Best Winter Holidays 2022

Thinking of taking a break this winter? Popular choices include renting a holiday home for Christmas or New Year. Whether you want to get away for a festive break or just want to escape for a while this December, winter can be a great time of year to get away from it all.

There are so many possibilities when it comes to luxury cottage breaks; from stays in cabins to country cottages, choose the type of break that best suits you.


Festive Cottage Breaks

Christmas and New Year Cottages

Book early for breaks over the festive period, as this is a popular time of year to get away from it all. Some holiday homes even come decorated with Christmas decorations and even a Xmas tree for festive breaks.

Cottages with Woodburners

Particularly appealing for winter holidays, are breaks in cosy cottages with a warming woodburner. Staying next to the warm glow of the fire, where you can smell the logs crackle and burn, can be a real joy on cooler winter nights. Snuggle up with the one you love on a cottage break and stay cosy and warm when you stay in a holiday home with this warming feature.

Rent a cottage with a woodburner



Hot Tub Holidays

Often associated with summer breaks, hot tub cottages can be a great choice whatever the season. Even outdoor tubs can be amazing in winter, where you can enjoy a warm bubbly soak as you watch the stars twinkle in the clear night’s sky.

For holidaymakers who prefer not to get cold toes as they head outdoors to a warm bubbly tub, renting a cottage with an indoor hot tub can be the perfect choice.

Search Hot Tub Cottages

Whatever type of property you opt to rent for your winter break, we hope you find the right accommodation for you on Cottage Gems. From high quality lodges to 5 star rural retreats, we feature some of the best holiday accommodation to be found in the UK and Ireland.

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Staying Safe on Holiday in 2020

Following the coronavirus outbreak, staying safe is at the forefront of many people’s minds. This year increasingly people are choosing to holiday in good old Britain and deciding that for summer 2020 at least there really is no place like home and demand is therefore high for UK cottage breaks.

Holiday homes may seem a more reassuring option than hotels, with generally less frequent changeovers of guests (in summer time many holiday homes are only available for weekly rentals, although some welcome short break bookings), and one night stays are rarely available.

Happy holidaymakers

In terms of holiday destinations, particularly in troubled times, there really there is no place like home, and there are so many amazing and beautiful places to discover in the UK. Taking a break in this country can make a lot of sense (particularly for those with dogs who want to bring their pet pooches along) and for those with families who just want to jump in the car and go, and avoid all the stress of airports with masks and the associated worries.

In these strange times of coronavirus, we’ve put together some top tips to help you plan a safe and happy holiday.

Top Tips for a Safe and Happy Holiday

Look out for Notices re being Covid Ready and Covid Safe

Visit Britain has launched a ‘We’re good to go badge for cottages to show that they are meeting industry standards in staying Covid safe. Most cottage owners and agency websites will state if they’re meeting this standard or if they haven’t signed up for this, their website should state what action they have taken to ensure that their property is Covid safe.

Have an Action Plan to help you feel Healthy and Happy whilst staying in a Holiday Home


• One big advantage of renting a holiday home is that you get to benefit from a home from home environment which you aren’t having to share with other guests outside of your family group or bubble. It can be useful to do a checklist of things to do to help you feel safe and happy on holiday

Cleaning of the Holiday Home

• If the owner or agency doesn’t have a notice re being Covid ready on their website, contact them and ask them for details of the cleaning regime in place. During these strange times it’s perfectly ok to ask for these reassurances and most owners and agencies will be striving to ensure you have a happy and healthy holiday.

Ask for Reassurances on the Cleaning of Bed Linen and Towels

• It’s advisable to ask for assurances that all bed linen and towels are being washed at highest possible temperatures. Or you may even prefer in these times to bring your own to use during your break.

Additional Steps you can personally take to help you stay safe

• To make you feel happy and safe, you may want to do some extra sanitisation of high touch objects and areas such as TV controls, door handles, light switches etc when staying in a holiday home. Owners should have cleaned and sanitised these in any case so it’s usually best to speak to the cottage owner or agency though before using any sanitising wipes and to check that any products you plan to use are suitable for the holiday home and won’t cause any damage.

• It is perfectly reasonable to bring your own bedding and towels with you to use during this coronavirus outbreak. Again it’s usually advisable to let the owner or agency know if you plan to do this.

• It’s advisable that you pack hand sanitiser and soaps and to practice regular handwashing throughout your holiday.

