26 Of The Best Holiday Cottages In The UK

Guaranteed to satisfy your cottagecore craving

Airbnb Cottage

by Lillian Sesiguzel and Georgia Aspinall |
Updated on

If you're not familiar with the trending term cottagecore, then the best way to describe it is, social media's answer to TV's Escape to the Country. Interior enthusiasts share photos and videos of their home's country aesthetic in idyllic locations, as the rest of us only dream to be there. Cue our obsession with holiday cottages on Airbnb, Plum Guide and Vrbo.

With lockdown over, you can travel to an Airbnb or luxury holiday rental within England - but it's worth checking out individual rules for the rest of the UK as they can differ.

Instagram accounts such as my oxfordshire cottage, by Helen Kaylor, and hillhousevintage, by Paula Sutton, are great examples of cottagecore and how you can adopt a similar aesthetic in your own home. But, if you're not into, or simply don't have the time for flower arranging, making Victoria sponges and laying tables perfectly (centre-pieces and all), then we may have the answer: these adorable holiday cottages available for home rental.

We've compiled a list of the best countryside Airbnbs and holiday cottages in the UK so you can get your cottagecore fix, including a forest lodge, a windmill, even accommodation made from a 75 year old boat.

Take a look at our gallery below...

The best holiday cottages on Plum Guide:

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Best Holiday Cottages on Plum Guide - Grazia

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The Hyde, Truro, Cornwall

Tucked away in a dense wood, far from the world, the Hyde home is a perfect retreat for a couple or a solo traveller. From the cosy Bohemian interiors to luxurious appliances (think Heston Blumenthal BBQ and Bose sound system), there's plenty to love. Sleeps up to 2, from £264 per night.

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Halcyon Hideaway, Hertfordshire

Set on a countryside estate, this converted barn ideal for a couple to get out of the city for a break – you wouldn't know it, but London is less than an hour away on the train. From £155 per night, it sleeps up to 2.

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Dapple, Kent

Sleeping up to 4 for £367 per night, this home was originally the stables of a grand 18th century house! The charming brick cottage is set in a prestigious part of Royal Tunbridge Wells.

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Country Honey, Gloucestershire, England

Set in Ford, an attractive hamlet along the banks of the River Windrush, this romantic cottage offers the highest levels of charm and comfort for your Cotswolds escape. From £126 per night, it sleeps up to 2.

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Copper Spoon Cottage, Marazion,Cornwall

This traditional Cornish cottage with pretty blue shutters is reminiscent of the Mediterranean, with the living space of the home opening directly onto the balcony and expansive views of the ocean. Sleeping up to 4, it starts from £108 per night.

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Daisy Meadow, Faringdon, Oxfordshire

From the heart-shaped bed nook to the little wood-burner, this home is straight out of a fairy tale. Sleeping up to 2, it's £139 per night.

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Zareba, St Ives, Cornwall

Designed to maximise its incredible views, Zareba welcomes up to six guests for £460 per night to indulge in its sumptuous sofas, breathtaking views and high-end finishes.

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Shallow Pools, Looe

Surrounded by an acre of private land, this Cornish retreat offers a peaceful getaway from the usual hustle and bustle. Sleeping up to 6 from £294 per night, it's even got availability this month.

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Eggshell & Slate, Wales

Sleeping up to 6 for £244 per night, this incredible converted barn is set in the Dyfi Valley with fabulous views across the valley to the Cambrian Mountains. Relax on the patio and make use of the barbecue on warm evenings.

The best holiday cottages on Vrbo

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The Best Holiday Cottages On Vrbo - Grazia

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Borth-y-Gest Cottage,Talsarnau, Wales,

Rated five stars by Visit Wales, the cottage is a newly renovated luxury 2 bedroomed detached holiday cottage with mesmerising sea views. Sleeping up to 4, it's £141 per night.

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Country Cottage, South Staffordshire District

The quintessential country cottage set across three acres of its own grounds and sleeps up to 16! From £999 per night, the tranquil escape is perfect for large families and groups.

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Hollyhock House, Witney, England

Situated at the edge of Stonesfield with easy access to the Cotsworlds, this large cottage sleeps up to 11 at £1,000 per night.

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Lantern Cottage, Scarborough, England

Soak up the stunning coast and country views at this beautiful one-bed detached barn conversion. Sleeping up to 2, it's £233 per night.

