Pembrokeshire Cottage Holidays

Pembrokeshire is a county located in the south-west of Wales. The county of Pembrokeshire was created at the Act of Union with England in 1536. This beautiful area of south west Wales has so much to offer including some great cottage holidays. Some great properties to stay in

Isle of Wight Holidays

Looking to try something different this Summer? Why not visit the Isle of Wight. The island has so much to offer with excellent, restaurants, pubs, attractions, water sports, and much more. This is the perfect location for you if you are looking a Summer holiday with a difference. The island boasts an average high temperature of 20 degrees throughout the Summer, with an average low of 14 degrees. This location is perfect for families and groups of friends to enjoy a Summer holiday off the coast of England. Some great properties include Classic Villa 3 in Cowes, Afton Barns in Freshwater, and Sea View in Ventnor.

Classic Villa, Cowes

This chic bungalow style villa is both contemporary and comfortable, sleeping up to six people. This property consists of one double and ensuite shower and two twin rooms and a bathroom with a bath, overhead shower and WC. It has an open plan lounge, dining room and kitchen, ideal for families with children. Accompanying the property is a verandah with garden furniture - perfect for enjoying the summer temperatures of the Isle of Wight. This accommodation is great for both families and groups friends to enjoy.

Afton Barns, Freshwater

This collection of properties consists of beautifully converted barns which date back to 1785. They are a perfect getaway for those looking to relax and escape everyday life. The property contains amenities of two bedrooms upstairs (a double and a twin), with a single downstairs. A large lounge with a lovely fireplace and exposed beams in the ceiling. The bathroom is located upstairs with the shower room located downstairs and a kitchen/dining room. To the side and rear of the house there is a stunning garden with a communal lawn situated in the central part of the development. This retreat is great for a group of friends or family looking to relax and enjoy the countryside.

Sea View, Ventnor

This second floor apartment has a spectacular sea view of Ventnor Bay from its large balcony. The property is situated on the Ventnor Esplanade just above the ‘Ale & Oyster’. Just opposite the apartments is the sand and shingle beach which can be seen from the balcony. There is an array of cafes and tapas bars, including the locally famous ‘Spyglass Inn’. A short walk away you will find both the marina where fresh seafood is caught and an island shaped paddling pool for children. The apartment consists of one family bedroom, perfect for couples or small families, an open plan living area, kitchen, bathroom and balcony. The property can even be extended by adding the Sea Breeze apartment, this is great for larger family holidays.

For more information on any of these properties for your Summer 2013 holiday, please feel free to contact us at: http://www.cottages.co.uk/

Peak District Holidays

The Peak District is an upland area located in both central and Northern England. Mainly lying in Northern Derbyshire, as well as parts of Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, and South and West Yorkshire; The Peak District is split into the Northern Dark Peak (mostly moorland) and the Southern White Peak (majority of the population live here). There are many outdoor opportunities to be had in the Lake District, including, hill walking and hiking, cycling, mountain biking, horse riding, rock climbing, water sports and much more. There are is also an excellent choice of accommodation in the area including The Conservatory in Parwich, Pat's Cottage in Dore, and The Rest in Thorpe.

The Conservatory in Parwich

This beautiful semi-detached, single-storey property is situated in the heart of Derbyshire village of Parwich, in the ground’s of the owners home. The property is well maintained, finished to the highest standards, and is perfect for a romantic break away. The conservatory area has an amazing view of the garden, complete with tennis court, summer house and BBQ. The cottage also has its own patio and shared use of the owners lovely garden. This location is perfect for walks through the village of Parwich, cycling on the nearby Tissington Trail, or a sightseeing tour of the wonderful Peak District National Park. For more information about Tissington Trail please visit this website: http://www.sustrans.org.uk/sustrans-near-you/midlands/easy-rides-in-the-midlands/tissington-trail

Pat's Cottage, Dore

This lovely 18th century stone cottage has been respectfully refurbished, retaining its original features including old black wood beams. It is located on the edge of the Peak District and the city of Sheffield; with Chatsworth House, Hadden Hall, Hope, Castleton, Baslow and Bakewell all within easy reach. The village of Dore itself is steeped in history, perfect for exploration. The cottage is situated in a sunny, private location surrounded by gardens and lawns, and is excellent for a family holiday in the countryside. You also have access to the owner’s outdoor heated pool!! For more information about the various historic attractions to see please visit this website: http://www.visitpeakdistrict.com/see-and-do/museums-and-heritage.aspx

The Rest, Thorpe

This beautiful detached cottage with an outdoor hot tub offers you stunning views of Thorpe Cloud in the village of Thorpe. This property is perfect for both a romantic break and family holiday with its beautiful garden and quality fixtures and fittings. The decor consists of fabulous oak flooring, a spacious kitchen, delightful conservatory, and stylish bedrooms, including an outdoor hot tub. This location is perfect for hiking routes. There is also the market town of Ashbourne, the quaint villages of Ilam, Longnor and Hartington, and the Tissington Trail nearby. For more information about the cycle trails in the area please visit this website: http://www.visitpeakdistrict.com/see-and-do/active-peak-on-two-wheels.aspx

For more information about these properties please contact us at: http://www.cottages.co.uk/

Luxury Lodges

Are you looking for a short break away? Want to add a bit of luxury? Luxury lodges are your answer! Luxury lodges are a great way to surprise your partner or to take your family away on a relaxing break. Some great lodges include Wisteria Cottage in Kingham, Ontario Lodge in Knighton and Serenity 1 in Ilkley Moor. These lodges are perfect getaways all year round.