• Follow government advice on social distancing when planning and enjoying a holiday.

We hope you’ve found our hints and tips on how to have a happy holiday helpful and wherever you want to holiday in Britain we hope you find the perfect luxury holiday cottage for you.

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Cottage Gems Guide to Hot Tub Holidays

Luxurious hot tub

Luxurious hot tub

Thinking of taking a hot tub holiday?  Ideal for relaxing and unwinding, hot tub cottage holidays have grown in popularity over recent years.

Renting a holiday home with a hot tub can add an element of luxury to your break, and add to that a stay in a 5 star or a luxury cottage and you really can enjoy the best of the best on your next self-catering holiday.

Here at CottageGems we’ve come up with some ideas to inspire you on some of the best Hot Tub breaks around.

 

Luxury Rentals with a Hot Tub and Swimming Pool

For a truly relaxing break, what could be better than staying in a holiday rental where you can enjoy the facilities of both a hot tub and a pool?  Usually available at cottage complexes, rather than at individual holiday homes, renting a property with access to both a warm bubbly hot tub and a swimming pool can help you to feel fully refreshed and revived on holiday.

Browse Rentals with both a Hot Tub and Pool

 

5 Star and High Quality Cottages with an Outdoor Hot Tub

If you love being inspired by views (particularly country views), then do take a look at our selection of high quality holiday homes with outdoor hot tubs.  Some of these hot tubs are situated in glorious rural settings where you can enjoy a relaxing soak whilst soaking up impressive views of the surrounding countryside or mountains.  For magical memories, renting a property with an outdoor hot tub with a view to boot is an experience that is hard to beat.

Search Cottages with Outdoor Hot Tubs

 

Pet-Friendly Holidays with a Hot Tub

Although pets cannot bathe in hot tubs, they can certainly enjoy running around in the garden whilst you enjoy a relaxing soak.  If you have a pet pooch, it can be important to find a dog-friendly cottage with a hot tub for a relaxing break where both you and your hound will be very welcome.

Browse dog-friendly rentals with hot tubs

 

Lodges with Hot Tubs

There’s something so comforting about staying in a pine lodge or a log cabin where you can enjoy that wonderful holiday feel that can help to make a self-catering break all the more relaxing.  Holiday lodges tend to be very popular and are one of the types of hot tub cottages to get booked up first.

Lodges with hot tubs

 

There are so many option when it comes to hot tub holidays nowadays.  We hope this guide from Cottage Gems has helped to inspire you on some of the many options out there.  Whether you choose to holiday in England, Wales, Scotland or Ireland, we hope you find a great place to stay.

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Top 10 Romantic Holiday Destinations in the UK

Experience romance on holiday

Experience romance on holiday

Many couples looking for a romantic getaway look at places abroad for their holiday together. What many don’t realise is that there are plenty of places throughout the UK that are very romantic indeed. They’re suitable for all sorts of couples, from newlyweds celebrating their honeymoon, to young couples off on their first break away together. Here’s a selection of some of the top destinations in the UK for couples. They’re quite varied, but what they all have in common is that they offer memorable experiences that are best enjoyed with your significant other.

1.    The Lake District

Though it’s exceedingly popular, the Lake District is large enough that you can visit at peak times and still get plenty of peace and quiet. It’s a top destination for couples thanks to its captivating landscapes that are regarded as some of the most picturesque in the whole country, plus its plethora of outdoor activities. Whether you prefer staying active or taking it easy, you’ll find plenty of memorable activities you and your significant other can enjoy together, from bonding on challenging hikes or taking it easy on a relaxing boating trip out on one of the many scenic lakes for which the district is named. It’s ideal for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors together.

2.  Bath

The spa town of Bath is decidedly historic, with an impressive collection of centuries-old buildings and a delightful, charming atmosphere. What makes it particularly appealing for couples is the Thermae Bath Spa, a natural spa featuring two pools with pleasantly warm waters rich in minerals – one is indoors, while the other is up on the building’s rooftop. As well as enjoying luxuriating in the pools, couples can enjoy a selection of indulgent spa treatments (at extra cost), many of which are designed for two to experience simultaneously. Bath has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its rich architecture, which many couples enjoy discovering on leisurely strolls together.

