friends still available to book with holidaycottages.co.uk are:
Christmas three-night breaks, (23-26 December)
Lake District: save almost £300 on Aga-side romance
Bury yourselves in the beautiful Lake District at The Nook (sleeps two), an irresistibly cosy cottage (awarded a five-star rating by Visit England) with wonderful walks direct from the doorstep. The farmhouse-style kitchen has quirky vintage touches and an Aga; it’s a charming room for enjoying a Christmas feast and candlelit suppers. Then retire to the pretty sitting room, where a roaring wood burner, stylish sofas and cosy rugs await. A three-night stay now costs £363 pp (£726 total). One dog welcome (supplement of £20).
Devon: fabulous family retreat with hot tub and games room – sleeps eight
Fairways – Appledore (sleeps eight), on the outskirts of the North Devon fishing village of Appledore, offers luxurious coastal-style living. Impeccably presented throughout, its fabulous lounge area has a floor-to-ceiling feature window; enjoy your favourite TV programme, or just the views, from the sink-into sofas. The hot tub is covered, so not even rain will spoil your Christmas dip. A three-night stay costs £302 pp (£2,410 total). Two dogs welcome (supplement of £20 per dog).
Brecon Beacons: beautiful barn in the Black Mountains with hot tub
Hatterral Barn (sleeps four) is set high into the valley of Longtown – known for its village store and 12th century Norman castle – with rugged views across the surrounding farmland. The property, which is full of character and charm, has exposed beams and a luxurious outdoor hot tub, adding an indulgent element to Christmas Day celebrations. A three-night stay costs £276 pp (£1,102 total). One dog welcome (supplement of £20).
Twixmas three-night breaks (27-30 December)
Cornwall: snuggle in and explore North Cornwall’s best beaches
The Nook at Trebudannon (sleeps two) is delightful converted property, perfect for a couple in search of time out and time together. The wonderfully light and welcoming kitchen features a contemporary breakfast bar and a Nespresso coffee machine. There’s a choice of golden sandy beaches to amble along, accompanied by a furry friend if you have one, and Padstow, Watergate Bay and St Ives are nearby. In the evenings, make the most of the wood-burner and well-equipped games room. A three-night stay costs £260 pp (£519 total). One dog welcome (supplement of £20).
Norfolk: to the manor born, apartment-style
Northrepps Manor Farm Apartment (sleeps four) is a gorgeous, ground-floor property within a manor house, situated near magnificent beaches including Cromer. The lounge / diner has an open fire, Smart TV and Bang & Olufsen Sound System. Plus, there’s a hot tub to simmer in, whatever the weather. Visit the historical city of Norwich for a good selection of restaurants and some post-Christmas sales shopping.
A three-night stay costs £187 pp (£745 total). One dog welcome (supplement of £20).
North Wales: majestic townhouse overlooking Llandudno
Boutique Townhouse (sleeps ten) is a grand Victorian townhouse, set on high overlooking Llandudno and the sea beyond. Painstakingly refurbished in 2017, the property is full of period charm. Its conservatory is flooded with natural light and is just the spot for morning coffee and newspapers. The lounge has high ceilings, a wood burner, comfortable sofas and bay window seats. Tempted to venture out? Llandudno’s shops, restaurants, pubs, gallery and attractions are on your doorstep to explore. A three-night stay costs £245 pp (£2,442 total). One dog welcome (supplement of £20).
North Wales: Snowdonia sumptuousness for 42 people
Ty Mawr (sleeps 42) is a stunning detached period house in Dolgellau, Snowdonia National Park. Perfectly laid-out for friends and family celebrations, the large kitchen can seat everyone, and a chef is available too. To keep everyone entertained, there’s a pool table, shuffle board, football table and cinema screen. Gather the keen and set off on an invigorating walk, climb or cycle – just the job after Christmas indulgence. A three-night stay costs £92 pp (£3,842 total). Three dogs welcome (supplement of £20 per dog).
New Year three-night breaks (30 December to 2 January)
Peak District: contemporary cottage near Chatsworth House
Robin Hood Cottage (sleeps four) is a single-storey property in a great location on the eastern edge of the Peak District National Park. It is also just three miles from Chatsworth House, the filming location of Pride and Prejudice, and one of Britain’s best-loved stately homes. Marvel at its architectural splendour and magnificent interiors on a fascinating day out, then head to the stables, grab a winter warmer and enjoy live performances from bands and choirs taking place in the courtyard during the festive season. A three-night stay costs £238 pp (£949 total – was £1,050). Two dogs welcome (supplement of £20 per dog).
Isle of Wight: perfect for a small family with equestrian enthusiasm
The Hayloft Cottage – Godshill (sleeps three) is a converted 18th century milking parlour on the edge of a pretty village, near to the Isle of Wight’s popular market town of Newport. The property has a double room with a king-size bed and a single room with a 4ft bed, making it ideal for a couple and one small child. The cottage is situated close to a riding stables, and the glorious sandy beaches of Sandown, Shanklin and Ventnor are all an easy drive away. A three-night stay costs £206 pp (£616 total). Two dogs welcome (supplement of £20 per dog).
Somerset: sleek barn conversion within easy reach of Bath
Manor Barn at Manor Farm (sleeps eight) is a beautifully presented barn conversion, decorated in a contemporary style and perfectly placed for touring the whole of Somerset, including Wells, Glastonbury and the splendid Roman spa city of Bath. The accommodation is all arranged on one level – no stairs to worry about – and there’s exclusive use of an indoor heated swimming pool for burning off any excess Christmas calories.
A three-night stay costs £171 pp (£1,362 total). Two dogs welcome (supplement of £20 per dog).
For further information or to book any of these properties, please visit www.holidaycottages.co.uk