You can’t go wrong with a holiday in Bath. The world-famous UNESCO city is well-known for its glorious architecture with magnificent historic buildings housing shops, pubs and cottages to rent. Bath was a fashionable destination for the Romans, and its appeal has only strengthened over the intervening millennia. It is town and country, old and new, stylishly tasteful and also a little bit twee. There is nowhere more British and certainly nowhere better for a romantic escape, fun family holiday, an inspiring writer’s or artist’s retreat, or a shopping weekend with friends. Settle back and keep reading to find out why Bath rates so highly on our list of places for a self-catering cottage holiday. Read more
Once an intimate family-run hotel, Cameley Lodge is a spacious holiday home with excellent self-catering facilities, a vast garden with a hot tub, and nine ensuite bedrooms to accommodate up to 21 guests. Guests love the space and the layout, which is fully accessible on the ground and first floors, the amenities, and the friendly owners who make planning a family reunion, celebration with friends, wellness retreat, or business event so easy. It's in the Somerset village of Cameley with panoramic views of rolling countryside in all directions. For all its rural appeal, the house is only half an hour from Bristol and Bath, and you can drive to Glastonbury, Wells, Wookey Caves, Stonehenge and Longleat in an hour or less.
This gorgeous Georgian house is in an enviable position opposite the Jubilee Bridge in Matlock Bath, a short stroll from the river, shops, cafes and local attractions. 98 Fountain Villas has recently been refurbished to a high standard to provide big group holiday accommodation in the Peak District for up to 16 people over three floors. This area is beautiful in every season and guests can enjoy lovely walks and bike rides from the doorstep. Chatsworth House, Haddon Hall, Carsington Waters and Alton Towers are all within easy reach, while Gulliver's Kingdom and the Heights of Abraham are within walking distance.
Come and celebrate at Crow Pie Cottage! Perfect for three-generation family stays, Hen/Stags, friends' reunions and more. Beautiful 5/6 bedroomed cottage with plenty of space for everyone to relax and have fun. The cottage overlooks the Derwent Valley and river Derwent which runs through the village. The cottage comfortably accommodates up to 16 guests in five upstairs bedrooms and one downstairs snug off the living area with double full-sized double sofa-bed. There are gardens to the front and rear with BBQ and outside garden furniture and garden games including swingball and garden jenga. Matlock Bath is known as the seaside town without the sea and you'll soon see why! There are shops, pubs, restaurants, a live music venue and amusements all along the main promenades plus loads of things to do right here in the village including boat trips, cable car rides, a children's theme park, a nine hole indoor crazy golf, an aquarium and even a Victorian lido crammed with giant Koi Carp. The cottage is nestled on the hillside of Matlock bath looking down over the village in a quiet location just five minutes walk from all the hustle and bustle of the village. We've 4 parking spaces at the cottage which is a rarity in Matlock Bath, with further free on-street parking within 1 minute walk down the lane. We don't take pets, so rest assured, if you or any of your party are allergic to pets/dander, you won't find it here.
Top 5 Reasons to Stay at Derwent House, Matlock 1. A beautiful Georgian House designed for togetherness. Derwent House blends period elegance with modern comfort, offering generous social spaces where groups can cook, dine, relax, and celebrate. From the large dining room to the cosy lounge with its log burner, it’s a home that brings people together effortlessly. 2. Perfect for groups, gatherings, and special occasions. Sleeping up to 12 guests across six stylish bedrooms, the house is ideal for family reunions, milestone birthdays, walking weekends, and friendship getaways. Guests love the sense of privacy and exclusivity — your group has the whole house to yourselves. 3. A prime Matlock location with the Peak District on your doorstep. Set just moments from Matlock’s independent shops, cafés, and riverside walks, Derwent House is also a superb base for exploring the Peak District. Chatsworth, Bakewell, and iconic walking routes are all within easy reach, making it perfect for adventure and relaxation alike. 4. Thoughtful touches that make stays feel special. From the well‑equipped kitchen to the luxurious beds, quality linens, and welcoming extras, every detail is designed to enhance comfort. Guests consistently comment on how easy it is to settle in and feel at home. 5. Exceptional hospitality and local knowledge. Your hosts are passionate about creating memorable stays. Whether it’s recommending scenic walks, or helping plan a celebration, the support is personal, warm, and genuinely attentive — the kind of hospitality that keeps guests returning year after year.
