Our Favourite Coastal Holiday Cottages
Nothing beats a traditional British seaside holiday. Salty air, sandy feet, the constant murmur of the waves, and vast uninterrupted views to where the sky meets the sea – escaping to the coast is the best antidote to the stresses of modern life.
Our favourite coastal holiday cottages are literally a stone’s throw from the sea, and perfect for family holidays, romantic retreats, or a break away with your dog. When you’ve got the beach on your doorstep it’s easy to pop down for an early morning stroll, spend a day embroiled in sandcastle construction, or hang on to watch an incredible sunset, safe in the knowledge that home is just a short amble away.
From cosy, quirky fishermen’s cottages perched on clifftops, to contemporary, spacious coastal retreats with picture-perfect views – you’re sure to find your ideal getaway among our selection of holiday cottages by the sea.
Here are our top 6 favourite coastal holiday cottages…
1. The Little Sea House, Lyme Regis, Dorset
This small, yet perfectly formed, 1 bedroomed, dog-friendly chalet (sleeping 3) is ideally positioned right next to the sea at Monmouth Beach, one of the most stunning spots of the world-famous Jurassic coastline.
With its own decked area for al fresco eating and sunbathing, you’ll enjoy relaxing meals soaking up amazing views stretching right across Lyme Bay, with Chesil Beach and Portland in the far distance.
This shingle and sand beach on the edge of the lively seaside town of Lyme Regis – with an abundance of independent shops, cafes, bars and restaurants within walking distance – makes an ideal coastal escape at any time of year.
The chalet is brand new and built to a high specification, offering characterful, cosy, comfortable accommodation with many homely touches. Please note the innovative mezzanine level has restricted head height and is suitable for a child over 6 or a teenager.
2. The Cobbles, Polperro, South Cornwall
This idyllic, 18th century, white-washed fisherman’s cottage, overlooking Polperro beach and harbour, is bursting with character and charm.
Located on a pedestrianised lane a short stroll from the centre of the unspoilt fishing village of Polperro, with its many excellent cafes, bars and restaurants, this 2 bedroomed dog-friendly cottage (sleeping 4) enjoys spectacular sea views from most of its windows.
Tasteful décor and cosy furnishings combine to create a relaxed atmosphere, whilst well-placed window seats provide comfortable perches for watching the world go by.
If you’re keen to explore this magnificent stretch of coastline on foot, the South West Coast Path passes conveniently close to the cottage. Alternatively, sit back and enjoy the panoramic views of the harbour and village from the small, sunny private terrace located up some steps at the back of the cottage.
3. Mer-Boes, Portwinkle, South Cornwall
This modern, spacious, 3 bedroomed cottage (sleeping 6) overlooks the beautiful Whitsand Bay and enjoys stunning views across to St George’s Island to the west and the Rame Head Peninsula to the east.
Having been recently renovated throughout, this comfortable, family and dog-friendly accommodation makes the most of its exceptional coastal position with its large picture windows that frame the outstanding sea views.
With easy access on foot to a choice of two sand and shingle beaches, numerous rock-pools, a small harbour and Finnygook beach, which is popular among surfers in the right conditions, Mer-Boes makes the ideal seaside retreat.
Portwrinkle Bay benefits from a seafront café a short stroll away, a golf club and hotel restaurant round the corner, a pub within an energetic walking distance, and many beautiful coves and fishing villages to explore along the south Cornish coast.
4. Challadene, Challaborough, South Devon
Challadene offers fabulous contemporary accommodation for up to 10 people, in 5 bedrooms, in a prime seaside position.
Recently and stylishly renovated to include every modern luxury, this stunning, dog-friendly, property is ideal for family holidays, or a holiday with friends, by the sea.
The sandy beach of Challaborough is right on its doorstep, and the popular beach at Bigbury-on-Sea and the iconic Burgh Island is just 10 minutes’ stroll away, with its famous sea tractor, 1920’s hotel and atmospheric Pilchard Inn, with its tales of pirates and smugglers.
5. 7 At the Beach, Torcross, South Devon
This fantastic 2 bedroomed beachside apartment (sleeping 4) is all about the location. Right on the seafront in Torcross, it makes a great retreat for couples, friends and families looking to enjoy a seaside holiday in this beautiful part of South Devon.
The stylish, modern interior provides comfortable accommodation, whilst the sea-facing balcony with its far-reaching views across Start Bay is perfect for al fresco dining whilst soaking up the sights and sounds of the sea.
Torcross is situated at the southern end of a glorious stretch of pebble beach known as Slapton Sands. The village benefits from a shop and Post Office, gift shop, tea room, restaurant and the popular Start Bay Inn, famous for its fish and chips.
A stunning freshwater lake, Slapton Ley, lies across the road from the beach, home to a wealth of birds and wildlife. The South West Coast Path is also on the doorstep, follow it over the cliff tops to the quaint fishing village of Beesands, and beyond to the white-washed lighthouse and sunbathing seals on the rocks at Start Point.
6. River View, Appledore, North Devon
River View is a charming, characterful 4 bedroomed cottage (sleeping 8) located on one of Appledore’s most desirable streets, just a short walk from the quaint village centre.
This stylish, spacious holiday accommodation is arranged over 3 floors, with the master room benefiting from a Dorma window that makes the most of the stunning estuary views, and its outside terrace offers a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the evening sun.
Appledore is an attractive traditional fishing village, with narrow winding streets and an abundance of popular pubs, restaurants and tea rooms. Westward Ho! beach is within walking distance of the cottage – a great place to visit, whatever the season.
The village itself is located on the River Torridge, with a regular passenger ferry service to the opposite village of Instow, where you can enjoy another sheltered stretch of sandy beach. The ancient town of Bideford is also within easy reach and is home to boutique shops and cafes, and has a regular ferry to the nature reserve at Lundy Island.