South East England Holidays Guide
Thinking of taking a self-catering break in South East England? From Bedfordshire to Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, to Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, London, Surrey and West Sussex, discover what South East England offers for cottage breaks.
Why Holiday in South East England?
South East England is one of England’s most populated areas. As such, the area is ideal for holidaymakers who want to escape to the coast or countryside from the city of London, or simply want a change of scene.
Each area of South East England has its own unique attractions. If you are flexible and considering staying anywhere in the South East of England, you may be interested in holiday accommodation throughout the area.
Holiday homes across the South East of England
What Areas Make Up the South East of England?
South East England is made up of Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, London, Surrey and West Sussex. Some counties such as Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Kent and Surrey, are considered Home Counties as they are centred around London. Counties like Bedfordshire, East Sussex, West Sussex and Hampshire are a bit further afield and fall outside of the home counties.
What Does Each Area of South East England Offer for Cottage Breaks?
Each area of South East England has its own unique appeal, let’s consider each in turn.
• Bedfordshire,
• Berkshire,
• Buckinghamshire,
• Hampshire,
• Hertfordshire,
• Kent,
• London,
• Surrey
• Sussex
Bedfordshire for Family Attractions and the Chiltern Hills
For country cottage breaks in the Chiltern Hills, fine historical attractions such as Woburn Abbey and superb family attractions like Whipsnade Zoo and Woburn Safari Park, Bedfordshire could be the perfect choice.
Read our Bedfordshire Travel Guide
Berkshire for the North Wessex Downs, Family Attractions and Windsor Castle
Escape to Berkshire for a self-catering break and discover some of the finer things in life, with a visit to Ascot, boat trips along the River Thames or a trip to Windsor and Windsor Castle. Discover what this area of South East England offers for holidays with our Berkshire Travel Guide.
Buckinghamshire for the Chiltern Hills and History Galore
Book a holiday lodge and hide away in the Chiltern Hills and enjoy lazy days relaxing in the countryside. On days out enjoy visiting historical houses such as Waddesdon Manor and other Buckinghamshire attractions like the Roald Dahl Museum. For more information read our Buckinghamshire guide.
Hampshire for the New Forest
Discover some of England’s finest scenery with a break in the scenic New Forest, an ideal area for wildlife watching, outdoor pursuits and more. Also in Hampshire is the charming historical city of Winchester with its rich history, as well as the port city of Portsmouth.
Hertfordshire for the Chiltern Hills, History and Fascinating Attractions
With close proximity to London, Hertfordshire in many ways feels like a world away. Book a rural retreat and enjoy exploring rural Hertfordshire on days out, or spend days out discovering some of Hertfordshire’s beautiful towns like Berkhamsted and Tring. Add to this fascinating attractions like Hatfield House and the Tring Natural History Museum, and it’s clear that this area has lots to offer.
Kent for Castles, the Kent Downs, Coastline and the Garden of England
For some of England’s finest countryside and historical attractions, as well as a beautiful coastline, Kent is a great choice. Enjoy walks and outdoor pursuits in the Garden of England, visiting historical attractions like Leeds Castle, and don’t miss the county’s coastal attractions too, such as theWhite Cliffs of Dover and the coastal town of Deal.
London for World Class Attractions
As one of the world’s major cities, London has lots to offer. From the London Eye to the myriad of museums on offer, the city of London is a great place for a short break holiday.
Surrey for the Surrey Hills, Time by the Riverside and Historical Towns
For unspoilt countryside, time by the riverside and historical towns, Surrey is an absolute gem. Enjoy walking and hiking in the Surrey Hills, messing about by the Thames or exploring the historic towns, the choice is yours with a break in Surrey.
Sussex for the South Downs, the High Weald and Ample Coastal Charm
Get outdoors with day trips out in the South Downs National Park when you book a country cottage break in West Sussex. Coastal gems like Bognor Regis and Little Hampton also await along the delightful West Sussex coast.
Choose East Sussex for a cottage holiday and you have the choice of exploring the stunning landscape of the High Weald National Landscape or the beautiful East Sussex coastline with delights such as the Seven Sisters Cliffs, and the vibrant seaside town of Brighton.
Book the Best Holiday in South East England for you
Whether you opt to rent a holiday lodge with country views in Hertfordshire, a rural retreat in the Surrey Hills or a coastal cottage by the Kent coast, we hope we’ve inspired you with our ideas on what South East England offers for cottage breaks.