Category Archives: Things to do

What to do on your holiday cottage location

Focus on Ireland – Giant’s Causeway

giants causeway

The lure of the Irish Isle is strong, an intoxicating mix of stunning natural beauty, ancient folklore and conviviality make Ireland one of the top holiday destinations in Europe. Holidaymakers are attracted from throughout the world to sample the warmth of a people proud of their rich heritage. Indeed many are drawn to Ireland to chart their own family history and take in the surroundings of their forefathers perhaps none more famous that President John Kennedy who (staggeringly) famously visited 50 years ago. The passing years merely serve to enhance the enigma that is Ireland and over the coming weeks we are going to take look at some of our favourite holiday destinations across the Irish island starting with the Giant’s Causeway.

The eternal beauty of the Emerald Isle has been carved by the forces of nature over the millennia. Nowhere perhaps is the more exemplified than at the Giant’s Causeway on the northern tip of  County Antrim. Carefully managed by the National Trust, this stretch of coastline is home to perhaps one of the most fascinating rock formations in the British Isles, if not in Europe. Violent volcanic eruptions millions of years ago have created a mass of inter locking hexagonal rock columns. It is the symmetry in the rock that creates such an unusual vista that makes this the most popular tourist attraction in Northern Ireland.

This great volcanic plateau was the source of mystery across the ages. Such a regimented formation surely could not be the work of the elements thus was born the enduring legend of the Irish warrior Fionn mac Cumhaill otherwise known as Finn MacCool. The story goes that Fionn was challenged by Benandoner, a Scottish giant from across the water but on sight of the Irish ‘giant’s baby (Fionn cunningly disguised as an infant) Benandoner fled in fear back across to Scotland destroying the causeway in his wake. Today the location is protected from giants and is a designated world heritage site.

The surrounding coastline is breathtaking and offers a range of walking trails for the experienced and casual rambler alike. These unspoilt surroundings are home to a wide variety of sea birds including petrels, fulmars and razorbills. It is not difficult to see why this combination of stunning scenery and wildlife has helped create the backdrop to an inspirational stretch of coastline that is famous the world over. With a recently improved visitor centre this is a great day out offering holidaymakers an opportunity to be entranced by the myth and legend of one of the world’s most enigmatic natural wonders.

Britain’s Top 5 Gardens

garden

The welcome transition from the dormant winter months into spring heralds the onset of a profusion of colour and tranquility across Britain’s beautiful public gardens. After a particularly long and seemingly never ending winter we are more than ready for warmer days spent relaxing in and amongst some of the finest gardens in Europe. In Britain we have a fascination bordering on the obsessive for all things horticultural and we are blessed with an exquisite variety of flora and fauna in our gardens protected by a unique range of micro-climates across the country. Leisurely spring afternoon’s absorbing the essential beauty of nature is an idyllic accompaniment to any cottage holiday. Let’s take a look at a few of our favourite British public gardens.

5. Trebah Gardens, Helford, Cornwall

The sub tropical climate enjoyed by the Helford estuary in south Cornwall has helped form a stunning hillside garden harbouring a special collection of rare plants, trees and shrubs, many of which are from far flung corners of the planet. The gentle climate in this part of the world provides a unique opportunity to view exotic flora that would struggle to survive elsewhere in Britain. The result is a stunningly vibrant garden, framed by the gorgeous Helford estuary, creating a vista that transfixes the senses. Open all year and extending across 26 acres with 4 miles of footpaths traversing themed gardens, Trebah has a special quality that fascinates throughout the seasons.  Leafy palms, camellias and magnolias await inquisitive guests and with delightful ponds Trebah have echoes of Giverny within a tranquil landscape that offers a haven of peace. With vibrant Falmouth just a short distance to the north, and the Lizard peninsula within easy striking distance to the south, Trebah sits proudly in a treasured corner of Cornwall.

