| The charms of Britain's countryside combined with | | | | Freezer |
| its vibrant cities and culture make it an attractive | | | | Linen |
| holiday destination for local people as well as | | | | And features which some cottages may offer -- |
| international visitors. A holiday cottage is a popular | | | | but not all: |
| choice as a base for excursions: so what do you | | | | Satellite/digital TV |
| choose -- and where?There is a seemingly endless | | | | Towels |
| choice of places to visit and things to do | | | | Bathrobes |
| throughout all regions -- England, Scotland, Wales | | | | BBQs |
| and Northern Ireland. Similarly there are many | | | | Swimming Pools |
| many cottages to choose from -- properties of | | | | CD |
| varying sizes and prices. | | | | DVD |
| UK’s Major Attractions | | | | Telephone |
| The attractions of London are well-known. | | | | Family-friendly cottages will normally offer: |
| However, there is plenty to experience outside | | | | Children’s Books & DVDs |
| the capital. The UK is famous for its history and | | | | Toys & Games |
| traditions -- much of this can be found in its | | | | Garden |
| castles, stately homes and museums. It is also | | | | Outdoor play equipment |
| famous for its dramatic landscapes such as those | | | | Highchairs |
| in Scotland and Wales. Picturesque villages can be | | | | Cots |
| found in the Cotswolds and Kent. | | | | Stairgates |
| Many visitors want to learn about the UK’s | | | | Check if pets are allowed and if it is a |
| great artistes by visiting Shakespeare’s | | | | non-smoking property. Also check that all the |
| birthplace or the beauty of Lake District which | | | | amenities listed are included in the total price so |
| inspired the Romantic poets. | | | | there are no hidden costs. |
| Local visitors tend to be drawn towards the | | | | Choosing a safe and reputable cottage |
| beaches and coastal resorts in Cornwall, Dorset | | | | There is only one way to ensure that the cottage |
| and Suffolk. They also enjoy the delights of | | | | is completely safe and that is to book with a |
| seaside theme parks in Blackpool and Southend. | | | | responsible company. Alternatively, book with a |
| Additionally, visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor | | | | private owner but make thorough checks on their |
| pursuits such as hill walking, cycling, golf, sailing. For | | | | reputation. Ask for recommendations from |
| the less adventurous, there are recreational | | | | previous occupants. |
| activities such as shopping and enjoying traditional | | | | Choose a cottage which has quality ratings |
| food and drink such as afternoon cream teas and | | | | awarded by establishments such as the RAC and |
| local cider. | | | | the AA. The number of stars or diamonds |
| Choosing an Appropriate Cottage in the UK | | | | displayed will indicate the level of luxury on offer. |
| Consider the following before booking: | | | | Regardless of its quality ratings, always ask to |
| Size -- how many people are there in the party? | | | | see and review the terms and conditions of the |
| Region -- a rural country location or a seaside | | | | rental. Always ask for a contract or agreement. |
| town? | | | | It is usually necessary to pay a deposit to secure |
| Style -- a traditional and homely setting or a | | | | the cottage but do not pay the full amount in |
| contemporary setting? | | | | advance. |
| Type -- self-catering or somewhere with meal | | | | Conclusion |
| provision? | | | | There is an endless list of sights and activities on |
| Amenities -- everyday home comforts or more | | | | offer in the UK, both in the charming villages and |
| luxurious amenities such as a state-of-the-art | | | | countryside and in its modern towns and cities. |
| multimedia system? | | | | Visitors can choose to experience their own slice |
| Convenience -- a property near to shops and | | | | of British life by staying in one of the thousands |
| restaurants or somewhere more remote? | | | | of cottages available. They can choose to |
| Amenities and Services | | | | experience a working farm or the splendour of a |
| Here is a list of features that are normally | | | | historical castle. Most importantly, choose |
| included in self-catering properties: | | | | somewhere which meets everyone’s |
| Central heating, gas and electricity | | | | requirements in terms of tastes, interest and |
| Television | | | | budgets. Book safely with a reputable firm and |
| Microwave | | | | the holiday will surely be one to remember! |
| Washing Machine | | | | Jill Remus is a freelance researcher and writer |
| Tumble Dryer | | | | specialising in consumer, finance and business |
| Dishwasher | | | | subjects. |
| Cleaning Equipment | | | | Find detailed and up-to-date information on |
| Fully-Equipped Kitchen | | | | choosing cottage holidays in the UK at Shop in UK. |
| Fridge | | | | |