The nights are drawing in and the temperature is beginning to dip. So, we think that means it’s ok to talk about Christmas. If you fancy gathering your nearest and dearest together to enjoy the festive season but haven’t booked anywhere yet, it’s not too late. We’ve put together a selection of the best cottages to celebrate this Christmas.
Sleeps 8
Enjoy a slice of laid-back, rural Herefordshire life with family and friends this Christmas at Ridge Farmhouse on the Welsh Borders. Dating to the 17th century, this charming cottage enjoys the most spectacular setting in the foothills of the Black Mountains.
Gather together and cook up a festive meal in the spacious, open-plan kitchen/diner. Then, if there’s a pianist in the family, there’s a piano where Christmas tunes can be belted out for a good old-fashioned sing-along.
On chilly days, snuggle up beside the log burner or wrap up warm and explore the beauty of the surrounding wilderness. There’s a walk to Hatterrall Hill, or amble to the village pub, about 20 minutes away, where you can reward yourself with a pint.
Sleeps 8
A true rural idyll, The Luxury Barn is set in a pretty village, not far from the market town of Ashbourne. The barn conversion enjoys far-reaching countryside views and is fantastic for families and small groups.
For some festive cheer the local pub is a short walk, while longer country walks are also there for the taking. The house is also well located for the Peak District, around a 10-minute drive away, where you will discover breathtaking scenery such as Dovedale.
When you’re done exploring, relax your muscles in the rolltop bath or in the hot tub. Then, pour yourselves a chilled glass of fizz straight from the wine cooler and get cosy beside the fire.
Sleeps 4
This traditional stone cottage is very cosy and features boutique hotel-style interior design. It’s the ideal place for two couples or a family with older children to relax and enjoy days out exploring the Lake District National Park.
Inside, there’s an open-plan living space where you can curl up on the sofa in front of the wood-burning fire to watch a Christmas movie. Meanwhile, views from both bedrooms are of a wooded area, a delightful scene to wake up to, especially when dusted in snow.
On a crisp morning, there’s little better than popping on your wellies and building up an appetite with a stroll. The nearest pub is a short walk or take a longer route along Elterwater Lake to Stockghyll Force, which is very pretty.
Sleeps 8
We’re sure you’ll agree that there’s no better excuse to justify over indulging than the festive season. If you actively seek the best places to sample local produce, Daydreamer Cottage, set in a wooded valley in Cornwall, is perfectly placed for foodies.
For starters there’s a bistro just a short walk away, while the town of Padstow, highly regarded for its quality restaurants, is just a few miles away. Alternatively, there are local farm shops to stock up on ingredients and local wine.
Should you wish to attempt to burn off some calories, there are country and coastal walks to enjoy. Meanwhile, back indoors you can thaw out beside the double-sided, wood-burning stove and catch a wintery sunset from the top of the stairs.
Sleeps 6
If you require a place to entertain that’s in a town centre location, Harold House in Cowes on the Isle of Wight won’t disappoint. Superb restaurants and boutique shops – perfect for last-minute gift purchases, are just a few minutes’ walk away.
This beautifully renovated townhouse is perfect for a family or friends who like to socialise. The owners have made sure that it is both a welcoming home and a fantastic place for enjoying intimate meals with good friends. Even the sideboard in the dining room is filled with things to present the perfect dinner party.
Meanwhile, Robert Thompson’s restaurant is across the street and Cowes Marina and the beach are just a short walk away. So, if you fancy a bracing coastal walk to blow the cobwebs away, you can do just that.
Sleeps 7
A barn conversion in a rural setting on a working dairy farm in the Eden Valley, Plum Cottage is perfect for a get-away-from-it-all festive escape. There are lovely countryside views and you might even spot the occasional deer or red squirrel.
Original character including the oak ceiling beams perfectly blend with modern décor. Large sofas and a log burner invite you to put your feet up and unwind.
You’ll be in walking distance of the historic market town of Appleby where you can see the Christmas lights and visit Appleby Castle. Meanwhile, Appleby Manor and Spa is a wonderful place to book in for a relaxing spa treatment.
Sleeps 6
Christmas at Slate Beach House on the Isle of Anglesey promises cosy and contemporary interiors, countryside views and a coastal location.
The heart of the house is the stunning kitchen and dining area that’s fitted with a range of quality fixtures including a Rayburn stove to cook fantastic family dinners. With ample seating for six at the dining table and a comfy sofa this space is perfect for gathering together to chat, cook and be merry.
When the winter sun is out, put on your scarves, gloves and wellies for a refreshing walk down to Benllech beach, about 10 minutes away. When you return, warm up beside the log burner with a good book or take a dip in the hot tub with a glass of bubbles in-hand.
Sleeps 10
This 17th-century farmhouse in rural Berkshire is a wonderful setting for a Christmas break full of rest and rejuvenation. The quiet farmland surroundings mean there’s a blissfully remote feel and there are delightful countryside views.
For the perfect country Christmas cook a Christmas feast and exchange gifts in the warmth of the Aga and the roaring log fire. Extra special touches include a freestanding copper bath and there’s even a gym if you’d like to keep up with your fitness regime.
After eating and drinking to your heart’s content there are country walks to embark on. Or, for something special, book for one of the Christmas events held in December at Highclere Castle (otherwise known as Downton Abbey).
If you have any questions about any of our cottages or if you’d like some help with your booking, you are very welcome to get in touch with us.
We are always happy to help and go out of our way to tailor your perfect UK holiday.
Pudleston, Herefordshire
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