Search for cottage holidays in Cornwall here

4. Chatsworth House Gardens, Chatsworth, Derbyshire

Britain is home to a fine array of stately homes, perhaps none more imposing than  Chatsworth House which is  set against the  backdrop of the English Peak District. This magnificent estate is home to the Duke of Derbyshire and is open year round to visitors and is set in the heart of the Peak District within easy reach of Bakewell, Tideswell and the historic Eyam. The style and elegance of the house is mirrored in the 105 acres of gardens that offer a variety of interesting sculptures, fountains and of course the ubiquitous English garden maze. Perhaps the most striking feature of this impressive stately garden is the cascading trough waterfall situated to the western flank of the house. Built for the 4th Duke of Derbyshire this popular water feature stands 200 feet tall with 24 steps drawing water down in a mesmerising flow that never ceases to fascinate children and adults alike. If you are feeling energetic the view from the top of the waterfall is unforgettable, with the stately home enveloped by the surrounding parkland and the stunning expanse of Derbyshire countryside beyond.

Search for cottage holidays in the Peak District  here

3. Inverewe Gardens, Inverewe, Scotland

The benevolent Gulf Stream on the unforgettable northwest Scottish coast in Wester Ross helps create one of the most impressive botanical gardens in Britain. This is truly a wonderful place set amidst a carefully managed estate extending across 2000 acres alongside the rugged hills and sweeping Atlantic coastline. The fertile soil and favourable micro climate helps sustain a wide range of exotic plants that would normally be found in more temperate latitudes on the planet. The result is a vivid variety of colour that endures throughout the year. Whether it be Tasmanian eucalypts, blue poppies from the Himalayas or Chinese rhododendrons, Inverewe gardens are home to a delightful collection of flora and fauna from throughout the world. Owned by the Scottish National Trust and overlooking Loch Ewe this stunning botanical garden is one if the most popular attraction in the Scottish Highlands. The distinctive scenery of Wester Ross is some of Scotland’s most stunning countryside with the essence of a wilderness barely touched by the 21st century. Perhaps surprisingly this coastline is home to some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the country, with stunning white sand and crystal blue water bejeweling the ancient sea lochs as they extend north towards Ullapool and Sutherland beyond.

Search for cottage holidays in Scotland here

2. Powis Castle, Welshpool, Wales

With a medieval backdrop in the rolling border countryside, Powis Castle gardens are renowned across the world. Just a short distance from Welshpool, these formal gardens have been nurtured and evolved over the past 400 years. Created in the Baroque style of classical Italian gardens with more than a touch of French spirit, the grand terraces at Powis castle (originally built in the 1680s) are an evocative throwback to continental gardens during the 16th century and enjoy a sweeping view across the immaculate Great Lawn. With a wide selection of carefully selected colourful plants to complement the Mediterranean theme, the terraces are probably the best example of 17th century gardens left in the country. Preserved for the nation by the National Trust, Powis Castle gardens are open all year with the surrounding parkland home to wide variety of wildlife including rare red kites, woodpeckers and a large number of deer. The surrounding woodland offers a number of different walks whilst the castle itself offers a fascinating trail designed for children who will be left captivated by the sense of adventure exploring the medieval fortress surroundings.

Search for cottage holidays in Wales here

1. Drummond Castle Gardens, Crieff, Perthshire

Drummond Castle is home to one of the most stunning formal gardens in the country, if not in Europe. Situated 2 miles to the south of Crieff in Perthshire, these large and beautifully manicured gardens are open to the public from the beginning of May until the end of October. With a history dating back to 1490, the gardens at Drummond Castle really began to flourish during the 17th century evolving throughout the centuries to produce a striking and enchanting landscape that has been immaculately tended by some of Scotland’s finest gardeners. The careful attention to detail creates a symmetry which is simply breathtaking and with the backdrop of the castle, there is a truly timeless quality which entices visitors into a world gone by. With the haunting cries of peacocks, secret gardens and elegant pathways there is majesty reminiscent of Versailles, indeed the French influence is all pervading in what is the historic heartland of Scotland. The castle itself is swathed in the history of the Jacobite rebellion, strange to think that such beauty should evolve out of violent turmoil but the gardens are testament to a vision that doubtless will be enjoyed for centuries to come.

