Nothing beats lying in bed and listening to the sound of waves lapping against the shore or sitting out on the balcony watching the sunset over the loch. This provides the icing on the cake for any holiday offering! Browse our range of waterside cottages below and enjoy your next break right by the water's edge. Read more
The Isle of Skye is arguably the closest you get to Heaven on Earth. This shoreline charming traditional croft cottage dates from 1880 and has been extended and updated to offer very comfortable accommodation for up to four adults and two children in three bedrooms. It's perfect for families, extended families or friends, with views over Broadford Bay from every window. The location is ideal for visitors with easy access to the island's favourite sights and attractions. Seaford Croft is in Waterloo, half a mile from Broadford and its amenities, and seven miles from the Skye Bridge.
Longthwaite Farmhouse, is a Grade II listed traditional seventeenth century farmhouse at the head of the Borrowdale. The house’s unique location makes it a perfect base for walkers and climbers as it offers immediate access by foot to the best loved Lakeland peaks, Scafell, Great Gable, the Langdale Pikes and Buttermere Fells. Great on and off road cycling routes and access to both rowing & sailing on nearby Derwentwater ensures that there is something for everyone. Its riverside location offers endless paddling and dam-building opportunities for children (and adults) and many species of birds to spot.
This riverside holiday cottage is in a peaceful rural location only a mile (and a 15-minute walk) from shops, cafes and pubs in Stocksbridge. The Peak District National Park is only two miles away and, being in the Pennines means there are miles of gorgeous walks and cycling routes from the door of Unsliven Bridge Barn. This dog-friendly conversion sleeps up to seven people in three bedrooms. It is ideal for families all year round, with thick stone walls and underfloor heating that keep it warm in winter, and a riverside garden for lazy summer barbecues.
Relax with your favourite people in this spacious luxury holiday house which dates back to the 1600s and blends modern features and luxurious touches that appeal to contemporary guests. It is close to the Peak District and a mile from Stocksbridge, giving visitors easy access to shops, cafes, pubs and stunning footpaths and cycling routes through the Pennines and the national park. There is space for up to 15 people to sleep in seven beautiful bedrooms, six of which are ensuite. Unsliven Bridge Farm is a warm, welcoming large holiday rental for extended families and friends, providing the perfect getaway at any time of year.
A spacious family holiday home ideally situated in the popular fishing village of Porthleven, Cornwall. Just a short stroll from the harbours edge and long sandy beach making this perfect for a self-catering family holiday by the sea.
It doesn't get more waterfront than this lovely holiday home beside the River Bure in Horning, right in the heart of the Norfolk Broads. It has a private mooring and guests can fish from the waterfront deck. There are three bedrooms to sleep six people, with shops, cafes, pubs and other amenities all within walking distance. Wroxham is three miles away, Norwich is 12 miles, and you can reach the North Norfolk Coast and beaches like Cromer in around half an hour. It's a heavenly spot that's perfect for exploring the Broads on foot, by boat or by bicycle.
The Isle of Colonsay is located off the West Coast of Scotland in the Hebrides and has stunning beaches, spectacular views, great walks, bike rides and an abundance of wildlife. Overlooking the sea and within walking distance of the islands hotel which serves very good food, this holiday cottage is a perfect Scottish holiday retreat.
An impressive English oak framed holiday lodge with a riverside garden that perfectly combines traditional charm with modern conveniences to provide a high standard of self-catering. Located close to the many beautiful beaches and attractions of North Cornwall, the lodge is within easy driving distance of Boscastle, Tintagel and Bodmin Moor and a great base for a family holiday exploring this beautiful part of the South West. Shorter stay enquiries welcome, minimum 3 nights
One of three delightful contemporary holiday apartments that are perfectly located in the old town of Padstow in Cornwall, and within just a short stroll from the harbour and quayside with its fantastic selection of gastro restaurants, pubs and bistros as well as glorious beaches for lazy days. With the sea on the doorstep and a hot tub for guests to enjoy, Duke's Retreat is the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Perfect for couples looking to truly escape the hustle and bustle of modern day living, Lower Polnish is a 'unique' Scottish retreat for two and offers the chance to get away from modern day distractions, get back to basics and enjoy the simple pleasures in life. Offering the chance to get 'off the grid' this cosy former blackhouse sits a stone's throw from the private shoreline on the Ardnish Peninsular in an isolated position away from it all with only wildlife to disturb you.
