Bank holidays are a perfect time to escape the routine and enjoy a short break, whether it's a family getaway, a romantic retreat, or a weekend with friends. Self-catering cottages provide the ideal accommodation for these long weekends, offering flexibility, privacy, and a comfortable space to relax. With self-catering, you have complete control over your schedule, meals, and activities. In this guide, we’ll explore why bank holiday self-catering is such a great choice, where to find the best cottages, how to book the ideal property, and tips for making the most of your stay.
Booking a holiday cottage for a bank holiday weekend offers several key benefits that make it an attractive choice for short breaks:
One of the most significant advantages of choosing a self-catering cottage for your bank holiday is the privacy it offers. Unlike hotels, where you may encounter other guests in shared spaces, a cottage provides your group or family with exclusive access to the property. Whether you're looking for a peaceful rural retreat or a secluded beach house, you can enjoy your holiday without disturbances from other guests.
Self-catering accommodation allows you to set your own schedule, giving you the freedom to decide what time you want to wake up, eat, and explore. With no set meal times or curfews, you can enjoy a truly relaxed experience. Whether you want to cook together in a fully equipped kitchen or dine out, the choice is yours. This flexibility makes self-catering the ideal option for a short bank holiday break.
Holiday cottages typically offer more space than hotel rooms, allowing families or groups to spread out. With multiple bedrooms, large living areas, and often private outdoor spaces, you can all enjoy communal time while having enough room for everyone to have some downtime. Whether it’s a cozy rural retreat or a spacious seaside villa, the extra space ensures comfort and convenience for all guests.
When traveling with a group or family, self-catering can be more affordable than booking multiple hotel rooms. Not only can the cost of the accommodation be shared, but preparing your own meals also saves money compared to dining out every day. Many holiday cottages also offer group discounts or deals for longer stays, making them a cost-effective choice for bank holiday breaks.
The UK offers a wide variety of stunning locations that are perfect for a bank holiday self-catering getaway. Here are some of the best places to consider:
The Lake District is an idyllic destination for a bank holiday, offering a mix of stunning lakes, mountains, and charming villages. Whether you’re planning outdoor adventures or simply enjoying the natural beauty, this area has a wide range of self-catering cottages to suit your needs.
For a coastal escape, Cornwall is one of the UK’s most popular destinations. With its beautiful beaches, dramatic cliffs, and coastal villages, Cornwall offers a variety of self-catering options, from seaside cottages to rural retreats.
With its tranquil beaches, scenic countryside, and the Norfolk Broads, Norfolk is a fantastic destination for self-catering. Whether you want a peaceful retreat or an active adventure, Norfolk provides a wide selection of properties perfect for bank holiday weekends.
For a more remote and adventurous break, Scotland offers breathtaking landscapes and a wide variety of self-catering properties. Whether you choose a luxury lodge near Loch Ness or a historic castle in the Highlands, Scotland provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable bank holiday stay.
With its stunning landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and lush valleys, Wales is a perfect destination for a bank holiday self-catering getaway. Whether you're in the mountains of Snowdonia or along the Pembrokeshire coast, there are plenty of beautiful properties to choose from.
There are many types of self-catering cottages that are ideal for bank holiday stays. Here are some of the best options:
For those who love the sea, seaside cottages offer direct access to the beach and breathtaking views of the coastline. Perfect for a relaxing holiday by the sea, these cottages are popular for families and couples alike.
For a peaceful, nature-filled break, countryside cottages offer the ideal escape. Many are located in picturesque villages or rural settings, providing the perfect environment to unwind and enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside.
If you're looking for something more indulgent, luxury cottages are available in many of the top destinations. These cottages feature high-end amenities such as private hot tubs, expansive gardens, and modern interiors for a truly special bank holiday experience.
If you’re traveling with pets, look for pet-friendly cottages that allow dogs or other animals. Many cottages in rural or coastal locations cater to pet owners, offering secure gardens and nearby walking trails.
Booking your bank holiday cottage is easy with these simple steps:
Start by browsing trusted booking platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, Sykes Cottages, and Holiday Cottages. These platforms offer a variety of self-catering properties, with detailed descriptions and customer reviews.
Use the search filters to narrow down your options based on your group size, desired amenities, and budget. You can also search for specific features, such as pet-friendly cottages or properties with hot tubs or sea views.
Make sure to read reviews from previous guests to get a sense of the property’s quality and the experience of others. Check the availability of your desired property early to avoid disappointment.
Before booking, always confirm the details of the property, such as the cancellation policy, check-in times, and any additional fees (e.g., cleaning or security deposits).
Here are some expert tips for making your bank holiday getaway even more enjoyable:
Since many self-catering cottages come with fully equipped kitchens, take advantage of this by planning your meals ahead of time. Stock up on ingredients for breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, and enjoy cooking together as a group.
Be sure to pack for the unpredictable weather, especially if you're staying in a rural or coastal location. Even if the forecast is sunny, it’s wise to bring clothing for all types of weather conditions.
While bank holidays are ideal for relaxing, it’s also an opportunity to explore local attractions. Check out nearby historical sites, beaches, parks, and local events to make the most of your stay.
Whether it's hiking in the hills, cycling along coastal paths, or taking a leisurely walk on the beach, take full advantage of the beautiful surroundings.