The cosiest cottages in the UK for the perfect winter getaway

Situated right in the middle of a charming little village called Duns Tew, this 18th century barn has been lovingly reimagined as The Barn, with its original features sitting proudly amongst a bold, modern design. Think wooden beams, exposed stone and brick, checkered tiles and diverse textures within the open plan stay. It’s like something out of ‘The Holiday’ film with a touch of Soho Farmhouse. Go for a long walk in the surrounding hills before rewarding yourself with a boozy lunch at the White Horse Inn, followed by a film by the fire in the Barn’s cosy lounge.

Time Out tip: Guests receive a welcome hamper containing goodies like freshly baked sourdough, jam, scones, apple juice and butter.

Price: From £232-270 per night. (holidays vary)

Location: Oxfordshire, Cotswolds, OX25

Beds: Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests.

Vibe: Quaint British countryside vibes with Victorian-inspired decor.

Looking to visit the Peak District this winter? You’re in for a treat with this fantastic Airbnb. I stayed here in 2024, and the host went above and beyond, welcoming us with fresh bread, a selection of teas and tasty jams. We spent mornings sipping coffee at the little outdoor table, taking in the lovely view of sheep and adorable lambs on the farm. And the location couldn’t have been more ideal, with fantastic hiking trails and local pubs right at our doorstep. For cosiness points, it features a wood burner in the living room and a private utility room with a convenient dog wash area, perfect for cleaning up after a muddy winter walk.

Time Out tip: Chatsworth House is a must-visit during the festive season, with an interactive light and sound trail in the gardens, a Father Christmas workshop in the house and over 100 stalls at the estate’s festive market.

Price: Around £105 per night. Four night minimum.

Location: Oxfordshire, Cotswolds, OX25

Beds: One bed. Sleeps up to two guests.

Vibe: The perfect spot to unwind and explore the best of the Peak District.

Shit weather? No problem. Even though you're just two miles from the coast, there's loads of indoor fun to be had at this cozy Airbnb. Whether you're snuggled up by the wood burner or soaking in the roll-top bath, stocked with fancy Duck Island toiletries, you're in for some serious R&R. They've got a smart TV and Wi-Fi if you're itching to stay plugged in, but we recommend taking a break from the digital world and fully immersing yourself in the lush green surroundings. And, for the ultimate chill-out session, there's a hot tub right on your own private porch – perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Tip Out tip: Take a day trip to Tintagel and explore the castle and Merlin's Cave, which, according to Arthurian legend, was home to the wizard Merlin himself.

Price: £198.80 per night. Three-night minimum.

Location: Bude, Cornwall, EX23 0HF

Beds: One bed. Sleeps up to two guests.

Vibe: An Old Western shack with a Cornish twist.

If you're looking for a truly memorable stay out in the English countryside, this The-Holiday-looking cottage is the perfect weekend escape with your loved ones. From the open plan kitchen and living space – complete with a wood-burning stove – to the glass wall looking out onto the stunning wilderness, this UK Airbnb is truly special. To make it even more special, you'll find friendly animals on the property that you can feed. So, prepare to light up the fire, whip up some fresh eggs for brunch, and enjoy a delightful winter escape in this gorgeous little cottage.

Time Out tip: Surrounded by rugged moor and hill farm land, this Airbnb is idyllic escape with excellent access to local attractions, including Fountains Abbey, The Yorkshire Dales National Park, and Brimham Rocks.

Price: £101.74 per night. Three-night minimum.

Location: Bewerley, Harrogate HG3 5JF

Beds? One bed. Sleeps up to two guests.

Vibe: A rustic retreat straight out of a Christmas postcard.

Nestled within 2.5 acres of meadow, this cedar cabin is the perfect place to relax during the winter months. Decorated with shades of putty pink and sage green, everything in this Airbnb has been curated with the utmost care and attention. From the fully loaded kitchen, complete with a kettle, toaster, induction hob, mini oven, and fridge, you’ll have all the essentials for a cozy stay. And, when the temperature drops, there are three ways to warm up: an indoor log burner, a steaming outdoor bath big enough for two, and a welcoming firepit. The host even provides freshly baked scones and jam upon arrival, and you can bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

Time Out tip: The location is remote, but the large village of Mitcheldean — where you can find grocery shops, butchers, pharmacies, and a florist — is just a 15-minute walk away.

Price: £268.97 per night. Two-night minimum.

Location: Mitcheldean, Gloucestershire GL17

Beds? One bed. Sleeps up to two guests.

Vibe: A comfortable lodge with furniture hand-crafted from recycled scaffold wood.

The wild world of Exmoor combines stretches of bucolic sea-and-sand with jagged cliffs, punchy purple heather and coconut-scented gorse. Is it any surprise, then, this area has inspired writers and poets for centuries? This rather lovely first-floor barn conversion drops you into the heart of Exmoor, giving you a delicious little base from which to roam freely across the hills, gathering cream teas and local beers before returning home to, you know, pen that best-selling novel. There’s a wood burning stove to keep you cosy, a gorgeous patchwork quilt to cuddle under and views, lovely views. Oh, and it's also on a 169-acre estate with sheep, donkeys and a herd of deer to keep you company.

Time Out tip: Make like Coleridge and Wordsworth and explore the now-named Coleridge Way between Nether Stowey and Lynmouth. Striking views and the reward of a good pub lunch afterward.

Price:  £145 per night. Two-night minimum.

Location: Oare House, Lynton EX35 6NX

Beds? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests.

Vibe: A romantic rustic retreat for literary lovers.

Leave the thermals at home. This dinky cottage has you covered for winter with underfloor heating, a sunken bath, and a log burner. Lace-up those walking boots and explore the nearby permissive footpaths that start just yards from the cottage. You can soak in stunning views of the Glaven Valley countryside before heading back to The Hunworth Bell, a mere two minutes away, for a scrumptious lunch or dinner.

