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
Splashpoint is a period seaside holiday cottage in Sheringham. A mere 20 yards from the sea with no passing traffic to disturb the gentle noise of the waves, it's perfect in all seasons for couples and families, including those with dogs. There is space for four people to sleep in two bedrooms, the self-catering facilities are excellent, and there are lots of little touches that make it feel relaxed and welcoming. Guests rave about the location and the views. It's easy to explore the North Norfolk coast from here, but equally possible to stay within walking distance and still have a fantastic time.
For those in the know, Llandudno has never been out of fashion. The stylish Victorian seaside resort has two beautiful beaches and excellent amenities, making it ideal for a family holiday by the coast in all seasons. Farsite is a spacious holiday cottage sleeping six people in three bedrooms. It's metres from West Shore's Blue Flag Beach and no more than a 10-minute stroll from North Shore and Llandudno's elegant Victorian pier. The cottage enjoys beautiful water and mountain views from indoors and the garden and is finished and furnished to a high standard.
Daisy Chain is a spacious, family-friendly lakeside holiday home on the private Lower Mill Estate in the Cotswolds, just 90 minutes from London. Sleeping 9 plus 2 cots, it’s ideal for multi-generational family holidays or getaways with friends. With uninterrupted lake views, two ensuite bedrooms, and a glass-fronted living area, it’s the perfect place to relax and reconnect. Families love the canoe, bikes, toys, games, and nearby playgrounds, as well as access to the estate’s luxury spa with indoor and outdoor pools, sauna, steam room and gym. Surrounded by nature, with walking and cycling trails on the doorstep, Daisy Chain offers the perfect base for Cotswold family holidays, combining outdoor adventure with home comforts and space to unwind.
Why would you even consider going abroad for your holiday with the beautiful Cotswold Water Park as an option? The 40-square mile nature reserve boasts over 150 lakes and has been carefully developed to protect the natural habitat for birds and wildlife while still being superbly comfortable for holidaymakers. Grey Heron Lodge is a waterfront holiday home with ample space for up to six people, with three comfortable bedrooms, an open-plan living area and a huge wrap-around deck, with private jacuzzi. Guests have use of onsite facilities that include watersports, play areas, and a bar and restaurant. They can fish next to the lodge, and the owners have provided a two-person kayak for them to use on Windrush Lake. Dogs and children are very welcome, making Grey Heron Lodge a firm favourite with families and friends, as well as couples who appreciate a great location, pet friendly accommodation and extra space. We have 2 lodges which sleep 6 that can be booked together to accommodate up t
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.
Whether you want to simply relax by the river or get out and about exploring the magical waterways and Norfolk's many attractions, this comfortable holiday home is a perfect choice. Enjoy a waterside position in the popular Broadland village of Wroxham with pubs, restaurants and shops a short stroll away.
A warm welcome to Llanllianas' new "big" sister property Ty Glas Beach House. Our brand new self-catering Beach House, sleeping 22 in 11 en-suite uniquely designed bedrooms. Features a games room, accessible bedroom and wetroom, an indoor spa complete with a hot tub. Discover the epitome of coastal luxury at Ty Glas Beach House, where breathtaking views and specially designed living spaces await you. Nestled in the heart of Cemaes Bay, Ty Glas is not just a residence; it's a sanctuary of tranquility and indulgence by the sea.
The house is truly luxurious with everything from underfloor heating throughout the ground floor & all bathrooms, to whirlpool baths, private balconies and romantic four poster beds. Beautiful period details combine with an abundance of modern technology including 3 dishwashers, ample fridges and freezers and a gorgeous cranberry range cooker with gas hob. Wifi, Ipod docks and ample games for lazy days in or the large gardens are ideal for kids to play football or hide & seek while the adults take on a game of croquet on the terrace. The Kitchen combines both farmhouse charm with period detailing to provide a traditional cooking space with all modern comforts. The dual fuel range cooker combines the efficiency of two fan ovens with the con&am
The Cotswold Water Park is a perennial favourite for its superb amenities and beautiful surroundings. You'll love this waterfront holiday home facing Isis Lake, with deck and outdoor hot tub, two man kayak and stylishly furnished rooms. Green Woodpecker Lodge sleeps six people in three bedrooms and has a versatile layout that suits families and friends. You can stroll to South Cerney village with its well-stocked village shop and friendly pubs or stay on-site and make the most of the park's restaurant, play areas, tennis courts, table tennis pavilion and games room. Walking, cycling, fishing, and other watersports are all easily accessible, with equipment hire locally. Free use of a kayak on Windrush Lake is included. Please note we have 2 lodges which sleep 6, these can be booked together to accommodate up to 12 guests.