Set in the beautiful Mendip Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), near Wells in Somerset, England, the Beanacre Barn is a spacious, open beamed barn which has been imaginatively converted and equipped by the present owners. Designed for 2 persons, the Beanacre Barn combines modern facilities, quality and comfort with traditional style in a peaceful setting. The Barn’s walled cottage-style garden is a particular feature, providing a secluded place in which to relax. It is exclusively for your enjoyment during your visit. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
A delightful cottage positioned alongside the leat of the Mells river, on the edge of the Somerset village of Coleford. Leat Cottage makes an ideal base to explore the area, it is central for Longleat, Bath, Cheddar Caves & Gorge, Stourhead & Wells which are all a short drive away. This cottage offers a peaceful place to stay to relax and enjoy the view of the surrounding fields with their resident goats and wildlife.
Cholwell Hall is a fine Somerset country residence a few miles from the cities of Bath, Wells and Bristol. Accessible from London in 2 hours. Formerly owned by the church, this 10 bedroomed house has centuries of history, medieval beams, thick stone walls and can sleep up to 30 people comfortably. Popular for family gatherings, hen or stag parties, bookings can be self-catering or with your choice of caterers. Oceans of space indoors for large groups to socialise, dining table to seat up to 30, and extensive grounds for outdoor fun.
"Minime" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in North Somerset. The traditional seaside town of Weston-super-Mare offers awarding-winning sandy beaches, donkey rides, water sports, restaurants and shops as well as the Playhouse, Winter Gardens and the Grand Pier offering a year-round programme of shows,...
"RAMSCLIFF COTTAGE" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Somerset. Set amongst an aonb, Ramscliff Cottage sets the scene for a peaceful couples retreat. There are idyllic walks to be enjoyed nearby.. Ground Floor: Open plan living space. Living area:...
"1 Bed Cottage in Bristol" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Bristol. Additional information and rulesNo dogs allowed - 1 double bedroom - 1 shower room with a shower and WC - Electric hob and oven, microwave, fridge with ice compartment and washing machine - Wood burner (first basket of logs...
"Sunnyside" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 5 guests in North Somerset. On the outskirts of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a charming rural town. The village of Bleadon is the perfect place to stay for a tranquil getaway because it provides all the necessary services, such as a village store,...
"Peppers Lodge, Strawberryfield Park, Cheddar" is a 2 bed holiday Lodge sleeping up to 4 guests in Somerset. Living Room/AreaOpen plan living, kitchen and dining areaAccess to the decked terrace through sliding doorsTwo fabric sofas,seating fourCoffee table, bookshelves and a cabinet with drawersTV unit with 42”...
"Robins Corner" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in North Somerset. On the outskirts of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a charming rural town. The village of Bleadon is the perfect place to stay for a tranquil getaway because it provides all the necessary services, such as a village store,...
"Amber Lodge, Strawberryfield Park, Cheddar" is a 1 bed holiday Lodge sleeping up to 2 guests in Somerset. Living Room/AreaOpen plan with kitchen, dining area and studyDouble doors leading to the decked terraceSeating for four with a three seater sofa and one armchair48” 3D smart TV with Blu-ray DVD player and Sonos Play...
"The Cider Shed" is a 2 bed holiday Apartment sleeping up to 4 guests in North Somerset. Nestled in North Somerset is the village of Winscombe, an excellent location for exploring the coast and countryside. The large village is settled near the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Beauty and offers a variety of shops and cafes. Venture...
"Acorn" is a 1 bed holiday Lodge sleeping up to 2 guests in North Somerset. Bleadon is a charming village positioned on the edge of the Mendip Hills aonb, and is home to a handful of amenities, including a well-stocked shop, a pub, and a farm shop with a café. Bleadon is steeped in history, with a Grade I listed church...
