Our inspectors spend the year uncovering the most special and characterful places to stay, from stone-built cottages tucked into quiet valleys to farmhouses where the glow of a wood-burner greets you after a bracing walk. Sometimes a place stands out not just for its setting or design, but for the sense of comfort it gives you the moment you step inside – a basket of freshly chopped logs ready for the fire, shelves of well-thumbed books, or a sofa calling you to curl up with a blanket. These new discoveries added to our collection during 2025 are among the cosiest holiday cottages in the UK, perfect for autumn escapes, winter gatherings, or simply retreating somewhere peaceful with a good book.
The Grieves Farmhouse, Fife
Cosy, not cavernous, this thoughtfully restored 18th-century farmhouse combines cosy charm and style in a series of cleverly linked spaces. A big velvet sofa in front of the wood-burner is the spot for slow afternoons as the wind whistles outside, while the kitchen is a cook’s dream, stocked with fresh eggs and local sourdough for leisurely breakfasts. The two double bedrooms are beautifully dressed with soft fabrics and soothing views, adding to the calm. Step outside for walks across gentle hills, crunching through leaves, or simply wander over to meet the resident Highland cows before heading back in for dinner by the fire.
What our inspector says: “Distressed mirrors; vernacular tables; rhubarb, mushroom, courgette palette; brass plumbware and much earthenware – in short, William Morris meets pre-79 AD Pompeii by way of the recycling store. Gorgeous.” – Erlend, Sawday’s Inspector.
Stable Cottage, Northumberland
This Georgian stone cottage, once part of the estate’s stableyard, sits behind sweeping lawns and towering rhododendrons. Inside, Persian rugs, soft lighting and deep armchairs create a warm, restful atmosphere, while the wood-burner makes a snug retreat after a bracing walk on the Northumberland coast. Two peaceful bedrooms are dressed with crisp linen, blankets and slippers, so you’ll want to linger in the mornings. Outside, a private garden gives way to walled grounds, croquet lawns and woodland paths. Beyond lie endless trails, the castles of Alnwick and Warkworth, and the wild magic of Holy Island.
What our inspector says: “Stable Cottage is warm, cosy and inviting, surrounded by beautiful gardens and countryside – the perfect place for a relaxing getaway.” – Mary, Sawday’s Inspector.
The Coach House, Somerset
Vaulted ceilings, antique pieces and handmade cushions create a homely feel in this generous open-plan space. French doors open to a private garden where you can sip apple juice from the orchard or watch the sunset. Bedrooms are warm and welcoming, layered with patterned fabrics and leafy views, while a gypsy caravan in the paddock will delight children. Life here follows the rhythm of the farm: wander rewilded meadows, forage in the orchard, or try wild swimming before booking the wood-fired hot tub or solar-powered sauna. With fresh eggs, garden produce and vineyard tastings, it’s a place that feeds both body and soul.
What our inspector says: “As soon as you arrive here, you’ll feel right at home. The communal living space makes it easy to come together and there are plenty of toys and books to keep little ones entertained. The Coach House sits on a 42-acre farm and vineyard so do sample the apple juice and soon-to-be-served wine and keeved cider. The Wild Spa would be a special experience too.” – Nicole, Sawday’s Inspector.
Tulach Ard House, Highlands
A much-loved 18th-century manse that gazes over Loch Alsh to the Isle of Skye, Tulach Ard House’s mix of antique treasures, Scottish fabrics and earthy tones make the interiors feel both elegant and lived in. As the evenings draw in, gather around the big wooden dining table, sink into squashy armchairs with a dram, or retreat upstairs to a four-poster bed dressed in soft linen. Children will love the den, while grownups gravitate to the firelit family room or watch the sunset paint the loch from the garden. Step outside into the garden for crisp games of croquet, wander through ancient woodland or simply watch the deer at dawn. Whether you’re huddled by the fire or stargazing under a tartan rug, this is Highland comfort at its best.
What our inspector says: “This is a lovely old house with character and style in spades, but the location is what you’ll really fall in love with. Stunning!” – Clare, Sawday’s Inspector.
Jean’s Cottage, Cumbria
This former inn and post office in the quiet Duddon Valley is full of history and homely touches. Original beams, flagged floors and red post boxes nod to its past, while underfloor heating, two sitting rooms and a spacious kitchen bring modern comfort. Eat at the wooden table with views of the fells, then step outside to stride up The Caw or dip in the river. Return to fire up the wood-burner or settle by the fire pit on starry nights. It’s the sort of place where you can slow your pace, connect with the landscape and feel cocooned from the wider world.
What our inspector says: “Jean’s Cottage is simply magical. As the old post office in the pretty village of Ulpha and an inn before that, it has a real sense of history with many features of the cottage meticulously uncovered and preserved by Mike. It is beautifully presented with such a mix of old and new, as well as some of Lesley’s gorgeous art. The tips on the best nearby swimming spots in the river made my trip complete!” – Caroline, Sawday’s Inspector.
The Mission, Isle of Wight
This former tin chapel is packed with atmosphere. Step inside and you’ll find soaring rafters, wood panelling and vintage mid-century furniture, giving the place a cinematic quality. There are velvet sofas to sink into by the fire, a huge vinyl collection, games, puzzles and even a piano – a space made for hibernating with friends and family when the evenings draw in. The bathroom is particularly memorable, with a sunken bath in the old baptismal font, offering the perfect end to a day striding across the chalk downs or wandering to the village pub. The kitchen, made from Spitfire offcuts, is ready for hearty dinners and late-night chats around the table.
What our inspector says: “Truly a magical place. So much attention to detail with the décor and facilities, and a fabulously unusual building. Perfect to have fun and relax with family and friends – lots of thoughtful extras and plenty to keep everyone entertained.” – Mandy, Sawday’s Inspector.
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Beth Tingle
Beth is our Marketing & Content Coordinator, who uses her experience in all things content to get to the heart of the stories and people behind our places and paint an authentic picture of what makes them truly special. She then helps the SEO team to ensure that content reaches as many people as possible. Raised in the small seaside town of Clevedon, she then studied English at Falmouth University and is happiest when swimming in the sea. A huge foodie, she enjoys travel that involves finding the best local markets and cooking up the produce in a self-catered stay.
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