We all have a friend or loved one who deserves a relaxing getaway
With Britain’s bleak winter weather on the horizon, many will be thinking of sandy shores or warmer city trips. But a short break closer to home can also feel surprisingly restorative, and a countryside staycation offers just as much comfort, especially when there’s a hot tub waiting at the end of a long walk or a lazy afternoon indoors.
The south west offers plenty of options for weekend resets and quiet escapes, and these holiday cottages within 90 minutes of Bristol have the perfect mix of comfort, charm, and a little indulgence for the colder months. First up is the Primrose near Chard, Somerset, with some availability throughout November, December and into the new year via Sykes Holiday Cottages.
It has en-suite double and twin bedrooms, and an open-plan living space for unwinding. A wood burner keeps things cosy inside the wooden lodge, while outside, the private hot tub is the perfect way to enjoy unspoilt views across the valley.
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The Cotswolds are another picture-perfect destination in the West Country. Park Bothy in Wyck Rissington, available through Sykes, has everything needed for a romantic retreat. The renovated barn has a well-equipped open-plan living space, king-size bedroom, and private hot tub, and is situated a stone’s throw from the beautiful Oxfordshire Way walking route.
A third option is The Elegant Dairy, Chewton Mendip, which also still has some availability in November and December via Holiday Cottages. Set on 18 acres of farmland, it’s a spectacularly renovated 17th century cottage well-placed for day trips to Bath and Wookey Hole. The property boasts a wood-fired Dutch hot tub, plus a shared sauna, steam room, and gym.
Holiday makers could also consider The Crook near Ilminster, available via Classic.co.uk throughout November and December. Touting an outdoor wood burner, private hot tub, and even a pizza oven, this slightly quirky property takes on the guise of a shepherd’s hut. Those looking to get closer to the coast might opt for the Daisy Cottage at Manor Farm in Locking, near Weston-super-Mare, a comfortable stone-walled bolthole — complete with private hot tub — that can be booked via Cottages.com.
Guests have praised the Sykes Cottages properties, with one writing about Primrose as part of a longer review: “The lodge was immaculate and had everything we could have needed for our stay. The owner has thought of everything. It was really spacious, beautifully decorated and the hot tub was a favourite for our girls.
“The little extras like the robes, games, marshmallows and hot chocolate were lovely. It’s clear to see how much effort goes into this lodge.”
Another added: “Elena was on hand for any questions and the welcome pack had all the information we needed. Would highly recommend for a relaxing break in a beautiful setting.”
The Elegant Dairy is also a hit, with one glowing review reading: “This is the second time we have stayed in the last two months, which shows how highly we rate this place! There is nothing we can fault – the quality of accommodation is to an exceptional standard, the attention to detail second to none, and above everything else the first class service from the owners Robbie and Tracy. I would highly recommend this place – you won’t be disappointed!”
Sykes Cottages itself has an impressive 4.5 rating on Trustpilot with over 180,000 reviews, although one four-star review had trouble with additional charges: “Easy to book, and later to postpone and adjust the dates of my holiday. Clear information on the properties. Found aspects of the booking/amendment charges confusing.”
Another customer mentioned the booking fee: “Person on the phone was helpful, polite and very pleasant, however they forgot to tell us about the tiered booking fee. Don’t understand why the booking fee is tiered, as surely the staff member will go through the same process to book all properties. Bit of a swizz when you are stretching the budget to find a really good high priced property for a comfortable holiday.”
