Twixmas Cottages

Relax Between Christmas & New Year

Posted on 05-11-25By: Claire S. | 8 minute read

A group of friends gather around for a celebratory dinner, toasting each other.

Why a Twixmas Cottage Break Is the Perfect UK Getaway

At cottages.com, we believe there’s no better way to unwind after the festive rush than with a relaxing Twixmas break, that peaceful pause between Christmas and New Year. It’s the perfect time to recharge, reflect, and enjoy the simple pleasures of winter in the UK. Whether you’re dreaming of a cosy cottage with a crackling log fire, a coastal retreat for brisk seaside walks, or a countryside escape surrounded by frost-tipped fields, our hand-picked holiday homes offer something for everyone.

Twixmas is a time when life slows down, no last-minute shopping, no festive frenzy, just time to reconnect with loved ones, explore new places, and savour moments of calm before the year ahead.With thousands of cottages across England, Scotland, and Wales, cottages.com makes it easy to find the ideal hideaway for your Twixmas break. From romantic retreats for two to spacious homes for family gatherings, each property combines comfort, character, and the magic of the season.

So why not extend the celebrations and make the most of this special time? A Twixmas getaway isn’t just a holiday, it’s the perfect way to end the year feeling rested, refreshed, and inspired.

Bradbourne - Waterside Barn, near Ashbourne

Sleeps 10, 4 bedrooms, 1 pet. 7 nights from £2036

Nestled on the edge of the Peak District National Park, Waterside Barn is a beautifully restored Grade II listed stone barn conversion, offering luxurious accommodation in stunning natural surroundings. Perfect for larger families or groups, this spacious and characterful property provides an idyllic countryside escape.

Inside, you’ll find elegant interiors finished to the highest standards, blending rustic charm with modern comfort. Outside, soak up the sweeping views across open countryside and Bradbourne Brook, or unwind in the hot tub (available at an additional cost) as you take in the peaceful scenery. From your doorstep, discover scenic walking and cycling routes that showcase the very best of the Peak District landscape.

For those seeking adventure, a range of activities can be arranged with the owner, including clay pigeon shooting, quad biking, and treasure hunts. Nearby, enjoy horse riding at Tissington and Netherton, or test your swing at Ashbourne Golf Course. Whatever your pace, Waterside Barn promises a truly memorable stay.

Marsh Marigold Cottage, Dunholme, nr Lincoln

Sleeps 6, 3 bedrooms, 1 pet. 7 nights from £1788

Just five miles from the heart of Lincoln, these luxurious holiday homes sit peacefully along a quiet, no-through country lane, with the friendly owners living nearby. Each beautifully converted barn or cottage features its own private garden and hot tub, complete with ample seating for everyone to relax and unwind together.

Nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy, with a 50-acre nature reserve just down the lane offering scenic walks and superb opportunities for birdwatching. Back on site, guests can make the most of a large, well-stocked coarse fishing lake, complete with comfortable seating, the perfect spot to spend lazy afternoons surrounded by the tranquillity of the countryside.

Fountain Hill, Eglwyswrw, near Cardigan

Sleeps 12, 6 beds, 2 pets. 7 nights from £1686

Immerse yourself in the charm and splendour of Fountain Hill Farm, a magnificent former farmhouse set amid the picture-perfect Pembrokeshire countryside. Surrounded by sweeping views of the Preseli Hills, and with a gentle tributary of the River Nevern winding its way through the orchard below, this beautiful property offers a truly idyllic setting.

Brimming with character, the farmhouse combines period elegance with exceptional comfort. Inside, you’ll find solid oak floors, rustic beamed ceilings, and a striking original inglenook fireplace, all thoughtfully restored to create a warm and welcoming retreat.

Nestled at the foothills of the Preseli Hills near the quaint hamlet of Eglwyswrw, Fountain Hill Farm sits on the edge of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, where guests can enjoy scenic walks, horse riding, and both river and sea fishing. The area is also perfect for wildlife spotting, kayaking, and golf, with a course within 8 miles. The historic market town of Cardigan is just a 15-minute drive away, and nearby beaches such as Poppit Sands, Newport Sands, Cwm-yr-Eglwys, and Pwllgwaelod offer the perfect coastal escape.

The Barn, Ashbourne, Derbyshire

Sleeps 10, 5 beds, 3 pets. 7 nights from £1652

Welcome to The Barn, a luxurious holiday home nestled in the market town of Ashbourne, where rustic character meets modern comfort. Finished to the highest standard, this stunning property offers a memorable escape blending style, space, and warmth in equal measure.

Step inside to discover a spacious open-plan layout. The lounge features a large corner sofa, Smart TV, and bi-fold doors that open onto the garden, flooding the space with natural light. The adjoining dining area is perfect for gathering everyone together, with a large table overlooking the peaceful garden, while a centrally placed log burner creates a cosy atmosphere for relaxing evenings.

Outside, the surrounding countryside invites you to explore at your own pace. Enjoy leisurely walks or cycling along the Tissington Trail, discover the beauty of Dovedale and its famous stepping stones, or spend the day at Carsington Water with its range of water sports, birdwatching, and scenic 8-mile route around the reservoir. After a day’s adventure, stroll to the local pub for a hearty meal and a well-earned drink, the perfect end to a perfect day.

