UK Coastal Holiday Cottages as an Alternative to the Crowded Mediterranean

Choosing between a UK coastal cottage and a Mediterranean resort comes down to the kind of holiday you want. This guide compares the two styles of break, looking at self-catering freedom, private living space, travel, dog-friendly options and the flexibility to shape each day around your own plans. It also explains what to consider when choosing a coastal cottage, from location and facilities to family needs and booking direct with an independent owner.

From following in the footsteps of famous authors to visiting the real-life landscapes behind favourite books, films and TV series, literary tourism offers a different way to explore the UK. This guide explains fictioneering, literary tourism and set-jetting, with inspiration from the Yorkshire moors and Lake District to Cornwall, Bath and Northumberland. It also shares practical tips for building a story-led cottage break around the places and fictional worlds you love.

Planning a cooler UK summer escape for 2026? This guide explores summer events, walking highlights and seasonal experiences across the Peak District and Yorkshire Dales. From guided walks and village events to waterfalls, moorland routes and quieter countryside escapes, discover what makes each National Park a rewarding choice for families, couples, walkers and dog owners, plus practical advice on when to visit and how to choose between the two destinations.

A BBQ is one of the simplest ways to make the most of a summer cottage holiday, especially when there is plenty of outdoor space to enjoy with family and friends. This guide covers what to look for in a holiday cottage for al fresco entertaining, how to create an easy but special BBQ menu, and the small touches that make outdoor dining more enjoyable. It also includes practical advice on BBQ safety, preparing for changeable British weather and keeping entertaining relaxed from start to finish.

Bringing the dog on holiday can make a family break even more enjoyable, but not every pet-friendly cottage offers the same experience. This guide explores the difference between dogs being allowed and genuinely welcomed, the features that can make a stay easier, and the practical details to consider before booking. From enclosed gardens and nearby walks to dog-friendly pubs, beaches and thoughtful extras, discover how to choose a cottage that works for the whole family.