3. The Isle of Skye

This sparsely populated Scottish island is known for its beautiful natural scenery and rugged, unspoiled landscapes. Though it’s slowly becoming more popular with tourists, it’s still quite a peaceful destination to visit, especially if you go off exploring away from the main settlement of Portree. One of the island’s most romantic spots is the Fairy Pools, a series of waterfalls and crystal-clear rock pools that are ideal for a leisurely dip. Visit early on in the morning or later on in the evening for the best chance of having the pools to yourselves.

4. Llanddwyn Island

This particular destination isn’t as well known as others on the list, though by no means should it be overlooked. The reason it’s a great place for couples to visit is because it’s the final resting place of St. Dwynwen, the Welsh equivalent of St. Valentine. There’s also its scenic coastline, smattering of ruins, secluded picnic spots and picturesque scenery, all of which make this tidal island well worth a visit. There’s no accommodation on the island itself – the nearest town of Newborough is two-and-a-half miles inland – with couples often staying in romantic retreats nearby.

5. The Isles of Scilly

This archipelago off the southwest coast of mainland England is a veritable haven for those looking for a romantic getaway. The islands’ hinterlands are reminiscent of the mainland’s, with verdant countryside and gentle hills; the beaches, on the other hand, are a lot more tropical and exotic in appearance than those on the mainland. They’re widely regarded as some of the finest in all of the UK thanks to their fine sands, stunning coastal views and peaceful character. When not strolling along the coast hand in hand, a visit to Abbey Garden is a must for couples: it’s a sub-tropical garden home to all sorts of colourful, exotic plants from around the world.

6. York

For those into city breaks, a trip to York should definitely be considered. What makes the city particularly attractive is just how much history there is to be discovered. There’s an impressive collection of monuments showcasing a broad range of architectural styles; many of them are centuries old and have been exceptionally well preserved. Throughout the city’s historic streets and winding passages are all sorts cosy restaurants, bars and cafes to be discovered, not to mention plenty of boutique shops. The city resonates well with couples because it exudes so much charm and character.

7. The Cotswolds

While the Three Choirs Vineyards is very much a top romantic destination, the wider area of Cotswolds itself is also not to be missed. What makes this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty so appealing for romantic breaks is its unspoiled scenery and decidedly picturesque views. It’s characterised by its pretty little villages, rolling green landscapes and laidback atmosphere. A highlight that’s worth mentioning is Bourton-on-the-Water, a charming town known as ‘the Venice of the Cotswolds’ thanks to its numerous stone bridges crossing the River Windrush. It’s the perfect spot for blissful riverside walks with the one you love.

8. Harrogate

For romantic breaks in Northern England, the spa town of Harrogate is a real gem.  With ample high end restaurants, elegant architecture and a large park, Harrogate is compact enough to be inviting and easy to explore yet large enough to offer visitors a plethora of attractions.  The choice of eateries and shops mean you’ll never be bored whilst enjoying a couple’s holiday in Harrogate.

9. Brecon Beacons National Park

The Brecon Beacons National Park is one of Wales’ three national parks and is an ideal destination for outdoorsy couples looking to go exploring together. There’s a plethora of activities available here, from hiking and horseback riding, to water sports, mountain biking and more. The park is known for its picturesque natural scenery and its tranquil character. Scattered throughout are quaint, traditional villages and cosy pubs that are hot spots for romantic meals that can be enjoyed after a day spent exploring the park’s idyllic scenery and rugged landscapes.

10. Edinburgh

The idea of a bustling city packed with people isn’t everyone’s idea of a romantic destination, but for many couples, Edinburgh is the epitome of romance. It’s very much a cosmopolitan city and is renowned for its thriving arts and cultural scene, while at the same time being steeped in history and heritage. The Royal Mile is the city’s most popular street and is lined with shops, bars, restaurants, cafes and the like; it’s ideal for a leisurely walk hand in hand with your partner, though if you wander off the main street, there are plenty of hidden gems you might come across too.

Wherever you choose to holiday, enjoy browsing through the available options for luxurious romantic retreats on Cottage Gems.