Wisteria Cottage, Kingham

This cottage is located in the picturesque bluebell wood which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near Kingham. It is the perfect location to explore the Cotswold's and relax and recuperate from the hustle and bustle of daily life. You can relax on the deck at the lodge or stroll to the local pub and enjoy some hearty food and drink. If you are looking to travel a bit further afield then the town of Stow on the Wold and the villages of Chipping Norton, Moreton-in-Marsh and Bourton on the Water are within easy reach. This particular cottage caters to 2 people and has one double bedroom, a shower with separate W/C, a garden with patio furniture, outdoor chimenea and an outdoor hot tub!

Ontario Lodge, Knighton

Ontario lodge is located in the beautiful countryside of Shropshire, close to the historic border town of Knighton. This retreat is perfect for those looking for some peace and relaxation as well as outdoor adventure. This luxurious two storey Canadian round log lodge which sleeps up to six people has various amenities. Located on the ground floor is a double four poster bed and one twin bed.  On the first floor there is a large open plan loft with one double bed, a bathroom and access to the decking with an outdoor hot tub and barbecue.

Serenity 1, Ilkley Moor

This lodge is the perfect place to stay for a romantic break or honeymoon located in the West of Yorkshire. The lodge is surrounded by the stunning scenery of Ilkley Moor in a 70 acre private estate. Serenity 1 sleeps two people. It has a stunning a double four poster bed, an ensuite jacuzzi and sauna, outdoor hot tub, decking and a log burner in the living area. If you are looking to relax then this is the perfect location. With beautiful views and luxurious facilities you are sure to come back feeling fresh and revitalised.

For more information about any of these luxury lodges please contact us at http://www.cottages.co.uk/

Escape to the South of England

The South and the South East of England have some excellent locations to visit, including Kent, Suffolk and the New Forest. All three of these areas are great for a family getaway or a trip with friends, offering beautiful landscapes, tranquil villages, excellent walks and other outdoor activities. Ofcourse, at Cottages.co.uk we have the best accomodation for you to visit in each area:

Allens House Lodge, Plaxtol

Allens House Lodge is located on the edge of the village of Plaxtol, situated in the Bourne Valley. There is so much that the village has to offer which includes a village store, post office and a butchers. If you are looking for a tranquil retreat then this is perfect location for you to relax. The local pub, The Papermakers Arms is a great place for a quiet evening or a Sunday roast and is steeped in history surrounding the local paper making industry. If you are looking for a location where you want to walk a lot then this is the perfect place, rife in Heritage Walks.

Coral’s Barn, Higham

This beautiful barn is located in the Constable Country, only a short distance from Flatford Mill. It has its own garden set in the tranquil countryside offering you a peaceful stay. The barn itself has been tastefully restored and is situated just outside the village of Higham within an Area of Natural Beauty. It is the perfect setting to explore the countryside and the surrounding areas of Dedham and Stour Valley. This barn sleeps 8 people with bedrooms on both floors, three on the ground floor and one on the first floor. This is the perfect property to have a relaxing holiday.

Hunter’s Moon, Godshill

Hunter’s Moon is a stunning single storey oak frame thatched cottage located in The New Forest. This cottage is child friendly that sleeps four adults, in spectacular vaulted bedrooms. It is situated in the hamlet of Godshill, and is only 2 miles away from the riverside town of Fordingbridge. It is a great location for walking which starts right from the doorstep, with ponies in the lane, woodpeckers and owls in the garden and deer and donkeys on the green. This is the perfect place to take in the natural beauty of The New Forest.

For more information about the activites available within the South of England please contact us at http://www.cottages.co.uk/

Visiting Northumberland

Northumberland is the northernmost county and district in the North East of England, bordering Scotland. It was once part of the Roman Empire and has more castles than any other county in England. It is also home to over a hundred attractions, so you will never be short of sights to see.

Hadrian’s Wall is one of the most historic sites in the UK and has been inscribed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The wall was built under the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, stretching 73 miles from Wallsend to Bowness on Solway. Northumberland houses the majority of the remaining sections of the wall and five excavation sites, which include the fort of Housesteads and Vindolanda. There also many paths leading along parts of the wall that are unbroken, this makes for a great day out if you enjoy long walks and historic sights.

Bamburgh Castle is one of Northumberland’s most iconic buildings, it was once home to the ancient kings of Northumbria. Bamburgh Castle was originally host to royal guests and English Kings, including Edward IV who destroyed it during the battle of the roses. The site was built in the late Victorian era by Lord Armstrong. In 1900 the castle was completely restored and is still home to the Armstrong family to this date. There are 14 public rooms within the castle with over 2,000 artefacts available for viewing which include arms, armour, porcelain, furniture and artwork. This is the perfect family day out for everyone to enjoy.

