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 row of contemporary shops with two floors of apartments above.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Discover 7 Admirals Quay, a charming Lymington holiday apartment in Lymington. This first-floor quayside apartment offers stunning views of Town Quay and Lymington River. The bright living area features a large picture window, and the well-equipped kitchen ensures a comfortable stay. Two double bedrooms, including a master with an ensuite, open onto a peaceful balcony. Located a short walk from the High Street, this apartment provides easy access to shops, cafes, and restaurants. Ideal for a relaxing coastal retreat.

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3-storey contemporary seaside apartment block with glass-screened balconies.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

The golden sands of Woolacombe Bay beckon guests at 7 Putsborough, a sophisticated seaside holiday apartment in Devon. The pet-friendly apartment in the Byron complex boasts contemporary styling and modern comforts, plus access to a swimming pool and other facilities, all a short walk from the beach.

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  • Sleeps 5
  • Bedrooms 1

Annie's Cottage is a Grade 2 listed, one-bedroom rural holiday cottage for couples on the Kent coast near Ramsgate and Broadstairs. It can sleep 2 - 5 guests. Charming and characterful, it has exposed brick, flint walls, and original beams. It has a 4-Star Quality in Tourism rating.

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Exterior of a 2-storey wooden barn converted to a New Forest holiday cottage
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Imagine a tranquil escape to the enchanting New Forest, where the embrace of nature and the comfort of a well-appointed barn conversion harmonize to create the ideal self-catering holiday. Welcome to Ash Barn, a captivating retreat nestled within the grounds of Goesmere Gardens, just a leisurely three miles west of Fordingbridge and on the outskirts of the charming village of Damerham. Here, you will discover the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation, where a high-ceilinged and spacious interior serves as a delightful canvas for family or friends seeking a memorable getaway.

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1930s-style detached chalet bungalow with a paved deck surrounded by lawns and the Dorset countryside.
  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 3

This large shooting lodge is located in Dorset with peaceful rural views in a secluded location, only a short walk to Symondsbury. Axen Lodge sleeps eight over four bedrooms. This property accommodates a large garden with a hot tub, trampoline and gas BBQ. Dogs are welcome.

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  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Experience luxurious living in this exquisitely designed eco-lodge located in the stunning Cheddar countryside at Strawberryfield Park. This spacious and bright two-bedroom lodge boasts three sets of glass sliding doors that lead out to a beautifully decked terrace, which comes complete with comfortable outdoor seating and a bubbling hot tub.

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Exterior of a wooden eco lodge with a hot tub on its deck.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Cedar Lodge is a luxurious holiday lodge located in Cheddar, Somerset. It features two bedrooms and is situated on the outskirts of the Mendip Hills in a designated National Landscape. This 5-star eco-friendly lodge is located in a peaceful rural setting and is well-suited for parents with very young children as it is baby-friendly.

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holiday lodge deck with a hot-tub, table and chairs
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

Escape to the Somerset countryside near Cheddar at the beautiful Combe Hay eco-lodge, complete with luxury furnishings and a private Jacuzzi hot tub, perfect for a romantic getaway for two.

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Doves Barn Suffolk
  • Sleeps 20
  • Bedrooms 8

This spacious Suffolk Barn conversion, Bradley, sits on 2 acres of land and provides well-furnished accommodation with stunning views of the countryside. Guests can also enjoy a hot tub.

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A thatched Hampshire holiday cottage sits behind a flowering hedgerow in the countryside.
  • Sleeps 5
  • Bedrooms 3

3-Bedroom, Pet-Friendly New Forest Holiday Home Near Lymington

Forest Cottage, ideal for self-catering holidays in the New Forest, invites you to a charming retreat. Nestled in a fabulous location, this detached thatched cottage exudes character with exposed beams and a peaceful garden. Sleeps five in three bedrooms, providing a quaint escape for families and couples. Direct forest access is perfect for New Forest walking holidays. Explore nearby attractions like Beaulieu Village, Lymington, and Bucklers Hard. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the New Forest—book your stay for a delightful holiday experience.

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Exterior of a contemporary house with a balcony surrounded by lawns and trees.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Enjoy the tranquil setting of this home in a fabulous woodland resort just a few miles from Truro. Features include a furnished patio, a private balcony, and on-site facilities such as a spa pool, fitness suite, bar, and restaurant, which means plenty to do while enjoying your Cornish country holiday.

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A modern New Forest holiday home overlooks a large shingle drive and a garage.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Discover Homelands, an exquisite Hampshire holiday let in Brockenhurst, adorned with the prestigious Visit England Gold Award and a 2018 ROSE Award. This luxurious semi-detached cottage, tastefully furnished with a forest theme, offers impeccable comfort and style. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a modern kitchen cater to every need. Enjoy a wood-burning stove, a south-facing garden, and private parking for two cars. Perfectly located for self-catering holidays in the New Forest, with Brockenhurst rail station minutes away for holidays by rail. Immerse yourself in this award-winning property—your gateway to a delightful Hampshire escape.

  • Accessible By Train
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  • Walking Holidays
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Explore Little Haven, a captivating 2-bedroom seaside holiday let in Lymington. This Hampshire coastal cottage seamlessly blends modern comfort with charming aesthetics. Enjoy open-plan living, a stylish courtyard, within easy reach of Lymington's waterfront. With a fully equipped kitchen, Smart TVs, and outdoor dining, it's an ideal retreat. Walk to boutique shops, restaurants, and the Quay. Discover nearby attractions like the New Forest National Park. Little Haven promises a picturesque escape—view the full details for an unforgettable coastal getaway.

  • Accessible By Train
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
  • Sleeps 19
  • Bedrooms 10

Mel House Cottages are a group of four pet-friendly properties that sleep from 3 to 19 Guests in the centre of attractive Newton-on-Rawcliffe in the North York Moors. Three of the four properties are rated at various levels of accessibility for disabled use. Facilities include an indoor Pool, Hot Tub, and Sauna.

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Tiny islands, silhouetted against a setting sun on a calm sea on the Moray Firth in Scotland.
  • Sleeps 30
  • Bedrooms 13

Take a look at three luxury waterside cottages sleeping from 6-18 guests on or near Banff on the Moray Firth. The Old Customs House sits on the shores of the Moray Firth, while Craig Lodge and Craig Alvah overlook the Devoran River in an idyllic and remote rural location a few miles inland. All are exquisitely furnished. Montcoffer Cottages are perfect for walking or fly-fishing holidays in the Scottish Highlands and feature a choice of amenities, including hot tubs and an indoor pool.

  • Active Holidays
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  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cottages With Games Rooms
  • Cottages with Hot Tubs
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Independent Cottages
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Remote Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
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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.