Baby, it’s cold outside… Keep things snug at one of these cockle-warming stays
Woolsery, Devon
Experience glorious Devon views from the comfort of a vintage-style bed when you check in at Shop Room No. 4 in Woolsery, near Bideford in north Devon. Decked out in dark wood fittings with a 1940s vibe, the room features a floor-to-ceiling window that looks out over the rooftops to Dartmoor. You can pad around barefoot thanks to underfloor heating, sample goodies from the ample minibar, and take a soak in the roll-top tub or a soothing drench under the rainfall shower. Feeling peckish? There’s an award-winning pub and fish and chip shop a few minutes’ walk away, plus room service breakfast. The Collective at Woolsery also has cottages and suites available.
Book: A one-night stay for two at Shop Room No. 4 starts at £275; woolsery.com
Castle View, Northumberland
Can’t decide between coast and country? Then plump for this adorable, single-storey cottage surrounded by farmland but less than a mile from one of the best stretches of coast in the county. If the sun shines, amble along the sandy beach at Ross Links with only the seabirds – and perhaps a seal – for company. If the weather’s not so hot, relax in the roomy kitchen with dreamy views over fields dotted with sheep, looking towards Holy Island and its striking castle. The dog-friendly cottage sleeps four and has a wraparound garden, snug lounge with woodburner, and kitchen with Aga and ginormous table for sociable gatherings.
Book: A three-night stay for a family of four starts at £558; crabtreeandcrabtree.com
Shooting Lodge, Warwickshire
This immaculate barn conversion is neatly placed to explore honey-stoned Cotswold villages and historic Stratford-upon-Avon. The one-bedroomed, open-plan lodge is decked out in welcoming tones, from navy kitchen units and warm brick walls to a plush sofa and armchairs piled with throws. Patio doors allow light to flood in, while the vaulted ceiling adds character. Outside, a charm
