Weekend and Short-Break Cottages

Browse self-catering cottages for a weekend away, a midweek escape or another short stay. Use the filters to find a cottage by destination, group size and the features that matter to you.

The length of a short break, the minimum stay and permitted arrival days can vary between properties and dates. Check the individual cottage details before booking, particularly for school holidays, bank holidays and peak-season stays.

A stone-built house with loft conversion overlooks a low-walled front courtyard.
  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 4

The Dog House is a large and impressive coastal holiday home in Porlock. The pet-friendly cottage on the Exmoor coast sleeps eight and boasts a stone exterior, a sunny furnished courtyard, a spacious interior with natural light, an open-plan design and a wood burner.

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Large Exmoor farmhouse with cottage windows and a covered porch sits behind a walled front garden.
  • Sleeps 19
  • Bedrooms 9

The Farmhouse is perfect for a group celebration. The large, pet-friendly Exmoor holiday cottage with a hot tub near Dulverton promises luxury and rural charm. Its generous grounds include a lake, tennis court, and outdoor entertaining areas. Indoors, a sauna, log fire, farmhouse kitchen, and rustic features await.

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A North Devon riverside cottage with a large lawn.
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

A romantic riverside holiday cottage in Bratton Fleming perfect for celebrating any of life’s special occasions, The Folly lies on the fringes of Exmoor in North Devon, tucked away on a private lane, with large glazed double doors opening onto a beautifully furnished pet-friendly studio cottage.

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Exterior of an Exmoor Barn conversion on a bend in an empty country lane.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Situated on a working sheep farm and featuring comfortable upside-down self-catering accommodation on Exmoor, The Granary near the rural village of Luxborough, Somerset, makes a peaceful retreat amidst the Exmoor countryside. This child-friendly barn conversion has charming beams, exposed stone walls, and solid oak floors.

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A wooden 2-storey Essex holiday cottage overlooks a lawned garden, shaded by tall trees with four sun loungers on the grass.
  • Sleeps 5
  • Bedrooms 3

"The Limes" is a charming Island holiday cottage located on private Osea Island on the enchanting Essex Coast. It is perfect for a cosy and inviting escape for up to five guests. The cottage features a warm lounge with garden access, two spacious double rooms, and an additional single room. It also boasts a well-equipped kitchen, two elegant bathrooms with roll-top baths, and a private garden. Osea Island is a private island that offers a lot of attractions, including a private beach, saltwater lido, outdoor pool, cinema room, games room, gym, and 4.5 miles of coastline to explore with bikes. If you're looking for a tranquil getaway, "The Limes" is the perfect place to discover and plan your next seaside escapade.

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An oak-beamed lounge with a woodburner, wide-screen TV and a comfy sofa.
  • Sleeps 7
  • Bedrooms 4

The Lofthouse is a spacious Somerset holiday apartment within striking distance of the beach in Minehead. The apartment retains exposed beams, stone walls and other original features and blends this with chic coastal décor and light-filled spaces. Enjoy easy access to the best of Minehead, Exmoor and the Somerset coast.

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Gable end of a 3-storey period house with 2st floor balcony flanked by mature treees
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

The Observatory is a delightful holiday cottage located in Essex on Osea Island. It offers a serene escape for those seeking a peaceful getaway. To access the private island, guests can cross over a tidal causeway. Once there, they can enjoy exclusive access to a private beach, a saltwater lido, an outdoor heated swimming pool, and other amenities. The cottage features a comfortable lounge, a well-equipped kitchen diner, and a private balcony with outstanding views of the island. Two stylish bedrooms ensure guests have a restful stay. Its remarkable location makes it an ideal spot for special celebrations or family holidays.

 

 

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  • Sleeps 12
  • Bedrooms 5

The Old Barn is a gorgeous stone-built rural cottage set five minutes from Alton Towers Theme Park in the Peak District & Derbyshire Dales. The large rustic holiday cottage in Farley features spacious grounds with lovely gardens, a blend of traditional features & contemporary comforts, as well as an open fire

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Exterior of a Peak District holiday cottage overlooking a large lawn.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

The authentic stone exterior of this Cumbrian holiday cottage encases a luxury cottage with vaulted ceilings and timber beams. It is immaculately decorated with refined finishes, state-of-the-art appliances, and sumptuous views of The Lake District. Pets welcome.

