20 houses to rent for Christmas and New Year in England, Scotland and Wales
When planning your UK trip, ensure that you pick the best by comparing and booking a top-rated hotel for your next trip at tophotels.com, with options dotted across the beautiful United Kingdom, from England to Wales. Here we present top 20 houses for rent at Christmas and New Year time. Enjoy your holiday!
Bury Tower House, Hampshire
There are no excuses for boredom at this vast, family- and group-friendly Georgian party pad in Gosport harbour. It’s walking distance to Stokes Bay Beach, a five-minute ferry ride from Portsmouth and its Historic Dockyard, a 40-minute drive from Peppa Pig World and the New Forest, 30 minutes from the South Downs and within day-trip distance of the Isle of Wight.
Sleeps 18, £2,500 for New Year week. 07948 512764, buryholidayhomes.co.uk
Kimmeridge Hall, Dorset
Featured prominently comes the Kimmeridge Hall in Dorset, captured in all its splendour in a PR photograph. This majestic country-style manor rests near the historic Jurassic Coast, making it a real sight to behold.
The residence is a standout attraction, adorned with oak-panelled walls, symbolic of tradition, and warmed by an open fireplace. This statement piece of a house sports antiques rugs and delicate porcelain, a sight that once even caught the attention of the discerning World of Interiors. Philip Mansel, its current owner, is not just an historian and author, but also an avid collector, who has gracefully filled this once stoic home with unique artefacts that burst with colours and invoke the imagination.
If the idea of cooking isn’t appealing, Riverford Organic Farms got you covered by delivering fresh organic groceries right to your doorstep. Even better, you could bring a private chef on board!
With room enough for 14, the manor offers a festive five-night stay for £5,100, and just £5,500 for a seven-night festivity around Christmas or New Year. For more details, kindly reach out on 01242 235151 or visit kateandtoms.com.
Venn Farm, Devon
Nestled on the outskirts of Bude, this modern-day rural getaway brags a range of appealing rental homes. Perfect for groups or families, they offer the Cob that comfortably caters for up to nine and the Red Barn ideally suited to accommodating four guests. Both properties provide the luxury of modern conveniences with opulent bathrooms, ambient underfloor heating, and stocked with Ren skincare necessities, delivered in a festive setting. Week-long rentals generally span from a Friday to Friday, however, flexibility is given during the Christmas and New Year period requiring a minimum stay of four nights. Pro tip: Arrange for a locally sourced Turkey from the acclaimed butcher and prepare to embrace the famed Bude Christmas Day plunge(sans wetsuits)!
Tab on the scale; a four-night stay costs £950 at the Red Barn and £1750 at the Cob, while an entire week can be availed at £1250 for the Red Barn and £2300 for the Cob. Contact: 07968 084317, venn-farm.co.uk
The Tiny House, East Sussex
Imagine the enchantment of resting your heads in a dwelling that feels akin to a life-size gingerbread house nestled in the heart of England's home counties. Located within a quaint timbered farm cottage which, true to its name, exudes its charming compactness featuring dimensions of just 2.4m in width and 4.5m in length. Despite its minimalistic charm, the cottage is well-packed with all necessary amenities including an integrated galley style kitchen, a comforting sofa, and a separate shower room all on the ground floor. For a good night's sleep, climb the ladder to find yourself a cozy bed. We recommend indulging in a steaming pot of the special homemade beef stew (at a nominal rate of £7 per person), which can be relished snugly on the deck under the wrapping warmth of blankets. If you prefer indoor dining, the cottage includes a small yet intimate dining space.
Tuck yourself in for the Cool Yuletide or the New Beginnings of New Year for a week, at £450. For more details, contact on: 01580 860840, or visit bramleyandteal.co.uk
No 5 Victoria Cottages, Peak District
Experience an unforgettable festive season this year at an elegantly refurbished haven in Longnor, perfect for two. The historical charm of this terraced cottage is enhanced by a vintage bed and a classic rolltop bath on the first floor. The ground floor features traditional flagstones, adorned with rugs, and a comforting wood-burning stove beside a quaint little sofa. Explore the village's amenities, including a charming tearoom and a fascinating craft centre. Take advantage of the beautiful hiking trails through the nearby hills and dales. For an impressive Yuletide adventure, take a 30-minute drive to Chatsworth House for grandeur and wonder.
Accommodates 2, priced at £470 for the Christmas week. Contact: 07527 858385, stayatno5.co.uk
Little Cwm Colebatch, Shropshire
Little known fact: Chatsworth House, located about 30 minutes away, is home to an art collection spanning 4000 years. Additionally, Longnor village is rich in history, having been mentioned in the Domesday Book 1086. So, you're not just buying a holiday, this is a journey through history.