Search for cottage holidays in Scotland here

 

New Year’s Resolutions – Activity Holidays in Britain

Lake District cycling

As millions of us are now ‘resolved’ to become healthier in 2013 why not combine good intentions with your next cottage holiday in Britain?  Now is the time to put to one side thoughts of cold dark winter nights and think instead about booking your next adventure holiday for 2013. Britain has a wealth of activity opportunities across the length and breadth of the country. With hundreds of miles of coastline, cycle paths and walking routes to choose from, we are going to focus on some of our favourites to help you decide.

Kayaking on the River Fowey – Cornwall

Home of author and playwright Daphne De Maurier, Fowey stands majestically overlooking the estuary of the River Fowey looking out towards the stunning South Cornish coast. The river is surrounded by wooded undulating hills. A haven for wildlife, this is a great location for kayaking for learner and experienced kayaker alike. Routes extend upstream towards the countryside or follow the estuary along the coast towards the sea. You should be able to spot herons, cormorants and kingfishers as you glide across the water in tune with your beautiful surroundings, there cannot be many better ways to immerse yourself in the essential beauty of Cornwall. Kayaking is great for the whole family and there are various organisations that offer guided tours based on the River Fowey. It is possible to hire kayaks for independent use but this is strictly for over 18 year old experienced kayakers.

Find holiday cottages in Cornwall.

Coasteering in Pembrokershire – South Wales

If you want to enjoy the coast but have a little more of the ‘daredevil’ about you then coasteering in South Wales may be just for you. The Pembrokeshire coastline is spectacular. Much like its Cornish cousin, this stretch coastline has been carved out by the wild Atlantic to create a dramatic seascape. Britain’s only coastal national park, Pembrokeshire boasts a 180 mile long coast path where you will find delightful coves and many golden sandy bays. This really is coasteering country, an adventure sport that brings you face to face with the raw power of the Atlantic and involves rock hopping, wild swimming, climbing and jumping from cliffs!  This is nature at its most exhilarating and is a great opportunity to ‘regress’ and indulge that childlike fun-seeking side of you! It is that unique feeling of exploration that really grabs the imagination. With experienced guides to help you make the most of this adrenaline filled sport whilst toasty warm in your wet suit, this is one holiday activity that the rain cannot spoil!

Find holiday cottages in Wales.

Cycling in the Lake District – North West England

The Lake District is basically a cyclist’s paradise offering a range of challenging mountainous paths – as well as many gentle wooded trails – whilst set amongst some of England’s most stunning scenery, there really is something for everyone. Cyclists are drawn to this part of the world not least because of the beautiful views, but also because many parts of the Lake District offer paths that are relatively traffic free. Kids love cycling, and some of the best family trails are to be found at Grizedale Forest, where you will find miles of well-maintained paths amongst ancient oak and conifer trees along with strategically placed cafés for weary parents to recuperate!  Being the Lake District, this is also one of the best places for wild off-road routes that will bring you face to face with a real sense of wilderness. It is perhaps not surprising that the Lake District has been recently voted the number one biking destination in Britain. These bridleways are really a serious challenge for the hardy cyclist but the rewards are rich with unforgettable scenes across some of Britain’s most picturesque countryside.

Find holiday cottages in North West England.

Skiing in Aviemore – Scottish Highlands

Whilst recent cold winters in Britain may have been unwelcome for the majority of us, they have in turn signalled a renaissance in British skiing with the resort of Aviemore the destination of choice. The last three winters have seen exceptionally good snowfalls providing excellent conditions with the key season extending from Christmas through to April. With the great snow and unattractive conversion rates for the Euro, many skiers and snowboarders have swapped the Alps for the beautiful Cairngorms to make the most of great skiing opportunities right here in Britain. Needless to say the Caringorms is one of the most dramatic mountain ranges in Britain with beautiful lochs, rivers and world famous Glens. Set against this stunning Highland backdrop there are over 30km of well-maintained ski runs with a variety of options to suit beginner, intermediate and experienced skiers (including off-piste and country routes). If you are completely new to skiing the local ski school runs great courses for children and adults to allow you to get to grips to the sport closer to home.

