Cottages inspired by Christmas films

Accommodation, Christmas, Seasonal

Posted by Laurie Baker on 19th November 2024

A night-time exterior image of Walnut Barn in Suffolk from the snow covered garden looking towards the lit rustic barn.

Christmas is a time devoted to your loved ones. Steeped in tradition, nostalgia and making new memories, perhaps one of the best-loved festive pastimes is spent cosied up together, rewatching cherished Christmas classics.

Settling in for the evening, the fire crackling, tree lights blinking, blankets at the ready and a tray of hot chocolates brought through; it’s togetherness at its best and a treasured tradition.

What if you could take your tradition one step further? Our collection of properties boasts the best cottages for Christmas in the UK, and we’ve sought through and created a list of those with details reminiscent of some of the best-loved Christmas films. From Elf to Die Hard, the interiors, settings, or overall style of these holiday cottages all are reminiscent of classic holiday movies. For a festive break with a cinematic twist, take a look below and find your perfect Christmas cottage getaway with your nearest and dearest.

Christmas cottage breaks

An exterior, aerial image of Tent Lodge in the Lake District with mountains and the lake in the background.

Tent Lodge, Lake District

Sleeps 12 guests and 2 dogs

Perhaps one of the most impressive and memorable homes from a Christmas favourite is the stylish McCallister abode from Home Alone (1990). The grand Georgian-style property set over three floors, features distinctive large sash windows and boasts impressive grounds. Internally, the high ceilings, panelled walls, splendid fireplaces and sweeping staircase make the perfect setting for Kevin’s festive antics.

A collage image of the interior of the Tent Lodge property: a kitchen with a wooden island and a green, tiled backsplash, and a living room with large window overlooking the mountains, a lit fire with a mirror over the mantle piece and a TV by the coffee table.

Treat your family to their own Home Alone-style getaway with a stay at the exceptional Georgian Tent Lodge, set on the shores of Coniston Water in the Lake District. With its impressive-sized rooms, open fires, long dining table, chandeliers and even the distinctive forest green tiles in the spacious kitchen, you’ll notice the many similarities with the famous Chicago suburban property.

Why it makes us feel Christmassy

  • The grandiose Georgian-style house is perfect for large family gatherings over the Christmas holidays
  • Two open fires in the lounge and dining rooms give this impressive property a cosy feel on colder nights

Book Tent Lodge

Exterior image of Pink Cottage in Devon within a row of terrace houses and a wall to the front with a wooden bench.

Pink Cottage, Devon

Sleeps 4 guests and 1 dog

Another beloved Yuletide fan fave is Love Actually (2003) with one of the most iconic scenes from British cinema: Andrew Lincoln’s doorstep love declaration to his best friend's new bride played by Kiera Knightly. Equipped with his cue cards and boombox, Lincoln declares his love in front of the trendy, pink Notting Hill townhouse, ending with “To me, you are perfect.”

An interior collage of Pink Cottage: A kitchen with a laid breakfast table and open backdoor to the courtyard, and a double bedroom featuring a made bed and floor-length curtains around the windows.

And we think Pink Cottage in the coastal village of Beer in East Devon is the perfect spot for a more meaningful Christmas, full of your own love proclamations. Get away to this beautiful, stylish cottage which (unlike the hustle and bustle of a London Christmas as featured in the film) offers a relaxing retreat for families wanting to enjoy a slower-paced holiday season. Take the pressure off this time of year and focus on those who bring you joy.

Why it makes us feel Christmassy

  • Feel merry and bright with the whole gang in this family and dog-friendly cottage
  • Take a festive stroll along Beer Beach, just 0.5 miles away

Book Pink Cottage

An exterior image of a small wooden lodge - The Little Barn at Holly Villa in Rhos Common, is set amongst small trees and shrubs and there's light snow dusting the ground.

The Little Barn at Holly Villa, Mid Wales 

Sleeps 2 guests

One of the most treasured holiday films, Elf (2003), focuses on spreading cheer to keep the spirit of Christmas alive. Set in New York, it features Buddy the Elf, who has unknowingly spent his entire life as a human at the Noth Pole (it’s easily done when you hightail it back with Old St Nick on his Xmas Eve rounds). He’s known for his simple outlook, playful and chaotic nature, and carefree approach to life that lands him in hot water with confused, non-believing adults.  

