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Enjoy the tranquility of water on the doorstep
Enjoy the tranquility of water on the doorstep

Waterside Cottages

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

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55.337074, -1.572142

If you are looking for a family holiday by the sea that combines lazy days on the beach, harbourside dining, local independent shops to browse and stunning coastal walks then look no further. The Old Coastguard Station is located in an enviable position on the water's edge in the charming town of Amble on the Northumberland coast. With four ensuite bedrooms, contemporary open plan living and stunning panoramic sea views, it is easy to feel like you are on holiday here. This gorgeous self-catering property perfectly combines salty days by the sea with a touch of luxury and sophistication. 

Weekly guide price:
£1615 to £3235
Short breaks from £377 per night

8  |   4  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

51.174808, -4.211560

Ocean View Penthouse is a superb beachfront property in Woolacombe. Sleeping four people in two bedrooms with two bathrooms, it has fantastic views up and down the coast of North Devon and a layout that is ideal for couples, families or friends. You are steps from the beach and a short walk from cafes, bars and shops. Walk along the South West Coast Path to Barricane Bay, Grunta Bay or Mortehoe, or spend your days surfing and sunning yourself beside the water. There is a wide choice of attractions to suit all ages, from theme parks to gardens, to make this an excellent year-round holiday destination. 

Weekly guide price:
£2060 to £3090

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 7 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

54.292970, -0.409342

A choice of one, two and three bedroom luxurious Five Star sea-front holiday apartments in the popular seaside town of Scarborough on Yorkshire's glorious East Coast. Available for short breaks of one night or longer holidays with all the comforts of a hotel and the space of self-catering. Tourist board rating: 5 Star

Weekly price:
Please enquire with owner

2-6  |   2  |   Enquire  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: Enquire

Preferred arrival day: Flexible | 5 Star

51.645145, -1.971023

Merlin House in the Cotswolds is perfect for big families and friends as this lakeside holiday home comfortably sleeps eight across four plush bedrooms. As part of the prestigious Lower Mill Estate in the Cotswold Water Park, it's perfect for families and friends seeking relaxation and adventure. Enjoy alfresco dining on the deck and indulge in the on-site pool and spa facilities - you have free access with your booking. With its pet-friendly policy, everyone can join in the fun. Lower Mill Estate is a nature lover's paradise, offering birdwatching, walking trails, and spa indulgence. Nearby Cirencester offers historic charm, while Cotswold attractions provide endless exploration. Merlin House promises magical moments in Gloucestershire.

Weekly guide price:
£1500 to £2800
Short breaks from £215 per night

8  |   4  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 2 (off peak) | 2 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

51.865706, -0.580488

Bellows Mill is perfect for families who can't decide between a holiday in the town or the country. It sits within 17 private acres on the edge of the Chiltern Hills AONB yet is within striking distance of places like Milton Keynes, St Albans and Watford. London, Oxford and Cambridge are all within reach for a day of shopping and sightseeing, or stay closer to home and explore the beautiful countryside footpaths and cycling routes. Nearby attractions include Whipsnade Zoo, Bletchley Park and Woburn Safari Park, and there are seven golf courses within a short drive. With space for up to seven people to sleep in three bedrooms, this former mill is an ideal year-round holiday destination that will keep everyone happy.

Weekly price:
Please enquire with owner
Short breaks from £100 per night

7  |   3  |   Enquire  |   Enquire  |   Yes

Min nights: 4 (off peak) | 4 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

54.309792, -0.945090

Located on a farmstead in the North York Moors National Park, these two self-catering holiday cottages provide the ideal retreat for anyone who enjoys walking or simply wants to relax in beautiful countryside. Just a mile from Hutton-le-hole with a good pub serving food and within easy driving distance of Pickering, Helmsley and Kirkbymoorside. Tourist board rating: 4 Star

Weekly guide price:
£340 to £590

4  |   2  |   Enquire  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: Enquire

Preferred arrival day: Saturday | 4 Star

51.660954, -1.923130

Everything you need for a fantastic holiday is at your fingertips when you stay at The Lodge on the Lake. The lakefront chalet is on the Hoburne Park in the Cotswold Water Park, close to all amenities with idyllic views. It sleeps up to four people in two bedrooms and is ideal for families or couples. South Cerney is a few minutes away, as are Cirencester, Cheltenham, Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water. You're only ever a walk, bike ride or scenic drive away from a gorgeous view, country pub or a farmers market. Facilities on site include sailing, fishing, pedalos, swimming and lots more.