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Aerial view of a large Exmoor farmhouse and farm yard surrounded by fields.
  • Sleeps 10
  • Bedrooms 5

This large country farm cottage on Exmoor has five bedrooms, four bathrooms, numerous reception rooms, a well-equipped games room, a large farmhouse kitchen with an Aga and seating area, plus a formal dining room. All linen, towels, central heating etc., included. Use of tennis court - don't forget your equipment! Plenty of great walking, horse riding, mountain biking, wild swimming and exploring places on Exmoor. Pets are welcome too.

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A contemporary Exmoor kitchen with a modern electric cooker and stylish pine top units.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

 The Old Kitchen is a newly refurbished, family-friendly holiday let in Exford. It accommodates up to four guests in two king-sized bedrooms. The property features an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area. It includes a snug with an L-shaped sofa and TV. Guests can enjoy a private patio with outdoor seating. An EV charging point and off-road parking for two cars are available. Located half a mile from Exford's centre, this stylish holiday home offers easy access to Exmoor's attractions.

 

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Gable end of an Essex holiday apartment with large balcony and flanked by horse chestnut trees.
  • Sleeps 5
  • Bedrooms 2

Looking for a luxurious and relaxing getaway? Look no further than The Penthouse, a stunning Essex holiday cottage located on the peaceful Osea Island. This centrally located retreat offers easy access to a private beach, a saltwater lido, and a heated outdoor swimming pool. With a spacious lounge, a well-equipped kitchen, and two comfortable bedrooms, you'll have everything you need to unwind and enjoy your stay. Plus, the master bedroom boasts an en suite with a roll-top bath for the ultimate indulgence. Communal amenities such as a cinema room, gym, and games room are also available for your enjoyment. Whether you're planning a special celebration or a family getaway, The Penthouse is the perfect choice. Don't miss out - discover more about this exquisite island escape today!

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Find a short break that fits your plans

A cottage short break can suit many different plans: a weekend away with friends, a quieter midweek stay, a couple’s escape or a family break without taking a full week off. Some properties may offer a choice of short stays, while others have fixed arrival days or longer minimum stays at busy times.

Start with the dates you have in mind, then check the stay length and booking conditions for each cottage. If your plans are flexible, trying a midweek arrival or a different weekend may give you more choice.

What to check before booking a short-break cottage

  • Minimum stay: Not every cottage is available for two nights or a three-night weekend.
  • Arrival and departure days: A Friday-to-Monday stay may be possible at some properties, while others may offer different changeover days.
  • Date availability: Short breaks can be restricted during school holidays, bank holidays and popular seasonal dates.
  • Price for your chosen stay: Compare the total cost for your dates, including any optional extras or property-specific charges.
  • Travel time: For a short stay, a manageable journey can make a real difference to how much time you have to enjoy the break.
  • Property rules: Check pet arrangements, group rules and accessibility information before confirming your booking.

Ideas for a weekend cottage break

A short stay can be tailored around the kind of time away you want. Browse cottages for couples for a romantic break, dog-friendly cottages if your dog is coming too, or cottages with hot tubs for a more relaxing weekend.

For a change of scenery, explore coastal holiday cottages, walking holidays or waterside cottages. If you are travelling without a car, see our holiday cottages accessible by train.

Frequently asked questions

No. The minimum stay varies by property, season and date. Check the booking details for the cottage and dates you want before making plans.

Some cottages may allow Friday arrivals and Monday departures, but this is not universal. Check the available arrival days and minimum stay for the individual property.

No. A short break describes the length of the stay. A last-minute holiday usually relates to a near-term arrival date and may or may not involve an offer.

Not always. Prices depend on the property, season, demand and length of stay. Check the total price for your chosen dates rather than assuming a midweek break will cost less.

Many properties welcome dogs, but the number allowed, any charges and the property rules vary. Use our dog-friendly cottages collection and check each listing before booking.