Booking a holiday cottage in the UK is one of the easiest ways to enjoy a relaxing getaway without the stress of long-distance travel. Sykes Cottages makes that process even simpler by offering thousands of rental properties across coastal towns, countryside villages, and scenic regions across the UK. But with so many options, how do you find the cottage that’s truly right for your trip?
Here’s a helpful guide to choosing the perfect Sykes Cottage based on your needs, travel style, and holiday expectations.
🌍 1. Choose the Right Location
Location sets the tone for your holiday. The UK offers a diverse range of regions, such as:
- Coastal escapes (Cornwall, Dorset, North Yorkshire)
- Countryside breaks (Lake District, Peak District, Cotswolds)
- Rural highlands (Scotland, Wales)
- Historic towns & villages (Bath, York, Stratford-upon-Avon)
Ask yourself:
Do you want beaches, hiking trails, city culture, or total isolation?
Once you know the vibe you’re chasing, filtering becomes much easier.
🧳 2. Decide Who You’re Travelling With
Your travel group matters—a lot.
For example:
✔ Couples may want cosy cabins or scenic cottages
✔ Families might need extra bedrooms and outdoor space
✔ Large groups could require multi-floor layouts or multiple bathrooms
✔ Solo travellers often appreciate compact, comfortable spaces
Also consider accessibility needs, especially for elderly travellers or children.
🐾 3. Check for Pet-Friendly Options
If you’re bringing a dog, you’re in luck—Sykes has a large selection of pet-friendly cottages. Look for properties with:
- Enclosed gardens
- Nearby walking routes
- Pet-friendly beaches or parks
- Clear pet policies
Bringing pets opens up more spontaneous adventures without the cost of kennels or sitters.
🛏️ 4. Decide on Your Comfort Level & Facilities
Think about what would make your stay more enjoyable. Popular features include:
✔ Hot tubs
✔ Wood-burning stoves
✔ Garden or patio space
✔ Large kitchens for cooking
✔ Wi-Fi for remote work or streaming
✔ Private parking
Luxury vs. rustic will depend on the style of break you want.
🎯 5. Filter Based on Your Travel Purpose
Different trips need different setups:
⭐⭐ For romantic breaks → secluded, scenic, cosy
⭐⭐ For family trips → near attractions, outdoor space, kid-friendly
⭐⭐ For adventure holidays → close to hiking, coastline, national parks
⭐⭐ For relaxation → privacy, views, and spa-style facilities
This is where Sykes’ filters are useful—they help narrow down cottages that match your plans.
🗺️ 6. Use Local Area Information
Many properties include detailed local guides. Pay attention to:
- Distance to pubs, beaches, markets, and attractions
- Nearby walking trails or cycling routes
- Transport connections (if not driving)
- Local cultural or seasonal events
This adds depth to your experience beyond the cottage itself.
📝 7. Read Guest Reviews Carefully
Reviews are one of the most reliable indicators of what to expect. Past guests often highlight:
- Cleanliness
- Comfort
- Host responsiveness
- Actual vs advertised features
- Surrounding area insights
They can save you from surprises—or confirm you’ve found a gem.
🗓️ 8. Check Availability Early
Popular months book out fast—especially:
✔ Easter
✔ Summer holidays
✔ Bank holiday weekends
✔ Christmas & New Year
Booking early gives you the best selection and pricing.
💸 9. Keep an Eye on Deals & Pricing
Sykes often offers seasonal promotions and flexible pricing. Travelling outside peak dates can drastically reduce costs while offering quieter travel experiences.