BookCottages.com Blog

Before chlorinated swimming pools and overpriced spas, there really was only one way to cool off: wild swimming. Skinny dipping may generally be frowned upon by the masses, but that doesn't stop nearly 2% of the population shedding their clothes for a wild swim during the summer months.

Clean, safe and generally quite accessible for those who don't mind a short walk, there are numerous concealed plunge pools, coves and cavernous streams dotted about the UK where swimming au naturel is entirely possible. If you're feeling adventurous, take the plunge with our guide to Britain's secret coast, plus a few other scenic locations ... Read More ->

Bedfordshire is a county divided. While the agricultural North retains the simplicity and old world charm commonly associated with the most Easterly of Anglian counties, the populous South continues to expand and diversify in keeping with industrial demands. As the primary gateway to the Midlands, Bedfordshire shares much of the hilly topography popular with weekender cyclists and hang-gliding enthusiasts - namely the Chiltern Hills which see over 2 million visitors each year. Despite its multifarious green settings and peaceful idylls, Bedfordshire is more commonly known for its architectural heritage; home to Woburn Abbey, one of the largest stately homes in England and Houghton House, featured in writer John Bunyan's acclaimed novella 'Pilgrim's Progress'. With dedicated public transport routes snaking the region, a day filled with excitement and education for the entire family is entirely possible!

If you are looking for a delightful holiday cottage to stay in whilst...

Regarded by its own as 'God's county', Yorkshire takes great pride in the fact it is England's largest and most unspoiled Northern region. Its situ on the East coast has had considerable impact upon the varying cuisine of the county.

Windswept Whitby is regarded Northern England's premier fishing harbour, rich in succulent shrimp and crustacea, as well as an abundance of cod during the chilly winter months. Inland cuisine is largely influenced by the fertile soils and agricultural heritage of ...