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What Makes Indulgent Self-catering Holiday Homes the Very Best

What’s your dream holiday home? Is it a secluded luxury cottage set in sprawling countryside, or perhaps a pretty little retreat with gorgeous coastal views? It might have enough space to comfortably accommodate your family, or it might be cosy enough for you and a special someone to enjoy a romantic break together. You’ll find all sorts of luxury self-catering cottages all over the UK on Cottage Gems.  Whatever your dream holiday home is, it’s out there waiting for you. If you’re not sold on the idea of staying at a luxury self-catering holiday home, here are just a few of the best things about them that will surely change your mind…

 

Cottages with Plush Amenities

With luxury cottages, you expect the finer things in life.  Most cottage feature power showers, some even feature Jacuzzis and for a really indulgent break, some properties boast hot tubs or swimming pools.

Hot Tub Cottage

Indulgent Hot Tub Cottage

For entertainment, most will feature flatscreen TVs nowadays (some even have a TV in every bedroom) and for a real taste of luxury look out for holiday homes with a private cinema room for the ultimate indulgence.

If you want the reassurance of a quality rating, look out for 5 star and 4 star rated luxury holiday cottages.

Stylish Retreats for Relaxing Breaks

Rent a luxurious cottage and you can look forward to staying in stylish high quality surroundings.  Take time to appreciate all the little touches here and there and the careful attention to detail that set your holiday home apart from all others. There may even be original period features or unique architectural traits that you’ll rarely find elsewhere. Every holiday home is styled individually and has its own unique history, character and charm. Not only do they boast gorgeous interior design, they also look just as appealing and attractive on the outside as well.

 

Retreat, Relax and Unwind in your Hideaway

One of the best advantages of renting self-catering accommodation is that you get to rent the whole house!  It’s a home away from home and you’re free to come and go as your please. Wake up whenever you want and do everything in your own time. No annoying knocks on the door from room service or maids wanting to get in to your room early in the morning!  With a luxury cottage rental you can plan your own schedule and enjoy your holiday as you please.  With a fully equipped kitchen, you can eat whatever you want, wherever you want. There are no set meal times to stick to and no set menus to choose from, so you can eat as it suits you. From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, you’re in charge.

Time to Indulge

Book a stay at a luxurious self-catering holiday home and you certainly won’t forget it. Indulge and treat yourself to a stay somewhere that offers a higher level of comfort and convenience. Why not splash out and book a stay at an extra special holiday home the next time you go away? Go on, you deserve it.

Find the luxury cottage that best suits you at Cottage Gems

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The Best Cottages for Luxury Holidays in 2017

The excitement of Christmas and New Year’s Eve has faded for another year, and already you could use another break. Why not make one of your New Year’s resolutions a carefree stay in one of our luxury self-catering cottages? Hurry, though – these gems are in high demand!

Cottages with Pools

Luxury pool

Rent a cottage with a luxurious pool

Who doesn’t love a dip in the pool on a hot day – or any day, for that matter? We have a wide selection of stylish self-catering holiday cottages with outdoor pools to let you soak up the sun or indoor pools for a refreshing swim in any weather. From luxury log cabins and lodges in Derbyshire, to modern self-catering homes in Devon and Somerset, to beautiful barn conversions in Gwynedd, Wales, you’re sure to find your perfect oasis.

Cottages with Hot Tubs

Luxury cottage with Hot tub

Luxury cottage with Hot tub

For an extra-special holiday, go for a self-catering property with a hot tub. There’s no more relaxing way to end a day in the countryside then with a soothing soak and a glass of wine, so why not treat yourself to this extra indulgence when planning your next luxury break? Choose from contemporary holiday houses in Scotland, spacious barn conversions and country houses in Herefordshire, luxury cottages in Suffolk, and more. Many of these large properties can accommodate groups of over 20 people, but they fill up fast, so get your bookings in early!

Pet-Friendly Cottages

There’s no need to leave your pets at home on your next luxury holiday. Instead, check out our wide selection of pet-friendly self-catered cottages, listed homes, lodges, and more throughout England, Scotland and Wales. Your pets will feel just as pampered as you will, roaming the lush grounds and going for long walks in the surrounding countryside, and you’ll have the comfort of your four-legged friends by your side during your holiday.

Unique Properties

Unique Holiday Chapel

Unique Luxury Chapel

If you’re after something a little different for your next luxurious getaway, our range of unique self-catering properties truly break the mould. Enjoy a cosy break for two in a romantic shepherd’s hut or coach house, book a stay in a stylishly converted windmill, chapel, or Grade II listed watermill, or get back to nature with a stay in a luxury treehouse. All our unique properties offer the same level of excellence as our more traditional-style cottages and holiday homes, making them highly desirable options, so secure your booking for 2017 while you can!