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The Kist, Stirling and Falkirk, Scotland

Set in 6.5 acres of garden and grounds, this rural retreat has a large deck to entertain guests and panoramic views of the beautiful countryside. The Kist sleeps up to 4 at £97 per night.

The best holiday cottages on Airbnb:

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DISCOVER: The Best Countryside Stays

Charming Cottage, Bath1 of 11

Charming Cottage, Bath

This quirky 18th century character cottage is just 2 miles from Bath's city centre (25 mins walk). As well as being situated in the countryside, it's perfect for those that want a bit of both. Plus, there's a great selection of boutique pubs nearby.2-night minimum stay, from £160 per night.

Stunning Cotswold cottage, Gloucestershire2 of 11

Stunning Cotswold cottage, Gloucestershire

This 18th century Cotswold cottage, has been newly renovated and beautifully decorated throughout. In keeping with its history, the country kitchen is perfect for entertaining, complete with Aga.2-night minimum stay, from £215 per night.

The Mill, Rutter Falls, Cumbria3 of 11

The Mill, Rutter Falls, Cumbria

This converted watermill overlooking a spectacular waterfall, sleeping up to two couples – perfect for a romantic getaway, and deal for honeymoons, anniversaries or engagements! You won't find accommodation closer to rushing water than this.7-night minimum stay, from £113 per night.

Asphodel Cottage, Cirencester4 of 11

Asphodel Cottage, Cirencester

Dating back to 1624, this immaculately restored cottage oozes character. With only one bedroom, it's great for a couples countryside retreat. Unwind in the evening and enjoy the panoramic views from the garden.4-night minimum stay, from £144 per night.

Luxurious Rustic Cottage B&B, Paxton. Berwickshire5 of 11

Luxurious Rustic Cottage B&B, Paxton. Berwickshire

Dene Cottage offers 1 double room with luxury bath / shower room in a fairytale setting with woodland walks along the river Tweed. Plus, breakfast included!1-night minimum stay, from £75 per night.

Alton Forest Lodge, Oakamoor6 of 11

Alton Forest Lodge, Oakamoor

Alton forest lodge is a unique woodland hideaway set in beautiful ancient forest on the edge of the peak district national park. Complete with hot tub, this lodge sleeps up to 12 people, perfect for a hen do or birthday get-together.2-night minimum stay, from £175 per night.

Romantic Oak Cabin, Berkhamsted7 of 11

Romantic Oak Cabin, Berkhamsted

This cosy luxurious self contained oak cabin offers a peaceful setting for a relaxing getaway. Backing onto the National Trust Ashridge Forest, this is perfect for outdoor lovers but equally suitable for a romantic night in.1-night minimum stay, from £110 per night.

Secluded Countryside Lodge, Maidstone, Kent8 of 11

Secluded Countryside Lodge, Maidstone, Kent

Embrace the quirky, cosy interiors in this romantic getaway. Open the doors to the terrace, and let the sounds of nature waft through the lodge. Plus, fire up the BBQ and enjoy a good meal, followed by a dip in the hot tub perhaps?3-night minimum stay, from £110 per night.

Unique Glamping Experience, Sutton9 of 11

Unique Glamping Experience, Sutton

Ever fancied staying in a beautifully converted 1945 boat? Well he's your chance. Nestled within a private forest overlooking the open fenland countryside, it's perfect for couples looking to relax, explore and visit the local towns.1-night minimum stay, from £150.

Private Seaside Retreat, Weston super Mare10 of 11

Private Seaside Retreat, Weston super Mare

This detached Coach House is perfect placed by the seaside, and offers locally sourced continental breakfast. Complete with its own hot tub and a private garden.2-night minimum stay, from £105.

Old Smock Windmill, Benenden11 of 11

Old Smock Windmill, Benenden

Old Smock Mill holds a peaceful and relaxing ambiance. Surrounded by the lovely Kent countryside, feel free to ramble and refresh yourselves by perhaps ending the day in one of the cosy pubs nearby.2-night minimum stay, from £183 per night.

Just so you know, while we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this page, we never allow this to influence product selections.

And if those don't tickle your fancy click here for 19 of the dreamiest UK home rentals instead.

Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website, we never allow this to influence product selections - read why you should trust us