An interior collage of The Little Barn at Holly Villa: an open-plan kitchen/lounge/diner with a small sofa and wooden cladding on the walls, and a double bedroom featuring a bed, a vaulted ceiling and bunting along the wall.

What better way to reconnect with your inner child than whisking your partner away to a cosy Christmas lodge for a festive getaway? This Mid Wales petite abode boasts a charming rustic style and picturesque views. Live like an Elf as you croon out your rendition of Baby, It's Cold Outside from the rainfall shower, Buddy style, and snuggle up by the wood burner. You’ll be sure to capture the magic of the season in this warm and whimsical little lodge.

Why it makes us feel Christmassy

  • Bookable extras include a Christmas package, for that extra special, festive indulgence
  • Enjoy a romantic evening under the starlit sky, snuggled up by the fire pit

Book The Little Barn at Holly Villa

An exterior image of The Skyscraper in Suffolk, a seven story tower surrounded by snowy fields.

The Skyscraper, Suffolk

Sleeps 18 guests and 2 dogs

The infamous Nakatomi Plaza is the backdrop for the Christmas cult classic, Die Hard (1988) which sees Christmas partygoers requiring the help of off-duty cop, John McClane. The sleek, modern L.A. skyscraper boasts large open spaces and a luxurious, contemporary feel with huge windows looking out over stunning views.

An interior image of The Skyscraper in Suffolk: a boldly decorated living area with a leather sofa and arcade machine, and an exterior, aerial view of the roof terrace at night, lit up with coloured lighting.

Get ready for the ultimate Christmas party at The Skyscraper, this impressive 80ft property boasts accommodation over seven floors. Create lasting festive memories with family and friends in this striking holiday home featuring a retro colour palette of neon green and bright orange against black and white. Guests will love the retro arcade machine, games room, theatre-style cinema room with cinematic seating and rooftop garden with panoramic views of the picturesque Suffolk countryside (rather than the L.A. skyline).  

Why it makes us feel Christmassy

  • Take in the winter night’s sky; head up to the rooftop terrace for a spot of stargazing through the telescope
  • Santa can hop in the handy lift to make delivering the presents that bit easier

Book The Skyscraper

An exterior image of Welcombe Cottage in Devon - a white property with shrubs along the front of the house and a light covering of snow along the driveway.

Welcombe Cottage, Devon

Sleeps 17 guests

An all-time Christmas family favourite, The Miracle On 34th Street (1994) sees strong-minded 6-year-old, Susan Walker, standing up for Kris Kringle, a man claiming to be the real Santa Claus. Susan’s iconic yellow dream home is as inviting as they come, exuding a sense of warmth and 90s nostalgia with elegant architectural design and classic, dormer windows along the rooftop.

An interior collage of Welcombe Cottage in Devon: the long dining table laid for guests with the kitchen area beyond and brick pillar separating the two, and an active wood burner by the dining table.

And well, dreams really do come true – if you're after an unforgettable family Christmas holiday, Welcombe Cottage is as magical as they come. With an exterior indicative of the wistfulness of Susan’s suburban home down to the treelined grounds, you’ll be listening out for reindeer hooves on the roof and the jingle of Kris Kringle’s sleigh come Christmas Eve.

Why it makes us feel Christmassy

  • Perfect for gathering the whole family, this beautiful, detached home boasts a swimming pool for those fancying a festive dip
  • With two cosy and inviting lounges, there’s plenty of room to sit back with loved ones and enjoy some Christmas tucker

Book Welcombe Cottage

An exterior image of Moffat Mansion in Dumfries and Galloway - the large property, with peaked roofing and large trees towards the rear, has a dusting of snow on the generous driveway.

Moffat Mansion, Dumfries and Galloway

Sleeps 16 guests and 2 dogs

Set in the whimsical Hallowe’en Town, The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) is a little different to the festive norm. The gothic home of beloved Pumpkin King, Jack Skellington, is synonymous with the alternative Christmas movie classic. Sitting precariously atop the steeped steps, its gothic design features a crooked tower and sharp, angular framework, making this a uniquely charming abode as Jack discovers the joys of Christmas and tries to bring the holiday season to his town.