5-Star Cottages

The crème de la crème of our luxury self-catering properties have been given a 5-star rating, and they’ve certainly earned it! Cottage Gems offers beautiful waterfront holiday homes and cottages in Anglesey, well-presented country houses and barn conversions in the stunning Cotswolds, one-of-a-kind character cottages in Suffolk, and many more award-winning properties boasting spectacular scenery and all the facilities and creature comforts you could want. So, beat those January blues by booking today!

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Best UK Destinations for Hen Parties

Hens having fun

Hens just want to have fun

If you’re planning a hen party, why not avoid all the fuss of going abroad? There’s no need to renew your passport, exchange currency, spend hours at the airport or load up on sunblock when Britain boasts some of the best luxury self-catering group destinations around. To give you some inspiration, Cottage Gems have compiled a list of some of the UK’s top cities for a fabulous pre-wedding weekend with the girls. Your perfect hen party could be right on your doorstep!

 

Party with the Hens in Style in Bath

Pamper yourselves with a decadent self-catered hen party in Bath, where you can gaze at the stunning Georgian architecture, check out the Roman baths and take a dip in the Thermae Bath Spa, and step back in time at the Jane Austen Centre’s Regency Tea Room. Bath’s luxury farmhouses, converted barns and riverside cottages include highlights such as charming period features, outdoor hot hubs and spacious seating rooms, making them the ideal settings for all your hen party games!

 

Hen Heaven in Edinburgh

Whether you’re strutting your stuff down the Royal Mile, soaking up the history and the views from the castle or dining out at one of the award winning eateries, a luxury self-catered hen party in Edinburgh is sure to be a blast. Book a fully kitted out apartment directly on the Royal Mile itself for excitement right at your feet—perfect if you’re feeling brave enough to ‘Do the Mile’ and attempt to visit every pub on the boulevard! Hens after a quieter time can choose from luxury hotels, apartments, boutique Victorian and Georgian townhouses, or mansion houses within the city or on the outskirts, with features such as fully equipped kitchens, entertainment systems, sumptuously decorated drawing rooms and private gardens.

 

Bournemouth and the South Coast for a Relaxed Hen Weekend

Escape to the South Coast for a relaxing self-catered seaside hen party. Bournemouth offers seven miles of golden beaches and 2,000 acres of beautiful gardens and parks, as well as a cosmopolitan shopping and restaurant scene and a nightlife packed with bars and clubs. Wake up to a stunning seafront or parkside view in one of Bournemouth’smanor houses or spacious apartments. Some properties offer free Wifi, satellite TV, modern fitted kitchens, rear gardens, and balconies that let you make the most of those gorgeous views!

London for Luxury Self-Catering Hen Parties

London has something for everyone, and hens are no exception. You’ll find no shortage of pubs, clubs and novelty activities (Pedibus, anyone?) amid the more traditional tourist activities, and London offers enough variety to make your hen do as cultural, wild, geeky, off-the-beaten-path or laid-back as you want it to be. London has also mastered the art of luxury self-catered accommodation, with deluxe apartments in areas such as Limehouse, Clerkenwell and Aldgate, as well as at the heart of the action in Central London. When you venture out on the town you’ll have excellent transport links to get you wherever you need to go, and when you want to stay in you can indulge in a cocktail made by your very own mixologist, nurse your hangover by cooking breakfast in your fully modern kitchen, and satisfy your chick flick cravings with satellite TV and movies on demand.

We hope we’ve inspired you with some great ideas for destinations for hen party weekends in the UK.  Of course the UK has a wide variety of destinations outside of the cities when it comes to hen-party getaways for those keen to explore what the UK’s towns or countryside has to offer.  Wherever you want to discover, we hope you find the perfect hen party accommodation on Cottage Gems.

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How to find the perfect luxury accommodation for a romantic getaway

Find the right accommodation for your next holiday with your partner can be a daunting task, especially if you are looking to surprise and impress them with a spontaneous weekend away. Yet, this needn’t be the case. Cottage Gems specialises in listing luxury self-catering rentals and, as such, it is the ideal place to search for a romantic holiday home. Cottage Gems knows how luxury and glamour can go hand-in-hand with romance and because of this we have tried to make our search assistants and site layout as user-friendly and intuitive as possible for couples. To help make this selection process easier Cottage Gems has compiled a list of useful tips and advice for choosing your next couples cottage.

