Our top big cottages for 2023

Accommodation, Group, Large cottages

Posted by Courtney Kelly on 1st November 2023

Top Big cottages

Perfect for special occasions, big celebrations, and long-awaited family reunions, our collection of large cottages offers ideal settings for creating special memories. Group holidays are all about spending quality time with friends and family, and we pride ourselves on providing big cottages with the wow factor.

If you’re thinking of hosting a memorable group get-together and need a little help with the planning, why not have a browse of some of our most-booked large properties? Featuring hot tubs, swimming pools, games rooms and breathtaking views, you’ll soon see why they have been so popular with our guests.

Read on to discover 10 of the best big cottages to book for your next UK staycation or click below to see the full collection.

The Big Collection


A montage of Angelrocks Farmhouse, near Hay-on-Wye

Angelrocks Farmhouse, Hay-on-Wye

Sleeps 10 guests + 2 dogs

Why we love it:

This stunning renovated farmhouse is just made for indoor/outdoor living, with bi-fold doors opening from the gorgeous kitchen/diner onto the attractive patio where you can soak up the astounding countryside views. The same panorama can be enjoyed amidst the relaxing bubbles of the private hot tub, while the interior of this spectacular home promises warmth, comfort and plenty of space to socialise, whatever the weather. Up to two four-legged guests will no doubt enjoy romping around the vast enclosed garden, lured back only by the smell of dinner being served alfresco.

Why our guests love it:

“All I can say is fabulous – a beautiful house in a stunning location. We travelled as a party of ten and there was plenty of room for everyone. Lovely size bedrooms and so much kitchen and living space. Huge hot tub which was cleaned every day. We were greeted on arrival by [the owner] who had also provided a beautiful welcome hamper.” – Caroline, 2024

Book Angelrocks Farmhouse


Y Daflod, Denbigh

Y Daflod, Denbigh

Sleeps 8 guests + 2 dogs

Why we love it:

This luxury barn conversion is nestled in beautiful countryside near the North Wales coast and is a great property for celebrating special occasions with friends or family. Combining the styles of a traditional cottage with that of a log cabin, this detached home-from-home features gorgeous, sociable spaces inside and out, a games barn and a bubbling hot tub for nights when you want to savour the views and soak your muscles. There are even five bathrooms so no one will be waiting to freshen up whilst on holiday.

Why our guests love it:

“A wonderful cottage in a stunning location. Very well furnished and equipped and perfect for a large family or group of friends. The owners could not be more helpful and made sure that we had everything we needed. The leisure barn was perfect for the evenings with a BBQ, table tennis table and hot tub – great fun! There are superb walks from the door and the surrounding area is very tranquil and picturesque.” – Ian, 2022

Book Y Daflod


The Shell at Ardtur, Port Appin

The Shell at Ardtur, Port Appin

Sleeps 10 guests + 2 dogs

Why we love it:

Showcasing a juxtaposition of antique and contemporary design, this generously sized holiday home on the edge of Loch Linnhe offers astonishing views of the loch and mountains from its vast, double-height windows. A downstairs super-king en-suite bedroom is perfect for less able guests, while four more stylish bedrooms sleep everyone in comfort and style. While the inside is remarkable, the scenery outside is what sets this wonderful property apart. Lochside BBQ anyone?

Why our guests love it:

“Hidden at the back of an amazing lane, there it was... The Shell! There really were no words to describe the view from the house and garden. As a hobby cook, I can tell you, this kitchen has all and more to prepare a great meal for a small army. The beds are amazing and the local soap in the bathrooms is a treat! We were spoiled with amazing weather, meaning a swim in the loch and a BBQ were extras we had wished for but did not count on beforehand. Thank you, Maria and James, for your hospitality!” – Katleen, 2022

Book The Shell at Ardtur


Ardle Lodge, Bridge of Cally

Ardle Lodge, Bridge of Cally

Sleeps 10 guests + 4 dogs

Why we love it:

This luxurious large holiday house in Scotland is positioned on the southern fringes of the Cairngorms National Park, on the renowned Snow Road. With floor-to-ceiling dual-aspect windows in the living room along with a stylish wood burner, this lovely social space will be flooded with light whilst remaining toasty throughout your stay. Two of the bedrooms boast Juliet balconies with views of the woodland and gardens and there’s a pool table and table football for those who want to get competitive. Why not have a game before retiring to the private hot tub for a glass of bubbles over the bubbles?