An interior collage of Moffat Mansion: a living area with a large fireplace and a mirror over the mantle piece and a wooden coffee table sitting in front of a leather sofa, and a double bedroom which features a large bay window and chandelier.

Live like royalty this Christmas, as you create memories to cherish in the enchanting Moffat Mansion. This period home features an impressive carved gable roof which is reminiscent of the Pumpkin King’s aesthetic – albeit on a much grander and less eerie scale. As you descend with loved ones, take in the putting green, croquet lawn and hot tub, just a few superior features of this extra special property.

Why it makes us feel Christmassy

  • Deck the halls; this remarkable property is decorated for Christmas
  • Take a vote and watch your gang’s favourite Christmas movie in the cinema room

Book Moffat Mansion

A night-time exterior image of Walnut Barn in Suffolk from the snow-covered garden looking towards the lit rustic barn.

Walnut Barn, Suffolk

Sleeps 8 guests and 4 dogs

Putting the love into Love, Actually (2003) we meet Jamie and Aurelia, who fall for each other when the newly single writer heads to the French farmhouse for peace and solitude and winds up in love with his housekeeper despite their language barrier. The quaint, rustic farmhouse is full of charm, with vines twisted along the exterior walls and lush greenery surrounding the idyllic property. A peaceful sanctuary reflecting the romantic contentment the couple find in each other's arms.

An interior collage of Walnut Barn: a round bath set amongst underneath the beamed ceiling and a double room with exposed brickwork.

Nestled in scenic countryside, Walnut Barn marries rustic charm with modern elegance, showcasing luxury with Scandi style. The tranquil escape echoes the ambience of the quaint French farmhouse and features a serene pond within its extensive gardens, reminiscent of the lake where Jamie and Aurelia spontaneously find themselves as their connection deepens. Fall head over heels for this unforgettable property, as the sounds of joy and laughter of your loved ones fill the spaces.

Why it makes us feel Christmassy

  • Step into Christmas; this cottage will be decorated with festive cheer 
  • The Scandi minimalist style oozes relaxation for a thoroughly restful Xmas break

Book Walnut Barn

An exterior image of Old Crofftau in the Brecon Beacons - the lone farmhouse is set amongst a snowy, rural backdrop of fields and hills with trees surrounding it.

Old Crofftau, Brecon Beacons

Sleeps 8 guests and 2 dogs

Set against a snowy backdrop, the adaptation of Raymond Briggs’s The Snowman (1982) depicts the enchanting tale of a small boy whose snowman comes to life and whisks him away on an unforgettable adventure across the night sky. Leaving his cosy, solitary farmhouse behind, they take flight, emphasising the remote location of the boy’s property surrounded by endless white fields.

An interior collage of Old Crofftau: a chandelier made from an old wooden wheel hangs over a hallway with period features and exposed beams, and a double bedroom with exposed brickwork.

Located in the foothills of the Brecon Beacons, Old Crofftau is a charming and quirky farmhouse, boasting a whimsical allure. The remarkable scenic views and rolling countryside surrounding this property mirror the setting from The Snowman. What better way to immerse yourself in the warmth and joy of the season, than with a stay in this delightfully, cosy winter retreat?

Why it makes us feel Christmassy

  • Embark on a festive stroll in breathtaking surroundings before snuggling up by the wood burner for a truly cosy evening
  • Get the Christmas party started with music from the vintage 1960s Wurlitzer jukebox

Book Old Crofftau

Unwrap your festive escape 

Whichever nostalgic and heartwarming family Christmas movies get the vote in your home, you and your brood will undoubtedly have a UK festive break to remember in one of these incredible self-catering holiday homes, fit for the best Christmas movies themselves.

Plus, we have a whole host of magical properties, whether you’re looking for a cosy cottage retreat for two or a charming farmhouse with plenty of space for big gatherings brimming with holiday spirit. Take a look at our collection of Christmas getaways and book your festive break.

Christmas cottage breaks

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.