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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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50.782863, -1.540833

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.

Weekly price:
£1015 all year
Short breaks from £145 per night

4+1  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

51.671754, -1.902004

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 to 12 guests.

Weekly guide price:
£1300 to £2300
Short breaks from £150 per night

6  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.695218, -1.530975

Sea Breeze is a bright seaside bungalow on the Isle of Wight with fabulous sea views and direct access to Colwell Bay. Set on the popular 37-acre Linstone Chine Holiday Village, this two-bedroom self-catering accommodation sleeps four and is perfect for families or couples. Guests enjoy open-plan living, a patio garden, and uninterrupted sea views from the lounge and playing field beyond. The beach, children's play area, and café are all within walking distance. With generous discounts on ferry travel and a peaceful coastal setting, Sea Breeze is a fantastic Isle of Wight holiday home for all seasons.

Weekly guide price:
£450 to £750
Short breaks from £75 per night

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

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

50.753237, -1.529828

An ‘upside down' quirky terraced cottage - light, comfortable and 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 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:
£900 to £1150
Short breaks from £150 per night

3  |   2  |   No  |   Enquire  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

Markington Cottages

Last Minute Offer:Fri, 24th Apr 2026 for 7 nights, £699Save £51"1x Holiday Cottage 2mins from beach, pubs, cafe & coastal walks. Sleeps 7/9. 3 bed. Dog Friendly. Private car parking. Enclosed rear garden. WiFi. 2 nights £325 / 3 nights £399 / 4 nights £499"
51.782604, -5.098773

This fantastic holiday cottage is less than 200 metres from the beach at Broad Haven and a leisurely stroll to shops, cafes, pubs and other amenities. Markington Cottages sits on a private lane with upstairs sea views and off-street parking and is ideal for families and friends as there is space for six people to sleep in three bedrooms plus a double sofa bed. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is on the doorstep, waiting for guests to explore and enjoy. St Davids, Tenby, Narbeth and Folly Farm are all within easy reach for fun days out.

Weekly guide price:
£725 to £1350
Short breaks from £144 per night

7+2  |   3  |   3+  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

50.017772, -5.096644

There's nothing like a sea view to relax your soul and revive your spirits. Tideswell at Coverack Headland is a superb Lizard Peninsula holiday home overlooking Mears Beach, steps from the South West Coast Path and the sand. It has uninterrupted ocean views from the living room, kitchen/diner and master bedroom, and the patio garden. A 15-minute walk along the coastal footpath takes you to the charming fishing village of Coverack with a village shop and pub. Helston is around half an hour's drive, while places like Truro, St Ives, St Michael's Mount and Falmouth are all less than an hour away. The ground-floor apartment is beautifully decorated and accommodates five people in two bedrooms, with pets welcome by arrangement. Tideswell is perfect for couples or families. 

Weekly guide price:
£695 to £1325

2-5  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

Porth Hir

Last Minute Offer:Fri, 24th Apr 2026 for 7 nights, £1232Save £217"Short breaks are also available during this period, please enquire or email"
53.261906, -4.097409

Porth Hir is a beautifully restored, spacious dog-friendly holiday cottage in Beaumaris, Anglesey. Set on the seafront just across from the beach with breathtaking views over the Menai Strait to Snowdonia, this Grade II-listed coastal cottage sleeps six (plus one infant under the age of 24 months) in three elegant bedrooms. Perfect for families or groups, it combines 17th-century charm with modern comforts, including three bathrooms and a well-equipped kitchen. Shops, cafés, and dog-friendly pubs are a short walk away, while local activities range from castle visits and coastal walks to boat trips and beach days. For a relaxed, scenic self-catering stay in North Wales, Porth Hir is the perfect home from home. Tourist board rating: 5 Star

Weekly guide price:
£900 to £1850

6  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible | 5 Star

51.213445, -3.475044

Minehead is a fantastic seaside resort with something to offer everyone at any time of the year. Located at the quiet end of the beach, close to the Old Ship Aground Pub, Harbour Cottage was built 300 years ago to house the Harbour Master and his family and has fantastic waterfront views. There is lots of space for up to six people to stay in three bedrooms, and the holiday home retains its original warmth and features like an inglenook fireplace and exposed beams. All of Minehead's beach and other attractions are within walking distance, and you can easily reach Exmoor, Porlock Weir, Watchet Harbour and many other Somerset attractions.

