Learn the secrets of finding a great holiday cottage at a great price.
Our tips on how to find the perfect cottage explains why, for example, more expensive does not mean better (really – it's true), why late bargains are so hard to find with cottage holidays, how to get your money back if you're not happy, and how to pay less for a fantastic place than other people are paying.
Many of the largest UK cottage rental agencies are owned and operated by US-based Cendant Vacation Rental Group, including:
English Country Cottages
Country Holidays
Welcome Holidays
Cottages4you
Blakes Cottages
Stilwells
You can search across all of their properties at Cottages4You
Smaller independent agencies can be harder to find, but it is often worth the effort because they have some of the best holiday cottages and can offer good local advice. This site features many independent agencies which we have selected, with a brief introduction to each of them. Just click through when you find an agency that looks right for you.
Welcome to more choice of UK holiday cottages than ever!
We are currently hand-picking over one thousand outstanding holiday cottages and luxury log cabins across the UK. Check out the regions on the left in green to see the areas already complete. Of course you can still see our directory of holiday cottage agencies too, local specialists from Cornwall to Scotland. We believe in self-catering holidays, and especially in helping people to find the perfect place to stay in the UK. We hope these changes will help you to find your ideal holiday cottage.
Over 750 holiday cottages from a family run business successfully letting self catering accommodation for over 30 years. Covering the entire West Country we offer a wide variety of holiday cottages across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.
Nestling in the dramatic beauty of the North Yorkshire National Park, Keldy has miles of woodland trails to explore by bicycle or on foot.
Close by is the spectacular scenery of open moorland and picturesque market towns. You’re near to the sea too, with the old smuggler's haunts of Robin Hood’s Bay close at hand.
In the heart of the Cotswolds, near the traditional village of Kingham, relax on the deck of your own luxury lodge, featuring stylish, contemporary interiors and spacious external decking, and complete with sunken outdoor hot tub. Cycle hire and fishing available, plus the antique shops and lovely pubs of the Cotswolds.
A unique collection of over 370 holiday cottages for you in outstanding locations in England, Wales and N. Ireland. Some also have discounts for late availability. NT have large venues and hotels too.
With more than 30 years of experience Classic Cottages offer over 700 holiday cottages in Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset. Their selection of hand-picked cottages are regularly inspected to ensure cottages are of the highest standard.
On the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, beneath Skiddaw Mountain these holiday lodges offer a spectacular setting in one of the most gloriously unspoilt areas in the Lake District.
This small park is proud holder of Visit Britain's 'Best Park in England' award and the David Bellamy Gold award for conservation. Where better for a log cabin holiday?
You will normally be asked for a deposit when you book, with the balance to be paid around two months before your holiday.
Mackay's have close to 500 holiday cottages in Scotland, and claim to have an unrivalled selection - something to suit everyone. They inspect their cottages and have a grading scheme to match expectations to the style of holiday cottage being offered.
This is different! Living Architecture came about from a desire to shift perceptions of modern architecture. They have asked a series of great architects to design houses around Britain and are making these available to rent for holidays all year round. Not cheap, but definitely special.
The local specialists for Lake District holiday cottages with offices in Keswick, Windermere and Carlisle. Over 600 country cottages with a minimum 3 star rating should enable you to find something suitable. Open 7 days a week.
Bluestone offers luxurious, contemporary, eco-friendly timber lodges to rent, plus an enchanting rural setting in glorious Pembrokeshire, and a spa! The adjacent indoor waterpark and sports club offer all- weather activity and entertainment.
Pride themselves on providing great holiday cottages and apartments in top locations throughout Devon and Cornwall. Choose from over 750 luxury 4* and 5* self catering holiday cottages. Green Tourism Award 2010 - Gold
Deerpark is a hidden gem that nestles in a secluded valley in one of Cornwall's forests.
The cabins integrate into the valley sides and afford breath-taking views of the surrounding woodlands and water. And Cornwall beaches are never far away.
Cottage Search by Date. Are you tied to specific dates for your holiday? If so, you need to search a large selection of cottages.
