These are the best cottages by the sea to book now for the ultimate rest and relaxation
"Best holiday cottages by the sea", we aggressively Google as all the Coronavirus news finally gets TOO MUCH. Keeping up with the overwhelming happenings of the world around us plus work, long-distance friendships, and the hurries of our new everyday life can be seriously stressful.
Thankfully, travel restrictions or not, escaping to one of the best British holiday cottages by the sea should still be possible this summer - and doing so is the perfect way to relax. Sometimes, all it takes is some no-phone time, nice views and a brisk walk along the beach to bring you back to a calmer reality.
Imagine waking up, taking an early morning stroll and breathing in the sea air. Nothing but deep water and grassland in sight. Surrounded by those you value most, with no background noise or traffic to disturb the peace. Dreamy? Dreamy. But you've gotta escape the city to grasp it.
We’ve put together a list of the best cottages by the sea for every occasion - from cosy and romantic breaks to adventurous and active family trips or a fun-filled weekends with friends. And every single one makes the perfect post-lockdown holiday.
Whether you are looking for accommodation that will rival Cameron Diaz’s in The Holiday, or a manor straight out of Downton Abbey, we’ve got you covered.
These are the best sea-side cottages in the UK for every occasion.
Best for: privacy
This stylish and spacious house is located on a private road in the middle of Rye Harbour nature reserve and just 50 yards from the pebble beach. It's the perfect mix of modern and traditional, with wood burning fires, underfloor heating and space for seven guests.
Best for: interior lovers
The Blue House, Camber, East Sussex
This eight-person house is utterly spectacular, not least because of its open-air baths, glass front and stunning balcony. It's situated right on the miles of sandy beach in Camber, close to Rye within easy access from London. There's Apple TV, luxurious beds, an open-plan kitchen and you can take your pets. Where do we sign?
Best for: space
The Old Coal Yard, Veryan, Cornwall
This pet-friendly pad sleeps 12 people across six double bedrooms. It's located in the pretty village of Veryan, just a short stroll from the beaches at Carne and Pendower. The bedrooms are spread over three floors and one annex to maximise the space; there's also a snug area and gorgeous outdoor terrace.
Best for: large groups of friends
Court Farmhouse, Marhamchurch, Devon
This spectacular farmhouse sleeps 12 guests across six bedrooms. It dates back over 300 years but has been renovated to the highest of standards - yet there are still plenty of traditional features like the low-hanging beams to keep the character alive.
Best for: children
St Monica's, Lescrow, Cornwall
This unique property was originally built as a place of worship for the Roman Catholic community in Fowey and was converted into residential accommodation about 30 years ago. There is a double bedroom with an en-suite wet room, a twin bedroom and a small bunk room (mainly suitable for children).
Best for: the central location
Tolly House, Wells-Next-The-Sea, Norfolk
This semi-detached house sits on a quiet street with parking for two cars. It's really central: just a five minute walk to the shops, the Quay and two fantastic gastro pubs - yet it's also only five minutes away from one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK. There are four bedrooms and there is space for eight guests.
Best for: a traditional English break
The Spinney, High Barn Cottages, Heritages Escapes, Yorkshire
Set in Yorkshire, this 4-bed Northern cottage will transport you to a simpler time. With pubs within walking distance, exposed brickwork and a dew pond, this is the ideal cottage for a traditional English break. Guests can choose to bird watch, visit sandy beaches, or explore cliffs and caves packed with history.
Best for: a romantic retreat
Boatman's Loft, Whitby, North Yorkshire
Perched on top of the sea wall on Yorkshire’s wild and rugged coastline, this stylish converted loft space makes for a perfect seaside escape for two people. Although it’s only a one-bedroom loft, it feels spacious inside and boasts beautiful, uninterrupted views of the sea.
Best for: larger families and walking
The Lighthouse Keeper's Cottage, Lynton, Devon
This unique holiday cottage by the sea has space for 10 guests across six bedrooms. There's a minimum stay of three nights, and the actual lighthouse is still operating. Pretty cool, right? It's a great spot to stay if you love walking, since it's based on the Exmoor Heritage Coast. Head up the South West Coast Path for hikes to Lynmouth and beyond or go inland towards Watersmeet for its wooded valley and quaint tea-garden.
Best for: outdoor enthusiasts
Chesil Cottage, West Bexington, Devon
This traditional cottage has space for four guests across two bedrooms. The master bedroom is on the first floor and the second double bedroom is in the loft space above. The focal point of this cottage is the sea views which stretch right across Chesil Beach.
Best for: the hot tub
The Lily Pad, Camborne, Cornwall
Lily Pad Cottage is based in an idyllic setting, making it the perfect place to connect with your loved one. A popular destination for couples, the single story, one bedroom cottage boasts a lovely view of Little Petherick Creek, a hot tub, and a garden.
Best for: an activity-filled break
Cormorant, Broomhill Manor, Cornwall
There will be no time to spare whilst staying in this three-bed manor. With both an indoor and outdoor pool and hot tub, spa treatments available, a games room, horse riding onsite, and a soft play area, you can’t possibly be bored at Broomhill Manor.
Best for: brisk walks
Cockle Cottage, Roundhouse Barns, Cornwall
This South-facing detached cottage sleeps 2, and is ideal for those who love walking, as a range of picture-perfect hikes begin here. Explore Cornish views by day, and cuddle up next to a log burning fire by night, for the perfect cottage break.
Best for: family holidays
This 4-bedroom, recently remodelled traditional cottage has everything you could ask for on a coastal break. Child-friendly, and complete with a real fire, this mansion is a peaceful haven for those simply wishing to relax, barbecue and take in the view.
