Spending time as a family on holiday can have a number of benefits: from creating a stronger bond within your domestic clan through shared experiences to encouraging the children to try something new or discover a new food that they didn’t know existed.
In order to help you write a new chapter in your family’s life story, and as part of our series of Top Cottages for 2024, we’ve collated some of our top family-friendly holiday cottages that have been booked most frequently.
From high in the North Yorkshire hills, all the way down to the sparkling shores of Cornwall, and a fair few in between too, our collection of self-catering family-friendly properties is the perfect tonic to everyday life and will help enrich your tribe’s next UK staycation.
The Family Collection
Emley View Cottage, Holmfirth
Sleeps 4
Why we love it:
Enjoy the best of both worlds at this characterful rural property in the Peak District. Whether you want to strap on your hiking boots and head outdoors exploring the national park and the picturesque Holme Valley with the kids in tow, or you just want to kick back indoors and relax in the heated swimming pool and sauna, the choice is yours.
If your children are a little older, perhaps you can take advantage of Holmfirth’s more adventurous side, with caving, hang gliding, and mountain biking on offer.
Why our guests love it:
“We loved our stay at Emley View. We used the pool frequently and appreciated the flexibility and quick assistance of the owner with queries. We enjoyed letting the kids loose (safely) in the garden and the scenic view overlooking sheep and horses. The property itself was cosy and welcoming, with the bedrooms and bathrooms spotlessly clean. Our kids made good use of the toys and board games. In the area, we visited the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Gulliver's World, Marsden Moor, Eureka! and more.” – Monjur, 2022
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Heron Lodge, near Ludlow
Sleeps 4 + 1 dog
Why we love it:
Kids and grown-ups alike will adore this luxury waterside lodge, surrounded by nature in Shropshire. Nestled within 20 acres of wildlife-rich grounds beside a large fishing pool, this is a very special home away from home that will be hard to forget.
Light the wood burner in the lounge on chilly days and see what birds you can spot through the vast windows and on sunny days, slide them open wide to let the fresh country air wash through the open-plan space. Outside, you can enjoy a BBQ on the patio or a picnic in the wooded area behind the lodge. You can even purchase a pass from the owner and teach the little ones to fish at one of the five on-site fishing pools.
Why our guests love it:
“Heron Lodge certainly has the WOW factor. Everything you could possibly want from a holiday or mini break is right here. The lodge is stunning, comfortable and well-equipped. The location is superb and if peace and quiet are what you are looking for then this is the place for you. Really cannot recommend this property highly enough. Already booked again for 2023.” – Debra, 2022
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Springfield House, Rookwith
Sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
Why we love it:
Escape to this traditional stone bungalow in the heart of the rolling North Yorkshire countryside, which was one of our most-booked Yorkshire cottages this year. One of our family-friendly cottages on a working farm, the far-reaching views of patchwork fields dotted with sheep and cows are sure to delight all ages.
Lounge beside the wood burner in the cosy sitting room or enjoy a book in the conservatory while the kids play in the huge, enclosed garden. And when night falls, gather around the fire pit with blankets and mugs of marshmallow-topped hot chocolate for a magical evening under the stars.
Why our guests love it:
“This was our second visit and we loved it even more! Springfield House is just perfect in every way - from the lovely, peaceful location to the thoughtful touches throughout the property made by the owners. We couldn’t find any faults or downsides! We will definitely be returning.” – Anne, 2022
Book Springfield House
Seathorn, Anderby Creek
Sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
Why we love it:
Stairgates needn’t be a worry when you and your children stay at this coastal bungalow in Lincolnshire. And, with its own private access path to Anderby Beach, you can wander down at your leisure and begin splashing in the surf, building sandcastles or rock pooling with the kids whenever you please.
When you return, the inviting lounge offers a wonderful place to enjoy a family film night or some board games, and the large garden with a patio offers plenty of space for burning off any last bits of energy before bedtime.
Why our guests love it:
“Seathorn is a lovely well-equipped bungalow. It has a large and very safe garden which is ideal for young children and dogs. I would have no hesitation in recommending Seathorn to anyone who wants a peaceful holiday. There is a nice beach cafe at the end of the road and around the corner is a popular bar which serves food.” – John, 2022
Book Seathorn
The Cottage At Jenkinson Place, Loweswater
Sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
Why we love it:
When staying in this family-friendly cottage in the Lake District, you can look forward to spending quality time with your loved ones amidst some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. Exposed wooden beams, slate floors and a crackling wood burner are charming character features inside.
While outside, you can allow time to stand still as you sit in the garden and take in the breathtaking view of Loweswater and the undulating fells beyond. Grab your wellies and set off on an adventure around the lake or see if you can spot deer, birdlife and rare red squirrels within the ancient woodland on the doorstep.
