- UK Information
- UK Holiday Cottages
- Essential information about holiday cottages and self catering accommodation
- How to choose a holiday cottages or self catering accommodation
How to choose a holiday cottages or self catering accommodation
Once you have decided you want a self catering holiday, there is a large choice of locations and property types. Finding the right one can be difficult so here are some things to consider whilst choosing the cottage or self catering accommodation.
Self catering or not
Self catering is probably best because you can eat whatever and whenever you want. Self catering is the choice of about 90% of holiday home rentals.
You don't need to cook every meal if you book a self catering holiday accommodation. There are usually pubs and restaurants nearby where you can relax and enjoy a meal without the hassle of cooking it yourself. There are some purpose built holiday cottage or Chalet complexes where you will be able to get your meals.
Where to stay
It's not just your cottage you should consider, it's where in the country you want to stay and what that area has to offer in terms of cultural and leisure activities. If you've stayed in a holiday cottage before you may want to stay in the same area or stay in a new area and discover more of British Countryside and landscape. Check out our guide on where to go for cottage/self-catering holidays for more information about choosing a location.
Choosing the right holiday cottages or self catering accommodation
Each property will have a page of details about the facilities plus one or more photos. Here are some things to consider:
- Pets
Some holiday cottage owners and self catering accommodation booking agencies allow pets, whilst others don't. Check the property description if you are taking cats and dogs with you. - Smoking
Smoking in some holiday cottages and self catering accommodation may be restricted to certain areas or banned completely. - Kitchen facilities
Check that the holiday cottage or self catering accommodation has the facilities you need such as electric oven, gas hob, fridge freezer, microwave, dishwasher - Other facilities
The holiday cottage or self catering accommodation should have the basic things that you would need for a comfortable stay such as: TV, video, stereo hifi, central heating, - Extra facilities
If you are looking for things like an enclosed garden, private parking, open fire, etc. check the property description to make sure it has what you need. You may also want things such as a hairdryer or tumble drier which are not in some holiday cottages or self catering accommodation. - Linen and Towels
These are sometimes provided, but make sure before you book. You may need to take your own or hire from the holiday cottage owner. - Babies/Children
If you are taking Babies or young children, make sure there is a cot and high chair available. - Nearby Activities and things to do
If you are planning certain activities, check that your holiday cottages or self catering accommodation is located near to leisure facilities like a swimming pool, horse riding, cycle rental and cycling paths, fishing, rambling paths etc. - Price and facilities
Make sure the holiday cottage or self catering accommodation is the right quality and price. Decide whether you want a well equipped high quality cottage or a lower priced cottage which leaves you with more spending money. - The people going
Holiday cottages and self catering accommodation have a capacity of how many people can stay in a property. Make sure that the accommodation is right for the number of people in your party. - Availability
People tend to book holiday cottages and self catering accommodation in advance, particularly for the busy season. Check the property is available for the dates you want, and book early as it might be gone if you wait too long.