Find holiday cottages in the Scottish highlands.

Festive top 5s!

We’ve always been fans of Christmas charts at cottages4you. Whether it’s a countdown of the most popular gifts, or waiting to see if Cliff Richard was once again going to rule/ruin Christmas with another festive ballad – there’s something about this time of year that goes well with a numerical rundown.

So we’ve decided to get in on the act and present our own chart, looking at the most popular regions – in terms of volumes of sales – for Christmas and New Year holiday breaks in the UK. Unlike other festive charts there’s plenty of variety, a few surprises and not one mention of Mistletoe and Wine.

We still have some availability for Christmas and New Year breaks so if this article inspires you feel free to search our website or give us a call on 0845 268 0760 to discuss flexible arrival dates.

The Top 5 Christmas Destinations

North Norfolk Coast

The famed Norfolk Broads need little introduction: a stunning network of lakes and rivers that are a pleasure to explore; they are perhaps the region’s biggest draw. But if the Broads is better suited to a summer exploration then the North Norfolk Coast is undoubtedly a lovely place to spend Christmas. Not only does the region offers beautiful beaches, long stretches of wild coastline and eye-watering vistas as far as the eye can see (literally, in most cases), but it also boasts a beautifully preserved heritage, comprised of stunning Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture that really comes to life with festive loveliness at Christmas.

Cotswolds

For many, Christmas in the Cotswolds is the festive idyll, so it’s perhaps not surprising that so many of you are already planning to spend the festive period there. We can just see you now, looking out over gentle patchwork hills from the comfort of your holiday cottage – which will be located in the cutest limestone village, of course. We only have one further thing to add: Could we come too?

Dorset

Not only a component to one of the worst jokes centred on a UK region in existence (if you’ve heard it, you’ll agree, if not, trust us!), Dorset also boasts enough natural and man-made charms to guarantee a place on our festive top 5. One thing Dorset does well is choice: there’s the spectacular Jurassic Coastline to explore, a wealth of beautiful beaches and, further inland, the mature woodland and rolling hills of rural Dorset.

Hereford, Worcester and Wyevly

This one’s a 3 for the price of one, due to the fact we group these locations together. And despite the close proximity to each other they all have something unique to offer – which is great news if you’re lucky enough to have booked a break there! A well-preserved medieval city, Hereford is awash with festive atmosphere at this time of the year. Similarly Worcester’s Tudor buildings and gothic spires help to convey an enjoyable ‘Christmas past’ feeling, but if you fancy something a bit more rural then the Wye Valley looks incredible even without a light frosting of festive snow.

Peak District

Britain’s first National Park also offers variety in spades. There’s an abundance of active pursuits like hiking through the Peak Forest, cycling across the Dark Peak, horse riding down the Longden trail. You could scale the Heights of Abraham and get a commanding view of your surroundings, or you could settle in for the night in one of the local alehouses next to a warm fire with the welcome company of your loved ones. The Peak District is also easily accessible from Manchester and Sheffield along with various other counties so you can be back home in no time at all.

The Top 5 New Year Destinations

Lake District

While plenty of people are still flocking to cities to see in the New Year, we’re seeing a trend of others wanting to get away from it all and enjoy the advent of 2012 in relative seclusion. It’s hardly surprising that people are choosing the Lake District for the latter; after all it has more than enough stunning locations to stretch your legs, fantastic restaurants and lovely little pubs to make a celebration that you’ll never forget – or remember, depending on how much you get into the New Year spirit!

