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.
A true Suffolk gem - Boatmans enjoys a magical waterside position alongside the River Deben and is a gorgeous detached holiday cottage offering all the right ingredients for a romantic self-catering break at any time of the year. Surrounded by beautifully tranquil countryside for walking, a rowing boat for exploring the river, a log burner for cosy nights and a sun-trap patio (plus conservatory) for alfresco dining with views of the river, you will find it hard to choose a more perfect retreat for relaxing. Heaps of character in a simply stunning setting abundant with wildlife.
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
Just outside the village of Commondale in the picturesque North Yorkshire Moors, this welcoming holiday cottage provides exceptionally comfortable self-catering and an ideal base for exploring the areas many attractions including Whitby and the lovely bays of Runswick bay, Sleights with in a 20min drive and the beautiful city of York within easy driving distance.
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.
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.
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.
Harbour Watch is a lovely holiday apartment in Whitby overlooking the marina and River Esk, with free parking and easy access to the town centre, beach and harbour. Sleeping four guests in two bedrooms with two bathrooms, this self-catering holiday apartment in Whitby suits couples, friends and families looking for a comfortable base on the Yorkshire Coast. The waterfront location provides ever-changing views of boats and harbour life, while Whitby Beach, Whitby Abbey, the famous 199 Steps and the North York Moors National Park are all within easy reach. Restaurants, pubs and attractions are close by, yet the setting remains peaceful and relaxing.
Judge's Cottage is your ideal destination for adventure and relaxation on the eastern shore of the River Dart, next to the South West Coast Path. This refurbished holiday cottage sleeps four people in two bedrooms with breathtaking marina views and is perfect for couples, families, and friends. A quick ferry ride takes you to Dartmouth's eclectic shops, cafés, and lively pubs, letting you explore unique boutiques, enjoy year-round markets, and uncover historical treasures like Dartmouth Castle. With hiking, swimming, and paddleboarding opportunities nearby, plus stunning beaches and exciting annual events, Judge's Cottage is the perfect self-catering retreat for unforgettable fun by the water!
A picturesque, well maintained family owned property, very private and sitting above the peaceful shores of the Mawgan Creek in an acre of grounds with a stunning exclusive view. An idyllic choice for a couple or a family accommodating up to four adults with two children. Direct water frontage for those who wish to explore the peaceful creeks in our rowing dinghy 'Peggy'. With wonderful walks, many local beaches and attractions too. Village shop, pub with restaurant, pasty shop within walking distance. A peaceful retreat where guests return frequently. We can offer you a flexible arrival and departure day - just ask!
The Seashells is a seafront holiday home in Littlestone-on-Sea, Kent. It sleeps eight people in four en-suite bedrooms and offers uninterrupted views of the English Channel. The house is modern and spread over four floors, with three balconies facing the sea. There's a large kitchen-diner for shared meals and a top-floor lounge for relaxing evenings. You can walk to Littlestone Golf Club or stroll along the promenade towards St Marys Bay or Dymchurch, with Greatstone's sandy beach a few minutes walk in the opposite direction. The garage doubles as a games room with table tennis, darts, and table football for all ages. The house is dog friendly by arrangement and has secure courtyard parking plus storage for bikes, boards, and golf clubs.
Guests love Sealview for its fantastic location, superb views, and warm, homely atmosphere. Located beside Whitby Marina and the River Esk, the third-floor apartment sleeps four people in two bedrooms, with provision for a fifth on a trundle bed or a single sofa bed. It's ideal for families who love being close to amenities and attractions and for couples and friends who want to explore not only Whitby but also the surrounding coast and countryside. Whitby has loads to offer in all seasons, so whether you're into food, history, adventure, or nature, you'll never forget your stay at Sealview.
Coastguard Row Cottage in West Cornwall is a former coastguard cottage transformed into a charming holiday home with stunning sea views and easy beach access. This cherished family holiday cottage in Mousehole has been welcoming visitors for 40 years, offering a tranquil retreat next to Mousehole Harbour, The Ship Inn, and popular eateries like the Old Coastguard Hotel. It sleeps four in two bedrooms, with an optional studio increasing capacity to six. Mousehole, a picturesque fishing village, has winding lanes, quaint cafes, and vibrant local culture. Enjoy coastal walks to Penzance, hire an e-bike to explore, or engage in water sports and wildlife tours. The area is also famous for the Mousehole Lights, a festive display that illuminates the village each December.