Weekly price:
Please enquire with owner
Short breaks from £95 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 2 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

51.660954, -1.923130

Relax by the lake in this spacious self-catering caravan on the popular Holburn site of the Cotswold Water Park. Water's Edge sleeps up to seven people in three bedrooms, with guests having access to excellent amenities that include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, an adventure playground and a clubhouse with a sports bar, brasserie and cafe. The pretty village of South Cerney is just five minutes away, while Cirencester, Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water are within a 15-30 minute drive. With short breaks available, Water's Edge is ideal for a fun, family getaway or holiday at any time of the year.

Weekly guide price:
£665 to £1260
Short breaks from £2 per night

7  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 2 (off peak) | 2 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

52.952130, -4.491819

The Tack Room has plenty of space for up to seven people to sleep in three comfortable bedrooms, fantastic sea views and a desirable location within a short walk from the north coast of the Llyn Peninsula. Beautiful beaches are within easy reach together with breathtaking walking trails, relaxing bike rides, boat trips, golf and much more. Caernarfon and Portmeirion are only a 30-minute drive from the cottage, and being adjacent to the Snowdonia National Park means you can climb to the top of Mount Snowdon and be home in time for dinner.

Weekly guide price:
£860 to £1732
Short breaks from £183 per night

7  |   3  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 2 (off peak) | 4 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

51.773669, -5.106883

A fantastic holiday home located in the heart of Little Haven on the Pembrokeshire Coastline less than 100 yds from the sea. With a choice of good pubs in the village, this is an ideal self-catering seaside retreat for large groups of up to nine guests. Pubs, sandy beach and miles of coastal path on the doorstep. Tourist board rating: 4 Star

Weekly guide price:
£815 to £2430

9  |   5  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 2 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Friday | 4 Star

50.763995, -0.745617

Seagull Cottage is all about the location. Sitting on Pagham's tranquil RSPB Nature Reserve, overlooking its harbour and lagoon, this delightful holiday home is just perfect for families and also couples (one or two), especially those who appreciate tranquillity, bird watching and being close to the sea. The beach is a short stroll away and guests have a family size hot tub in the garden for sitting back and soaking up the magical atmosphere. A quiet piece of coastline in West Sussex (and one of the sunniest in the country!) with plenty of attractions close by for day trips out including Chichester Harbour.

Weekly guide price:
£750 to £1050

6  |   3  |   Enquire  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 7 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

56.589742, -2.522020

This seafront holiday cottage is a wonderful escape from the stress of daily life. Sleeping four people in two bedrooms, Stella Maris is perfect for couples, families or friends, boasting a landscaped sea-facing garden and panoramic views from the living area and master bedroom. It's on a cliff above the beach and harbour of Auchmithie, a few miles from Arbroath and within easy reach of Dundee and Aberdeen. Guests can spend happy days walking and cycling, visiting castles and distilleries, spotting birds and watching pods of playful dolphins. Stella Maris is available for bookings all year round. 

Weekly guide price:
£1120 to £1260
Short breaks from £160 per night

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 5 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

51.660954, -1.923130

Sitting on Hoburne site in the desirable Cotswold Water Park, Waterside Lodge is a two bedroom self-catering static caravan located just ten minutes from Cirencester, with fabulous views across Mallard Lake. It is perfect for guests who want to enjoy the park's amenities including a sports bar, restaurant, indoor swimming pool and crazy golf, as well as those who want to venture further afield to explore the picturesque local villages and the Cotswold Wildlife Park. Watersports fans can go sailing, windsurfing, paddle-boarding and canoeing whilst there are also fantastic mountain bike trails and walking tracks to be explored. 

Weekly guide price:
£630 to £865
Short breaks from £120 per night

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

51.660954, -1.923130

Sit on the deck and enjoy the views accross Kingfisher Lake soaking up the peace and tranquillity. The two-bedroom Lakewood Lodge is on the desirable Hoburne site of the Cotswold Water Park. Guests have access to the park's excellent amenities that include an indoor swimming pool, bar and restaurant. South Cerney is only five-minutes away, with Cirencester being just 10 minutes further. Local attractions include the Cotswold Wildlife Park and the Cirencester Museum, and you can go sailing, paddle-boarding, cycling, walking and birdwatching.

