Pulling out the board games for a night of light-hearted competition (edged with a very real desire to win), gathering round the dining room table to share good food and memories, and heading out to explore somewhere new with the family in tow; nothing quite beats a fun-filled holiday surrounded by your favourite people.
Holidays aren’t just for family time, either. After all, friends are the family you choose along the way. Whether it’s old school or university friends meeting for a reunion or your regular weekend squad, a staycation is a great way to catch up and share some new adventures.
Of course, everyone enjoys different things when it comes to getting away, from beachgoers answering the call of the sea to explorers longing for open countryside and cosy pubs to fall into after a hearty stomp. In our collection of beautiful holiday cottages for groups, you’ll find seaside escapes that boast the sparkling ocean on one side and rolling hills on the other, and grand home-from-homes that promise cosy evenings by the fire swapping stories – there really is something for every holiday taste.
Ready to gather up the gang? Here are some of our top picks for big and beautiful holiday cottages everyone can enjoy…
Wold House
Moreton-in-Marsh, the Cotswolds | Sleeps 10
Best for: Grand escapes
With beautiful Cotswold stone on the outside and sleek, modern interiors, Wold House is a true masterpiece. With so many gorgeous corners, it will be hard to pick a favourite. The show-stopper kitchen has everything you need for a family feast, while multiple living areas promise plenty of downtime during your stay. In the garden, outdoor furniture and a sweet little summerhouse promise glorious days in the sun, with an outbuilding offering a wonderfully cosy retreat for two.
Merryfields
Bath, Somerset | Sleeps 8
Best for: Rural escapes
Merryfields is spectacularly situated, with sweeping views across Box Valley and towards Salisbury Plains. Soak up the views from the oh-so-sinkable sofa or the fabulous dining room, which boasts large bi-fold doors that open wide to reveal the patchwork fields beyond. A ping pong table, music room (complete with a drumset), and gym ensure there’s something for everyone within Merryfields’ quirky walls.
Pink Door at 54
Fishguard, Pembrokeshire | Sleeps 8
Best for: Coastal adventures
Situated in the charming coastal town of Fishguard, Pink Door at 54 invites you to fill your days with salt-kissed adventures along Pembrokeshire’s breathtaking coastline. The nearest beach is a lovely five-minute walk away, while a little further away you’ll find the mesmerising waters of The Blue Lagoon. Back at your beautiful holiday cottage, you can enjoy tickled-pink interiors and a fabulous kitchen perfect for whipping up a meal for the group.
Silver Spray
Port Isaac, Cornwall | Sleeps 14
Best for: Immersive cliff-top views
Perched on the cliffs above Port Isaac, Silver Spray boasts one of the best views imaginable, whether your gaze takes you to the pretty village that sets the scene for Doc Martin, or out across the Atlantic, which is just as beautiful in the midst of a storm as it is on a balmy summer’s day. Spacious inside and out, there is plenty of room for all (dogs included) at this cliff-top escape. Spread out across the stunning terrace, welcoming living room, and wonderfully large kitchen, or gather around the dining table for a fabulous feast after a day exploring the surrounding Cornish coast.
Seaview
Bigbury-on-Sea, Devon | Sleeps 11
Best for: Uninterrupted sea views
Overlooking one of Devon’s most beloved beaches, Seaview promises simply stunning views in every direction. Lounge on the sun-soaked patio with a drink in hand during the summer months or visit in the winter for a salt-kissed stay where wind-blown walks and cosy evenings by the fire await. The famous coastal landmark of Burgh Island is only a short walk from the cottage, or you can head a little further afield for one of our favourite pub walks in the county. Whatever you and your group fancy, Seaview has you covered for a spectacular stay by the sea.
Harbour View
Ryde, Isle of Wight | Sleeps 10
Best for: Festive fun and games
With a jaw-dropping games room decked out with a 4K TV, Xbox One, Wii, and table-football, this family-friendly escape on the Isle of Wight is sure to plaster a smile on the kids’ (and big kids’) faces! A beautiful kitchen and dining room make this Island escape perfect for a festive getaway with the family, as does the Island’s dedication to creating a truly magical Wight Christmas. Make the most of the Island’s many beautiful walks, beaches, and fun-filled attractions - not to mention epic festivals - or settle down in your cottage for a cosy evening.
