If you’re taking a cottage holiday this winter and are on a budget or just want to get the best available deals then you may want to optimise on free days out.

For members, the National Trust offer a host of fascinating country houses and gardens which can be visited for free.  Although some houses are closed for the winter season, the gardens are open at many and special events are on at some such as special Christmas evenings and guided tours at some properties where the houses are decorated especially for the season.

Other great free attractions include country parks and gardens.  Wrap up warm and enjoy the changing scenery in parks and gardens.  Frosty and snowy days can really add that something special to your experience.  If you need to warm up why not pop in to a local café for a good value lunch or cup of tea.  A number of galleries and museums up and down the country are also free.

We also recommend that you do your research on 2 for 1 offers.  Many offers are available nowadays online and with a little bit of searching you can reap great rewards and save money on your cottage holiday.   Wherever you go for your self-catering break, we hope you find that the best things in life are indeed free and that you have the very best of times.  If you haven’t yet booked your cottage getaway take a look at last minute cottages for some of the best late deals.