Sometimes we all just need to close laptops, down tools, and slip away somewhere special for a while. With busy lives and endless distractions vying for attention, it’s all the more important to switch off and make room for some well-deserved R&R.
From slow mornings drawn out in a cosy bed and brunches piled high with delicious favourites to unhurried afternoons doing all the relaxing things you don’t usually have time for, restorative escapes are a sure-fire way to boost the body and soothe the soul.
Whether your idea of heaven is curling up with a book, lounging in a sauna, or exploring somewhere new, you can make the most of each day – exactly how you like. Head off on a solo escape, gather together your family, or embrace a long-overdue catch-up with your closest friends and start planning the perfect way to unplug and reconnect.
If you’re looking for a welcoming cottage to set the scene, explore our collection of cottages and find somewhere that ticks all your boxes.
King John's Palace
Burford, The Cotswolds | Sleeps 12
Best for: Grand escapes with the family
Nestled in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, King John's Palace in Burford is a fabulous destination for grandly relaxing getaways. A Grade II* listed farmhouse atop a scheduled ancient monument, this stately cottage has all the ingredients for a restful recess. Whether you can’t wait for long lie-ins in a four-poster bed, dinner parties by the roaring fire, music nights around the pianola, or family tournaments in the snooker room, the possibilities are endless for holidays to remember. Adding even more temptation to de-stress are an infra-red sauna, games room (complete with boardgames, table football, pool, and a Smart TV), and a huge choice of places to sit back and curl up with a good book (or glass of something sparkly).
Thanckes House
Whitsand Bay, Cornwall | Sleeps 12
Best for: Sea views and family entertainment
Offering the ultimate bubble in which to escape everyday life, Thanckes House in South Cornwall is one for all generations. Welcoming up to 12 guests across six bedrooms, this dog-friendly cottage has everything you need for restorative escapes with all the family. Outside, stunning views over the sea steal the show with a horizon of glittering blue. Meanwhile inside, a collection of fantastic rooms encourages timeless fun with a games room, cinema room, sea-view dining room, and sitting room with a baby grand piano – singalong, anyone? For an extra splash of luxury, a shared indoor swimming pool and sauna, as well as an outdoor hot tub, await. Swim a few lengths before letting soothing bubbles float your worries away in the tub, gazing out over the magical waters of Whitsand Bay.
West Cottage
Pembrokeshire | Sleeps 4
Best for: Pool dips and coastal trips
Chill out on the sofa, swim in the pool, or explore beautiful Pembrokeshire… At West Cottage near Tenby, the lure of care-free days is as sweet as the sea breeze. Facing west over rolling countryside near the Pembrokeshire coast, this gorgeous cottage enjoys the sunshine from mid-morning until sunset, giving you all the more reason to linger at your home-from-home. Afterall, what says “just one more hour” like an indoor heated swimming pool and a bubbly alfresco hot tub? That said, should you feel like tearing yourself away, there’s a wealth of places to discover nearby for stress-free adventure, from the colourful seaside town of Tenby to the wide, sandy beaches of Amroth and Saundersfoot.
Tawny Owl Treehouse
Penrith, Cumbria | Sleeps 2
Best for: Treetop sanctuary
Settle into a treetop escape at Tawny Owl Treehouse. Located near the vibrant hub of Penrith and close to the Lake District National Park, this woodland hideaway invites sun-brushed moments and silvery moonlit nights amongst tangled woodland canopies. Unwind to the rhythm of nature as birds chime their lilting songs and gentle breezes rustle through the trees, ready to let go of daily responsibilities for a while. With lovingly handcrafted interiors and thoughtfully designed furniture blending into outdoor living spaces for treetop bliss, the best of indoor-outdoor rejuvenation can be enjoyed here. Curl up with a book beside the floor-to-ceiling windows, sit outside with a brew on the balcony, or take a restoring alfresco bath after slow walks in the Cumbrian countryside.
The Old Barn at Cherry May Farm
Glastonbury, Somerset | Sleeps 4
Best for: Time with friends
On the edge of the Somerset Levels, The Old Barn at Cherry May Farm invites you to shrug off daily responsibilities and enjoy undiluted downtime. An award-winning base for restorative escapes, it features everything you need for kicking back with friends, including two comfy bedrooms, a hot tub, sauna, wood-burner, and a spacious garden. Venture out to explore the unique landscapes of the Levels or simply hop straight into the hot tub and embrace a touch of easy living for a while. When you’re ready to fuel up, the open-plan kitchen and dining room with its exposed beams and plentiful space makes for an ideal hub to rustle up tasty feasts with local fodder.
Cape Wrath Lodge
Durness, Scottish Highlands | Sleeps 16
Best for: Grand escapes and Northern Lights
Revive with the wild at Cape Wrath Lodge near Scotland’s most northerly tip. The most magical setting for great escapes with all your nearest and dearest, this eight-bedroom lodge above the Kyle of Durness has space for all generations (including your dogs) to come together and disperse as you please. Step into the grand entrance hall before peeling off to discover countless rooms for mingling and resting alike. From the choice of sitting rooms and loch-view dining room to the cinema, playroom and games room, and more, hours easily disappear in a blur of laughter and tranquillity here. Particularly inviting are the sauna and massage room for daytime indulgences. Meanwhile, outside, the beautiful gardens transform into an aurora-spotting playground during winter nights.