Why our guests love it:

“Ardle Lodge was brilliant. There was a large group of us that went to celebrate my dad’s 60th (the Prosecco and chocolates on arrival were a lovely touch). Everyone had a great time, even the two dogs. My nephew loved the games room. Table tennis and the pool table were used loads. The hot tub was fab and checked daily. Kirsty was great at checking in and answering any questions we had. I would definitely recommend this lodge; we would love to return.” – Paula, 2022

Book Ardle Lodge


Thorphinsty Barn, Cartmel Fell

Thorphinsty Barn, Cartmel Fell

Sleeps 8 guests + 3 dogs

Why we love it:

Experience the verdant hills, patchwork fields and magical sunsets of the Lake District National Park from this big, beautiful bolthole. Thorphinsty Barn is tucked away within 9 acres of idyllic grounds, where you’ll find your very own shepherd’s hut overlooking two wildlife ponds – perfect for picnics, BBQs and a little R&R away from the rest of the group. Back in the main barn, the huge, vaulted ceilings open up the space and the thoughtful and elegant touches throughout add real charm.

Why our guests love it:

“Simply WOW! What a wonderful family break spent in this beautiful property. The peace and tranquility of the location was exactly what we were looking for. Lots of walks from the location and also lots of exciting drives through the hectic country lanes to other popular South Lakes locations. I really cannot recommend Thorphinsty Barn enough.” – Stephen, 2022

Book Thorphinsty Barn


Carter Ground Barn, Broughton Mills

Carter Ground Barn, Broughton Mills

Sleeps 8 guests + 4 dogs

Why we love it:

Another barn conversion that has ‘wow’ moments in abundance, this 18th-century property is set on the grounds of a sheep farm and boasts amazing views in all directions. This is hardly surprising given its South Lakes location but once you enter the main lounge with its wall of glass looking out upon the national park, you’ll do well not to gasp in wonder. Cosy up here by the first of two stylish wood burners and while away afternoons or evenings catching up with friends. And if you’re aching after hiking the fells all day, take a dip in the six-seater hot tub and unwind in style.

Why our guests love it:

“Carter Ground Barn was a fantastic place to stay: an absolutely beautiful setting with amazing views from enormous windows out across the valley to the distant sea, which meant that even on rainy days, we didn't feel trapped indoors. We loved the remote setting (quiet except for sheep and an owl) and being able to walk straight from the door without using the car, but we were within a 45-minute drive of lots of interesting places: Brantwood, Cartmel Priory, The Ruskin Museum in Coniston etc.” – Catherine, 2022

Book Carter Ground Barn


Copses At Narberth Bridge, Narberth

Copses At Narberth Bridge, Narberth

Sleeps 16 guests + 5 dogs

Why we love it:

Head to Pembrokeshire, the UK’s only coastal national park, and enjoy a getaway to remember at this riverside dormer bungalow. Sleeping 16 guests, this spacious property will easily accommodate multiple family groups or a large party of friends looking to revel in some exquisite Welsh countryside, whilst also being proximal to the coast. Congregate in the pretty sunroom, at the long dining table or on the picnic benches outside looking over the paddock. All the while, you can relax, safe in the knowledge that no gas or oil is being used to power this holiday property, which is fuelled by heat pumps.