Why our guests love it:
“The cottage is in one of the most beautiful places in the Lake District, with wonderful walks straight from the door. Great wood walks for dogs and good to be able to park beside the cottage. Lovely comfortable beds and luxurious towels. We really enjoyed our stay.” – Michael, 2022
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Helstone Sunnyside, near Port Isaac, Cornwall
Sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
Why we love it:
Cornwall is a fabulous holiday destination for those with children, and this welcoming cottage was one of our most-booked Cornish cottages this year, only 6 miles from the iconic fishing village of Port Isaac. Boasting a cosy lounge warmed by a wood burner, comfortable bedrooms and a gorgeous garden, there is plenty to keep you occupied here.
If you do manage to pull yourself away, you have a glut of kid-friendly attractions in the area including Tintagel Castle, Polzeath Beach and The Eden Project. This truly is the ultimate family getaway.
Why our guests love it:
“Beautiful cottage, super clean and recently refurbished to a high standard. We felt very at home. Everything is thought of to make this a wonderful place to base your holiday. Convenient location, we would definitely go back if we return to Cornwall.” – Julie, 2022
Book Helstone Sunnyside
Fold Head House, Bowness-on-Windermere
Sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
Why we love it:
Only 500 metres from the glistening waters of Lake Windermere where boat trips, wild swimming and water sports are on offer, it’s no wonder this Grade II-listed cottage was such a popular choice. It’s not just the location that captured the hearts of our guests either.
Beyond its pretty garden and white-washed façade, a stunning interior awaits, with all the home comforts a family could possibly need. Indulge in movie nights in the glow of the wood burner before drifting off to sleep in one of the two sumptuous bedrooms – little ones are sure to adore the spacious twin room.
Why our guests love it:
“Our family of four (two adults, a 12-year-old and a dog) spent a week at the cottage exploring Windermere and beyond. The cottage is perfectly located a short walk from the centre of Bowness with easy access to lake cruises and shopping etc, but is down a quiet track so peaceful. We found the cottage itself very comfortable and well-equipped. Plenty of room for us and the dog. Added bonus was the boot room where we could keep all our wetsuits, hiking gear etc, and which was handy for the dog!” – Christian, 2022
Book Fold Head House
Fisherman's Cottage, Boulmer
Sleeps 4 + 3 dogs
Why we love it:
For families who dream of being beside the seaside, this beachfront bolthole is about as close as you can get! Situated within the charming fishing village of Boulmer on the picture-postcard Northumberland coast, you can grab the bucket and spade and be on the sand in no time.
You can also appreciate glorious sea views from the comfort of the cottage, whether snuggled on the sofa, waking up in the master bedroom or dining alfresco in the enclosed garden. No wonder it's one of our top cottages in Northumberland!
Why our guests love it:
“We had the most wonderful stay at this beautiful, cosy cottage. We were very sad to leave. The welcome pack was wonderful and we had everything we needed there. The proximity to the beach meant that we could easily nip back and forth and go every single day! What more could you want? We were even lucky enough to witness a beach wedding during our stay! The owner was lovely too, very friendly and welcoming. We wouldn't hesitate to go back. Highly recommended!” – Laura, 2022
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Villa Surfside, near Hayle
Sleeps 6 + 4 dogs
Why we love it:
Give the kids something to tell all their school friends about by creating some incredible memories at this seaside villa in Cornwall! From the bottom of the garden, there is direct access to the South West Coast Path which winds through the dunes to the wide sweep of beach at Hayle. There, 2 miles of golden sand awaits, along with a well-regarded surf school.
And even when you’ve not got your toes buried in the sand, you can be wave-watching from the windows of this single-storey bungalow. Whether inside or outside, the sea views will have your little ones mesmerised all day long.
Why our guests love it:
“This villa’s location is absolutely amazing, it has panoramic views of the sea, and the sunsets are breathtaking. It has a lovely secure garden for dogs, and you’re minutes from a long, sandy beach, which in my opinion is the best beach in Cornwall. The villa was clean and comfortable and has everything you’d need. We would definitely stay again.” – Louise, 2022
Book Villa Surfside
Johns Cottage, Keswick
Sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
Why we love it:
Within easy reach of Keswick’s bustling town centre, this cottage for families in the Lake District offers a convenient location for making the most of the national park’s thrilling attractions. The Theatre by the Lake, Derwent Pencil Museum, Puzzling Place and the Keswick Adventure Centre are all less than a mile from the front door.
When tired little legs return from a day of adventure, there’s plenty of space in the cottage to spread out and relax. Pop the kettle on, stoke the wood burner and make yourselves at home in the spacious lounge or the bright sunroom.
Why our guests love it:
“Absolutely amazing property! Perfect location. You can park up, leave your car at the property and go on scenic walks or stroll around the shops. Everything is literally on the doorstep. Spotlessly clean on arrival. Beds comfortable. Everything you need and more is in this property. Fully equipped kitchen. Bookcase is full of books. Extra duvets, blankets, iron and ironing board. Dog-friendly enclosed garden. Comfortable beds. Spacious bathroom with a bath. I could go on! Just book!” – Emma, 2022
Book Johns Cottage
If you’re inspired by our assortment of popular family-friendly holiday cottages, be sure to book your staycation now and start your next family escapade. Or continue browsing our Family Collection below.
The Family Collection