Summer, is that you? When the sun finally starts making an appearance and the weather warms up, thoughts might turn to planning your next short break.
If you’re still considering where to go, or you love a bit of a last-minute whirlwind break, perhaps one of our wonderful holiday cottages below will tempt you to one of the UK’s fantastic, buzzing cities. Hit all the big attractions, shop around ancient streets, and eat your way through top restaurants during a short break to a city in the UK. Liverpool may surprise you with its wealth of creativity, York’s history will fill you with wonder and, of course, ever-popular London has a little bit of something for everyone.
Which fabulous cultural hub will be the place for your quick summer getaway, and more importantly, which of these exquisite retreats will you be drawn too? If you already know where you’d like to go, then head over to our collection of cottages and pick out the perfect retreat near your desired destination. We’ve no doubt you’ll find a beautiful place to stay for a few days!
Short stays in the UK
London | Woodlands House, Beaconsfield| Sleeps 12 + 2 dogs
Why we love it:
This stylish farmhouse, set within 2,000 acres of countryside and woodland, is less than an hour’s train ride from London – the owner can also arrange private minibus transport into the city if you prefer. It’s a wonderful place to stay on a short break in the UK and could be perfect when spontaneity strikes. After a day in the bright lights, the farmhouse’s bubbling hot tub awaits to soothe weary legs and you can even arrange for a private chef to cook you all supper!
Why guests love it:
“Great holiday for six adults and five children, very private location yet close to lots of attractions and easy access to London. The house is very comfortable and well equipped” – John
Things to do on a London short break:
- Uncover historical treasures at the British Museum
- Walk the cobbles of Covent Garden
- Get a scare at the London Dungeons
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Edinburgh | Arthur's Seat Imperial Heights, Edinburgh | sleeps 4
Why we love it:
Head up to the heights of this exquisite luxury apartment in the heart of Edinburgh where you can soak up the colourful, creative atmosphere and gaze over the city. Settle down for steaming morning coffee on the sofa and watch the world come to life outside your window, before getting dressed and heading down to pick your way through the streets of this Scottish city.
Why guests love it:
"The flat was very bright, clean and comfortable. It is about a 10-15-minute walk to the bottom of the Royal Mile and there are also loads of buses to take you into the town if you don't want to walk. Having a parking space is definitely a bonus. It is first come first served so no reserved spaces. The flat is well equipped with washing machine and dishwasher, and Mr and Mrs Quinn left us with a lovely "starter pack" including the essentials, bread, milk orange juice and coffee." – S
Things to do on an Edinburgh short break:
- Climb up to magnificent Edinburgh Castle
- Trace your way through the medieval streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town
- Shop ‘til you drop on Princess Street
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Liverpool | Stay On Board, Merseyside | sleeps 4 and 1dog
Why we love it:
What better way to get your sea legs than by holidaying on a boat? Unfortunately, this unique floating home doesn’t leave the marina but that’s a good thing as there are plenty of walking and cycling opportunities nearby in the heart of Liverpool, as well as numerous cultural attractions such as museums and galleries. This modern wide-beam canal boat has numerous fantastic mod cons to make your stay unforgettable and it’s styled so beautifully inside that you might even wake up and forget you’re on a boat … until you notice the superb views from every porthole!
Why guests love it:
“I wanted somewhere a bit unusual as a surprise for my partner's 50th birthday, and the boat was perfect! It is decorated beautifully, spotlessly clean and everything is brand new. It's comfy, warm and well equipped. The location is fabulous, a 10-minute stroll along the river to Albert Dock, and we loved the close-by Cain's brewery area. The marina was really peaceful, we were lucky with the warm November weather and sat out on the deck with blankets at night and ate breakfast in the misty sunshine.” - Penelope
Things to do on a Liverpool short break:
- Get to know the history of Liverpool’s biggest band at The Beatles Story
- Soak up impressive artwork at the Tate
- Wander the docks for a taste of old-world Liverpool
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Brighton | Starlings, Brighton, Sussex | sleeps 5 and 2 dogs
Why we love it:
This holiday home allows you to wind down with its rather stripped-back aesthetic comprising of a neutral colour palette, charming patterns and rustic furniture. Allow yourself to soak up the soothing atmosphere while reading a book on the lounger by the French doors, or preparing a meal in the contemporary kitchen.
Why guests love it:
"An absolute gem! From the minute you step through the front door your holiday begins, the owner has thought of everything! You are welcomed by the most generous hamper of goodies for the adults and the kids! The beds are incredibly comfortable and everything is of a fantastic quality. We cannot wait to return!" – Jessica
Things to do on a Brighton short break:
- Uncover heritage, architecture and exquisite gardens at the Royal Pavilion
- Meet creatures from the deep at SEA LIFE Brighton
- Enjoy a classic day by the beach at Brighton Palace Pier
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Glasgow | Duchal Lodge, Lochwinnoch, Clyde Valley | sleeps 4 and 2 dogs
Why we love it:
The wonderful veranda with seating, a private hot tub, and views out across the charming countryside is the highlight of this beautiful Scottish lodge. It’s a truly idyllic escape outside the city from which you can venture into bustling Glasgow or simply stay put and relax. Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure that even when you’re snuggling up inside you can enjoy the rays of sun that flood through into this fantastic lodge with a hot tub.
Why guests love it:
"Duchal Lodge was ideal with everything catered for. The inside was lovely and clean with views over open countryside. It is fairly remote but there’s easy access to nearby Kilmacolm (5 minutes by car). The garden was large and totally enclosed which was perfect for our dog. Hot tub was fantastic. If you are looking for peace and quiet relaxation, this is definitely for you. Glasgow and other places of interest are only half an hour to an hour’s drive away. Lovely owners and a great welcome pack of home baking." – Ian
Things to do on a Glasgow short break:
- Gaze at work in over 22 galleries hidden inside the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
- Shop your way down the famous Buchanan Street
- Snap photos of the monuments in Glasgow Green
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York | Willoughby's Loft, York | sleeps 2 and 1 dog
Why we love it:
It’s the ideal couples’ getaway on the outskirts of the ever-romantic city of York. With a veranda offering garden views, beautiful curtained French doors and a skylight, and charming features and furnishings throughout, this cottage is a wonderful choice for a UK short break with your partner. Sit outside to plan your day and snuggle up on the stylish sofa at night, already reminiscing about the best bits of your break.
Why guests love it:
"Beautiful idyllic village with a pond and ducks. Excellent location for easy access to York and beyond. Comfortable and clean accommodation with a small balcony giving an open view to the owner's garden. A menagerie of farm animals that provide wonderful entertainment. Small private courtyard garden to the rear." – Roberta
Things to do on a York short break:
- Get your camera out for the characterful, timber-framed buildings of The Shambles
- Step back in time to the world of the Vikings at JORVIK Viking Centre
- Lose yourself in the York Maze
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Make memories with a short stay near one of these wonderful cities in the UK or find a holiday retreat elsewhere, perhaps set on a spectacular coastline or secluded away in the countryside. Start browsing through our full range of cottages in the UK and find a property perfectly suited to you and yours for your next short break.
Short stays in the UK