Best cottages with home offices

With many of us still working from home in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, going on a 'workation' seems to have become a part of our ‘new normal’. Imagine sitting beside a beach or at the foot of a soaring mountain working from your laptop, in your comfiest clothes. Throw in the benefits of a lunchtime stroll to clear your mind, a soothing soak in a private hot tub or fun outdoor activities like cycling, fishing or wild swimming and you can understand why workations lower stress levels and increase those creative juices.

If the idea of relocating your home office for a few days, weeks, or even longer to a beautiful destination that is within driving distance sounds like a dream, we’ve chosen some of the top places where you can start working as a digital nomad – all have been checked for reliable Wi-Fi.

Ty Hiraeth, South Wales

Sleeps 4 + 3 dogs

Why we love it:

Nestled on the edge of the Afan Forest Park in South Wales, this sweet retreat is popular with both guests seeking a relaxing getaway and those wanting an active break. When you need to check your emails at Ty Hiraeth, there’s a large writing desk in the sunroom to lay out your laptop. And there’s plenty of natural light streaming through the windows for the perfect Zoom call backdrop. If you fancy a spot of fresh air, there’s also a lovely little table to work from in the sunny courtyard.

Why guests love it:

“This was a lovely little cottage perfect for my husband and I with Fred our border terrier. Location was so relaxing, lovely walk into the Afan Forest, Port Talbot was so easily accessible. Lovely little Richard Burton Trail into Port Talbot. Beautiful beaches at Rhossili and Oxwich Bay, and enjoyable walks at Mumbles. Will definitely visit again.” - Melanie

Ty Hiraeth

Writers Retreat – Poolewe, The Highlands

Sleeps 2

Why we love it:

Whether you like to sketch, paint or draw, or you’re searching for creative inspiration to write the next best-selling novel, this delightful boathouse in the Scottish Highlands is an idyllic refuge. Not only will you find a relaxing space for reflection inside Writers Retreat with its glowing wood burner, mood lighting and spectacular waterside views, but if you step outside, you’ll also find a quirky shepherd’s hut. With a table and seating, this is the perfect spot to indulge your artistic talents. Boil the kettle and take a moment to watch the otters and seals bobbing in the calm waters of Loch Ewe before putting pen to paper.

Why guests love it:

“A wonderful hideaway perfectly situated on the banks of Loch Ewe providing awesome views you never tire of. Geographically, this was an excellent location from where we could explore this part of the Highlands easily. A fascinating history linked to World War II was a fabulous bonus. The well-equipped quirky kitchen provides a sense of fun, and we enjoyed the space and freedom that self-catering admits, with such fantastic scenery. The hot tub was the icing on the cake providing true relaxation.” - Paula

Writers Retreat – Poolewe

The White Cottage, Peak District

Sleeps 8 + 3 dogs

Why we love it:

For families seeking a well-deserved change of scenery, look no further than this charming country retreat in the Peak District, a 16^th-century house with a large garden and spellbinding views. Of course, if you have to work, The White Cottage offers many stylish places to set up your laptop, including a large dining table and a smaller table in the cute kitchen. However, the characterful snug is the place to go when you need a little quiet time to catch up on those spreadsheets. This oak-panelled study has comfortable seating and a wood burner and provides enough inspiration for a productive afternoon of work. Alternatively, if you can avoid the glare, there’s one further spot to work: at the beautiful wooden table and chairs in the lawned garden. And when the clock strikes 5, families can regroup in the beautiful garden or terrace and get the BBQ sizzling!

Why guests love it:

“Beautiful cottage and peaceful setting with amazing vistas. A large old characterful family cottage with a snug, cosy areas and a large kitchen table for get-togethers. The cottage is well stocked with everything you would need if you were cooking. Extensive gardens, with a fire pit, gas barbecue and sheltered sun trap in the "piggery". Lots of space for family fun, and taking outdoor games are a must. Lovely walks from the doorstep and plenty to see in the area including cycling on the Monsal Trail.” – Paul

The White Cottage

Damson Retreat, Lake District

Sleeps 10 + 2 dogs

Why we love it:

This traditional farmhouse in the Lake District offers wonderful seclusion amidst the undulating landscapes of the Lyth Valley. A spacious study at Damson Retreat features a desk, printer, chairs and a bookcase bursting with paperbacks, for when you need to escape the rest of your party to get that all-important project finished. And there’s no need to worry about being disturbed while you work: there are plenty of cosy spots for your fellow guests to make themselves at home so you can get some much-needed peace and quiet, including a snug and a lounge, both with crackling wood burners, and a large garden and patio with exceptional countryside views.