An ‘upside down' quirky terraced cottage by the harbour and with off street parking. This cottage is light, comfortable & tastefully presented with a relaxed coastal feel. It has a spacious living area with French doors leading out on to the balcony with its vibrant ever changing river mouth views, there’s a marina in front of you and the sea in the distance with ferries and all sorts of boats to watch. In the living area find 2 sofas, a large round dining table comfortably seating 5, coffee tables, Smart TV, DVD player and unlimited WiFi internet. There is a modern well equipped kitchen leading from the dining area with fan oven/electric grill/gas hob/microwave oven, fridge with ice box, dishwasher etc. Downstairs find Bedroom 1 with king sized bed, ample storage/hanging space, bedside chests and lamps, chair and hairdryer. Bedroom 2 with single bed, bedside chest, chest of drawers, under-bed drawers, chair and robe hooks. Bathroom (refurbished 2020) with powerful over-bath shower, back-lit shaving mirror, basin, heated towel rail and window. Cloakroom (refurbished 2020) with lavatory, basin, mirror and towel rail. Porch, very handy for outdoor clothing, Utility unit with Belfast sink, washing machine, tumble dryer, freezer, microwave, kettle, ironing equipment and bike stands. 1 private secure patio garden (SE facing) is off Bedroom 1 and has a high locked gate, garden furniture and pretty shrubs. The other private and secure patio garden is off the porch again with a high locking gate, garden furniture and pretty shrubs. Close by - Mayflower Hotel, Haven Restaurant & Bar, Nick Cox chandlery/convenience store. The location is ideal for walking into the Georgian town of Lymington, visiting the Saturday Charter Market, or exploring the New Forest and nearby beaches. We send much information in advance and meet and greet our guests on arrival. We live just around the corner and are on hand should a problem occur. We are now open to taking children under 6 years of age so long as people are fully aware of the balcony and stairs leading directly off the living room and we ask for a £200 security deposit in this instance.
Create fantastic memories at the Big House By The Sea. Set in 4.5 acres of private grounds, this amazing house on the West coast of Wales, enjoys fantastic views over the sea and mountains and can accommodate up to 30 under one roof. The 100m2 function room can be your own nightclub with glitter ball and sound system for that special birthday, get together, Yoga retreat or wedding. There is also a Cinema, Bar, Hot Tub, Fire Pit and a 15 seat Wood-Burning sauna overlooking the bay. The house is a short walk to the local pub/restaurant, shop and beach below Llwyngwril village. Enjoy fabulous local walks and activities, and of course great sunsets over the water.
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 large detached holiday cottage with off road parking, recently extended and refurbished to a high standard. Ideally placed in the Cumbrian village of Dent in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, The Methodist Manse Cottage makes a fantastic self-catering base for exploring the Dales and the Lake District and is perfect for extended families and large groups wanting a walking or cycling holiday.
This welcoming holiday home has superb views of the Torridge Estuary and direct access to the South West Coast Path. It's close to beautiful beaches like Westward Ho! and Instow, and within walking distance of Bideford's town centre with its heritage trail, shops, cafes and pubs. The location is ideal for exploring North Devon, Exmoor and Dartmoor. Local attractions include the Milky Way Adventure Park and The Big Sheep, with lots of opportunities for sailing, paddle-boarding, kayaking, fishing, cycling, and golf. Tidal Reach sleeps up to five people in three bedrooms and has a flexible layout to suit couples, families and friends.
Exceptional both inside and out, this stylish well presented lodge sits in one of the most enviable positions in the Lake District, with a rural location close to Lake Windermere. Enjoy an alfresco meal on the terrace watching the sun set in the evening, and by day discover the many attractions of nearby Bowness and Windermere.
This bright and spacious seaside retreat is perfect for memorable family and group holidays in any season. Enjoy sweeping sea and village views from its peaceful, elevated position above charming Little Haven. Highlights include a large enclosed garden, a beautifully equipped chef’s kitchen, and generous private parking. Step straight onto the famous Coast Path, with Little Haven’s beach, village pubs and cafés just a five-minute stroll away — or walk to Broad Haven in around ten minutes.
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.