Buddlewall
Lyme Regis, Dorset | Sleeps 12
Best for: Fireside chitchats
This cosy cottage boasts warming fires in both the living room and dining room, casting a deliciously toasty glow over your stay. You can gather in the kitchen, making plans for the day at the breakfast bar, or you can settle down to a family feast at one of the two dining tables – one boasting a fire and the other beautiful garden views. With both Devon and Dorset as your playground, there are no limits when it comes to creating the perfect holiday itinerary at Buddlewall. Climb to the lofty heights of Golden Cap (don’t worry, we have a shortcut), give the dogs a run-around on one of Dorset’s beautiful dog-friendly beaches, or take the whole family out for a proper Devonshire cream tea, which means cream first and lots of it!
St Morwenna
Tintagel, Cornwall | Sleeps 8
Best for: Pub walks and coastal magic
Waiting to welcome eight lucky guests, sleek and stylish St Morwenna combines peace and tranquillity with easy access to the iconic drama of North Cornwall, where magic and spirited seas await - alongside one of Cornwall’s most famous castles. The terrace garden makes for the most idyllic spot for al fresco dining complimented by a bottle of your favourite tipple, while the nearby coastal paths beckon for blustery walks followed by a soul-quenching visit to the local pub – perfection.
Thornden Farm Holiday Cottages
Battle, Sussex | Sleeps 14
Best for: Multiple families
Spanning four beautiful cottages within a charming farm in East Sussex (The Coach House, The Byre, The Old Stable, and The Old Barn), Thornden Farm Holiday Cottages is perfect for multiple families looking to go away together. Each of the cottages boast oodles of country charm, which is only enhanced by the bucolic scenes that surround the site – this is definitely one for the walkers amongst you. Some of the best beaches in Sussex are a short drive away too, or you can head into Battle for historic tours and foodie delights, giving you plenty of choice between land and sea.
St Andrews
Yarmouth, Isle of Wight | Sleeps 12
Best for: Simply stunning interiors
There are almost no words to properly do justice to the utterly unique interiors found at St Andrews. Converted from a stunning church into an even more spectacular home, you’ll find high vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and satisfyingly uniform red-brick walls throughout. And just when you think your jaw can’t drop any lower, the panoramic views are there to prove you wrong. Don’t worry, you can calm your excitement in the garden’s very own sauna – yep, this impressive escape really does have it all. Yarmouth is equally deserving of your attention, with a castle and fabulous Michelin recommended restaurant amongst the plentiful list of things to do.
Duncombe
Teignmouth, Devon | Sleeps 12
Best for: Timeless style with a modern twist
A beautiful dog-friendly Victorian villa with sea views and a toasty fireplace, you’ll be set whatever the season when visiting Duncombe. You can spread out across the games room and cosy snug, or gather together in the spacious living room (first one to spot the secret door wins). Duncombe is wonderfully accessible inside and out, so it’s great for those with limited mobility. It’s also another one of our eco-cottages, with renewable energy and solar panels doing all of the work. There are some excellent festivals in Devon throughout the year, giving the whole group access to some seriously fun - and often delicious - days out.
Far View
Bodmin, Cornwall | Sleeps 14
Best for: Panoramic views and a peaceful setting
The ultimate adventure into Cornish countryside, Far View lives up to its name in every way. A patchwork of fields stretches around the sprawling cottage, providing endless panoramic views with plenty of vantage points from which to enjoy them. With a sun-soaked terrace and spacious dining room, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to feasting with friends and family, while the luxurious bathtubs offer a moment of solitude. So, gather up the whole family (and the dog!) for a total retreat into the countryside, whether you fancy a wild walk on Bodmin Moor or a relaxing day by the sea in Padstow.
Excited to gather the gang for your next getaway? Browse our fantastic collection of holiday cottages for groups and start planning your epic stay.