Yorkshire Coast

In many ways the Yorkshire Coast offers the best of both worlds. Like the Lakes it has an almost embarrassing amount of beautiful locations to explore and enjoy, but if you fancy a more vibrant celebration of New Year then you really need look no further than the seaside resorts of Scarborough and Whitby. To use a well worn cliché, it really does have something for everyone.

Norfolk

Still popular well into New Year, it seems many customers just don’t want to leave their holiday cottage in Norfolk and who could blame them?

Cotswolds

The running popularity of the Cotswolds is a strong testament to its many charms. It’s a perennially popular destination so we can’t see it losing its place on the chart in the near future.

Dorset

We may have little to add to our write-up of Dorset but don’t worry, even though it’s approaching Christmas, we won’t be telling any terrible jokes based on its name – we’ll save that for the dinner table!

Christmas in Bath

Quietly, like a beautiful butterfly flying in the wind, the city of Bath has been building, developing and investing in its festive offerings, so much so that when we came across an itinerary of what they have on offer this year, we spluttered in our hot chocolates with marshmallows in them.

To start with, naturally, Bath’s Christmas Market, which is in itself enough to warrant a short break or family holiday in the city.

Kicking off on November 14th, the self-described biggest and most beautiful Christmas market in the south-west, rocks your jingle bells for 18 magical days, against a backdrop that is simply arresting.

With the Bath Abbey and Roman Baths acting as epic feature points, the Christmas market exudes a certain quaint charm, made all the more glorious by the sheer number of wooden chalets – 130 in total!

Plus there’s loads of bustle coming from the plethora of entertainment on offer. From Natural Theatre Company performances to Grenville Jones choir recitals to seasoned busking, you will not be short of some sort of welcome distraction.

Elsewhere, the Jane Austen Centre – she spent six years of her life writing in Bath – flips the script and gets Christmassy with a wonderful insight into how this time of the year was spent in the 1800s.

The Holburne Museum of Art meanwhile, will be adorned with 1,000s of tiny fibre optics, bringing a festive glow to the newly refurbished space that is principally home to the art collection of Sir Thomas William Holburne.

Finally, Longleat House, a stately house that is one of the best examples of high Elizabethan architecture. It is striking in every way. The big thing this year is its fairy tell and Christmas story recreations.

“Sleeping Beauty dreams away 100 years in our exquisite Chinese Bedroom. A hearty feast is set out in the Dining Room ready for when stingy old Scrooge discovers the spirit of Christmas,” Longleat House informs us. “In the Great Hall Cinderella is whirled across the dance floor by her handsome Prince Charming. Discover Marley’s ghost and much much more!”

Indeed, quietly, Bath has built up a wonderland that is up there with other UK cities in terms of fostering the Christmas spirit. Have fun and make sure you have your woollies on when you’re out and about.

Your top 10 favourite films

Following our recent article on UK film festivals we asked our Facebook friends and Twitter followers what their favourite films were. The results were surprising; in fact they were so surprising that we’ve decided to share them here on the blog…

We’re going to present the results as a top 10 countdown and we’ve even added a few related holiday cottage suggestions in case you fancy taking your adventure further!

10. The Sound of Music

A Christmas classic! This tale of the musical Von Trapp family in 1930’s Austria warms the heart as much as it makes the toes tap and the only surprise is it’s so far down the list. Still, it’s an undeniable family favourite and well worthy of inclusion.

Why not try: We don’t feature any properties in Austria but if you fancy making the hills come to life with sound of music, one customer likened the Glens around The Garden Cottage in Crianlarich to the setting of the film – even stating they thought they saw Julie Andrews!

9. Jaws

Less heart-warming but no less of a classic, this taut tale of a hungry shark has kept us out of the water for years. It’s also one of the reasons why we’re so keen on holidaying in the UK! And even though the years haven’t stopped Jaws from looking like a large rubber sausage, it’s still a master-class in tension.