Filter Search Results
Potentially, there are thousands of properties to sieve through before you find the one that suits you. So that this elimination process doesn’t take weeks and weeks, be sure to use an online search assistant. Cottage Gems’ search assistant can filter out results that don’t match your specific criteria so that you only see results which fit your needs. This assistant will help to save you a lot of time and will make everything far less daunting. All sorts of requirements can be filtered in and out of a search assistant so you won’t miss out on that perfect property.

romantic-getaway

Check Facilities
The facilities and features found in your property home can really add that extra bit of glamour and style to your romantic holiday. With facilities ranging from private swimming pools and hot tubs to games rooms and sports facilities, there are many ways to make your trip that extra bit more special and memorable.

Location
Cottage Gems has properties which are found in all kinds of wonderful locations spread throughout the UK. From coastal cabins to countryside barn conversions and much more, there is a wide range of settings to choose from, and choosing correctly can make a huge difference to the romantic tone of your trip. A holiday, for example, in a secluded rural area in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty can be the ideal romantic setting. Alternatively, something to your partners specific preferences (e.g. loves being by the sea) could be considered. Nearby restaurants and attractions should also be brought into the equation because, regardless of how lovely a location and property may be, tensions can quickly arise if you are miles from absolutely anything (or maybe that is exactly what you want, the choice is yours!).

Be Romantic
Cook a surprise meal, buy some flowers and wine, watch the sun set from the warmth of your private hot tub, be romantic during your holiday. A holiday can only feel as romantic and enjoyable as you make it at the end of the day, and should be used as a time to bond or re-connect with your partner. With a self-catering property you have the best setting possible for this bonding, with the option to prepare your own food, live in privacy in a secluded setting, and enjoy a range of top class facilities.

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2016 Paralympics- Team GB Hometowns

This Sunday the Paralympic games will come to a close and with it a conclusion to Rio’s time as host nation for the games. Great Britain has once again excelled during these games and has broken its previous results from the record breaking 2012 games in London. As of this writing Team GB sits comfortably in second place in the medal table (12 gold medals ahead of third place Ukraine) and is on the verge of breaking the 100 medal total. Our total medal count of 95 is currently exactly equal with that of seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth places combined. This impressive haul marks another athletic event in which Great Britain has excelled and outdone the high expectations that already surrounded them. To celebrate the success of the British Paralypian’s in Rio, Cottage Gems is a big promoter of disabled-friendly self-catering holidays, and to better promote awareness of the need for more disabled-friendly rentals we have taken a look at where some of these athletes were born. The diversity of the team reflects well the diversity of the UK as country, which is full of some of the most beautiful and contrasting settings you’ll find anywhere.

rioBethany Firth 

After picking up gold in the 2012 games for the 100m backstroke, Firth set out to Rio with the aim of retaining her world title. Firth achieved this and more, winning not one but two gold’s during the 2016 games. Firth, who was born in Seaforde in County Down, Northern Ireland, not only bested her previous medal haul but re-captured her 100m medal n world record time! The fast pace of life during the games, as well as the media attention garnered, must seem far removed from the tranquil, secluded setting of Seaforde village.

Jody Cundy
Much like Firth, Cundy was looking to regain a title she had won at the London games of 2012 and, much like Firth, he achieved this goal in record time. The paralympian cyclist has now represented GB at 5 games and has taken home 6 gold’s in that time. Cundy was born and raised in the Cambridgeshire market town of Wisbech. This charming town is situated along the River Nene and is described as the capital of the gorgeous Fens. The natural beauty of the area is matched only by the fascinating Georgian architecture that has attracted people to the area.

Louis Rolfe cambridge
At the age of just fifteen, Rolfe watched the 2012 games unfold in London. It was upon watching the home games that Rolfe became inspired to become an athlete. In the years since, Rolf has trained hard and this work bore fruit as he was named on the team GB Paralympics team. His cycling efforts at Rio earned him a gold and a bronze (winning gold for his team sprint in world record time). Rolfe was born in the historic university city of Cambirdge, an area which is rich with history and beauty. There are countless things to enjoy in the area and this has made Cambridge a top tourist attraction for many years. A place so full of inspiration, it is only fitting that it is also the home of notable individuals such as Rolfe.

