It's no secret that on some days, all we want to do is leave everything behind and disappear into a cottage, smack bang in the middle of nowhere. After all, escaping from the hustle and bustle of a city is necessary for our health, wellbeing and - quite frankly - our sanity.
Luckily for us, the National Trust offers a wide range of hidden gems in the form of quaint countryside cottages that are as cosy as ever. The cottages are spread across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, so you can set foot on new territory and get exploring. Alternatively, if you want to take a book and spend your time doing absolutely nothing, then you can do so in the comfort of your snug little cottage. The perks of choosing a National Trust cottage is that during your stay, you'll also have access to all historic National Trust locations free of charge, even if you're not a member.
With over 400 properties available on the National Trust website, it's safe to say you're spoiled for choice. To help lighten the load of finding your perfect staycationspot, we've listed the best National Trust cottages, from romantic homes for a couple's getaway to beautiful family cottages for everyone to enjoy.
National Trust membership
The National Trust offers individual, joint and family memberships ranging from £76 to £126 per year. A National Trust membership will provide you with access to free entry to most National Trust places, free parking, a handbook, a National Trust magazine three times a year, as well as access to the online Members' Area. Head on over to the National Trust websiteto sign up.
How much is a National Trust membership for over 60s?
If you're over the age of 60, you can enjoy a concession of 25 per cent off the adult rate. This means, for an individual senior membership, you'll pay £54.
Can my holiday go ahead?
All National Trust cottages are now open, for up to six people or two households, following government guidance. If your holiday is booked in England after 18 of July 2021, then these restrictions may no longer be in place, but this is subject to government review. The same applies for Wales, starting 15 July and Northern Ireland starting 5 July.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
With endless wild and beautiful nature to explore, Wales is the perfect spot for a staycation cottage. This stone-built cottage sits on the Hafod Y Llan estate, and sleeps eight people, so you can bring the grandparents, aunties and cousins along for the ride too. The wooden beams and old fireplace gives this home a cosy and rustic feel, and the outdoor furniture is ideal for a family breakfast. During the day you can explore beautiful Snowdonia, and you're only 14 miles away from shops, pubs and cafes, if you're missing civilisation.
Key info
Located in Beddgelert, Gwynedd
Sleeps eight
Five bedrooms
No dogs allowed
Key amenities
Cot and highchair
TV
Washing machine
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
This adorable cottage looks like something straight out of a fairytale, and we simply can't get enough. Built from Island Stone, this traditonal home boasts a large private garden, making it ideal for kids to play games and run wild in, while you sit back and enjoy the sound of nature. Mottistone Manor - a wonderful National Trust property - is only a few minutes away if you feel like exploring, as are some of the Isle of Wight's other beautiful sites.
Key info
Located in Newport, Isle of Wight
Sleeps four
Two bedroom
No dogs allowed
Key amenities
Cot and high chair
Dishwasher
Open fire
Washing machine
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Cornwall is home to many a brilliant properties, and this next one is no exception. This lonesome farm cottage is surrounded by beautiful nature, tucked away in the Cornish countryside. You'll have a private garden, as well as a barbeque and picnic table to enjoy quiet family nights in. Choose between the gorgeous beaches of Lantic Bay and Lantivet bay for days of relaxation, and spend your evenings in the nearby fishing village, Polruan for a delicious pub dinner. This cottage is dog-friendly, so don't be afraid to bring your pooch along.
Key info
Located in Lanteglos-by-Fowey, Cornwall
Sleeps three
Two bedrooms
One dog allowed
Key amenities
Cot and high chair
TV
Washing machine
Tumble dryer
Dishwasher
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
What's a trip to the Cotswolds without a stay at a snug little cottage? Despite undergoing a stunning refurb, this charming little property retains original features such as exposed beams and a inglenook fireplace, for the ultimate rustic meets modern feel. We love the seating area in the small terraced garden, ideal for relaxing with a good book on a summer evening.
Key info
Located in Broadway, Gloucestershire
Sleeps three
Two bedrooms
One dog allowed
Key amenities
Cot and high chair
Tumble dryer
TV
Garden
Washing machine
warwick castlewww.nationaltrust.org.uk
Dreamy is the best word to describe this countryside cottage. A former 18th-century banqueting house, this home overlooks the bog garden with beautiful plants, blossoms and even a little stream. The interior is elegant, spacious and open-plan, making it great for a family escape in nature. Spend your time in the garden with your little explorers, discovering the water lily lake, large cedar trees and everything else the gardens have to offer.
Key info
Located in Banbury, Warwickshire
Sleeps four
Two bedrooms
No dogs allowed
Key amenities
Cot and high chair
Tumble dryer
TV
Garden
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
If you're a fan of sea views, then this cottage is for you. A quiet farm cottage in the Roseland Peninsula, you'll breathe in all that nature has to offer while witnessing astonishing coastal views at the same time. Well-equipped with a multi-fuel stove, a TV and woodburner, this is the ideal spot for a little escape. Avid walkers will enjoy the dramatic spot of St Anthony Head, and if you're in for a culture boost, be sure to visit the art galleries of Portscatho.
Key info
Located in Roseland, Cornwall
Sleeps four
Two bedrooms
Two dogs allowed
Key amenities
Cot and high chair
Dishwasher
Tumble dryer
Washing machine
Garden
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Remember that romantic getaway we were talking about? Well, this two-bedroom Welsh cottage is just the place for it. This renovated Victorian farmhouse is simple, quaint and has that lovely laid back aura we all need on a holiday. Great for exploring, you and your other half can walk along rocky cliffs, sandy beaches and take in wonderful views along the way.
Key info
Located in Llandysul, Mid Wales
Sleeps two
One bedroom
One dog allowed
Key amenities
Dishwasher
Garden
Washing Machine
Tumble Dryer
Wood burner
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Located in the popular Cornish city of Truro, this farm conversion sits right besides the beach for a coastal getaway that dreams are made of. Dine al fresco with the family in your shared garden and picnic table, and spend your time indoors catching a glimpse of the beautiful sea views from the windows. If you fancy a swim, head on down to the golden beaches of Carne and Pendower, perfect for little ones to splash and paddle around in.
Key info
Located in Truro, Cornwall
Sleeps four
Two bedrooms
No dogs allowed
Key amenities
Cot and high chair
Dishwasher
Tumbledryer
TV Garden
Washing machine
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Do a romantic getaway the right way, in this welcoming little holiday cottage. Dating back to the 1800s, this home has a lot of history to it. After careful renovation, the interior is stylish, with pastel green cupboards, an open-plan space and tall beamed ceilings. Sitting in the village of Mortehoe, you'll be surrounded by traditional pubs as well as a beautiful 13th-century church. If you want to surf or sunbathe, Woolacombe beach is only a few minutes away.
Key info
Located in Woolacombe, Devon
Sleep two
One bedroom
One dog allowed
Key amenities
Dishwasher
TV
Garden