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

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

Susan Taylor celebrates New Year in Cornwall with bracing walks and fancy dress I could feel it in the air – almost reach out and touch it. Not the wind and rain; even that was strangely quiet, mirror

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