Filter Results
Independent Cottages Logo

No Booking Fees

Verified Owners

Unique Offers

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

Please note: The map is currently displaying results 1 to 20 of 369 properties
Close
Key Search Criteria
Reset Search Values
Availability Search
Essential Options
Group Bookings
Property Facilities
Local Amenities
Holiday Type
Reset Search Values
50.753237, -1.529828

An ‘upside down' quirky terraced cottage - light, comfortable & tastefully presented with a relaxed coastal feel. It offers a spacious living area with French doors leading out on to the balcony with its vibrant/ever changing nautical views. In the living area 2 sofas, a large round dining table comfortably seating 5, coffee tables, Smart TV, DVD player and unlimited WiFi internet. There is a 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.

Weekly guide price:
£983 to £1150
Short breaks from £150 per night

3  |   2  |   No  |   Enquire  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

Mount Pleasant

Last Minute Offer:Sat, 30th May 2026 for 6 nights, £1500"Enjoy stunning Pembrokeshire this Spring. Stay up to 6 nights. Mount Pleasant offers exceptional value when shared between friends or families."
51.775124, -5.106600

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.

Weekly guide price:
£1400 to £3600

12  |   6  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

Mire Garth

Last Minute Offer:Sat, 23rd May 2026 for 7 nights, £799Save £120"TWO PERSON SPECIAL £639. Half term.. lovely family Retreat. Visit Ribblehead viaduct. Let the train take the strain and enjoy the view..."
54.249832, -2.420511

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

Weekly guide price:
£589 to £998
Short breaks from £155 per night

6  |   4  |   3+  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 4 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Saturday | 4 Star

50.805588, -0.503252

A self-catering holiday on the coast is always relaxing: sea views never lose their charm. Seas the Day is a spacious property with spectacular views and ample room for six people. Set over three levels, it faces the greensward, colourful beach huts and the sea and is conveniently located less than a mile from the shops, cafes and pubs of Rustington. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen diner, family room, first floor living room with balcony, parking - and did we mention the view?

Weekly guide price:
£700 to £950
Short breaks from £100 per night

6  |   3  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

53.318173, -3.842459

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. 

Weekly guide price:
£900 to £1750

6  |   3  |   Enquire  |   Enquire  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

54.348328, -2.926558

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.

Weekly guide price:
£450 to £900

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

51.207253, -4.033192

Sea Vista is a spacious detached holiday home with a huge enclosed garden and space for six people to sleep in three bedrooms. The layout works for families, extended families and friends, and accommodation is over two levels with two bathrooms. The beach and bay plus shops, cafes, friendly pubs, and tasty takeaways are all within a five-minute walk, and there's a wide choice of attractions nearby, including gorgeous gardens, fun adventure parks, picturesque villages and the stunning South West Coast Path. Bookings are available all year round, with short breaks possible outside of peak season.

Weekly guide price:
£750 to £1435
Short breaks from £150 per night

6  |   3  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

51.178253, -3.521623

Pretty as a picture, this lovely self catering cottage used to be part of the old village forge and today provides romantic holiday accommodation in the tranquil rural village of Wootton Courtenay. A walkers paradise with direct access onto Exmoor's stunning National Park.

Weekly guide price:
£250 to £505
Short breaks from £75 per night

3  |   1  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

52.424191, -2.974747

A stylish holiday lodge affording a waterside position alongside the river in a tranquil spot in the village of Clunton within easy reach of Clun and also Ludlow and Shrewsbury. Ash Lodge is an ideal self-catering retreat whether you want to simply relax in a peaceful setting or explore the many attractions of this beautiful part of Shropshire.

Weekly price:
Please enquire with owner

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: Enquire

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

Woodlands at Porlock Weir

Last Minute Offer:Sat, 8th Aug 2026 for 7 nights, £2515"10% off that week! Earlier and later dates also available. Don't miss the opportunity to stay in the perfect place. Exmoor Adventures close by, wonderful walks, great places to eat."
51.218332, -3.630468

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.

Weekly guide price:
£1200 to £2795

10  |   4  |   3+  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: Enquire

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

51.773963, -5.109006

Seaside locations don't get much better than Point Cottage, sitting right on the headland by the coastal footpath with stunning views from most rooms over St Bride's Bay on the Pembrokeshire Coast. Located in the heart of the seaside village of Little Haven, this lovely cottage has a choice of pubs on the doorstep, glorious sandy beaches, miles of coastal path and fabulous opportunities for watersports.

Weekly guide price:
£575 to £800

2  |   1  |   Enquire  |   Enquire  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

54.389084, -1.945204

The Yorkshire Dales, especially Swaledale, has some of the most spectacular scenery in England. This terrace of three stone holiday cottages is in the village of Reeth with two acres of beautifully landscaped grounds bordered by the River Swale. Each cottage sleeps four people in two bedrooms and is comfortably furnished to provide 4-Star accommodation to couples and families with children over ten. Richmond, Barnard Castle and Leyburn are only a few miles away, and there are spectacular walks and bike rides from the door.  Tourist board rating: 4 Star

Weekly guide price:
£700 to £800
Short breaks from £150 per night

4  |   2  |   No  |   No  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday | 4 Star

54.481592, -0.976420

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.