Weekly guide price:
£595 to £1155
Short breaks from £85 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 2 (off peak) | 2 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.357000, -4.120030

You'll never want to leave this period waterfront boathouse, which dates from the 1700s and has a fantastic location beside Turnchapel Harbour. The gorgeous holiday cottage sleeps up to six people in three bedrooms with a layout that suits families or friends. There is lots of space indoors and outside, with huge decks and balconys making the most of the harbour views, and luxurious touches like underfloor heating and an open fireplace. There are lovely beaches within walking distance of the cottage, and a private pebble beach in front of the house just for you. Plymouth and Dartmoor National Park are both within easy reach with a wealth of sights and attractions, and there are lots of opportunities to sail, paddle-board, kayak, walk and cycle. We know you'll love Drift Cottage.

Weekly guide price:
£800 to £2750

6  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 7 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Friday

51.230224, -3.828139

Six Tors Road is a beautifully presented holiday home in a location beside the East Lyn River in Lynmouth. You'll love this gorgeous property which sleeps eight people in four bedrooms and has a flexible layout that can suit families, multi-generational families, or friends. You will be  within a short stroll of cafes, shops, the harbour, beach and the famous funicular railway that has carried passengers between Lynmouth and Lynton since 1890. Exmoor is perfect for an activity-filled holiday in all seasons, especially when you stay somewhere as spacious and well-equipped for self-catering as Six Tors Road. 

Weekly guide price:
£1325 to £2995
Short breaks from £331 per night

8  |   4  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

54.312911, -2.390191

Situated in the west of the Yorkshire Dales and only 15 miles from Kendal, Windermere and the Lake District, The Old Police House is a charming self-catering cottage sleeping six people in three bedrooms. The property is welcoming and well set out for families and friends, including those with dogs, to plan a self-catering holiday in any season. It's ideally located for walking, mountain biking, fishing, golf, boating and generally making the most of all this breathtaking region can offer. Sedbergh and Hawes are a six-mile drive through gorgeous scenery which you can view from the house and the gardens. 

Weekly guide price:
£420 to £900
Short breaks from £90 per night

6  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 2 (off peak) | 2 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

55.977835, -4.924886

Hafton Castle has comfortable bedrooms each with their own en-suite shower room.  The four poster room on the first floor has a large bathroom with bath and shower.

Weekly guide price:
£7372 to £8844

42  |   19  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 127 (off peak) | 127 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

57.860823, -4.462293

Enjoy a Highland fling at The Coach House. This pretty stone holiday cottage can accommodate up to four people in two bedrooms and is perfect for couples, families or friends who want to immerse themselves in the stunning Scottish Highlands. It is part of the Gruinards Estate and close to the River Carron and the village of Ardgay. Fishing, tennis, hill walking, mountain biking and golf are some of the more popular activities guests can enjoy locally, with Dornoch, Inverness and Loch Ness being under an hour by car for days out, shopping and sightseeing.

Weekly guide price:
£595 to £800
Short breaks from £90 per night

4  |   2  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

57.388988, -5.508423

Stay in the magnificent Highlands of Scotland at Tigh an Eilean. The holiday cottage is on the shore of Loch Caron and sleeps five people in three bedrooms, with a single sleeper chair to accommodate an extra person if necessary. There is plenty to keep you occupied whether you're a hill walker, cyclist, bird watcher, or are taking your time touring along the North Coast 500 route. The incredible views from the garden, bedrooms and sun room are an undeniable highlight of the self-catering property. The sight of the loch and mountains is so inspiring that you would happily stay in a tent to enjoy them. Thankfully, with three bedrooms, two bathrooms and room for up to six people, Tigh an Eilean is a far nicer prospect!

Weekly guide price:
£650 to £1050

5+1  |   3  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 5 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

Where to Stay for a Waterside Holiday Break

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 Devon

Waterside cottages in Scotland

Waterside cottages in Wales

Waterside Cottages Guide

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 to Book a Waterside Cottage

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.

Spring

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.

Summer

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

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!

What to Do on a Waterside Holiday

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.

Tips for Staying in a Waterside Cottage

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!

Waterside Cottages FAQs

  • Do you have waterside dog-friendly properties?

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.

  • Do you have waterside properties with hot tubs?

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.

  • Are there secluded holiday cottages with waterside views?

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.