There is something very special about shutting yourself away in a cosy little cottage with a log fire burning and the sound of the wind and rain outside. If that sounds like something you’d like to experience, check out these suggestions for great, cottage holidays.

For those of you wanting a holiday in South Devon:

With an abundance of attractions, some of the most picturesque towns and villages and those blue flag beaches, which are just as pretty in the winter as they are the summer, south Devon is a great venue for a cottage holiday.

living room

Image: Bolberry Farm Cottages

In the Salcombe area there is Bolberry Farm Cottages. The site features three traditional barn conversions and is just a mile from the village of Hope Cove with its pretty thatched cottages and views across the water. Depending on which one you go for, you can sleep up to 16 here and each property has a private enclosed garden and off road parking – so whether you’re looking for a family holiday or a romantic retreat, this is an ideal base. Pets are welcome and stay completely free of charge!

For the anglers among you, take a look at the Fishing Cottage at the Arundell.   Located on the outskirts of Plymouth, the cottage is part of the Arundell Hotel, but is its own two bedroom self catering property, complete with a bathroom, kitchen, sitting room and an open fire – perfect for those wanting a winter get away! Guests of the cottage are welcome to use all the hotel’s facility during their stay and are just opposite the Arundell Deli for those nights where they just want to stay in.
The Arundell is well known for its fly fishing and offers tuition, as well as equipment hire. It is the place to go for those that enjoy a spot of fishing.

In the English Riviera are the Holiday Cottages at the Cary Arms. Each of the cottages are a short walk from the inn and spa and guests are welcome to enjoy the private areas of the hotel, including the saloon and private dining terrace as well as the spa. Each cottage has a spacious and comfortable sitting room with a working fire and all the fluffy towels and linen you could need for a cosy stay by the coast.

exterior of cottages

Image: Heron Cottages

Near the bohemian town of Totnes, is Heron Cottage, with three bedrooms and sleeping a maximum of six, this is an ideal property for those travelling with the whole family. An enclosed garden, an indoor pool and lots of outdoor space, you’ll each be able to enjoy your own privacy and have plenty of things to do without having to leave the site. If you do want to head out, Totnes is a wonderful town full of history and quirky shops and there are several beaches within easy reach too.

For those of you wanting a holiday in North Devon:

North Devon is famed for having the perfect conditions for watersports and do you know when the best waves are? They’re when the weather is a little more windy, so the winter months are the best time for getting out and challenging yourself. If you’re a novice, make sure to book some sessions with one of the many tutors that can be found in this part of the county before heading out!

If you’re on the hunt for a traditional cottage holiday, take a look at Deer’s Leap Retreat on the edge of the Exmoor National Park. This farmhouse has beautiful grounds, a lake and stunning views and can sleep up to 21 people – ideal for anyone wanting a family holiday or a big get together. Within walking distance is an area of moorland inhabited by deer, which gives the place its name and with all the home comforts you can expect, this is a wonderful place to escape the everyday.

fire place in living room

Image: Deer's Leap Retreat

The UK’s best beach can be found at Woolacombe in North Devon, not far from Pickwell Barton Cottages.  Nestled above the beaches at Putsborough and Woolacombe and within a stone’s throw of the ever popular Croyde Bay, Pickwell Barton is a wonderful destination for couples, families and groups of friends. The cottages are set within 600 acres of farmland just a short stroll from the beaches and give the illusion of being secluded and rural while still enjoying easy access to the region’s charming towns and villages. All the cottages have a range of facilities including free wifi and free parking at Putsborough beach. With a host of attractions nearby, there’s plenty to keep you entertained even on the darkest of winter days.

Also in Woolacombe is Lower Campscott Farm Holiday Cottages. Overlooking the coast, these cottages and lodges are a peaceful and tranquil escape and are ideal for family holidays. The cottages can sleep up to 40, so if you need accommodation for a big get together, take a look at what they have to offer. Each cottage has all the home comforts and the site is committed to being eco friendly, so you can enjoy yourself with a clear conscience.

For those of you wanting a holiday in Mid-Devon:

The mid-Devon region is the place to go if you want a rural retreat. Full of beautiful countryside and quaint cottage and the bonus of being equi-distance from the two National Parks and the coastlines, Mid Devon is a great choice for those who love to explore.

Towards the northern end of the region is Moorparks Holiday Cottages – two two bedroom cottages that have been converted from the farm’s original buildings. Surrounded by 12 acres of fields and with rare breed sheeps, alpacas, chickens and ducks, you have unlimited views and entertainment. For those looking for a hideaway with your loved one, you can choose to be completely private or out and about on the farm – each cottage has its own private garden and patio for your use and inside is a log burner for keeping those cold nights at bay. Because of its location, it is a fabulous base – Dartmoor and Exmoor are just 40 minutes away and are good for bracing winter walks and adventure!

Another option is Orchard Retreat in Crediton. With two beautifully renovated cottages as well as three locally handcrafted yurts in the apple orchard, here you can choose whether to go traditional or do something a little more unique. The yurts are all within a short stroll from their own bathroom and kitchen facilities while the cottages comfortably sleep up to six and have all the facilities you could need for a break in the country. Crediton is one of the more rural areas of Devon, so keep it in mind if you want to lose yourself in the wilderness this winter.

For those of you wanting a holiday in East Devon:

If views of the Jurassic Coast is more your speed, take a look at what is available in the east Devon region. Full of beautiful scenery, those iconic cliffs and pretty towns and villages, east Devon is a must visit location.

front door

Image: The Hayloft

In the Sidmouth area is Boswell Farm where you can find a host of different properties. Boswell Farm features an all year around tennis court and fishing lake as well as a yoga studio and children’s play area for guests to use.  The Holt  is their 6 person cottages with modern interiors and a private garden, plus a smart TV – so you can stream all your favourite shows. Also on site is the Hayloft, which is dog friendly and laid out across two floors and Cider Cottage, the quirky upside down 3 bed with its own private garden which overlooks the farm’s historic courtyard. Being based in the Sid Valley, you’re never too far from glorious sights and winter walking trails, plus you’re just a few minutes from the town of Sidmouth with its shopping opportunities and family friendly attractions.

Located in the heart of the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is Higher Wiscombe.  Just a short distance from the Jurassic Coast and the South West Coast Path, Higher Wiscombe is nestled in a peaceful valley with easy access to Beer, Branscombe, Sidmouth and more well known towns and villages. Each place offers amazing food and drink options as well as being on the coast, giving you the chance to see the Jurassic Coast up close.

Inspired to book a cottage holiday of your own? See all these cottages and more here.