Why not try: Shark Fin cottage in Cornwall boasts commanding views of two of England’s best beaches at Sennen and towards Cape Cornwall. Perfect if you fancy a safe and spectacular view of the ocean!

8. Highlander

Despite featuring a Frenchman as a Scot and a Scotsman as a Spaniard, Highlander still works. This is mainly due to its unique premise: a tale of immortals duelling over the ages, and a great soundtrack by Queen.

Why not try: Tigh A Cnoc in Port Henderson, nr. Gairloch is near the beautiful Eilean Donan Castle, location of the village of Glenfinnan in the original film.

7. The Notebook

Based on the incredibly popular novel of the same name, The Notebook is an unashamedly romantic tale of love over the ages. Despite not setting the world on fire on initial release, the film adaptation has found a longer life on DVD and Blu-Ray and seems very popular in our office!

Why not try: Nicholas Sparks, The Notebook’s author wrote the novel in his spare time, and since the story itself concerns writing we thought Writer’s Retreat sounds like the perfect place to appreciate the written word. This delightful cottage on the Isle of Man is the perfect place to find your inspiration!

6. Monty Python’s Life of Brian

One of the most quotable films of all time is also often considered the funniest. We can’t really say anything more, so we’ll just continue quoting it until people get fed up: “Stwike him, Centuwion. Stwike him vewy wuffly!”

Why not try: Python fans may fancy a stay at Shepherds Cottage in Campsie Fells. This lovely little place is located near to Doune Castle, which featured prominently in the earlier Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

5. Interview with the Vampire

With the success of the Twilight saga, vampires appear to be very much in vogue right now, but the reason for Interview with the Vampire’s addition to our list is probably due to the fact that it’s a loving and lavish adaptation of Anne Rice’s novel, with lots of icky bits and Tom Cruise biting Brad Pitt’s neck.

Why not try: Whitby has earned itself a reputation as the seaside resort of choice for vampires, thanks to its connection with Bram Stoker’s Dracula. So what could be better than Eversfield, an imposing Edwardian country house?

4. The Name of the Rose

According to Wikipedia, the monastery set from The Name of the Rose ended up being the biggest exterior set built in Europe since Cleopatra (the film, not the person). We didn’t know that, but we did know it’s a unique and unforgettable ‘whodunit’ boasting an equally distinctive setting.

Why not try: Bay Lodge is situated within a converted monastery, which is adjacent to the ancient Round Tower of St Declan in Ireland. Sounds perfect for conducting your own medieval investigation.

3. Les Enfants du marais

A quick confession: we haven’t actually seen this one. In fact before we ran the poll, we hadn’t heard of it either! Still, after a little bit of research we’ve found out that it’s a lighthearted and nostalgic drama with some beautiful French locations and an appearance from Eric Cantona and now it’s topping our rental list!

Why not try: Located in the Loire Valley, Mage is the perfect location to explore this stunning region in France. This farmhouse is spacious and furnished in a comfortable French style for extra authenticity!

2. Dances with Wolves

We’ve lost many a Sunday afternoon to Kevin Costner’s directorial debut. This tale of an American soldier absorbing Native American culture offers action and romance in spades. In fact, just talking about it makes us want to watch it again. See you in a few hours!

Why not try: Wagtails, a former granary, stands in the grounds of the Conservation Centre for Wolf Watch UK. We can’t guarantee you can dance with them, but you can certainly pay them a visit!

1. Lassie Come Home

This wasn’t just the first choice; it had a whopping 50% of the votes! The Shetland sheepdog’s debut on the big-screen is a bona-fide classic, but even we were surprised to see it do so well. Still, you can never underestimate the power of a very cute dog and a heart-warming tale.

Why not try: Shepherd’s Lodge in Yorkshire sounds like the perfect place to explore Lassie country. Not only does it offer a superior place to relax and enjoy the countryside but it’s also an award winner in its own right!

Do you agree? Let us know your favourite film in the comments section below. And if you fancy getting involved, why not become a friend on Facebook or follower on Twitter? You’ll find questions, competitions and exclusive offers before anyone else!

