Cottages, gîtes and holiday homes

Article updated every 6 months. Last update: 18th April 2008
Author: Susan Roscoe (Travel Expert) Ask me a question.

Holiday cottages in the UK are a great choice if you're looking for peace and quiet and the freedom to come and go as you please with no set itineraries or meal times to keep to.

They're great for family holidays and groups as you can usually find places large enough to accommodate everyone. They're a home away from home with plenty of choice whether you're looking for a countryside or coastal retreat.

Alternatively, why not opt for a similar kind of holiday in Europe where you can experience the same kind of freedom staying at a French gîte or a holiday home in the Spanish or Italian countryside.

Our guide will help you to pick the best cottage, gîte or holiday home to suit you...

Susan Roscoe
( Travel Expert): Cottages4you - Thousands of Cottages and Villas in the UK, Ireland, France, Italy Spain and Portugal all in one place

Hoseasons - Hoseasons offer a superb choice of over 1,400 carefully selected cottages for holidays and short breaks throughout the most beautiful locations in Britain.

English Country Cottages - A premium Cottage holiday brand with a portfolio of 4 and 5 star graded properties throughout England and Scotland.

Brittany Ferries - Tailor-make your perfect holiday from our range of great value self-catering and hotel accommodation across Holiday France and Spain.
See more of our recommended companies

Top UK and Europe destinations

To read our guides on the most popular cottage holiday destinations, click on the appropriate destination on the map or choose from one of the quick links below.

Who do we recommend?

With so many companies to choose from, we've researched the market to find those with a wide range of choice as well as some that are more specialist. Browse our list below to find the right company for you then click through to their web site for more information and how to book. It couldn't be easier!