Gavin and Stacey: Our holiday cottage cast

Accommodation, Christmas, Seasonal

Posted by Stephane Lawes on 17th December 2024

Looking across the shoreline to Barry Island in South Wales on a sunny evening.

Oh, what’s occurring? With more than 12.3 million people having watched the final episode of Gavin and Stacey on Christmas Day, winning the the festive ratings race by some margin, now is the perfect time to rewatch all the episodes and soak up the magic of the finale.

It’s got us all talking and reliving our favourite moments, so we’ve looked at some holiday cottages inspired by the comedy that are perfect for gathering to binge-watch every series and all the specials.

Scroll on to find our favourite properties with names that celebrate the show’s much-loved cast. From Smithy Cottage to Dawn’s House and even Fishing Cottage (the one we don’t talk about), find all the Gavin and Stacey inspiration you need in our ‘tidy’ blog.

Explore our cottage collection


Looking across Barry Island Beach, with crowds on the sand and blue skies above.

Holiday cottages in South Wales

“What’s not to love about Wales? The scenery, the culture, the rugby!”. If, like Gavin, you’ve a soft spot for Wales, then why not start planning a Gavin and Stacey-inspired getaway to the country’s golden southern coastline? 

With cottages close to famous Barry Island and many more in vibrant seaside towns and villages across the Vale of Glamorgan and along the coast to Gower, you’re sure to find the perfect property to gather in and watch every episode back to back.

Holiday cottages in South Wales


The sun sets over Essex’s verdant coastline, with boats moored on the water.

Holiday cottages in Essex

“What’s wrong with Essex? It’s a bit different from Barry Island, but we’ve got a Nando’s!” – Smithy is right, there’s plenty of holiday fun to be had in Essex, and you can retrace the footsteps of the Shipman family with a getaway to one of our Essex cottages. 

While there may be fewer properties to choose from, Essex’s peaceful countryside and buzzing coastline offer delightful destinations for a getaway – head to the likes of Brightlingsea, West Mersea, and Walton-on-the-Naze.

Holiday cottages in Essex


Three photos of Smithy Cottage in Norfolk, showcasing its interior and exterior.

Smithy Cottage, Norfolk

Before stepping into this welcoming cottage, fans of Smithy will delight in the wealth of pubs and takeaways in the host hamlet of Blofield Heath. Once you’ve picked up your Indian takeaway fit for a family of 15 or a large cod and chips, two battered sausages and a chicken and mushroom pie (some for a snack, dinner and supper), head into the cottage and find a delightful base for a Norfolk escape

The converted forge combines original features with homely, modern comforts. Gather in the social heart of the home – the open-plan living space – after days of Norfolk Broads adventures and relax with Gavin and Stacey playing on the TV. At night, recharge in the sumptuous king-size bedroom which features an en-suite bathroom with a jacuzzi-style tub that Smithy could easily snooze off in.

Cottage profile 

Sleeps: 2 guests 

Bedrooms: 1 king-size

Why Smithy loves it: Some great A47 service stations and a KFC within 6 miles

Book Smithy Cottage


Three photos of Ness View in Yorkshire, showcasing its interior and exterior.

Ness View, Yorkshire

Whether he planned it or not, Smithy got a good view of Ness, and that’s exactly what’s on offer at this well-appointed cottage that overlooks the cliffs of Sandsend Ness. “I loves it. I won’t lie to you, I absolutely loves it”, is what Nessa might say as she steps into this fantastic property set on the coastal fringes of the North York Moors

Plan family parties in the open-plan living space, spill into the enchanting garden to unwind and dine alfresco on the courtyard-style patio, or snuggle next to the crackling wood burner after days spent on Yorkshire’s best beaches. However you choose to spend your time here, you’re sure to love every moment, because at the end of the day, when all is said and done … you know?

Cottage profile 

Sleeps: 5 guests + 2 dogs

Bedrooms: 1 king-size, 1 double, 1 single

Why Nessa loves it: Driveway parking with space for a small Eddie Stobart truck

Book Ness View


Three photos of Bryn in North Wales, showcasing the property’s interior and exterior.

Bryn, North Wales

Fire up the World Wide Web, charge up your sat-nav and set your destination for Abersoch in North Wales where this sun-soaked, sea-view cottage awaits. Set atop a peaceful bryn (Welsh for hill), this scenic property boasts two airy conservatories, far-reaching coastal views and a tranquil garden perfect for soaking in the Welsh sunshine. 

After days of adventure along the Llyn Peninsula or hikes across Snowdonia National Park, return to this sumptuous base and cosy up next to the roaring burner as Gavin and Stacey plays on the TV. Cook up your favourite Welsh dishes (or an omelette) in the well-equipped kitchen and dine with a view as you gather in one of the conservatories.

Cottage profile 

Sleeps: 4 guests

Bedrooms: 1 double, 1 twin

Why Bryn loves it: There’s no way you’re getting Bryn out in Cardiff (it’s 200 miles away)

Book Bryn


Three photos of Doris Cottage in Yorkshire, showcasing its interior and exterior.