Why guests love it:

“I would have no hesitation in recommending Damson Retreat to anyone looking for a holiday in the Lakes. It is a spacious house with plenty of room for everyone, immaculate in its presentation and more than fully equipped. Every little detail has been thought out, it is the standard to which other property owners should aspire. The location is perfect for touring the Lakes, near enough to all the major attractions and very tranquil in its own grounds. You can't fail to enjoy a holiday here.”  – David

Damson Retreat

Stone Bay Beach House, Kent

Sleeps 12 

Why we love it:

This thoroughly modern holiday home offers luxury on tap! As well as a cool office with a sit-to-stand ergonomic desk, dual screens and internet, it has a 10-in-1 games table. Elsewhere at Stone Bay Beach House, there is a heated outdoor splash pool, bubbly hot tub, BBQ, a Jacuzzi-style bath and games galore. The luxurious kitchen and living area is perfect for sociable evenings and chilling out with your friends and family too. There is a huge dining table for meals after a long day at the beach and exploring the wider area. Local attractions include Broadstairs Beach, Whitstable, Ramsgate Promenade, Dover Castle, and Samphire Hoe Country Park.

Why guests love it:

“Lovely house in a great location. The owners were very helpful. We went as a large group of 12 (adults and children) and we all had a wonderful time and hope to return! We would thoroughly recommend a stay at Stone Bay Beach House.” – Nicola

Stone Bay Beach House

Hunters Lodge Annexe, Somerset

Sleeps 4

Why we love it:

Hunters Lodge Annexe in Somerset is a real joy to stay at. Built in 2022 and inspired by barn conversions, this single-level modern property near Bath sleeps four guests in comfort and has a smart home office. The study comes with a window, a handy desk and comfortable seating and is perfect for writing your diary or some quiet reading. Elsewhere in the property, there is an open-plan living space with a kitchen, dining area and alluring lounge with vaulted ceilings. A major draw to this property is the wood burner and the enclosed garden that looks out over a horse-riding arena. Local attractions include Longleat House, Wookey Hole, Stourhead House, Cheddar Gorge and the Roman city of Bath.

Why guests love it:

"Another lovely stay, the owners are lovely and very welcoming. The property is well furnished with everything you need and close to plenty of interesting places to visit."  - David

Hunters Lodge Annexe

High House, Exmoor

Sleeps 10 + 2 dogs

Why we love it:

Whether you grab a seat at the dining table beneath a glittering chandelier, take your notebook out to one of the many cosy seating areas in the flower-filled garden, or light the open fire and make yourself comfortable in the study, you’re sure to get the job done during a workation at this five-star period property in Dunster, Exmoor. And after a hard day’s grind at High House, guests can wind down in style with a workout in the fitness gym, a dip in the hot tub, a round of pool, darts or table tennis in the games room, or a saunter around Dunster Deer Park and Castle Grounds at the bottom of the garden.

Why guests love it:

“Had a wonderful time in spacious High House. The house is walking distance of Dunster Beach (20-25 mins) with fantastic walks right from the back gate to a deer park and beyond. All bedrooms are beautiful and spacious so no arguments! The walled garden is a special feature – very safe for the dog and with lovely separate sitting and al fresco dining areas (with lovely warm heaters). The owners really thought of everything. Will definitely be back!” – Harry

High House

Holiday with us in the UK

Feeling inspired to pack up your laptop, sketchbooks and notepads and combine business with pleasure this year? Browse our full collection of holiday cottages in the UK with Wi-Fi and enjoy a workation where you can get those creative juices flowing.

Holiday cottages with Wi-Fi