"Beachside Holiday Park - Holiday Accommodation 10605" is a 3 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 6 guests in Somerset. The village of Brean is situated on the Somerset coast, between ever-popular Weston-super-Mare and delightful Burnham-on-Sea. A popular holiday destination, ideal for families, the village offers a fun amusement park, a range of shops and pubs...
"Cheddar Lodge Premier WF" is a 2 bed holiday Lodge sleeping up to 4 guests in Somerset. A contemporary and spacious two-bedroom lodge suitable for guests with partial disabilities – please check when booking. The master double has a contemporary styled en suite shower, and the second bedroom (a twin) has use of an accessible wet...
"2 Bed Cottage in East Brent" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Somerset. Additional information and rulesNo dogs allowed - 2 bedrooms - 2 king-size beds - 1 shower room with WC - Electric double oven, induction hob, microwave, fridge, dishwasher, air fryer/steamer, Nespresso coffee...
"The Coach House at Elm Tree Farm" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Somerset. A gorgeous holiday home in a fabulous spot, the perfect base to explore this wonderful part of Somerset.. All on the Ground Floor: Open plan living space. Living area: Smart TV, Woodburner,...
"4 Bed Cottage in Axbridge" is a 4 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 8 guests in Somerset. Additional information and rules. Please enquire if you wish to bring more than 1 dog - 4 bedrooms – 2 king-size, 1 double and 1 twin - 4 bathrooms – 3 en-suite shower rooms with showers and WCs, 1 family bathroom with a shower...
"2 Bed Cottage in Clevedon" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in North Somerset. Additional information and rulesNo dogs allowed - 2 bedrooms – 1 king-size and 2'6" zip-and-link twins (can be made into a double on request at time of booking) - 1 bathroom with shower over the bath and WC -...
"Wild View" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Somerset. Escape to this charming bungalow in East Brent, featuring comfortable accommodation and a picturesque rural setting with stunning views of open fields.. All on the Ground Floor: Open plan living...
"The Cottage" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in North Somerset. The town of Clevedon is on the North Somerset coast across the Bristol Channel from Wales and is within easy reach of the centre of Bristol. It is situated between rolling hills and a beautiful coastline, and was a renowned Victorian seaside...
"Dew Pond" is a 1 bed holiday Lodge sleeping up to 2 guests in Bristol. The Mendip Hills aonb's northernmost village and civil parish is called Blagdon. It is very interesting and has at least 17 listed buildings, including a church from the fifteenth century. There are two pubs, two convenience stores, and a café...
"Mulberry House" is a 4 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 8 guests in Somerset. This holiday property is ideal for family groups, equipped with three living rooms and a enclosed lawned garden.. Ground Floor: Kitchen/dining room: Range, Microwave, Fridge/Freezer,...
"Maxmills Cottage - E1852" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in North Somerset. Peace, peace and more peace to be had at Maxmills Cottage. Relax amongst the wildlife while your children enjoy the games room.. Ground Floor: Living room: Freeview TV, DVD Player, CD Player,...
"Honey Acre Cottage - E2379" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in North Somerset. Just the two of you? In need of a romantic getaway in a peaceful setting? Honey Acre Cottage is ready and waiting.. Ground Floor: Living/dining room: Freeview TV, DVD Player, CD Player,...
"The Old Posthouse Barn - UK50191" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Somerset. Charming one-bedroom barn conversion with open-plan living, en-suite bedroom, and countryside views. Located in Lower Weare, near Axbridge, perfect for a relaxing Somerset getaway.. Ground Floor: Open plan living...
"Signature Three Bedroom" is a 3 bed holiday Caravan sleeping up to 6 guests in Somerset. The Signature range of caravans offer guests style and comfort, with quality interiors and thoughtful details. All Signature Holiday Homes come with their own private hot tub, so they are ideal for those seeking extra comfort during their stay....
"Apple Cottage-UK37361" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in North Somerset. A wonderful cottage, perfect for a couple or small family looking to escape to the country yet have beaches in easy reach!. 1 step to entrance. Ground Floor: Kitchen/dining room: Electric Oven, Electric Hob,...