Doris Cottage, Yorkshire

“Oh Doris, where’s the salad?” – it’s probably in the kitchen of this quirky and colourful fisherman’s cottage with character and charm that matches Doris, the unpredictable and cheeky neighbour of Gwen and Bryn. 

Not the steep streets of Barry Island, but the narrow, winding lanes of Whitby in Yorkshire play host to this unique property that nestles just metres from the town’s famous 199 Steps and golden beach. Inside, exposed stone walls, vaulted ceilings and twisting stairs combine with homely features to set the perfect scene for a sumptuous stay on the Yorkshire coast.

Cottage profile 

Sleeps: 4 guests + 1 dog 

Bedrooms: 1 double, 1 twin

Why Doris loves it: Surrounded by pubs serving both sherry and Babycham

Book Doris Cottage


Three photos of Dawn’s House in the Peak District, showcasing its interior and exterior.

Dawn’s House, Peak District

Dawn would love the Peak District – its enchanting landscapes offer the perfect ingredients for a romantic getaway but are remote enough for her to tear Pete’s head off without anyone knowing. Nestled on the fringes of the national park, this delightful five-star property offers an unforgettable base for outdoor adventures. 

Enjoy the best of both worlds at Dawn’s House. Inside, on chilly days, snuggle as you watch Gavin and Stacey on the Smart TV, gather at the bar for a party fit for the Shipmans, and take in the glorious national park views. Outside, unwind on the scenic terrace, soak in the private hot tub and toast marshmallows over the fire pit. For more fun, the private tiki bar is perfect for cocktail nights!

Cottage profile 

Sleeps: 6 guests + 3 dogs

Bedrooms: 2 king-size, 1 single with additional pull-out trundle

Why Dawn loves it: Essex is 160 miles away, meaning Pete’s mum is out of sight and mind

Book Dawn's House


Three photos of Gwenny B’s in Yorkshire, showcasing the property’s interior and exterior.

Gweny B’s, Cornwall

Cosy, welcoming and comfortable, Gwen’s house is a place of family refuge throughout Gavin and Stacey, and that’s just what’s on offer at Gweny B’s, which sits over 200 miles from Barry Island in Cornwall’s buzzing St Ives

Perfect for small families planning sun-soaked adventures, this pretty cottage charms with its whitewashed walls, sumptuous bedrooms and tranquil patio. After days of coast path rambles, return home to fire up the TV and cook an omelette in the well-appointed kitchen. On sunny days, gather at the patio for a peaceful afternoon tea – or a family BBQ with Doris on the guitar.

Cottage profile 

Sleeps: 4 guests

Bedrooms: 2 doubles

Why Gwen loves it: Only 12 miles from Cornhill Egg Farm – think of the omelettes!

Book Gweny B's


Three photos of Coach House in Northumberland, showcasing its interior and exterior.

Coach House, Northumberland

The twisting country roads and stunning landscapes of Northumberland offer a paradise for scenic bus journeys, which is why we like to imagine Dave Coaches trundling out of Barry and towards this stone-built cottage on the fringes of Northumberland National Park.

“I’m not trying to woo you Ness, but I’ve never been beaten at Jenga” – Dave would love the social heart of this home, an open-plan lounge with plenty of space for board games and nights in front of the TV (watching you know what). Beyond the cosy interior, a courtyard-style patio space outside offers the perfect spot for evening tipples after days of Northumberland adventures together.

Cottage profile 

Sleeps: 5 guests + 3 dogs

Bedrooms: 1 double, 1 twin, 1 single

Why Dave loves it: You could park a small bus on the private driveway

Book Coach House


Three photos of Fishing Cottage in Scotland, showcasing its interior and exterior.

Fishing Cottage, Scotland

The property that we really shouldn’t talk about. Yes, we did it, we couldn’t complete a Gavin and Stacey-inspired cottage blog without mentioning Fishing Cottage, right? Just like Bryn and Jason’s mysterious trip, this splendid cottage hides away far from Wales in the rolling Scottish landscape of Dumfries and Galloway

On arrival to the property, cast aside any thoughts of Jason and Bryn, and instead absorb the glorious woodland and river views that surround you. Head inside to relax in the colourful living space after days of salmon fishing and Scottish hiking, and on sunny days, unwind on the lawn or explore the 17th-century estate’s extensive gardens.

Cottage profile 

Sleeps: 4 guests + 2 dogs

Bedrooms: 2 super-kings

Why we don't mention it: The cottage’s name speaks for itself – you know the rules

Book Fishing Cottage


Plan your own ‘tidy’ cottage getaway

If all this talk of Gavin and Stacey has inspired you to book your own getaway, be it a family reunion or couples’ retreat, then you can start planning your very own storyline when you explore our collection of holiday cottages spread across the UK. From the South Wales coastline to bustling Essex and beyond, our cottage collection is sure to offer you the perfect base for memory making – tidy!

Explore our cottage collection

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.