Kokova Magazine

As a Visit England Quality Accredited Agency, with a commitment to minimising their impact on the environment and accredited members of the Green Tourism Business Scheme, holidaycottages.co.uk are proud to be an independent family run agency specialising in self-catering holiday cottages right across the UK.

Whether planning a festive family break or a romantic Christmas getaway, head for a cosy country cottage with holidaycottages.co.uk for a memorable break with loved ones this holiday season.

With many websites offering remote holiday bookings, it can be a perilous task finding one that fits your needs, and that has a real person waiting to take your call and answer any queries. So it was reassuring for us to discover Debbie waiting on the end of the line after only a few short rings, once we had selected our preferred option from the automated list.

We quickly ascertained that this business is indeed family-run, with the 'team' ready and waiting to take your call and guide you to your perfect holiday rental within the UK.

You don't get more festive than a picturesque, chocolate box cottage covered in crisp white snow. Think Cameron Diaz and Jude Law in The Holiday.

But while the weather can't be guaranteed, the warm and inviting setting of a cosy cottage can and Clematis Cottage is just that. Located in Bude, North Devon, this family-friendly property is set within three acres of beautiful rural surroundings with stunning views out across the Devonshire countryside. A short drive from the unspoilt coastline, families can enjoy wrapping up and exploring the sheltered coves and a cliff-top walk before returning to warm up by the cottage's woodburner. Sleeping four, the price for seven nights at Clematis Cottage from 22 December is £580, to book contact holidaycottages.co.uk/devon

For a romantic, cosy Christmas getaway, couples will enjoy the festively named Hollyhocks in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire. This charming, secluded cottage is perfect for an idyllic relaxing retreat away from the hustle and bustle. Set at the foot of the Cotswolds' Bredon Hill, this property is ideally located for hand-in-hand country walks and soaking up the rural tranquillity. Sleeping two (with up to two dogs allowed), the price for seven nights at Hollyhocks from 22 December is £480, to book contact holidaycottages.co.uk/gloucestershire

Ideal for spending the festive season with the extended family - including the pet pooch - Langdon House sleeps up to 10 people. The spacious property has that cosy cottage feel with exposed stonework and wooden beams and is situated in a peaceful spot in on the outskirts of Jacobstow close to the beautiful North Cornish coastline. The whole family can open their Christmas gifts by the cottage woodburner and walk off the indulgent festive dinner on the nearby beaches. Sleeping 10 (with one dog allowed), the price for seven nights at Langdon House from 22 December is £1,160, to book contact holidaycottages.co.uk/cornwall

To book a stay at any of the properties mentioned or for more information on other holiday cottage deals please visit www.holidaycottages.co.uk or call 01237 426 256 and after selecting your option, you will speak to a real family member, waiting with help and advice on booking your Christmas getaway.