Popular towns in and around Somerset:
AxbridgeBathBridgwaterBristolBuckland St MaryBurnham-on-SeaCastle CaryChardCheddarChiselboroughCrewkerneCullomptonDulvertonDunsterExtonFiddingtonFromeGlastonburyHighbridgeIlminsterKingsbury EpiscopiLangford BudvilleLangportLopenLuxboroughMineheadMonksilverMontacuteNorth MoltonPorlockRoadwaterShepton MalletSherborneSimonsbathTauntonTemplecombeWatchetWellingtonWellsWest LuccombeWeston super MareWeston-super-MareWheddon CrossWincantonWithypoolWiveliscombeWootton CourtenayYeovilSome local suggestions:
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Sightseeing - It seems as if everywhere you turn in Bath, there is something pretty to see. Even modern buildings are attractive, having been carefully designed to fit with the age and quality of the existing architecture. A fantastic way to gain understanding and appreciation for the scope and layout of the city is by taking the waymarked Skyline Walk that starts at Bath Visitor Information Centre and progresses through the city and meadows until you reach the top of the hill that overlooks the bowl in which Bath sits. Alternatively, book a free (they don’t even want tips!) walking tour with the Mayor of Bath’s Guides. Other picturesque spots include the park in front of the grand Royal Crescent, and beside the beautiful Pultney Bridge and v-shaped Pultney Weir.
Famous Residents - Although the Romans enjoyed the healing qualities of the spa waters, it was the Georgians who transformed Bath. They took a quiet rural town and turned it into one of Britain’s leading holiday destinations where the fashionable flocked to shop, party and find a spouse. One of the most famous of all former residents is Jane Austen, inextricably linked with Bath due to her use of it as a setting in Persuasion and Northanger Abbey. Austen’s Bath home at 4 Sydney Place is not open to the public but fans of her work and this era should visit the Jane Austen Centre to see how she would have lived. Bath is liberally sprinkled with Blue Plaques commemorating everyone from the siblings Sir William and Caroline Hershel, who discovered Uranus and infrared radiation, to politicians such as William Pitt (Senior and Junior) and Admiral Lord Nelson, along with various members of the royal family.
Shopping and Eating - Your credit card may go into shock, but it will be worth it for the quality of shopping in Bath. The city’s small size means it is easy to visit every retailer, if that’s your wish, even if you are only there for a short visit. If you arrive by train, then the first place you will see is the four-storey Debenhams department store, beyond which is the Southgate area lined with favourite High Street names. Union Street and Stall Street are lined with shops selling books, homewares, fashion and jewellery, and leading to the galleries in the Artisan Quarter. Bath is the sort of city where you should always duck down an alley or stroll through a small arcade as it is in these places where you may find your favourite purchase of your holiday.
Bath is full of fantastic places to eat and drink. The oldest pub in Bath is the Saracens Head although, with its wall-mounted TVs showing sport and news, it’s not the most olde-worlde place for a pint. Instead, try the comfortable Raven on Queen Street for a great choice of food (especially pies) and ale and a relaxing atmosphere. You can’t beat Cafe Retro for a delicious breakfast that will set you up for a day of sightseeing and shopping - head upstairs to nab a table overlooking the Abbey. Wine lovers should try Corkage, a relaxed wine bar where the wine menu is as important as the food, while the set lunch menu at The Bath Priory Restaurant is an affordable way to enjoy Michelin starred dining.
Historic Bath - You can’t move for landmark buildings and museums in Bath. The Roman Baths and Bath Abbey are two must-sees, as is a walk along the Royal Cresent and around the Assembly Rooms (both of which are free). Have tea and a bun at Sally Lunn’s and admire the window display in Charlotte Brunswick’s Chocolate Shop a few doors down. The Fashion Museum, Museum of Bath at Work, American Museum and Holborne Museum all have a specific focus, as do the Museum of East Asian Art and the Victoria Art Gallery.
Bath is a city you can go to once and never forget or visit every year and still find new views, shops or places to eat that will surprise and delight.
