British Gems – 5 of the Best Destinations for a True Getaway

Photo from Flickr by Sue Hasker

You love living in London, there is so much to do and see on a weekly basis but you can’t help but feel that you need a break from the hustle and bustle. Sound about right? Of course it does, there are only so many times you can be sat on the tube to work before you wonder what it would be like to be sat in a secluded holiday cottage somewhere else.

But, is it a European break that you want or is it time to get out of the English capital and into one of the Sykes Cottages that are dotted around the United Kingdom? You’re already convinced aren’t you – it’s time for a cottage. Here – in no particular order – are our top five:

Pilgrims Nest, Caterham

We’ll start in Surrey, easy distance from London, with a property which is deliciously isolated from the hectic wider world. The cotage is set in the glorious countryside within a charming village. There are a vast array of walking opportunities to explore within the area, as well as a number of quaint towns to  visit. If you are coming from outside London, this is just a 30 minute drive from Gatwick Airport and you can get to Brighton or London easily if you so wish!

One Sharp Lane, Almondbury

From Surrey we head to the Yorkshire Dales, and a lovely little spot near Huddersfield. Sat close to Leeds-Bradford airport, this spot is perfectly situated for those looking to head out of London and make the most of the gloriously rolling Yorkshire countryside. A charming end of terrace, this is cosy accommodation to be used by families and couples alike to explore the surrounding area.

Pack Horse Stables, Blackshaw

There are many cottages to rent in Yorkshire, and this is another one. Sat in the South Yorkshire Dales and near Hebden Bridge, this spot boasts stunning views and delightful walking trails. Get out in the country to do some walking before coming back and enjoying the unique selling point of this wonderful accommodation – an outdoor hot tub.

Ellie-Ann Cottage, Gardenstown

From Yorkshire, we head to The Coastal Trail of Scotland. This beautiful cottage near Banff is around half an hour from Aberdeen and the delightful village of Gardenstown,  a port that boasts stunning scenery, beautiful architecture and a small bay. Within walking distance you can find coastal paths which wind their way out of town and provide stunning viewpoints out across the sea. From this base you can also go climbing, surfing and dolphin watching and to top it off you are assured of amazing sunsets.

The Cottage, Llaneilian

We’ll round off in Wales. Anglesey is a wonderful part of the world, and when you see it from this property you will fall in love with the scenery. A romantic retreat, there are sea views to enjoy and plenty of fishing, swimming or boating to get involved in. Nearby you’ll be able to enjoy Snowdonia or hop over to Dublin for the day. What’s more is that this spot is within shooting distance of an airport. What are you waiting for?

These are five of the best holiday cottages in the UK to enjoy, but that’s not to say that there aren’t more. Holidaying in your native land is on the rise, and it can be the most relaxing trip you have ever enjoyed when you choose the right spots.

Jen Hoggett has written 20 articles. Jen is newest member of “The Firm“, originally from the West Country in the UK, recruited because she’s an excellent cider drinker and can dance shamelessly to the Wurzels for hours at a time. Her codename “Giggles” comes from her faint and delicate laugh – A.K.A – Her most deadly weapon. Jen is truly a master of disguise, she’s the person nobody ever suspects but she aint messing around.