Last chance to see!

Cheer up Charlie!

Charles Dickens’ Birthplace Museum

If you wanted proof that Charles Dickens is one of our most celebrated writers then you need look no further than the amount of coverage his 200th birthday is receiving – several months before the event!

If you want to explore the writer then you need look no further than Oliver Twist, Bleak House, David Copperfield, A Christmas Carol etc. However, if you want to know the man, then where better to start then his birthplace…

Charles Dickens was born in a modest house in Portsmouth in 1812, where he lived for the first three years of his life. The house now stands as a museum to the writer with its 19th century interior now faithfully restored. You can explore three furnished rooms in the house: the parlour, the dining room and the bedroom where Charles was born. On the first Sunday of each month (until September), you can visit and hear a reading by the Dickens’ Fellowship from a selection of some of the writer’s works.

The Charles Dickens’ Birthplace Museum is only open until the beginning of October, so if you want to pay a visit before Charles turns 200, you’d better be quick!

When the Queen's away...

The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is arguably the most stunning regal residence in the world. However, for millions of visitors who flock there each year it remains an untouchable monument to stand in front of and take pictures. But get there before the 4 October and you can see more of the workings of the palace – not to mention a few welcome surprises – by taking a tour of the State Rooms.

The State Rooms are where HRH does most of her entertaining when she’s in residence. But as she’s still enjoying her holidays in Scotland, you can have a nosey in her absence! Expect to see a wonderful array of items, including paintings by ‘Rembrandt, Rubens, Poussin and Canaletto; sculpture by Canova; exquisite examples of Sèvres porcelain; and some of the finest English and French furniture.’

There’s also a ‘Royal Fabergé’ exhibition and the chance to get a close look at The Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding dress, designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen. Both exhibitions close with the palace on 3 October!

Do you know of any events in the UK that are closing soon? Leave a comment below and let us know your last chance to see suggestions!

Anyone for tennis?

Do you know that if Andy Murray wins Wimbledon this year he will be the first player from the UK to do so since Fred Perry in 1936? While this may not fill us with confidence it does suggest that we might need a little more practice if we’re going to see more Brits lift the trophy in the next few years.

With that in mind we’ve decided to showcase some of our featured properties with private tennis courts. So, even if Murray doesn’t make it to the final, he could still get a game on in July (pending availability!).

Please click on the property refs to see the listings on cottages4you. Feel free to list your tips for Wimbledon in the comments section below too!

Coach House  in  Loddiswell, nr. Kingsbridge, S. Devon.

Property ref: HDR

Sunny, spacious, ground floor holiday property with arched windows and a delightful, enclosed, south-facing cottage garden with far-reaching views over the open countryside. The property enjoys a tranquil and beautiful setting on the private estate of Woolston House, a fine Georgian country residence approached by a long estate drive bordered by mature garden. There is shared use of a large outdoor heated swimming pool and en-tout-cas tennis court.

Worton Park Cottages – The Old Rectory  in  Worton, Cassington, Witney, Oxon

Property ref: NJL

The Old Rectory, a detached listed building, and Corner Cottage, an idyllic Cotswolds detached stone property are situated at Worton, a hamlet between the villages of Cassington and Yarnton, both mentioned in the Domesday Book. Owned by Christchurch College, Oxford until 1774, the Old Rectory and its surroundings are of great historical interest. The holiday properties are at the end of a quiet lane with ample parking at the front and a large private garden to the rear (use of tennis court by arrangement with owner).

Rosecraddoc Manor – Gibson  in  Liskeard

Property ref: CV11

Rosecraddoc Manor features a variety of properties surrounding the historic Manor House to cater for all tastes whether classic, modern, cosy or cottage style is what you are looking for. The manor was built in the 1820s on the site of a much older house mentioned in the Domesday Book. It is Grade II listed, along with two bridges in the grounds, and has now been converted into these attractive apartments and villas, making a perfect base for your Cornish holiday. Free all-weather tennis court and coarse fishing all year.

