It’s November, it’s cold and wet and it’stempting to shuffle around indoors in slippers counting the months until thesun comes out and it is holiday time again.
But you don’t have to wait to get away. Embrace the autumn chill and cosy up in alovely cottage or cabin. We’re thinking frosty walks to country pubs and hotchocolate by the woodburner.
These are our top picks for cosy stays thisautumn, from hideaways for two to places to sprawl out in with the kids and thedogs.
Pengelli FarmLodge | Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire
With viewsto adore from its floor-to-ceiling windows, you might just never want to leavethis luxury wooden cabin in the Carmarthenshire hills. Stay toasty round thewoodburner, or head for the heat of the hot-tub and enjoy this patch ofparadise. If you’re inspired to travel further, you’ll find an autumn playgroundin the nearby Brechfan Forest.
Hex Cottage | Sibton, Suffolk
This cutelittle thatched forester’s cottage is perfect for romantic couples looking fora retreat from the world. Sleeping just two, it has no electricity, so you’llhave no choice but to switch off and enjoy each other’s company, surrounded bypretty Suffolk countryside. There’s an open fire to keep you warm in the livingroom, and a wood-fired range cooker in the kitchen. You’ll go to bed to thetwinkle of candlelight, and wake up to birdsong and a delivery of fresh croissants.
Hoe Grange Holidays | Matlock, Derbyshire
You’ll get achoice of gorgeous log cabins for families of up to six, and cute glamping podsfor two, all made from sustainable timber. Friendly owners David and Felicityhave put a lot of thought into Hoe Grange, with all the cabins designed to beaccessible and as eco-friendly as possible. All the cabins and pods are heated,insulated and equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay. If youfeel like exploring, head out onto the Peak District trails and warm up in the wood-firedsauna when you return.
Meadow Cottageat Wild Meadow | Presteigne, Radnorshire
In a heavenly meadow on the English-Welshborder, Meadow Cottage is fabulous for families looking to get away from the grind.Built from natural wood with full-length windows, the cottage is spacious,light and eco-friendly. Outside, you’ll find a network of walking trails to explore,before you head home to a hot solar shower and seasonal treats from the kitchengarden.
Higher Lodge | Cockington, Devon
You can really hunker down in this sweet littlecountry cottage in the Devon countryside. Built in the 17th Century,it’s straight out of the pages of a fairytale book, with its thatched roof andsloping beams. Inside, it’s surprisingly spacious and sleeps up to four. Enjoya family meal in the country kitchen or enjoy cosying up around the gas stove.When the kids want to run off some steam, take them exploring in the 460-acreCockington Estate, a designated wildlife site with its own apple orchard.
Hidden River Cabins | Carlisle, Cumbria
These lovelylog cabins in the heart of Cumbria are designed to stay warm whatever theweather. There’s a choice of five, sleeping up to 10, so you can bring thewhole family, including the dog. Each cabin has its own secluded spot on theriverbank, with a private hot tub. Jump in and enjoy the views while you keepwarm! Inside, you’ll find woodburners, fully-equipped kitchens and lots ofspace to spread out and relax.
Annie’sCabin | Ludlow, Shropshire
A hand-builtFinnish log cabin in the Shropshire countryside with chocolate-box good looks,this might just be the perfect winter family getaway. It has an eco-friendlywood pellet stove, a home cinema and even a wood-fired pizza oven. It’ll behard to tear yourself away, but if you do, you’ll be rewarded with glorioushill walks and fabulous shopping in nearby Ludlow.
Rosehill Lodges | Porthtowan, Cornwall
If it wouldn’t be a holiday for you withoutsome serious pampering, stay at five-star Rosehill Lodges. Each eco-cabin hasits own hot tub, with a glass roof to keep the weather out, and aromatherapyoils for pure relaxation. Inside, you’ll find luxury fittings, a log burner anda spacious kitchen. You can have fresh local food brought to your door, and ifyou don’t feel like cooking yourself, just hire the private chef. The Cornishcoast is a quick skip away, just as beautiful on a dramatic winter’s day as itis in summer sun.
Time to stop wishing the months away. Enjoy thecrisp air, misty woods and firelight on your out-of-season getaway.
Editor’s Choice
Cosiest cabins and cottages for an out-of-season getaway
19 November 2016