This article contains affiliate links; we may earn a commission on any sales generated from them. A staycation is a smart move this summer as unrest in the Middle East pushes up prices of flights and package deals to European hotspots. The beauty of a holiday in the UK lies in the freedom it affords. You can pack as much as you like, take your dog, and focus entirely on unwinding. Why go abroad when you can wake up to the dramatic scenery of the Lake District, enjoy the rugged coastlines of Cornwall, or explore the quiet charm of the Yorkshire Dales?
If you are looking for a great deal, Sykes Cottages is having a summer sale. There are cosy cottages, romantic retreats, and larger properties ideal for groups. We have found seven top-rated stays with availability in July and August from £567 for a week.
1. Lake District: Blease Garth, Threlkeld, near Keswick, Cumbria
Nestled in a beautiful Lakeland village, this character cottage has oak beams, wooden flooring, and a log-burning stove. Outside, there is a peaceful, spacious garden. Sleeps four. Save more than £100 on a seven-night stay, now £817. "Fantastic location and rustic charm. The garden is great for the dog. It has been lovely sitting outside morning or evening with views of the fells. Pubs and café within five minutes' walk," said one review.
2. Peak District: Orchard Barn, Hilderstone near Fulford, North Yorkshire
A luxurious barn conversion boasting original features like rustic beams and exposed brick, along with contemporary additions including a hot tub and suspended wood-burning stove. Sleeps six. Save £175 on a seven-night stay, now £818. "The hot tub was fab albeit the weather was so hot, we gave it a miss the first night! The location was excellent and catered for the varying needs to keep all of the family entertained; Cannock Chase, McArthur Glen, The Peaks and Alton Towers all within 30-minute drive," said one review.
3. Cornwall: West Lee, Morwenstow, Bude
This characterful stone barn conversion sits on the 200-acre Lee Barton Farm Estate, a short walk from the National Trust's unspoilt Duckpool beach. Nearby Bude has shops, cafes, restaurants, and excellent sandy beaches. Sleeps six. Save £80 on a seven-night stay which now costs £860. "Tranquil and idyllic place. Lots to do around and about for all, although you could beautifully fill the days with staying on the estate. A real home from home," said one review.
4. Suffolk: Damsel Shepherds Hut, Badwell Ash, near Bury St Edmunds
A beautifully designed little romantic retreat with private decking, hot tub, gas barbecue, and outdoor furniture. There is a well-stocked fishing lake right outside your door, and pampering treatments are available on-site. Sleeps two. A seven-night stay costs £750. "Everything was perfect. It is even more beautiful and magical than in the pictures. Fishing around the lake, barbecue on the wood fire pit, hot tub and sauna, all surrounded by wildlife. It was a perfect couple break," said one review.
5. Devon: Tuckermarsh Quay River Cottage, Bere Alston near Tavistock
One of a series of three riverside cottages built by miners in the 1800s, within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There is a well-tended garden with wooden deck and a floating jetty, providing access into the River Tamar, ideal for kayaking. Sleeps four. A seven-night stay now costs £587. "The garden is lovely especially the decking area with seating by the river - worth carrying your breakfast down there each morning. Remote location means super quiet and peaceful," said one review.
6. Yorkshire Dales: Pine Cottage, Sedbergh, Cumbria
A three-storey stone property tucked away in the winding side streets of an ancient market town, close to the Dales Way. It is a short drive from Ribblehead Viaduct, Killington Lake, and Kendal. Sleeps three. A seven-night stay now costs £567. "Sedbergh is a lovely town with nice pubs serving good food and cute little shops, with the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales nearby. Thank you for letting us stay in your lovely cottage, we will be back!" said one review.
7. West Wales: Ty Gorof, Rhandirmwyn, Carmarthenshire
There are also reductions at holidaycottages.co.uk. This large, comfortable detached cottage has exposed beams, whitewashed walls, and a flagstone terrace with barbecue. It is set in unspoilt countryside near the market town of Llandovery. Sleeps seven. Save £200 on a seven-night stay, now £857. "Ideally situated with lots to do, National Botanic Gardens, NT Dinefwr, Carreg Cennen, and a visit to New Quay for fabulous fish and chips at The Lime Crab. Great walks locally along the river and RSPB Dinas was really wonderful," said one review.
Prices correct at time of publishing.