With a few days left to go before the Paralympics comes to an end, team GB will be hoping to add to their massive medal total with the help of efforts similar to those of Firth’s, Rolfe’s, Cundy’s and many others. At Cottage Gems we are always looking to improve our offering of disabled friendly self-catering properties and we believe that the Paralympians stories have been a great source of inspiration for many, their efforts once again proving how much this unique and wonderful Island has to offer.

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Olympic Towns

union jackGreat Britain have well and truly exceeded expectations at the 2016 Olympic games in Rio, team GB not only beaten their official target of 48 medals with days to spare, but also broke the immense record set at the 2012 games and held on for a historic second place finish (behind only the United States) in the medal table! The investment into British athletics has once again bore fruit and proved a worthwhile, as other nations simply watch in ore! To have built on the monumental achievements of the home games of 2012 is a particularly amazing feat because this Olympics was on foreign soil, half way around the world. With that being said, Cottage Gems wanted to celebrate this remarkable achievement by looking at some of the wonderful UK towns in which the heroes and heroines of the 2016 games were born and raised. Many of these medal winning athletes come from some of the most gorgeous and renowned tourist destinations in the UK, others from more humble beginnings and more quaint towns. The diversity of these places does well to reflect the diverse and rich offering that the UK has on offer for holidaymakers.
Click any town below to learn more about the attractions and luxury self-catering options available in that are.

Tom Daley
Whilst Daley didn’t have the success he wanted in the single dive, he once again proved himself a great sportsman and personality in his conduct under the spotlight and his amazing bronze medal winning effort, with Daniel Goodfellow, in the men’s synchronized 10m platform. Daley was raised in the UK’s ‘Ocean City’ of Plymouth. Tourists have flooded to this historic city (The Mayflower, which famously sailed to the New World from Plymouth in 1620, is one such historic attraction the city has to boast) to enjoy being in the countryside and by the sea and also to learn about the areas past. Plymouth Hoe, the natural heart of Plymouth, offers up some breath-taking views across the area.

Helen Gloverplymouth
This gold winning athlete put on a marvellous display in the women’s coxless pair (along with Heather Stanning) that saw the Brit’s add to their growing collection of Golds and would contribute to their record-breaking total. Being born in the lovely cathedral city of Truro in Cornwall, Glover was born about as close to the seas as a rower could hope to be! Truro, the retail centre of Cornwall, is ful of fantastic and charming shops and eateries and is also home to wonderful attractions like the cities cathedral and the Royal Cornwall museum. It is alo near the a number of beaches and popular holiday towns and villages such as Falmouth, Newquay and St Austell, making it a great base for exploring Cornwall.

Andy Murray
Murray continues to cement his legacy as one of Britain’s greatest ever tennis players, and could even stake a claim for being the greatest. Muray followed up his historic gold winning effort against the formidable Federer in 2012 with another gold in Rio. The contest was a hard fought one and his opposition, the Argentinian del Potro, put up an admirable fight, with Murray holding out for a hard-earned victory. The Scot himself was born in the city of Glasgow in Scotland. The city is full of iconic buildings, great shopping, wonderful countryside backdrops and a whole host of events and festivals that have established it as one of Scotland’s liveliest hubs. The area also has fantastic transport links and is a great base for exploring the beautiful Scottish countryside.

Adam peaty
This young athlete looks set to have a memorable career in the men’s swimming. The twenty-one year old caught the public’s imagination in winning team GB’s first gold of the 2015 games. Peaty’s men 100m breaststroke effort shattered records and catapulted the young star into the media spotlight. Peaty comes from humble beginnings, born in the wonderfully charming marker town of Uttoxeter in Staffordshire. Uttoxter lies in the heart of central England, not far from the River Dover, and is near the more well-known cities of Stoke-on-Trent, Derby and Lichfield. The town is home to a nmber of lovely local markets that are held weekly and is also near Alton Towers theme park.

Rebecca James
Becky James was the recipient of not one but two silver medals at the Rio games, thanks to her fantastic efforts in the women’s sprint and women’s keirin. James was born and raised in the wonderful town of Abergavenny in Monmouthshire, Wales. This picturesque area is nestled between the seven hills (near the Welsh Border) and offers up some unforgettable views and landscapes. The town is considered a gateway to Wales, perfect for exploring the Brecon Beacons. This tranquil place is perfect for a holiday getaway, and there are also many activities available to tourists visiting the area.

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