Top destinations for off-peak breaks this year

Travelling off-peak allows you to really enjoy the benefits of a self-catering cottage holiday. Secluded beaches, peaceful countryside and tourist attractions without the usual queues are key ingredients for a relaxing break.

It’s cheaper, too. You will often pay less for a luxury self-catering cottage at off-peak travel times. Most people are working and the children are at school, so it is the ideal time to enjoy a romantic break for two or a weekend away with friends and family. So if you’ve decided to go for an off-peak break and are looking for some inspiration, here are a few suggestions for cottage breaks at any time of year.

The Lake District

This beautiful part of the country has everything – mountains, lakes, a dramatic coastline and wonderful towns and villages to explore. Outdoors enthusiasts will love a break in The Lake District. Rent a boat and take to the water, or go hiking, walking and cycling through the stunning countryside.

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Gourmet’s delight

Why not enjoy a break designed to tempt your tastebuds? From Devonshire cream teas to Cumbrian sausages and the Peak District’s Bakewell pudding, traditional local specialities will make your cottage holiday memorable.

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Messing about on the water

The Norfolk Broads provide a unique opportunity to discover some spectacular countryside. They are criss-crossed by miles of waterways to explore, making it the ultimate in relaxing destinations. Cambridgeshire, Suffolk and Norfolk are easy to get to, and during the off-peak season there’s everything from city breaks in Cambridge through to wildlife adventures in the Fens’ numerous nature reserves to choose from.

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Step back in time

Head for the Jurassic Coast in the South West. Here you can explore geology from the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. This spectacular World Heritage site spans 95 miles of picture-perfect coastline from East Devon to Dorset. Walk the South West Coast Path or visit one of the local museums such as Sidmouth Museum or the Geopark in Torbay. At the Lyme Regis Museum you can find out about the life of Mary Anning, a fossil collector whose findings began the study of geology.

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