Tag Archives: Top Places

Best Places to Discover Englands Natural Beauty

England is indeed a green and beautiful country with many stunning areas to discover on a short break or longer holiday. Those who enjoy walking will discover footpaths and trails which guide you through the greenery of the British countryside.

Yorkshire Dales England

Stunning countryside of the Yorkshire Dales

England’s National Parks
There are 10 National Parks in England to choose from, each of which has its own unique landscape and appeal. In the south of England choices include the New Forest and the South Downs, whereas in East Anglia there is the New Forest, in the West Country there are two parks; Dartmoor National Park and Exmoor National Park whereas the north of England is blessed with five parks; the Peak District National Park, the Lake District National Park, the Yorkshire Dales, the North Yorkshire Moors and Northumberland National Park. Staying in a holiday cottage within the greenery of one of the National Parks is ideal for those looking to enjoy rural tranquil surroundings.

Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

The naturally beautiful landscape of the Chiltern Hills.

English Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty
There are 33 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) protected by Natural England and these landscapes are renowned for their beauty and the quality of their countryside. For walks, cycling and taking photographs, these are protected, special places to visit where you can enjoy peace, tranquility and wonderful fresh air.

English Valleys
It is Wales that is best known for valleys but England too has a few valleys for those looking to discover beautiful unique landscapes on holiday. A few choices include the Suffolk River Valleys with its network of grasslands, rivers and heathlands, the tranquil rural farmlands by the Severn Valley and the Tamar Valley in Cornwall, a lovely river valley by the River Tamar nestled by woodlands close to Bodmin Moor and Dartmoor.

National Trust Gardens and Country Homes in England
The National Trust has a fantastic collection of gardens and country houses which are free for members to visit. These wonderful outdoor spaces are either beautifully maintained or left to grow wild to ensure sustainability and to keep England beautiful for future generations.

Top Destinations for Cottage Holidays

Now is the time of year when we all start thinking about where on earth to go for our next holiday. We can help inspire you on possible destinations to visit as we have visited and reviewed many areas. The UK is home to some fantastic countryside including moors, valleys, forests and downs as well as historical towns and villages, cities as well as a beautiful coastline. Let our destination guides on England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland help guide you on what the different countries of the UK have to offer.  When it comes to types of accommodation, top choices include family cottages and holiday parks which with their excellent shared facilities can be just perfect for families.

Top 10 Rural Retreat Destinations

If you have in mind a country holiday for 2013 and are in need of some inspiration then we can help with our top 10 recommended destinations for rural retreat holidays.  We have featured destinations in England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland.  Our guide takes you through some of the best places in the UK and Ireland for a tranquil, relaxed getaway.  Don’t forget that not only can we help with providing you with information on some amazing places to visit but we also feature a fantastic collection of rural cottages and retreats, ideal for a stress free holiday.  Find out more and read our Top 10 Destinations for Rural Retreats.

Cottage Holiday Destination Guides

Our experts have written some helpful guides on cottage holidays in the UK.  Scotland is a country within the UK with a wealth of outstanding landscapes and a rich culture  Why not take a look at our Scotland guide or see our regional specific information such as our info on the Scottish Highlands or the Isle of Skye?  Scotland has lots to offer for self-catering holidays.  The landscape is stunning and there is a great deal of choice when it comes to country activities.  Do get in touch with your feedback on these guides to help us make these as useful as possible.

Self-catering accommodation in Scotland can be in cottages, lodges, log cabins, chalets and even in mansions.  If you would like more advice and guidance on holidaying in Scotland take a look at our recommendations for having an enjoyable cottage holiday stay in Scotland.  It usually pays to plan ahead and do your research.  Shopping around can also save you money.  For last minute deals take a look at our late cottages or special offers.

Best Sources of Information about Self Catering Holidays

When planning a self catering cottage break you may want to find information on places to go before you book.  You may be in need of inspiration or have an idea about where you want to go but need more details about where there is to do in each area.  We aim to provide you with great resources when it comes to suggested things to do and places to see, find out more by taking a look at our area guides.  Also remember to get advice and guidance from cottage owners or agencies before you book, many are experts when it comes to what is on offer locally.

Need inspiration? See our guides

If you are in need of some ideas about good places within the UK and Ireland for self catering holidays then we can help.  We have written free online guides on England, Scotland, areas such as the Brecon Beacons in Wales and fascinating places like the Lakelands in Ireland, all of which are aimed at highlighting the main attractions along with things to see and do.

Award winning cottages in the UK and Ireland

We have a great choice of award winning cottages featured here.  These award winners include those that have achieved accolades such as Gold Awards, Silver Awards and Green Awards.  Depending on what is important to you, you may want to opt for somewhere to stay which excels at customer service or you may want to find somewhere with excellent green credentials.  Whatever is important to you and wherever you choose have a brilliant time.