Have you ever wanted to go back to basics and enjoy the simpler things in life? This Scottish retreat provides a 'unique' self-catering experience where you can enjoy complete peace and isolation. On the mainland, the cottage is only accessible by boat (provided as part of the rental) and once arrived, you can experience your own little slice of 'island' life.
A stylish riverside holiday cottage in an enviable position in the very heart of the Norfolk Broads sitting within a private garden right on the bank of the River Bure in Wroxham. With miles of magical waterways to explore and being just ten miles from the Norfolk coastline and the City of Norwich, Sandringham Cottage is the perfect self-catering base for up to four guests from which to explore Norfolk. The mooring and private garden area make this the perfect location for those wishing to enjoy all that the Norfolk Broads has to offer from boating, kayaking, fishing in season to bird watching and photography or just relaxing and watching the world go by.
Beach Rise is a superb waterfront holiday cottage in Silverdale with incredible views over Morecambe Bay. It's perfect for families who want space and a peaceful location with beautiful walks and bike rides from the door. It's within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and only a few miles from Kendal, Windermere and the Lake District. The Forest of Bowland and the Yorkshire Dales National Park are also within easy reach, giving you miles of spectacular landscape to enjoy. Recently refurbished to a high standard, the house accommodates seven people in four bedrooms and is ideal for families.
Made just for two, this dog-friendly self-catering cottages offers all the right ingredients to relax and unwind. Lovely walks by day with the use of a hot tub to bubble your aches away afterwards. A great base for exploring the tranquil beautiful Ellen Vale sandwiched between Cockermouth and the Solway Coast, as well as the many attractions of the nearby Lake District. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
A Tailor-made romantic holiday retreat for two in the peaceful Ellen Vale, in Cumbria, between Cockermouth and the Solway Coast and within easy distance of the Lakes. With the use of a hot tub, couples are sure to get lots of relaxation on holiday. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Tailor-made for two, Parlour Cottage is a romantic retreat in the peaceful Ellen Vale between Cockermouth and the Solway Coast in Cumbria. Within easy driving distance of the Lake District National Park, there are an abundance of great days out for couples as well as lovely walks on the doorstep. Sit back in the hot tub and enjoy the peace, tranquility and bird song! Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Sitting in large gardens (with tennis court!), this welcoming bright and airy holiday apartment is perfectly placed in a tranquil location overlooking lake Windermere, yet within just a mile of Bowness-on-Windermere with its shops and eating establishments. The Loft offers the best of both worlds for those who want to relax and unwind whilst being within easy reach of the areas many attractions.
An old fisherman's cottage in an enviable position overlooking Staithes' picturesque harbour with superb restaurants, spectacular cliff-top walks and beautiful sandy beaches and rock fish pools on the doorstep. A popular holiday destination and ideal accommodation choice for those looking for a holiday by the sea, walkers and those looking to explore the many attractions of the North York Moors. Tourist board rating: 3 Star
Beautiful 5/6 bedroomed cottage with plenty of space for everyone to relax and have fun. The cottage overlooks the Derwent Valley and river Derwent which runs through the village. The cottage comfortably accommodates up to 15 guests in five upstairs bedrooms and one downstairs snug off the living area with double full-sized double sofa-bed. There are gardens to the front and rear with BBQ and outside garden furniture and garden games including swingball and garden jenga. Matlock Bath is known as the seaside town without the sea and you'll soon see why! There are shops, pubs, restaurants and amusements all along the main promenades plus loads of things to do right here in the village including boat trips, cable car rides, a children's theme park, a nine hole indoor crazy golf, an aquarium and even a Victorian lido crammed with giant Koi Carp. The cottage is nestled on the hillside of Matlock bath looking down over the village in a quiet location just five minutes walk from all the hustle and bustle with superb views and walks right from the door. Further afield the Peak District National Park is just a short car ride away with it's stunning scenery and fabulous stately homes including Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall. Alton Towers is about 30 minutes away by car. Crow Pie Cottage is available for short weekend breaks (Friday to Sunday), long weekends (Friday to Monday), midweek and week-long breaks all year round - please contact us with your requirements and we'll do our best to accommodate you.