Weekly guide price:
£395 to £695
Short breaks from £95 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Enquire  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

55.603110, -1.768444

Have double the fun at Swan Bay Sea View Apartment. The beautiful apartment is beside a river on the shores of Budle Bay and is ideal for families, friends or couples. It comfortably sleeps six guests in three bedrooms, boasts incredible views of Lindisfarne and comes with exclusive use of Jetty Cottage - a well-equipped summer/games room complete with barbecue, outdoor furniture and two adult-sized bikes just metres from the water. As if all that was not tempting enough, guests also have use of the facilities at a nearby health spa, and Bamburgh is just over a mile away, putting guests within reach of pubs, cafes, shops and the famous beach and castle.

Weekly guide price:
£595 to £1395
Short breaks from £130 per night

6  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

50.965403, -3.995508

The Wheel Room is a luxury, dog-friendly holiday cottage for two on the tranquil Millbrook Estate in North Devon. Bursting with character, this romantic ground-floor retreat features original stonework, a king-size bed, stylish shower room, and a cosy lounge with an electric wood burner. French doors open to gardens and woodland—perfect for dogs and dreamy countryside views. The well-equipped kitchen makes self-catering a breeze, and five-star touches add to the comfort. Located in peaceful High Bickington with walks from the door, it’s close to dog-friendly beaches, pubs, and scenic trails—an idyllic escape for couples and their four-legged friends.

Weekly guide price:
£799 to £999
Short breaks from £120 per night

2  |   1  |   2  |   No  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.965403, -3.995508

High in the rafters of Millbrook's 18th-century corn mill, The Loft is a romantic hideaway for couples in North Devon. Five-Star Gold rated and entirely private, this top-floor retreat has soaring ceilings, a Laura Ashley king-size bed dressed in Egyptian cotton, a bespoke kitchen, and a window seat where the view across the lake and 32-acre estate stops you mid-sentence. The deep bath and rainfall shower are made for lingering. Outside, the gardens, woodland trails, hot tub and woodland sauna are all yours to enjoy, with fishing on the lake for those who'd rather slow the day right down. Tucked away in peaceful countryside but within easy reach of High Bickington and the beaches of North Devon, The Loft is somewhere to wake to birdsong, watch the estate turn golden at dusk, and simply breathe out. Tourist board rating: 5 Star Gold

Weekly guide price:
£799 to £1099
Short breaks from £133 per night

2  |   1  |   No  |   No  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri | 5 Star Gold

50.965403, -3.995508

Rose Cottage is a luxury thatched holiday cottage with a hot tub in North Devon, perfect for couples seeking a romantic countryside escape. Set on the peaceful Millbrook Estate in High Bickington, this five-star self-catering retreat features a super king-sized bed, a deep copper bath for two, and a private garden with a Beachcomber hot tub. The North Devon coast and Exmoor National Park are within easy reach, with beaches, walking trails and charming towns nearby. Ideal for mini-moons, elopements or relaxing breaks, this romantic cottage is a stylish and peaceful base for exploring North Devon together.

Weekly guide price:
£949 to £1895
Short breaks from £133 per night

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

52.533634, -3.340342

The Cwtch is an idyllic retreat near Newtown in mid-Wales. This charming, one-bedroom cottage boasts stunning views and masses of space for you to relax and unwind.  There's a private hot tub on the bedroom veranda, a feature bath in the king-size bedroom, a separate bathroom and an open-plan, vaulted kitchen, dining and living room. It's in a perfect, rural location ideal for walking and enjoying the Welsh countryside.  Well-behaved dogs are welcome with the first dog staying at no additional cost. Short breaks are possible all year round.

Weekly guide price:
£700 to £1450
Short breaks from £200 per night

2  |   1  |   2  |   No  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

54.276874, -2.451196

  Ivy Cottage sleeps five guests in three bedrooms with private parking & a large totally enclosed garden & terrace. One king 5' wide double, bedroom 2 is a double, bedroom 3 is a good sized single bedroom. Located in a quiet & peaceful corner of Dent with and coffee shops, pubs & Dent Stores all within a 2 minute walk. With unspoilt countryside perfect for walking, cycling and for exploring both the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales. Check out the special weekly rates.

Weekly guide price:
£689 to £1289
Short breaks from £210 per night

5  |   3  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

52.923013, -4.127187

You will never get enough of the stunning views from this waterfront property in Porthmadog. Sit on the balcony of Number 20 and enjoy the estuary and mountains' ever-changing scene, knowing that shops, cafes, and pubs are within a 5-10 minute walk if you need anything. The modern holiday property sleeps four people in two bedrooms and is perfect for exploring Snowdonia, the Llyn Peninsula, and favourite attractions like Portmeirion, Zip World, and Caernarfon Castle. It's ideal for couples or families with older children. 

Weekly guide price:
£512 to £725
Short breaks from £85 per night

4  |   2  |   No  |   Enquire  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (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.