January is a great time for a relaxing staycation by the sea. Bracing walks followed by cosying up in front of an open fire is the ideal way to start the year. Here are some of our favourite picture-perfect cottages to rent for your first break of 2026

From a 17th-century country house to a small but idyllic clifftop retreat, Amy McPherson compiles some of the best coastal properties currently for sale

Rye, East Sussex This Medieval town is brimming ...

Even the swankiest islands have a scattering of smaller, more affordable stays – if you know where to look. Luckily, Lucy Thackray does

Every month, we trawl the nation’s coastline to bring you news of the people, places and exciting goings-on that are worth knowing about

St Ewe, St Austell, Cornwall PL26 6EL T 01726 842714 W heligancampsite.com OPEN 31 January – 16 November While technically not a hidden gem, as the Lost Gardens of Heligan is quite well known, this at