The Farmhouse at Gelli Newydd, Llanrwst

6 guests, 3 bedrooms, 3 pets. 7 nights from £1518

At the heart of this beautiful farmhouse lies a luxury shaker-style kitchen, complete with a breakfast bar and cosy sofa, the perfect spot to enjoy a morning coffee or a glass of wine while chatting with loved ones. The open-plan layout seamlessly flows into a spacious living and dining area, creating a welcoming space for friends and family to gather. From here, take in the breathtaking views across the Conwy Valley, a backdrop that perfectly complements the farmhouse’s rustic charm.

A large feature fireplace and elegant herringbone oak flooring add warmth and character, providing a relaxing sanctuary to unwind after a day of exploring. With space for up to three dogs and an enclosed rear garden, this home is ideal for both families and their four-legged companions. Designed with sustainability in mind, the eco-friendly ground source heat pump ensures a cosy, energy-efficient stay all year round. Outside, enjoy a stunning hot tub, the perfect place to soak under the stars and toast to unforgettable moments in this idyllic countryside retreat.

Stone Barn, Minehead

Sleeps 6, 3 beds, 2 pets. 7 nights from £1512

Stone Barn is an exceptional architect-designed barn conversion, offering luxurious accommodation for up to six guests. Stylish, modern, and thoughtfully restored, it features high-quality furnishings, elegant décor, and indulgent details throughout, from Hypnos and hotel-standard mattresses to premium linens that promise a restful night’s sleep.

The property includes two spacious bedrooms (one super king-size that can be configured as a twin) and a convenient utility area on the ground floor. Upstairs, the impressive open-plan kitchen, dining, and living space showcases soaring ceilings and distant views towards Exmoor, creating a light-filled setting perfect for socialising, cooking, or simply unwinding on the comfortable corner sofa.

Outside, a secluded, enclosed garden offers privacy and relaxation, while the hot tub (please bring your own towels) invites you to soak under the stars, with views of the nearby church and the Exmoor Dark Sky Reserve on clear nights. Both child, and dog-friendly, this stunning property is proudly Five Star Gold rated by VisitEngland, promising a stay of exceptional comfort and charm.

Fairview, Penicuik, Scotland

Sleeps 10, 5 beds. 7 nights from £2042

It’s rare to find a property crafted with such dedication to detail and guest comfort. This high-spec, five-bedroom luxury home occupies the ground floor of the building and offers a truly exceptional stay from start to finish. Designed with both style and flexibility in mind, each bedroom can be arranged as either a super king-size or twin room, making it ideal for families, groups, or friends holidaying together.

Inside, guests can enjoy an impressive range of amenities, including a fully equipped gym, games room, and an inviting indoor hot tub, all designed to ensure relaxation and fun in every season. The property’s spacious layout and beautifully landscaped outdoor areas make it perfect for social gatherings or peaceful escapes alike.

Perfectly positioned in southern Midlothian, the location offers easy access to the wealth of attractions across the Scottish Borders, Midlothian, and Edinburgh, all just a short drive away. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or pure relaxation, this outstanding retreat promises a better-than-perfect getaway you’ll want to return to time and again.

Heron's Wood at Greyfriars, Winchelsea, Sussex

Sleeps 5, 2 beds, 1 pet. 7 nights from £1784

Herons Wood at Greyfriars occupies the ground floor wing of a Grade II listed stone mansion, dating back to 1819, and enjoys a remarkable setting overlooking the ruins of a 13th-century Abbey, a designated Site of Special Historical Interest.

Rich in character, this exquisite property retains a wealth of original period features, including stone mullion windows, ornate plaster coving, high ceilings, and a striking Victorian Gothic fireplace with a wood burner. Step outside to the beautiful garden, complete with a wood-fired hot tub and sweeping views across the estate parkland, the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring.

The surrounding High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers endless opportunities for walking and cycling, with scenic footpaths right from your doorstep. Inside, every detail exudes luxury, from the 5000 pocket sprung cashmere and wool mattresses to the 800-thread-count linens, ensuring ultimate comfort. A separate cloakroom with a traditional high-cistern toilet and basin adds to the property’s classic charm.

Little Hewish Barn, Milton Abbas, nr Blandford Forum

Sleeps 4, 2 beds. 7 nights from £897

Tucked away in the picturesque village of Milton Abbas, this stunning two-bedroom barn conversion perfectly blends rustic charm with contemporary elegance. Thoughtfully designed with upside-down living to make the most of the natural light and countryside views, it provides a luxurious base for up to four guests exploring the beauty of Dorset.

On the ground floor, the spacious king-size master suite offers a true boutique-hotel experience, complete with an indulgent en suite drench room and double shower. Upstairs, a second elegant king-size bedroom enjoys breathtaking views across the mature, landscaped garden, while the stylish family bathroom features a roll-top bath, perfect for long, relaxing soaks.

The open-plan living area is bright and beautifully furnished, featuring a modern, well-equipped kitchen, integrated appliances, and a generous dining and lounge space with a log burner for cosy evenings in. Step outside to your private garden sanctuary, where a seating area, summer house, and luxury hot tub await, ideal for unwinding under the stars after a day of exploring Dorset’s rolling hills and historic villages.

Make the Most of Twixmas with cottages.com

Twixmas is the perfect time to pause, relax, and recharge between the festivities of Christmas and New Year. Whether you’re dreaming of a cosy cottage with a roaring fire, a coastal retreat for crisp winter walks, or a countryside hideaway surrounded by frosty fields, cottages.com has the perfect escape waiting for you.

With thousands of hand-picked holiday homes across the UK, from romantic boltholes to spacious family getaways, there’s no better way to end the year than with a little rest and a lot of comfort.

Book your Twixmas cottage today to secure the best deal and your perfect festive retreat before it’s gone!