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

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

Escape to a chocolate-box hideaway straight out of the classic Chrimbo film…

Christine Faughlin sings the praises of a converted chapel on the 30,000-acre Bolton Abbey estate in the Yorkshire Dales

Curl up by a roaring fire or enjoy a windswept walk at these rural gems