Another creation and family home of Lord Armstrong is Cragside House, Gardens and Estate. In 1880 it was described as 'a palace of the modern magician' and to this day is a truly unique attraction of Northumberland. It is historically the first building to be powered by hydroelectricity. You will also be able to find inventive gadgets such as fire alarm buttons, telephones, a lift, and Turkish Bath within the property. There are many activities that you can do across the estate including a play area, a rhododendron maze, a waterfall,  a Trim Trail and a foot path spanning 30 miles. An excellent day out for family and friends.

At Cottages.co.uk we have a range of stunning cottages to choose from within Northumberland, ensuring your stay “up North” is just perfect!

Plantone Cottage, Alnmouth

This beautiful cottage is tucked away in the village of Alnmouth. The cottage can cater for two double bedrooms or a double bedroom with upstairs living room depending on requirements. The cottage is within easy reach of the beach, river estuary, selection of pubs, restaurants and cafes. Just around the corner you can find the local post office and gift shop. The cottage is a great place to relax and enjoy, over dinner or reading a good book.

Laurel Cottage, Beadnell

This bungalow is situated in the beautiful coastal village of Beadnell. It is home to quite beautiful beaches and scenic countryside, where the nearest beach is only a short walk away. This cottage sleeps two and is perfect for a romantic short break. Shorts break are available in this bungalow in both peak and off peak seasons. There are modern facilities in both the living area and kitchen,  and there is a shed outside to store your wetsuits or fishing equipment. This is a great place to stay if you are looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Old Brewery Coach House, Melkridge

This beautiful detached grade II listed former coach house is located in Melkridge, just two miles from Haltwhistle. It is situated on an estate within a rural hamlet next to the busy town of Melkridge. The cottage sleeps up to two people with a double bedroom, beautiful open plan living area and conservatory. This cottage is in the land of Hadrian’s Wall and offers an excellent area to walk, including cycle routes on the doorstep. This is the perfect base for a holiday at any time of year.

For more information about activities or cottages within Northumberland please do not hesitate to contact us via our website at http://www.cottages.co.uk/

Environmentally Friendly Holidays

Everyone likes to help the environment, whether its by recycling or using economical products. When going on holiday you don’t have to stop being environmentally friendly. In the UK there are various holiday cottages available that are environmentally friendly. They include Little Marshfoot in East Sussex, Newt Cottage in Northumberland and Organig Parc in North Wales. Each individual one of these accommodation promotes environmentally friendly policies.

Little Marshfoot, East Sussex

Little Marshfoot is located in farmland on the edge of the Pevensey Levels near the town of Hailsham in East Sussex. It is within easy reach of Eastbourne, Lewes, Brighton, Hastings, and Royal Tunbridge Wells. The property itself is newly built within the gardens of a former farmhouse. The building of the property has also led to the recovery of a waste area within the gardens. Native plants have been planted in the gardens surrounding the property which were chosen to attract birds and wildlife. The property is rife in environmental architecture including:

• Made out of wood sourced from certified sustainable woodland within the UK
• The building is south-east facing to capture morning light
• The double glazing captures and retains 'passive solar heat'
• Natural ventilation is provided by wide opening doors and windows
• The properties insulation is made of recycled telephone directories and newspapers

Newt Cottage

Newt Cottages is situated on a small family farm in Northern Northumberland. The Victorian stone cottage is located next to a grass meadow and a small stream. The cottage has been restored with due consideration for the environment. When staying in this cottage you can be sure that you are helping to look after the environment. The cottage has several components that are environmentally friendly including energy, no harmful chemicals, water, recycling and products for the cottage. Environmental components include:

• An energy efficient electric air-source heat pump provides the heat for our central heating system
• The cottage is insulated with sheeps wool which you can see through a viewing panel in the living room
• The power is supplied through a grid which is connected to wind turbines
• All the paints and wood oils used in the cottage are free of harmful solvents
• To save water we’ve installed a shower above the bath and a dual flush toilet
• There is a three part kitchen in which you can separate recycling and a compost bin
• Products are bought with the consideration of the environment, e.g. food and drink, bathroom toiletries and cleaning products

Organig Parc

Organig Parc is located in the Llyn Peninsula, North Wales. The cottages are surrounded by 300 acres of organic and natural farmland. Organig Parc has its own heather-clad mountain, private trout lake, river valley, ancient church and mill. The cottages are South facing and sleep between 4-6 people. The cottages within Organig Parc are a prime example of accomodation that has been built with the environment in mind. They have also incorporated environmental factors inside the cottages. These include:

• The fridges, dishwashers and washing machines in the kitchens have low-energy ratings
• The Aga-Rayburns are not only stylish cookers but provide hot water too
• All sheets and towels are 100% organic cotton in the bedrooms and bathrooms
• Environmentally friendly washing and cleaning products and hand soaps are provided for guests
• Recycling facilities are provided for the collection of tins, paper, glass and appropriate food waste

So if you are looking for an environmentally friendly holiday in the UK these are all great accommodation to stay in. For more information about eco-friendly holidays please visit our website http://www.cottages.co.uk/