Small Holiday Cottages and Homes

Browse small holiday cottages and self-catering homes across the UK. This collection includes one- and two-bedroom properties for couples, friends and smaller families looking for a more compact place to stay.

Small describes the size of the property, not its style, setting or price. You may find a cottage by the coast, a rural retreat, a city apartment or a character property in a village. Use the filters to narrow your search by destination, group size and features, then check the individual listing for the bedroom layout and facilities that suit your plans.

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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The exterior of a single-storey holiday apartment with a vine-covered pergola and floral garden.
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

The Garden Studio is an impressive Minehead holiday apartment for couples set in a wildlife garden in Minehead, Somerset. The pet-friendly cottage offers views to the coast, a lovely furnished patio with garden views, a garden pavilion, a conservatory, seclusion and home-cooked breakfasts.

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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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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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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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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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Chapel conversion exterior with tall arched windows near Polruan
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Enjoy self-catering holidays in Polruan at The Old Sunday School. Nestled in South Cornwall, this converted Sunday school offers a cosy coastal retreat between Fowey and Polperro. Enjoy a peaceful escape with a charming living space, a wood burner, and countryside views. Modern amenities, a courtyard garden, and easy beach access make it an ideal choice. Bring your well-behaved dog to share coastal walks. Discover the perfect balance of comfort and tranquillity—view the property’s full description now.

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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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A bungalow surrounded by lawns and open countryside on the West Somerset coast..
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

The Pippins is a charming detached cottage that provides a romantic getaway for couples in Old Cleeve, a coastal village located in West Somerset. This award-winning cottage offers guests the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful and tranquil holiday in one of the most beautiful regions of England, positioned perfectly between the rolling Quantock Hills and the stunning Bristol Channel coast. It boasts a sunroom and delightful grounds, making it an ideal choice for a romantic retreat.

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The leafy-clad exterior of a stone-built single-storey Exmoor holiday cottage with a flight of stone steps to the front door.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

The Shippon is a wonderfully converted cow shed on a working farm in the Exmoor National Park, Somerset. Dating back to the 14th century, the pet-friendly holiday cottage near Wheddon Cross sleeps four. It promises beautiful views and tranquillity, exposed beams, vaulted ceilings, authentic style and a log fire.

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Aerial view of a tall, brick-built, twin-towered, Victorian folly in a rural location.
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

The Ultimate Romantic Bolthole for Couples in the Shropshire Countryside.

The Summer House is a Grade II listed octagonal tower and summer house built around 1607 near the Shropshire village of Eyton-on-Severn. The memorable, romantic rural retreat will entice couples with its spiral staircase, original features, elegance, magnificent rural views, and a wood-burning stove in the bedroom

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  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Treverbyn Vean Stable is a tastefully refurbished detached 2-bedroom holiday home in the Cornish countryside near Dobwalls/ This waterside cottage is surrounded by almost one acre of beautiful grounds, including a garden and private access to the River Loveny, where guests can fish.

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Find a small cottage that fits your plans

A smaller holiday home can be a good choice when you do not need extra bedrooms or unused living space. For a stay for two, you may be looking for privacy, a good kitchen and a location close to places you want to visit. For friends or a small family, the bedroom layout, bathroom and sleeping arrangements can be more important than the headline number of guests.

Your plansDetails to compare
A cottage for twoBedroom, bathroom, kitchen, location and parking
Friends travelling togetherWhether bedrooms have double, twin or bunk beds
A small family breakBedroom layout, cot space, child equipment and outdoor space
A short stayAvailable arrival days, minimum stay and total price
Bringing a dogNumber of dogs allowed, outdoor space and property rules

What to check before booking a small holiday cottage

  • Bedrooms and sleeping layout: Check the number of bedrooms and the type of beds, especially if more than two people are travelling.
  • Property type: The collection may include cottages, apartments, studios and annexes. Read the individual description before booking.
  • Living and dining space: A cottage sleeping four may still have a compact kitchen, lounge or dining area.
  • Bathroom arrangements: Check whether there is one bathroom, an en-suite or a separate WC.
  • Facilities: Parking, outdoor space, accessibility features and pet arrangements vary between properties.
  • Location: Small cottages can be coastal, rural, urban or village-based. Check the exact setting and nearby amenities.

More small-break ideas

If you are looking specifically for a stay for two, browse our cottages for couples. You can also combine your search with short breaks, dog-friendly cottages, coastal holiday cottages or country cottages.

Frequently asked questions

These are usually one- or two-bedroom self-catering properties. Sleeping capacity varies, so check the individual listing for the exact bedroom and bed layout.

No. Many suit two people, but some have two bedrooms and work well for friends or a small family.

Not necessarily. Price depends on the location, dates, facilities and demand. Compare the total cost for your chosen stay rather than assuming a smaller property will cost less.

Some can. Check how the guests are accommodated, particularly where a sofa bed, bunk beds or a shared bedroom are involved.

No. The collection can include coastal, rural, village and town properties. Check the location information for the individual cottage.