With the kids back at school after the Christmas break, many families will now be looking ahead to the February half-term as it will be here before you know it! And now could be a good time to book, with Sykes Holiday Cottages slashing prices on many of its budget staycation destinations.
From a charming church conversion on the Isle of Wight to a contemporary-style Victorian mansion in Devon, here are seven low-cost options to enjoy some quality time together with loved ones...
Charlesworth – Braunton, Devon
Sleeps: Six
Price: Available from February 18 for seven nights, was £1,430 now £1,007
Charlesworth is a charming retreat set in an elevated position with spectacular views overlooking the estuary in Ashford, Devon. Families can relax in the spacious living area after taking on one of the numerous walking routes and trails that can be accessed from the doorstep or enjoy a home-cooked meal in the dining room. Let the children play in the garden or battle it out at table tennis, while you take your coffee on the large patio area or escape to the cottage garden and summerhouse with a good book.
The historic market town of Barnstaple is nearby and has an array of pubs, restaurants, and shops to explore. Guests can also head off to one of the sandy beaches along the North Devon coast, including Woolacombe, Saunton and Croyde - and don’t forget to indulge in a compulsory Devon Cream Tea!
The Old Vicarage – Tiverton, Devon
Sleeps: 10
Price: Available from February 17 for seven nights, was £1,499 now £1,082
The Old Vicarage is a contemporary-style Victorian mansion located in the Devonshire town of Tiverton. The property offers the ultimate break away from the hustle and bustle of daily life for family this February half term, with a large living space and sprawling garden for little ones to burn off steam. There is also a music room for those who wish to engage in a singalong with the piano.
With an array of activities in easy reach, there is plenty to keep families occupied, including visiting Tiverton castle, fishing at the River Exe, or a car ride to Exeter to see the Cathedral and Rougemont Gardens.
Hillside Cottage – Beeston, Norfolk
Sleeps: Eight
Price: Available from February 18 for seven nights, was £923 now £837
Hillside Cottage is nestled within the rural village of Beeston in Norfolk. With charming character features and contemporary furnishings, families can get comfortable on the property’s plush sofa next to the woodburning stove to watch their favourite film. Guests can also enjoy the enclosed garden and bask in the morning sunshine with a cup of coffee.
Nearby family attractions include adventure parks, heritage railway lines, nature reserves and various National Trust properties, including Oxburgh Hall, Thursford, and Castle Acre. Families can also venture into the nearby town of Dereham to stock up on fresh local produce from its weekly market while picking up a souvenir at one of the independent shops.
Chapel House – Chale, Isle of Wight
Sleeps: Six
Price: Available from February 17 for seven nights, was £1,664 now £1,225
Chapel House is a church conversion located in the market town of Chale Green. Full of character, with the original large windows and beams, a woodburning stove and enclosed garden, the property offers a home away from home for families looking to catch up during over February half-term.
There are a wealth of picturesque walking and cycling trails on the doorstep, such as the Cowes to Yarmouth Walk, as well as local pubs and restaurants such including the award winning The Wight Mouse. Families looking for adventure can enjoy a trip to Blackgang Chine, a fun-filled theme park with thrilling rides and friendly wildlife or visit Brook Beach for an exhilarating kitesurfing experience.
Bourblach – Mallaig, Scottish Highlands
Sleeps: Eight
Price: Available from February 17 for seven nights, price was £835 now £796
Bourblach is a peaceful beachside cottage overlooking the famous Silver Sands of Morar in the Scottish Highlands. The property has everything guests need for a comfortable stay, including a large kitchen and private garden, as well as unobstructed sea views. Armdale on the Isle of Skye can be reached via the local ferry port, where guests can tour the resident castle or visit Skye’s famed Fairy Pools, before heading to Bourblach to see the famous viaduct that appeared in the Harry Potter films.
For quiet nights in, the property is well equipped with an impressive selection of books, games and music to keep the whole family entertained.
The Lake House Ballingtogher, County Sligo
Sleeps: Eight
Price: Available from February 18 for seven nights, was £1,161 now £1,061
The Lake House is located in the quaint village of Ballingtogher in County Sligo, Ireland. Ideal for families looking for a relaxing getaway, guests can make the most of the summer sunshine on the property’s patio by dining al fresco while taking in the panoramic views overlooking stunning mountains and lakes.
There’s plenty of activities to add to the itinerary, including a visit to Sligo Abbey a 13th-century monastery that is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, along with contemporary art center, The Model, a must-see for art lovers, while the county’s stunning beaches offer plenty of coastline walking trails.
Nant Cottage - Llanrwst, North Wales
Sleeps: Six
Price: Available from 18th February for seven nights, was £732 now £593
Tucked away in the idyllic village of Llanrwst in North Wales is Nant Cottage. Surrounded by truly idyllic woodland, this cottage is the perfect spot for families looking to enjoy some quality time together this February half term. With its original 300-year-old fireplaces and a cosy lounge complete with original features, guests can watch a movie together or catch up over a board game.
The village of Betws-y-Coed is three miles away and is also known as the Gateway to Snowdonia. Home to an abundance of walks for all abilities, it also has a variety of shops and art galleries displaying works by local Welsh artists. Alternatively, families can head to the nearby Zip World Forest, that has something for all the family, including the Forest Coaster Ride and Treetop Nets to burn of some energy.
