Are you looking for that all important gift for someone special, stressed about what to buy the person who has everything or want to treat your loved one to a special gift?

So often we find ourselves struggling to know what to buy that someone who ‘has everything’ and spend hours trawling the high street in search of that special gift. Something that has not already been bought in previous years, something that is a little bit different and something special and original.

Whether you are looking for a Christmas gift, a birthday present, a ‘thank you’ for someone, a mothers or fathers day gift or an anniversary surprise, why not book a self catering break or holiday away in the UK.

A recent survey of 2057 adults by YouGov revealed that 35% of people are not planning to take a holiday of five days or more in 2012 so maybe it is the perfect time to give your nearest and dearest a holiday or short break away as a gift. You may also find that it is not as expensive as you think. Take a look at our Last Minute Cottages where you will find a huge selection of last minute getaways with something to suite all budgets. There are some incredibly cheap short breaks currently available, for example £145 for three nights for two in Cornwall (under £25 per person, per night and with the use of a hot tub!) and £199 for four nights for four people in the Yorkshire Dales (less than £12.50 per person, per night!).

There are plenty of wonderful places to visit throughout the UK too, and what could be nicer than to receive a relaxing break away in a cosy romantic holiday cottage; a family holiday by the sea; a city break in a stylish apartment; or a weekend in a log cabin by a lake. A UK break is also relatively hassle free as there are no flights to book and many holiday cottages are dog friendly, so no kennels or pet sitters to arrange.

Booking holiday accommodation independently gives you direct contact with the cottage owner who will often go out of their way to ensure your surprise gift is well received. Maybe you would like champagne or flowers arranged ready for arrival; a fire made up ready for lighting; local restaurant suggestions or a cottage brochure to add to your gift package – just speak to the owner directly to see how they can help.

At a time when there is so much doom and gloom in the economy, why not give a holiday or short break away as a gift and give that special person something to look forward to and remember.

The Lake District is an incredibly popular holiday destination in the UK with over 15 million people visiting each year. With its reputation for rain, many visit during the summer months. However, it has so much to offer outside the peak times, as we discovered during our recent October visit to the South Lakes.

With the highest peaks and the largest and deepest lakes in the country, the scenery is simply stunning. Clear lakes, tarns and rivers; ancient woodland; magnificent mountains and the open character of the fells are just waiting to be explored. The area is also incredibly dog friendly, so you can take your faithful friend away with you to enjoy the holiday. Our 8 year-old Parsons Jack Russell Terrier was made to feel very welcome in every pub that we visited.

The tranquillity of the lakes, valleys and fells provide a vast sense of open space and freedom, a place where wildlife and cultural heritage are incredibly apparent and abundant. Many a famous writer has been inspired by the spectacular landscape, in particular, John Ruskin, William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter who were hugely influenced by the area.

A walker descending the Old Man of Coniston

Local traditions have been celebrated for centuries with many still continuing on today. The fell runners leave you speechless, as they often pass you at great speed, tackling some of the most gruelling mountainous routes, with what appears to be the greatest of ease!

At any time of the year, you cannot help but marvel at the pure natural beauty of the Lake District National Park, yet the autumn seems to hold something extra special. The beauty of the changing tree colours look irresistibly photogenic on bright sunny days, attracting photographers, walkers and cyclists alike. The changing weather can also add to the diversity and intriguing nature of the landscape, where a peaceful still lake can quickly turn into an exciting turbulent scene as the waves crash along the shoreline. The occasional rain shower also bring with it wonderful waterfalls that cascade down the rock faces, a pleasure you might not always get to see during the dryer months.

Other benefits for visiting out of the busy peak period are reduced rental rates on holiday cottages and self-catering accommodation. Many holiday homes offer cheaper rates during the autumn and winter months, along with greater flexibility for short breaks. With many cottages offering log burners or open fires, they provide perfect cosy retreats to return home to after an exciting day exploring the fells. The area is also generally quieter with fewer visitors and less traffic on the roads adding an extra bonus.

Lake Coniston in October

The cooler weather and risk of a rain shower, does nothing to deter outdoor enthusiasts who come prepared with clothing and equipment suitable for all weathers. Certainly walking is a lot more comfortable in the autumn than in the heat of the summer. There are also plenty of shops in the towns and villages selling outdoor clothing and equipment (with many offering end of season bargains), along with gifts and excellent local produce.

Renowned as a walker’s paradise, The Lake District has something to suit all energy levels and abilities – from a gentle stroll around a tarn, to a challenging hike up Scafell Pike or The Old Man of Coniston. Plenty of people bring their dogs along with them to enjoy the great walks, but owners must ensure they clear up after them. Many areas also require dogs to be kept under close control or on-lead, due to the abundance of wildlife and grazing livestock. A breakfast planning session, using one of the myriad of walking guides available will help you to choose the most suitable distance and terrain for the days activities.  Also, with a little extra planning, visitors with accessibility needs are catered for too, many of the car parks have free parking for blue-badge holders and some walks have level, man-made pathways.

The pubs provide a warm welcome where walkers and climbers congregate at the end of the day (dogs are often welcome too!). With their crackling log fires, local ales and traditional hearty meals, you can treat yourself to locally sourced delights including the famous Cumberland sausage and Herdwick lamb, reared on the fells.

We had planned some visits for a rainy day (the Wordsworth museum in Grasmere and the Ruskin museum in Coniston), but the wheather was so kind to us that we didn’t get the chance to go!  Perhaps next year…

Take a look at our holiday cottages in the Lake District, many of which have last minute offers.