South Wing  in  Hunmanby, Filey, N. Yorkshire

Property ref: IRU

This magnificent south-facing Grade II* listed home dates back to the early 17th century and is full of fabulous original features including a magnificent oak-panelled dining room and hand-carved 17th-century fireplace. Most recently home to an independent girls school, this the principal wing housed the headmistress’ study and staffrooms. It sits in nearly 2 acres of beautiful gardens bordering a 9-hole golf course, gym, tennis courts and additional communal gardens and woodland walks. A little path through the garden leads to Hunmanby, a thriving village with several pubs, restaurants, a bakery, deli and supermarket.

Lake Cottage  in  Ivy Court Cottages, Llys-y-Fran

Property ref: W42506

These beautiful cottages have been tastefully renovated from a traditional Welsh barn and are set in the heart of Pembrokeshire alongside the Llys-y-Fran Country Park and reservoir. There are plenty of facilities available for guests free of charge, including croquet and badminton, a heated covered swimming pool, all-weather tennis court and a children’s play garden. There is good fishing as the lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout throughout the season. Also the Country Park which is less than a minutes’ walks has a 200 acre reservoir and an impressive 100ft dam, the largest game fishing in west Wales.

World Oceans Day – ‘Basking in Porthcurno’

As we move into the official meteorological summer, the beginning of June also heralds the arrival of scores (sometimes hundreds) of basking sharks off the coast of Cornwall. A great vantage point to take in the sight of these majestic creatures is Porthcurno at the southern tip of the Cornish peninsula. Situated just to the south of Land’s End and very close to the exquisite Sennen Cove, Porthcurno provides a stunning backdrop to view the sharks without having to take to the water.

This part of Cornwall is mesmerising and takes on a real Mediterranean quality. The azure ‘lagoon like’ bay set against rocky outcrops is more reminiscent of southern Europe. The coastal path from the delightful sandy beach to Logan’s rock provides a fantastic elevated position from which to take in the stunning view but also, if you are lucky, to view basking sharks as they pass Cornwall on their annual migratory trail. These huge ‘harmless’ creatures are following the plankton as they lumber along the British shores.

As skylarks provide the quintessential English summer soundtrack you can wander along the coastal route safe in the knowledge that you can enjoy the marine life in their natural habitat without the threat of disturbing them. Basking sharks are a protected species and there are strict guidelines about how they are approached in the water. From the land you have a great perspective and with the crystal clear quality to the water your view should be unobstructed. The ideal conditions are for a warm day with calm waters which also encourage playful dolphins to visit this stunning bay. Dolphin sightings are less frequent but their arrival delight children and adults alike!

If the weather is on your side then maybe take time to ‘bask’ yourself on the beach, surely one of Britain’s finest. Lifeguarded through the summer months this sandy beach is flanked by the stunning Minack Theatre, an amazing location for a unique outdoor experience.

With the sun on your back, the prospect of a delicious picnic and the entertainment provided by Cornwall’s special marine visitors there cannot be many better ways to relax and enjoy Britain at its very best.

Posted by Gareth Mckillop, cottages4you.

Bottoms up to English Wine Week 2011

We’re partnering with English Wine Producers to celebrate English Wine Week (May 28th-5th June) and the nation’s growing passion for locally produced English wine.

English Wine Week will showcase the best places to stay and the finest local vineyards, wine merchants and farm shops across the country. During the week, vineyards across the nation will be opening their doors to visitors, offering tours, tastings, special offers and other special events.

There are over 200 vineyards in England to choose from and we feature a stunning property in close proximity to virtually every one. So there’s no better time to book a relaxing break and see what English wine has to offer.

To get you in the mood, why not have a look at our recent feature on the top 5 UK vineyards.

For information on special events and participating outlets during English Wine Week – visit www.englishwineproducers.com