Enjoying a peaceful location with amazing views and fabulous dark skies, this charming and award-winning holiday cottage is set in 17 acres of private woodland and gardens. Situated near Llandovery in the stunning Cambrian Mountains, this gorgeous rural retreat is perfectly located to explore Wales’ much-loved countryside. Basel Cottage sleeps up to four people and it is perfect for couples, families and friends alike and two dogs are welcome free of charge. There is a family Games Room and extra activities available on site now include Archery and Target Air Rifle Shooting with a qualified instructor. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
We have properties throughout the UK, meaning there are plenty of waterside cottages to choose from. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat by a lake, or perhaps a secluded getaway near a loch, there is something for everyone with Independent Cottages.
To help get you started, below is a list of some of the most popular spots for those seeking a break by the water.
Waterside cottages in Northumberland
Waterside cottages in the Peak District
Waterside cottages in Cornwall
Waterside cottages in Scotland
Our waterside cottages guide will help you plan for your tranquil getaway. With information on when to book, what to do, and our top tips, you can plan your next break with everything you need to know in mind.
Keep reading to learn more about our waterside breaks and get ready to start planning your next holiday by the water!
When you choose to book a waterside cottage depends on what you want to do during your stay. We have a range of properties that cater to varying holiday itineraries, so things like the time of year and the weather can all impact activities during your break.
If you’re planning to stay in a riverside cottage, spring is an excellent time to book. This is when the surrounding landscapes come to life with a plethora of flora and fauna and the pleasant temperatures provide a comfortable climate to get out and explore. You might even find yourself paddling by the water’s edge, or perhaps simply sitting back and soaking up the pretty scenery.
For those seeking a lakeside cottage, summer is a great time to plan your trip. This is when the temperatures are warmer, days are longer and there is more sunshine throughout the UK. Staying in a property by the lake during this time is ideal for those seeking BBQs by the water, alongside pretty views from your cosy cottage.
Autumn and Winter are also great for those pursuing a waterside holiday. With frosted landscapes and frozen lakes, this is a magical time to get cosy by the fire or enjoy crisp walks in the countryside. Whether you’re planning a break with family, friends or your partner, a festive getaway is the perfect choice for many.
No matter when you decide to make the most of your waterside break, you’re sure to find something to suit a range of holiday itineraries. With properties throughout the UK, there are more than enough to choose from!
Once you have decided on when to go on your waterside break, you’ll next need to plan what to do during your stay. Many of our properties boast ideal locations, near pretty towns and villages, or out in the countryside. This means that guests can spend their days wandering lovely streets or hiking through the wilderness.
If you’re looking to book a waterside holiday with the whole family, you will find plenty to do during this time. Spend some time by the water and enjoy numerous activities such as fishing, paddling, swimming and more. It’s important to check whether the water is safe for swimming and if fishing is allowed, but this information can be found by the owner of the property.
Whether you are looking for a holiday by the sea or a countryside retreat, we have a large collection of waterside properties to choose from. From peaceful creekside cottages where you can be at one with nature. Large beach houses with a hot tub overlooking the sea. Fishermen’s cottages in the heart of a bustling harbour. And romantic, cosy log cabins beside a tranquil lake. The choices are varied with each having something special to offer water lovers.
Some properties may not accept children due to waterside risks. It’s best to speak to the owner before booking to find out the property's suitability if you are bringing little ones and make sure they are supervised at all times around water. If you plan to fish, you may also need a permit on some waters. Plus, don’t forget your binoculars for wildlife spotting. Waterside properties are highly desirable and get booked up quickly so don’t delay!
If you’re planning your next waterside break with your four-legged friend, we have plenty of properties by the water that are also dog-friendly. This is a great way to experience the beautiful surroundings, all while getting out and active with your furry companion.
For those seeking a truly relaxing getaway, be sure to check out our waterside cottages with hot tubs. These provide the perfect place to unwind, all whilst enjoying the luxury of your very own hot tub. Sit out and take in the beautiful surroundings, all whilst soaking in a warm jacuzzi.
We have an extensive range of waterside properties that cater to a variety of holiday itineraries. If you’re pursuing somewhere to relax in utter seclusion, there are plenty of rentals to choose from. This provides the perfect way to enjoy some serenity, all whilst enjoying the exceptional waterside vistas.