Many people want to take their dogs on holiday with them and Independent Cottages has over 500 dog friendly holiday cottages throughout the UK to choose from.

Taking your dog away on holiday can help to reduce any anguish and costs associated with putting your loved one in a kennel and it often makes for a very enjoyable holiday, for both yourself and your dog, if planned well.

Obviously it depends on the type of holiday you are planning. If you are intending to do lots of sightseeing and visit attractions, then it may be inhibiting to take your dog away with you as many attractions (e.g. museums, stately homes etc) may not welcome dogs. Generally, holiday cottage owners will not allow you to leave your dog in the cottage unattended and it is also not recommended that dogs are left in cars. However, there are plenty of enjoyable things to do on holiday with your four legged friend.

The wonderfully diverse landscape in the UK provides fantastic walking opportunities and the climate generally lends itself well to this type of holiday. There are also plenty of dog friendly beaches, pubs, attractions and even restaurants who welcome well behaved dogs.

To help you get the most out of your holiday with your dog, here are a few tips:

• When you are in the process of booking a ‘dog friendly’ holiday cottage, make sure you notify the owner of your intention to bring your dog and if you have more than one dog, confirm the exact number. Also make sure that you discuss any ‘pet rules’ that the owner has put in place to ensure that the cottage is suitable for both you and your dog/s needs prior to booking.
• Many owners have ‘pet rules’ that you should be aware of and will need to agree too, prior to booking and staying in the cottage. These rules are put in place to protect your dog, yourself, the holiday cottage and future guests.
• Do your research about the surrounding area – find out what pubs, beaches, attractions etc welcome dogs – this will help you to get the most out of your holiday. Also find out about walking opportunities in the local vicinity along with any restrictions due to livestock, wildlife etc. It is also worth noting the telephone numbers for local vets and veterinary hospitals for while you are away.
• Be sure that all your dog’s basic necessities are packed for the journey, the stay and your adventures whilst on holiday. The more comfortable your dog is, the more quickly he/she will settle and relax in the new environment so take along favourite toys, treats, blankets etc – after all, it is also your dogs holiday!
• Make sure your dog is used to travelling prior to going away and ensure comfortable facilities are provided for the journey, along with many breaks along the way.
• Always make sure you clear up after your dog wherever you are – with more places becoming dog friendly, it is really important that we all do our bit for responsible dog ownership.
• Never leave a dog unattended in a holiday cottage. Not only will you often be breaking rules, put in place by the owner, but however well behaved and well trained your dog may be, you can never be 100% sure how he/she will behave in new surroundings.

Taking your dog away with you can be incredibly rewarding and enjoyable and with a little thought and planning, both you and your dog should have a relaxing, enjoyable holiday.

With the school holidays just starting, it is not too late to book a family holiday away in the UK with a great selection of holiday cottages and holiday accommodation still available.

The UK has so much to offer families and it can reduce the stresses and costs associated with travelling abroad – simply pack up the car with everything you need to keep the kids amused and comfortable during your stay and head off to your chosen holiday destination.

Many holiday cottages have excellent facilities to keep the whole family amused whatever the weather. These include holiday cottages with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, crazy golf, tennis courts, pool tables, play parks, indoor and outdoor games areas and holiday cottages on a farm where the children can watch and sometimes even help with some of the day to day activities.

With such a wide selection of holiday accommodation available, there has never been a better time to enjoy a self catering holiday in the UK. Click to take a look at our last minute cottages.

There is a vast and diverse selection of holiday accommodation available in the UK to cater for all needs, tastes and budgets. UK holidays are certainly very popular this year and the freedom of a self catering holiday allows you to fulfil your needs, whether you are looking for a relaxing break or a holiday packed full of activity and adventure.

One of the many great things about self catering accommodation is its pure diversity. We have cottages, apartments, town houses, log cabins and farm houses from which to choose (to name just a few!). We have self catering accommodation to meet both the needs of the discerning traveller as well as those of the traveller with a limited budget.

Our selection of holiday accommodation is ever increasing in size and diversity and if you are looking for something a little bit different this year, then let Independent Cottages inspire you.

Why not combine the Golden Age of travel with modern luxurious self catering and stay at a Station Masters House or a Victorian Station Building and enjoy a truly fascinating holiday experience in Scotland.

For a really fun and memorable time, stay on a Railway Carriage in the heart of Cornwall where you can relax and watch a few trains go by.

Live life on the ocean waves in Devon and enjoy a relaxing break on a Static House Boat and watch the harbour at work.

Be at one with nature in the Cotswolds and rent a Turkoman Style Yurt Tent where you can escape the pressures of everyday life.

Travel back in time and stay in a Romany Gypsy Caravan on a rare breeds Farm in Devon.

Or stay in the Lake District at the foot of a waterfall in a character Converted Water Mill set in its own nature reserve and a haven for wildlife.

With so much self catering choice available, what are you waiting for?

With the May Day Bank Holiday and the excitement of the Royal Wedding behind us, it is time to start focussing on the Spring Bank Holiday which will soon be upon us.

An ideal time to get away ahead of the main summer holidays and with the long term weather forecast predicting above average temperatures, the UK looks like a good place to enjoy a relaxing break.

There is no better time to enjoy the splendours of the British countryside than during the spring. Why not head off to the coast, enjoy a walking holiday, take the children to a farm cottage or hire a large holiday cottage and go away with friends or family.

If you have not yet made plans for the next bank holiday, then take a look at our special Spring Bank Holiday availability.