While the festive season is a lot of fun, for most of us it also carries a certain amount of stress. So, the idea of going on a little holiday – whether before the big day or over it – can really appeal. If you’re thinking of having a Christmas break, staying in a holiday home in the Cotswolds is the perfect solution.
So, why a holiday cottage, and why the Cotswolds? Read on to find out.
Convenience and budget
One of the most obvious reasons for travelling to the Cotswolds for a seasonal holiday, rather than jetting off to an exotic location overseas, is simply that it’s easier. As you don’t need to consider flights, hotel transfers, language barriers and such, the planning – and travel itself – is a lot less stressful. And when it comes to travelling at Christmas, you really will want something as straightforward as possible.
Most of us end up spending far more than we intend to over the festive season (I know I’m certainly guilty of that), so when looking for a Christmas holiday destination, it is worth considering somewhere that’s not too hard on your wallet.
Since it’s right here in the UK, the Cotswolds is ideal – especially since you need not worry about the cost (not to mention stress!) of flights. Plus, if you opt for a self-catering cottage, you can save money by preparing food yourself – something you’d probably be keen to do on Christmas Day in particular anyway.
Cosiness & relaxation
Another serious benefit of booking yourself into a holiday cottage is that it’s far more personal and cosy than a hotel. After all, who wants to spend their Christmas in an impersonal room? By hiring a cottage, you and your family – or whoever you’re travelling with – have the freedom to really make the break your own.
In turn, this makes it a fantastic opportunity for spending some quality time together, which, when you think about it, is what Christmas is all about. Plus, since you can rent large cottages that cater for as many as 10 people, the whole family can come along. In fact, by choosing a pet-friendly cottage, you can even bring the dog!
Do your Christmas shopping
If you’re planning to spend a few days – or weeks – away before Christmas, rather than over Christmas Day itself, you’ll find your break is the perfect opportunity to do some seasonal shopping. After all, it can be really difficult to find the time to fit present-buying in around your other commitments at home.
You could even go all out and get your wrapping done while you’re here! The Cotswolds plays host to some fantastic Christmas markets at this time of year, such as the Bath Christmas Market.
Being held from November 22nd to December 9th this year, this glorious event promises to offer more than 140 stalls in the splendid setting of the square between Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths. Running seven days a week, it’ll be open from 10:00 to 19:00 from Monday to Wednesday, 10:00 until 21:00 Thursday to Saturday and, on Sunday, between 11:00 and 18:00.
Don’t forget it’ll be busy, so if you fancy avoiding the crowds, you’re best off planning to visit in the late evening or weekday mornings.