The biggest choices come from Hoseasons and Cottages4You. You can search across all of their properties at Hoseasons Cottages and Cottages4You
A small selection of holiday cottages, all close to the... [+]
A small selection of holiday cottages, all close to the sea in Cornwall and Devon. Especially good for cottages around Bude, close to the border between the counties, where the company is located. [-]
Flexible start dates (outside school holidays) and flex... [+]
Flexible start dates (outside school holidays) and flexible durations, from 3 nights up. (But a 3 night break costs 75% of a full week). A regional rural retreats, with some delightful holiday cottages in Southwold and Sandringham. [-]
Situated near a quiet, attractive hamlet in picturesque... [+]
Situated near a quiet, attractive hamlet in picturesque South Devon, Beeson Farm offers five, 4 Star, award-winning stone farm cottages in recently refurbished Victorian Barns; and self-catering accommodation in a characterful Georgian stone farmhouse. [-]
"Some of the most extraordinary private homes, offering... [+]
"Some of the most extraordinary private homes, offering exclusive special places to stay in the UK and overseas."
Currently offering around 30 properties, and worth a browse if you are looking for something special. [-]
This 4 Star, self-contained holiday cottage has been re... [+]
This 4 Star, self-contained holiday cottage has been recently constructed in the gardens of a former farmhouse. Its design embodies a range of 'green' or environmentally friendly features, yet provides convenience and comfort. Unlimited broadband - wired or wi-fi.
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Only 8 miles from York!
Luxury log cabins with decks... [+]
Only 8 miles from York!
Luxury log cabins with decks, outdoor hot tubs and widescreen TVs - no roughing it here. One, two and three-bedroomed units available.
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For over 70 years Rumsey Holiday Homes has offered a ra... [+]
For over 70 years Rumsey Holiday Homes has offered a range of properties in and around the Poole area. An innovative e-mail system can send late cancellations information for those looking for a last minute break. Virtual tours available on all properties. [-]
Just a stones throw from the beach but if you don't fan... [+]
Just a stones throw from the beach but if you don't fancy braving the water then you can enjoy a relaxing swim in their indoor pool. The lodge has 2 bedrooms and is confortably furnished. [-]
Log cabins with en-suite master bedroom, and access to ... [+]
Log cabins with en-suite master bedroom, and access to an indoor pool and jacuzzi, within the grounds of a seventeenth century Hall. Woodbridge and Framlingham are nearby.
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Pride themselves on providing great holiday cottages an... [+]
Pride themselves on providing great holiday cottages and apartments in top locations throughout Devon and Cornwall. Choose from over 750 luxury 4* and 5* self catering holiday cottages. Green Tourism Award 2010 - Gold [-]
Lost in the Norfolk Plains lies this barn conversion wi... [+]
Lost in the Norfolk Plains lies this barn conversion with a cowboy feel sleeping up to 18. But there is a beach hut at Hunstanton available as part of the deal, as well as an 8-person jacuzzi. From £2,500 for a weekend. [-]
Woodlands Cottage is a four bedroomed stone cottage, en... [+]
Woodlands Cottage is a four bedroomed stone cottage, enclosed in its own garden with a sun terrace and hot tub. The sitting room has sliding patio doors opening on to the private patio area, satellite television and DVD player. ETC 4 star self-catering.
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Log cabins and hot tubs near Bideford, Barnstaple and Torrington
Scandinavian luxury lodges for self catering accommodat... [+]
Scandinavian luxury lodges for self catering accommodation with style, peace and tranquillity. 25 acres of landscaped grounds and 100 acres of mixed woodland, teeming with flora, fauna and wildlife. The pools and waterfalls, and panoramic scenery make this a place to enjoy a spot of coarse fishing or simply relax. [-]
The classic local, service based agency that knows the... [+]
The classic local, service based agency that knows their holiday cottages inside and out.
Flexible short stays, catered cottages, organic food deliveries, and advice on recreational activities.
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Dream Ireland Holiday Homes claim to offer the largest ... [+]
Dream Ireland Holiday Homes claim to offer the largest selection of over 3000 self catering holiday homes, apartments, cottages and holiday parks located all over Ireland. [-]
Mackay's have close to 500 holiday cottages in Scotland... [+]
Mackay's have close to 500 holiday cottages in Scotland, and claim to have an unrivalled selection - something to suit everyone. They inspect their cottages and have a grading scheme to match expectations to the style of holiday cottage being offered.
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An extensive selection of cottages throughout Cornwall,... [+]
An extensive selection of cottages throughout Cornwall, Devon and Dorset. Experience what the West Country has to offer with a short break or longer holiday. [-]