Botloes Farm Barn
Newent, Gloucestershire | Sleeps 4
Best for: Relaxing in nature
There’s something about being immersed in nature that’s wonderfully relaxing. Afterall, what can be more calming than sun-dappled light, melodic birdsong, and the whisper of a breeze through patchwork leaves? Set amongst some of the most beautiful countryside imaginable, Botloes Farm Barn in Gloucestershire is just perfect for grown-up getaways with friends. Treat yourself to early nights and slow mornings with two cosy bedrooms, before making the most of the light-filled living spaces. The open-plan living area is hard to beat for cuppas and conversation – especially in summer when the French doors can be opened onto the patio. Meanwhile, 7 acres of tranquil grounds and a private sauna beckon for those quiet moments of gentle rejuvenation.
Driftwood
Freshwater, Isle of Wight | Sleeps 4
Best for: Beach vibes and soothing tides
Ready to escape to your own island beach house? On the beautiful east coast of the Isle of Wight, just a short walk from Colwell Bay, Driftwood is a beacon for all beach lovers looking for a drop of salt-kissed tranquillity. Step inside to discover its bright, wood-clad interiors and snuggly furnishings that call for feet-up moments throughout the day. Or, head straight out to find peace by the sea with picnics and playtime on the beach. When you’re ready to round off the day, conjure up flavour-filled meals in the kitchen, before gathering around the indoor bistro set or outdoor table and chairs with loaded plates and full glasses. For the piece de resistance? Lower into the outdoor hot tub to salute the sunset in style, preferably with a glass of bubbles in hand.
Sea Poppy
Thurlestone, Devon | Sleeps 6
Best for: Walking to the beach
Wend along the coast of South Devon to reach Sea Poppy, where hunker-down holidays await throughout the year. An idyllic destination for those looking for restorative coastal goodness, this seaside home-from-home for six shows off stunning country and coastal views – and is only a 7-minute stroll from the beach. With family and dogs welcome, everyone can make the most of the inviting shared spaces and quiet corners for socialising and lazing alike. While the grown-ups won’t be able to resist the bay-view living areas and relaxing sauna, youngsters will love scampering off to the games room, complete with a pool table and table tennis. Unite in the indoor pool or spacious garden for hours of fun, or meander off along the South West Coast Path to reach local gems and the golden sands of Thurlestone Beach.
Ellenhall
Battle, Sussex | Sleeps 8
Best for: Storybook Sussex escapes
Head to the High Weald National Landscape to find the ever-so welcoming Ellenhall. A family cottage surrounded by a flurry of trees and picturesque greenery, this family-sized cottage is made for feel-good get-togethers with loved ones. Whisk away with family and friends (dogs are welcome too) and make use of the multitude of spaces for comfort and relaxation. Hard to resist after long walks, freestanding roll-top baths call for bookish moments, while a wood-fired sauna framed by ancient woodland infuses a bit of Scandi living into your Sussex escape. To soak up the fresh air a little longer, the garden is home to all sorts of wonders, including different seating areas, a fire-pit, and table tennis, as well as private grounds to stroll. Meanwhile, an inglenook fireplace in the living room promises a welcome withdrawal from the day.
The Old Post Office
York, Yorkshire | Sleeps 6
Best for: Hiking and hot tubs
A lovingly transformed former Post Office, The Old Post Office near Thirsk is perfect for those who love nothing more than walking and unwinding. Set amongst the rolling Howardian Hills and only a stone’s throw from the North York Moors, this characterful cottage is an explorer’s paradise. Not to mention, there’s a popular local pub within walking distance, too. Pull on your favourite boots and step out to explore the surroundings, before wending your way back for some TLC. Prepare wholesome meals in the well-equipped kitchen (or just go to the aforementioned pub!), before stretching out on one of the comfy sofas in front of the wood burner. Or, even better for tired limbs, take a heavenly dip in the outdoor hot tub as evening fades and countless stars paint the sky above.
Thie Ny Shee
Ballasalla, Isle of Man | Sleeps 4
Best for: Easy island living
Reenergise island-style with a trip to Thie Ny Shee. Encompassed by glorious Isle of Man countryside, Thie Ny Shee makes a year-round affair of cosy season. Wake up with hazy rays and sink into the sofa with a mug of something delicious as you plan your agenda for the day. Be it unrushed walks, adventures on two wheels, historical pursuits or otherwise, you can immerse in island living at your own pace. And when relaxation calls? Head back to your cottage to find a fully-equipped kitchen and outdoor traditional stone BBQ at the ready for sunset suppers, before pulling on your cossie and treating yourself to a soak in the hot tub as the day’s final rays decorate the horizon. Want to share the experience? Book Thie Ny Shee with neighbouring Thie Aash for unforgettable group getaways.
Ready for some relaxation? Browse our welcoming holiday cottages across the UK for some R&R inspiration, from cottages with hot tubs to sauna escapes.