Specialising in high-end, secluded getaways, Sheepskin Life presents this charming retreat. The aesthetically appealing farmhouse, drenched in calming pastel hues, crowns a pastoral valley just outside of Bishop's Castle. It harbours a fully-equipped kitchen, complemented with an Aga stove and contemporarily designed gadgets, and boasts a spacious lounge sparked by the glimmer of a grand fireplace. Proving an ideal refuge for bibliophiles or television enthusiasts, there is an exclusive snug corner. The sleeping arrangements comfortably encompass four bedrooms, with two kingsize beds and two singles, making it a fitting choice for families with adolescent kids and one pair of grandparents. This abode is crafted specifically to provide the ultimate blend of wilderness and comfort.
The escapade caters to up to 6 guests, available at £1,735 for Christmas week. For bookings, reach out to 01865 764087, or visit sheepskinlife.com.
The Cuttlefish, Cornwall
Experience a unique rental retreat in Mousehole that possesses an atypical yet desirable feature for this quaint village - a garden. This not-so-ordinary attribute sets the stage for magnificent panoramas of the village rooftops and the picturesque coast, offering an ideal vista to usher in the New Year amidst joyous fireworks shimmering over the pier. Thoughtfully designed with tranquil tones of salt, pepper, and cinnamon, the property blends sophistication with warmth. It boasts state-of-the-art appliances and cosy open fires, making it a suitable and mature choice for two couples who can manage with one bathroom. This versatile property is also perfectly suited for family occupations.
Benefit from homey comforts with the capacity to accommodate 4 occupants, available during Christmas or New Year at £2,487 a week. You can book your stay at this boutique retreat through boutique-retreats.co.uk or contact at 01872 553491.
Revel in the enchantment of England, Scotland, and Wales, and create unforgettable memories this festive season, 20 such options await your perusal. Embrace the opportunity to connect with nature while residing in charming villages rich with tradition and culture. Opt for an unconventional choice, a choice that may change how you spend future holidays forever.
Maison 5, North Yorkshire
Established in the early stages of 2014, this townhouse, located a short distance from Harrogate's heart, boasts an almost complete white palette, giving it a resemblance to a charmingly frosted gingerbread mansion. One half-expects to spot the Sugar Plum Fairy engaged in a dance. However, it should be noted that while children are certainly embraced, the delicate, glamorous décor could induce a sense of caution in those with younger ones. Painted French-styled beds, sparkling chandeliers, and intricate lampshades make the house seem like a life-sized dollhouse, which lends itself more naturally to a stylish hen party or a non-traditional holiday gathering among close-knit friends as opposed to a conventional family holiday.
For a stay over Christmas, it accommodates six guests, with a price range of £760 for a four-night stay or £1,250 for seven nights. To make a reservation, contact 01423 564468 or visit nightspace.co.uk. Did you know that Harrogate is known for its restored Turkish baths and health spa? Or that it was voted the happiest place to live in Britain for three consecutive years?
Low Lodge, County Durham
Discover the quaint Low Lodge in County Durham
Previously serving as the gate lodge for the neighbouring historical monument, Eggleston Hall, Low Lodge is a beguiling combination of grandiose Greek Revival architecture and modern comfort. Despite its petite size, the lodge provides everything needed to ensure a memorable, pastoral holiday experience for two. The lodge's inviting sitting room, compact yet fully equipped kitchen, sun-lit bedroom, and dining area boasting sweeping countryside panoramas, assure a touch of charm to your Christmas getaway. The picturesque High Force waterfall is merely a 20-minute drive away, making for a great scenic visit. Additionally, the charming cafe and gift shop housed by Eggleston Hall remain operational until Christmas Eve, perfect for those spontaneous gift purchases.
Immerse yourself in a quaint and cosy holiday experience; one week's stay costs a reasonable £586 during either the Christmas or New Year period. Contact 01638 674756 or visit statelyholidaycottages.co.uk to book your unique holiday experience today.
SCOTLAND
Sweeney’s Bothy, Eigg, Inner Hebrides
An ingenious initiative called the Bothy Project avail a cocoon of solace within its distinct architecturally designed holiday abodes, which are highly engaged by artists on their respite. Your basic domestic needs are well entertained with a comfy bed, a heating stove, and a bite-sized kitchen; and the retreat flaunts a rudimentary external shower, accompanied by a composting toilet flaunting panoramic views. Hosting a lively populace, Eigg's year-end festivities are not to be missed - Brace yourself to whirl and twirl at a spirited island ceilidh, and watch me bite my kilt if you don't!