Self-Catering Exclusive Use (1st May – 13th June 2026) - For a limited time, Dome House is available as a self-catering exclusive-use stay. Enjoy complete privacy in this luxury property, with full access to all amenities—perfect for a relaxed getaway at your own pace. If cooking isn’t on your holiday agenda, you can opt for a fully catered experience with your own private chef and drinks included. Set on a hillside above Bowness-on-Windermere, the house offers breath taking views of Lake Windermere and features five opulent suites, each with a super king-sized bed, luxury bathroom, smart TV, . Guests can make use of the fully equipped facilities while enjoying the indoor heated pool, outdoor hot tub, barrel sauna, and games room.
A private waterside holiday home on a small complex, ideally positioned in the heart of Wroxham on the Norfolk Broads directly alongside the River Bure. Magical waterways to explore and just 10 miles from Norfolk coastline and the City of Norwich. Excellent amenities within walking distance from Willow Reach Cottage.
With great shops, excellent pubs and beautiful country walks virtually on the doorstep, Mill Fosse Cottage offers a fantastic getaway for couples who want to enjoy the best of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Once part of the original Wensleydale Creamery, the 17th Century stone cottage sits in a peaceful spot next to Mill Race, just a short walk from shops, cafes, pubs and the weekly market in the friendly village of Hawes. The owners have taken care to create a stylish haven with modern conveniences like underfloor heating and fast WiFi while preserving original features and character, with one bedroom sleeping up to two guests in comfort.
A 17th Century holiday cottage located in a peaceful position amongst beautiful countryside just three miles from the Cumbrian cobbled village of Dent in the Yorkshire Dales and within easy reach of the Lake District. Ideal for walking, relaxing or visiting the areas many attractions and with a fire for winter nights and pretty garden with glorious views, it is the perfect place to escape away from it all and relax. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
A versatile holiday cottage well located in the picturesque seaside village of Little Haven on the Pembrokeshire coast in West Wales. With the beach just 150 yards away and pubs on the doorstep, sea lovers and walkers will love this coastal location. A haven for wildlife.
Herons is a six-bedroom holiday rental on Retallack Resort, just outside St Columb Major in North Cornwall. Sleeping twelve across six en-suite bedrooms, it's built for family celebrations and big group stays, with a private heated pool, hot tub, sauna and a first-floor games room with its own balcony. The kitchen and dining space open onto pool and lake views, while the ground-floor lounge and upstairs cinema room give everyone room to spread out. This self-catering accommodation near Padstow and Newquay also includes free parking and access to Retallack's wider resort facilities, a short walk from the FlowRider and AquaPark.
The coastal location and exceptional view from this well presented detached holiday home never fails to please. The light spacious accommodation set within large terraced gardens provides everything for a comfortable and relaxing holiday in a particularly beautiful and tranquil area of Exmoor. A great place for memorable stays with friends and family.
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.
Harvest Barn sleeps eight guests and is a fabulous holiday home ideally placed just inland of North Cornwall's stunning coastline near to Bude. Watch the sunset from your private hot tub, or explore the gorgeous grounds & fishing lakes. The perfect place for a special holiday with friends or family. Tourist board rating: 5 Star Gold
Located in the New Forest National Park midway between Lymington and Brockenhurst, this spacious holiday home provides a good self-catering base for families and couples to explore the areas many attractions. Spout House Studio is a great choice for walkers and cyclists.
Tides Reach in Woolacombe offers a luxurious coastal retreat for up to 16 guests. This prestigious holiday cottage boasts stunning views over Combesgate Beach, with spacious accommodation spread across eight bedrooms and seven bathrooms. Designed for informal socialising, the property features indoor and outdoor living spaces and serene bedrooms for relaxation. Woolacombe is a family-friendly resort with shops, cafes, and the South West Coast Path within easy reach. Direct beach access allows for spontaneous swims and sunset strolls. Nearby attractions include surfing at Combesgate Beach, exploring the coastal footpath, and going to Lundy Island and Exmoor Zoo.
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.