Time Out tip: This stay is just five minutes from the North Norfolk coast.

Price: £233.88 per night. Two-night minimum

Location: Hunworth, Melton Constable, NR24 2EH

Beds? One bed. Sleeps up to two guests.

Vibe: A recently renovated centuries-old cottage with all the creature comforts.

Ready to whisk your significant other away for a romantic couples' weekend? Look no further. Hidden in the Saddleworth hills of Greater Manchester, this tiny home is your ticket to a secluded getaway with your loved one. The quiet location provides a true escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, and the super comfy double bed promises an epic night’s sleep. When you're up for some exploration, take a stroll down to Uppermill and Diggle villages, both adorned with rustic cobbled streets and awesome indie shops. It's winter lodging at its finest.

Time Out tip: Easily reached from Manchester, Huddersfield, and Leeds via Greenfield train station, just a 10-minute drive away.

Price: £157.87 per night. Two-night minimum.

Location: Diggle, Oldham, OL3 5JS

Beds? One bed. Sleeps up to two guests.

Vibe: A compact house in an enchanting woodland environment.

That's right, treehouses aren't just for kids anymore. There's a world of luxurious adult treehouses waiting to be discovered, and they're perfect year-round. This one, found deep in the Mayfield woods, offers a wood-burning stove, a comfortable king-sized bed, and even two single mattresses in the loft area, suitable for children aged five and over. You might find it hard to leave your treehouse, but if you do, there are plenty of fantastic walks in the area. 

Time Out tip: There's a tennis court available, so  remember to bring your own racquets and balls.

Price: £345-400 per night. Two-night minimum.

Location: Mayfield, East Sussex, TN20 6RS

Beds: Three beds. Sleeps up to four guests.

Vibe: A modern sanctuary positioned among the treetops.

Looking for a unique countryside getaway surrounded by nature? You've found it. This rustic cottage sits atop a quiet hill in the middle of 80 acres of private farmland, meaning you’ll see sheep and cows grazing right outside your window. Inside the property, you'll find exposed brick walls and ceiling beams, not to mention extremely comfortable-looking beds. 

Time Out tip: Grab your coat and explore the surrounding moorland, woods, waterfalls, or riverbanks. This location really has it all.

Price: £111 per night. Three-night minimum.

Location: Brampton, Cumbria, CA8 7PH

Beds: Four beds. Sleeps up to five guests.

Vibe: Remote and secluded with epic views.

This cosy cottage in Cornwall is the perfect place to visit this winter. With a log-burning fireplace, cute kitchen, and a vaulted ceiling, this fourteenth-century traditional working farmstead, affectionately named 'Rumps Ahead,' provides a sense of isolation while being just minutes away from the Cornish coastline. Outside, you'll find a table for al fresco dining, a barbecue, and a pond. There are loads of quaint towns to visit in the surrounding areas too, but you might be tempted to simply snuggle up on the sofa for the entire weekend. The choice is yours.

Time Out tip: Venture down the farm tracks which lead to the southwest coastal path. Here, you can walk to the renowned fishing village of Port Isaac (the setting of the Doc Martin TV series).

Price: £129 per night. Seven-night minimum.

Location: Port Isaac, Cornwall, PL29 3SS

Beds: One bed. Sleeps up to two guests.

Vibes: Pet-friendly digs with unobstructed views of the countryside.

For the ultimate cottage getaway in Pembrokeshire, Wales, opt for this Airbnb. With beautiful exposed wooden beams, underfloor heating, a king-size bed, and even an outdoor shower (if you're feeling adventurous), this property has everything you need for a memorable winter break. It's also just 15 minutes away from the lovely market towns of Newport and Cardigan.

Time Out tip: After a day of exploring the rolling hills, stunning beaches, and cliff walks nearby, snuggle up by the wood-burning stove and enjoy the peace and quiet. 

Price:  £126 per night. Four-night minimum.

Location: Crymych, Pembrokeshire, SA41 3SB

Beds: One bed. Sleeps up to two guests.

Vibes: A gorgeous cottage set in beautiful 3-acre grounds. You’ll feel just like that lady in The Holiday.

Set on the lush green fields of a working farm in the Chilterns, this shepherd's hut is a cosy affair for two who are in need of a restful weekend in the country. Space-wise, the hut is tastefully decorated in calming sage green and cream shades, complete with wood-panelled interiors and French doors for a miniature farmhouse vibe. Spend your afternoons curled up by the log burner, dining out outdoors by the wildflowers at sunset, and enjoying the occasional tractor spotting.

Time Out tip: Grab some groceries to use the outdoor firepit, then lie in bed and watch the sunset through the double french doors.

Price: £112 per night.

Location: Wallingford, Oxfordshire OX10 6QF

Beds: One bed. Sleeps two guests.

Vibes: A pet-friendly farmhouse-inspired hut with a private garden and fully-equipped kitchen. 

Fancy a stay in this gorgeous wing of a historic manor house in Langford Budville? With all this country charm it's dishing out we don't blame you. Warmly decorated with lots of homely touches like a log burner, comfy armchairs, an outdoor dining area, antique furniture, and snuggle-worthy linens and carpets. Spend your time thinking along the scenic trails, going for a cycle or enjoying the dramatic cliffs Jurassic coast a little further out. 

Time Out tip: No need to splurge on breakfast. Guests receive a welcome hamper containing goodies like freshly baked sourdough, jam, scones, apple juice and butter. 

Price: £141 per night.

Location: Langford Budville, Somerset, TA21 0QZ

Beds: Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests. 

Vibes: Quaint British countryside vibes with Victorian-inspired decor.