Accommodates 2 people, Weekly rent over Christmas or New Year is £500, however, shorter stays could also be arranged at £80 a night. Give a ring on 01687 482414, or visit eiggtime.com
Duchray Castle, Stirlingshire
If a grandiose Yuletide or spontaneous winter nuptials in a historic Scottish castle is your idea of an ideal holiday, Duchray Castle situated near Aberfoyle, is the perfect location for you. The castle's main hall, adorned with festive Christmas tree, and the private bedrooms, warmed by the soft glow of wood-burning stoves, are just the tip of the romantic iceberg. As you ascend the spiral staircases, you immerse yourself in the depth of history that permeates every stone; it's said that Rob Roy once evaded a band of Redcoats within these very walls with assistance of the castle's past proprietors. While booking this splendid venue might not be the most economical option, the unique history and grandeur it offers is beyond price.
Guest capacity is between 8-10 persons, with a rental price of £4,500 for either the Christmas or New Year week. For further inquiries or bookings, contact: 01877 382966, or visit duchraycastle.com.
Red Kite Eco Bothy, Dumfries & Galloway
Discover the tranquility of Scotland with the Red Kite, a delightful timber cabin nestled in a serene forest environment. This cozy retreat provides a high-level of comfort with plush, high-thread-count linen and a inviting wood-fired hot tub. A perfect holiday home for smaller groups, with two bedrooms that comfortably accommodate four, yet includes a double sofa bed for an additional two if needed. Want to bring our four-legged friend? Just add £20 to your booking.
Experience a Christmas week surrounded by the untouched wilderness and enjoy endless green vistas. These cabins are a rare gem. An exciting surprise is the fact that they are eco-friendly, constructed with sustainability in mind. Not to mention, an added charm is the potential sighting of a red kite, from which the cabin gets its name. The red kite is a bird of prey native to the British Isles.
For just £730 a week, you can enjoy your Christmas and New Year amidst the splendors of nature. For more details or to book, call 01556 502011 or visit lochkenecobothies.co.uk.
Inshriach House, the Cairngorms
It may seem improbable, but a distinct Edwardian country mansion has recently been dubbed a “hipster Narnia” by the artistic website, Vice. This unique description stems from the efforts of the young proprietor Walter and his group of service-oriented associates who espouse a Good Life-esque lifestyle. However, this shouldn't discourage potential visitors. This architectural marvel exudes an abundant air of regal charm, brimming with period details and sophisticated decor. Walter, being a true renaissance man, is at your service for an array of needs ranging from arranging a personal chef, organizing yoga sessions, or even setting up a night at the estate's signature gin bar, ingeniously located in a restored barn.
It provides accommodations for 17 guests at a price of £2,800 between the 22nd and 26th of December. You can reach them at 01540 651341, or visit inshriachhouse.com for more information.
Cape Cove, Argyll & Bute
Perched atop rocky cliffs overlooking Loch Long, this ultra-modern beach house radiates a chic, Los Angeles vibe, a stark contrast to the traditional charm of a rural crofter's abode. Boasting a high-end cedar hot tub for warmth and relaxation, and a sophisticated gourmet kitchen and designer bathrooms elegantly meshed with the rustic ambiance of a wood-burning stove. While these features command attention, the true prize is the spectacular view of the stunning vista outside. Offering private access to a pristine beach and a secluded jetty, the house delivers a luxurious slice of solitude.
Accommodating up to ten people, available at £2,600 for the week over the festive season. Contact directly at 01738 451610, or make a booking at cottages-and-castles.co.uk. The house offers an unprecedented mix of modern luxury and rustic charm, transforming holiday rental to an enriching experience.
Druidaig Lodge, Kyle of Lochalsh, the Highlands
Nestled on the coastline of Loch Alsh and surrounded by five acres of lush gardens resides an Edwardian holiday retreat. This tranquil sanctuary offers far more than your typical vacation rental. Its grandeur is subtly imbued - significant, yet not overwhelming. The atmosphere is made perfectly cozy with open hearths and plush, inviting couches. Culinary mavens might find delight in the traditional Aga, while the bathrooms' pine cladding further accentuates the warmth of the house.
It's a place that caters not only to intimate groups of friends with a snooker room and a variety of single and twin beds, but also to families. Children can enjoy their own bunk beds, while music-inspired family gatherings can take place in a lounge equipped with its own piano.
Accommodating up to 17 guests, the rental fee for the Christmas week is £2,530 and £2,780 for the New Year week. For more information, call directly at 01381 610496 or visit the property's page at lhhscotland.com.
WALES
Escape Cottage, Conwy
If the thought of a snug, seaside holiday piques your interest, there's a charming, comfy haven waiting on the Welsh coast. Affiliated to the chic B&B Escape, this captivating cottage is imbued with warmth and mirth, irrespective of the season. With beds swathed in vivid Welsh blankets, an inviting wood-burning stove nestled in a charming ceramic tile surround, furniture featuring lively tones of apple green and cherry red, and storage options clad in romantic, rose-patterned paper, it truly is a marvel. For anyone leaning towards a coastal break, the cottage is just moments away from the sandy expanse of Llandudno’s beach and the marvelous Great Orme headland, enabling endless opportunities for bracing walks along the wind-whipped landscape.