Why our guests love it:

This property was ideal for our family of ten adults, one baby and two dogs. Six of the seven bedrooms had en-suites and the kitchen had enough equipment to prepare all the meals we needed. The living room was spacious with plenty of sofas for all of us and more! Well located in a lovely town with a good choice of restaurants and shops. Great holiday!” – Sarah, 2022

Book Copses At Narberth Bridge


Anchor House - Mount Pleasant, Bideford

Anchor House - Mount Pleasant, Bideford

Sleeps 14 guests + 2 dogs

Why we love it:

Devon is one of the most desirable holiday destinations in the UK, in particular, North Devon with its rolling moorland and award-winning beaches. When you combine these location boons with a handsome detached holiday home boasting the facilities like that of Anchor House, you know you’re onto a winner! Stretch your legs in the enclosed south-facing garden and marvel at the views of the river, before moving to the patio and relaxing on the covered decked area. When dinnertime comes around, head into the luxury all-weather BBQ lodge and sizzle some sausages. If the weather turns chilly, you can retire to the conservatory with a good book or alternatively, turn up the heat with a game of pool or table tennis in the games room. Finally, when the stars come out, retreat to the private hot tub and plan tomorrow’s adventures.

Why our guests love it:

“We had a wonderful week in Anchor House. The hot tub and games room were great fun, along with the barbecue lodge. Living areas and bedrooms were comfortable and spacious. The kitchen was so well equipped. We could not find fault with anything. We had fantastic weather and were able to explore some of the beautiful nearby beaches. Definitely a break we will all remember for a long time.” – Jackie, 2022

Book Anchor House - Mount Pleasant


Two Hoots, Pateley Bridge

Two Hoots, Pateley Bridge

Sleeps 8 guests + 2 dogs

Why we love it:

Another north-of-England entry sees Two Hoots enter the fray. Located in Pateley Bridge, in the heart of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this exquisite yellow-stone-built large cottage in Yorkshire is an incredible base from which to explore the Yorkshire Dales. However, you may not want to travel far from this property once you set eyes on the stylish decor that’s laid out in every room, from the dining area with floor-to-ceiling windows, bespoke built-in seating and feature lighting to the snug with its cosy corner sofa and wood burner. Outside, the wraparound garden provides ample space for the whole party with an immaculate lawn and raised decking with a BBQ for summer nights.

Why our guests love it:

“Absolutely fabulous house! Annual get-together of four couples who love Yorkshire and walking! The house was perfect, immaculately presented, super kitchen/dining area for sociable meal preparation and pre-dinner drinks! Extremely well equipped and planned. Gorgeous bedrooms and bathrooms, super showers, and comfy beds. Lovely decking and seating for enjoying the sunshine outside, an extremely safe garden for the two dogs, and would be perfect for children. Masses to do and see, excellent walks and pubs!” – Gillian, 2022

Book Two Hoots


The Old Dutch Barn - Knapp Lane, Taunton

The Old Dutch Barn - Knapp Lane, Taunton

Sleeps 8 guests + 5 dogs

Why we love it:

As the name might suggest, the last entry on our list is a Dutch barn conversion and a beautifully designed one at that. The part-brick, part-wood-panelled exterior is a striking sight to behold and as you drive down the quiet tree-lined road, you’ll know you’re in for a memorable stay discovering some of Somerset’s best countryside and coastal options. Once inside, fire up the warming wood burner to stay toasty or, on warmer days, open up both sets of French doors to let the outside in. All five dogs will love stretching their legs in the large, enclosed garden whilst you soak in the hot tub or get the BBQ going. And if you’re feeling energetic, you even have access to the owner’s tennis court for a quick doubles tournament.

Why our guests love it:

“The Old Dutch Barn just cannot be faulted in any way. Spotlessly cleaned and very well equipped. The location is ideal for visiting attractions and places in North Somerset. The hot tub was a welcome bonus to relax after a day out. I cannot emphasise enough how good this accommodation is and would have no hesitation at all in recommending The Old Dutch Barn.” – Bernard, 2022

Book The Old Dutch Barn - Knapp Lane


Woman curled up in armchair drinking coffee and looking at the view

Bring all your favourite people together and create some special memories in one of our large cottages for group holidays.

The Big 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.