Weekly guide price:
£600 to £1250
Short breaks from £175 per night

6  |   3  |   3+  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

53.664180, -0.339151

Escape to the country in this fantastic holiday home. Just a few miles from the magnificent Humber Bridge and within easy reach of the seaside resort of Cleethorpes, Sandes by Water sleeps ten people in four bedrooms (3 En-suite) and is ideal for large and extended families who enjoy being outdoors or favour the provided entertainment systems, Wifi, games and Televisions for an indoor escape. Five acres of private grounds have a well-kept lake, summer house, and paddocks for horses to stay. There is also secure bike storage and a wealth of footpaths, cycling trails and bridleways nearby to enjoy. Lincoln, Hull and York are around an hour by car, giving visitors the potential to alternate peaceful days in the country with exciting city adventures.

Weekly guide price:
£1000 to £2000
Short breaks from £350 per night

10  |   4  |   Enquire  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

The Loft

Last Minute Offer:Sat, 18th Apr 2026 for 6 nights, £500"Grab a spring bargain - 6 nights for £500 in a lovely apartment with tennis court and gardens overlooking Lake Windermere. Shorter breaks available this week - just ask"
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

57.339589, -5.655586

Affording a splendid position overlooking Loch Carron in the heart of the picturesque Scottish village of Plockton, Craigview offers a lovely blend of romantic charm and Highland character. A warm welcome awaits when you stay in this comfortable Scottish holiday cottage with fabulous pubs, restaurant, scenery and wildlife on the doorstep as well as easy access to Skye.

Weekly guide price:
£495 to £995

6  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: Enquire

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

Mire Garth

Last Minute Offer:Sat, 18th Apr 2026 for 7 nights, £725"TWO PERSON SPECIAL £565.. Lovely Walks right on the doorstep. Free parking. Wonderful cottage, Great Location."
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

51.134427, -4.241502

When you stay at 1, Out of the Blue, you do not have to waste any time driving to the beach because it is just outside the front door! The contemporary holiday property has fantastic views of both the beach and Baggy Point, and is in an enviable location next to Croyde Beach, within walking distance of shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs. There is an excellent variety of activities to try all year round, from learning to surf, to walking along the coastal path, cycling the Tarka Trail, playing golf or shopping in towns like Barnstaple and Ilfracombe. With space for up to eight people, it is an ideal choice for families and friends who love being close to the beach.

Weekly guide price:
£1700 to £3195
Short breaks from £300 per night

6+2  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

51.882849, -1.756418

Riverside is a prestigious Cotswold holiday home on the bank of the River Windrush in Bourton-on-the-Water. Built from the characteristically beautiful Cotswold Stone with mullioned stone windows and an AGA, it sleeps six people in three bedrooms with three bathrooms and a walled garden. The self-catering cottage is perfect for families or friends, including those with children. You're close to fantastic restaurants, pubs and independently owned shops and within easy reach of favourite Cotswold attractions, towns and villages for days out. 

Weekly guide price:
£2250 to £3550

6  |   3  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

54.465027, -0.657749

River Bank Cottage sits in a peaceful location outside Whitby, with excellent access to the North York Moors and coast. It's next to the Esk with beautiful views of the river and the Larpool viaduct. The one-bedroom self-catering cottage is excellent for couples and individuals, with a sofa-bed increasing accommodation to four people for small families to stay. Guests love the quiet spot close to Whitby's famous sights and attractions. This property is an excellent base for a walking, cycling and sightseeing holiday in all seasons. Children and well-behaved dogs are welcome. 

Weekly guide price:
£470 to £600
Short breaks from £70 per night

2+2  |   1  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

Cerrigwen & Highbank Cottages

Last Minute Offer:Sat, 18th Apr 2026 for 7 nights, £399Save £46"2x Holiday cottages. Sleeps up to 4. 250 yards to beach, pubs, cafe & coastal walks. Off road parking, Central Heating & WiFi. Dog Friendly. 2 nights £199 / 3 nights £249 / 4 nights £325"
51.771877, -5.109673

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.

Weekly guide price:
£425 to £599
Short breaks from £99 per night

2+2  |   1  |   3+  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

51.671754, -1.902004

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.

Weekly guide price:
£1200 to £2300
Short breaks from £125 per night

6  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

Ty Gwyn

Last Minute Offer:Tue, 5th May 2026 for 2 nights, £2800"Hot tub, Sauna with views over mountains and sea. Bar, Cinema & Games Room. 100m2 function room for parties or Yoga retreats - 3rd night £600."
52.662840, -4.086853

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.

Weekly price:
Please enquire with owner
Short breaks from £1495 per night

30  |   13  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

54.341939, -2.933047

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.

Weekly guide price:
£935 to £1845

4  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   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.