The perfect dwelling accommodates up to 4 guests with an exclusive offer of £595 for the Christmas week. You can book your stay on 07958 581442, or visit the holidaylettings.co.uk website.
Pontcanna Inn, Cardiff
Nestled in the heart of Cardiff, Pontcanna Inn is a charming Welsh gem that promises an enchanting Christmas and New Year's escape. This boutique inn exudes warmth and character, offering a delightful blend of traditional and contemporary design. With its cozy rooms and a welcoming pub atmosphere, Pontcanna Inn is the perfect place to gather with loved ones for the holiday season. If you're searching for other Welsh accommodations options, explore the four-star hotels in Wales on http://www.hotels-wales.com/en/4-stars/ that offer a similar appealing blend of traditional heritage and modern comfort. Cardiff's vibrant Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and festive events are just a stone's throw away, ensuring that you'll have a memorable and magical holiday experience in Wales. Whether you're enjoying a hearty meal in the inn's restaurant or sipping mulled wine by the fireplace, Pontcanna Inn captures the essence of Welsh hospitality and makes for a wonderful festive retreat in the heart of Cardiff.
Church Cottage, Gower
Behold the Church Cottage, captured in the glow of a calm PR photograph.
Cottages on confectionery boxes may not be commonplace anymore, yet the charm of this two-bedroom craftsman’s abode would earn it a spot effortlessly. Being the most historical cottage gracing the Penrice Castle Estate, it prioritizes homely comfort over ostentatious display. Adorned with tastefully arranged kitchen tiles, woven Welsh blankets, and a convenient bathroom on the ground level, this cottage imbues a cosy atmosphere. Facilitating the charm of a traditional Christmas, the hearth in the dining hall promises warmth and cheer for an unforgettable holiday meal. As the New Year rings in, spoil yourself with tantalizing crispy cockles and a luscious rack of saltmarsh lamb, served at the seaside Coalhouse restaurant.
With enough room to comfortably sleep 4, a stay at the Church Cottage costs £890 for Christmas week and £880 for the New Year week. To book, call 01792 391212, or visit penricecastle.co.uk
Glanafon Coach House, Pembrokeshire
Nestled in Pembrokeshire, the Glanafon Coach House radiates an aura of age-old charm. Captured in this image (PR), the accommodation was originally constructed in the 1800s as an annex to its neighbouring manor home. Today, it offers a warm and welcoming holiday abode featuring an offbeat blend of its historical roots and modern-day comforts. One delightful quirk is the imaginative use of former horse stalls that have been ingeniously transformed into whimsical bunk beds, certain to delight the younger visitors!
The coach house has been creatively reimagined to adopt an inverted layout. The lower level is reserved for peaceful sleeping quarters, with capacity to accommodate four adults and four children. The living area, encompassing a friendly all-in-one lounge, dining area, and kitchen, is set on the floor above. The house is enveloped in 24 acres of verdant forested land, acting as the perfect retreat for nature lovers. Pembrokeshire is a trove of historical treasures, endowed with grand coastal views and scenic hilly expeditions, making the Coach House a perfect base to explore this captivating region.
For a memorable Christmas or New Years', the house offers a week’s stay for £1,300. You can make your bookings by calling 01437 779344 or visit glanafoncoachhouse.co.uk. Don't miss this chance to create lasting holiday memories in this charming abode.
Alpine Apartments, Betws-y-Coed, Snowdonia
Envision festive vacations in these three unique apartments, conceived by the artist and photographer, Jacha Potgieter, at a transformed railway station. You'll be captivated by the handcrafted kitchens, stunning original art pieces, and varied furniture adding an enchanting touch to these homes. Choose to lease all three during the New Year week to accommodate 14 guests with a touch more privacy than typical shared residences.
Don't delay; reserve now at £450 per week for couples, £900 per week for groups of six, or make it a grand New Year celebration at £2,250 for 14 individuals. Call 01690 733796, or book through betwsaccommodation.co.uk
Treowen, Monmouthshire
It's a rarity to find holiday rental properties that accommodate larger family groups, yet this 17th-century marvel does just that. This expansive residence houses 12 bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and additional camp beds, making it spacious enough to sleep the equivalent of an entire reenactment group of the 12 Days of Christmas. Inside, open fireplaces create a cosy ambience, while an impressive banqueting hall and a party room resplendent with oak panelling add a touch of historic grandeur. The location is ideal for enjoying invigorating walks around notable sites like Tintern Abbey and Raglan Castle. As for the accommodation rates, the cost stands at £5,560 for a Christmas week holiday. For more information or booking enquiries, give a call to 01600 712031, or visit thebigdomain.com.