We love winter by the sea. Blustery walks on empty beaches, then back to the warmth of the sofa and the stove - happy times! We've chosen 15 of the very cosiest cottages, cabins and houses on the coast for a perfect winter break.
Barford Beach House
nr. Bude - Cornwall
Sleeps 12 (+4)
One of Cornwall's most magnificent beach houses, on the county's north coast at Barford. Spend a lustrous winter break amid stunning ocean views, luxury interiors and your own sauna to warm up in after a bracing walk on the spectacular Widemouth Bay. And even better - there's 25% off winter breaks until 1 March!
Fog Signal Building
Dungeness - Kent
Sleeps 2
Experience the eerie winter beauty of Dungeness from this high-spec beach house for two, once a foghorn testing station. All's quiet now except for the sound of the sea and the birds. Take the dogs for a tramp across the shingle down to the shoreline, just you, the sea and the sky.
Loulou by the Ocean
West Coast - Scottish Highlands
Sleeps 6
There's direct access to the beach at this contemporary cottage. It's probably too cold for a swim but you can watch wintery sunsets over the water and maybe even see the Northern Lights! Stock up on some hearty, rib-sticking supplies at the local Aultbea Stores, a foodie heaven where you can order all sorts of tasty treats and a vast range of artisan gins and Scottish whisky.
Blackwood Norfolk
Cromer - Norfolk
Sleeps 6
This superb luxury retreat sits in its own private woodland in West Runton. It's contemporary, impeccably styled and just a short walk from the Norfolk Coast AONB. Bundle up and head to Cromer Pier and watch the North Sea come roaring in, then back to the sofa to light the wood burner and warm up among blankets and lovely squishy cushions.
Fallen Angel
Mousehole - Cornwall
Sleeps 2
Enjoy the snug pubs and nearly empty beaches of Cornwall in winter. Luxurious and tranquil Fallen Angel with its sea views is just moments away from village life in beautiful fishing village of Mousehole. Plus there are some great winter deals curently on offer.
Off The Track
Crail - Fife
Sleeps 2
The perfect romantic retreat, this lovely lodge with woodfired hot tub sits in a unique and secluded location beside an old railway bridge in Fife. Nearby footpaths lead to the famous Fife Coastal Path, where you can enjoy miles of uninterrupted coastline and spectacular views. Kingsbarns Beach is also right on your doorstep, a glorious sandy beach backed by low grassy dunes.
The Cove
Stoke Fleming - Devon
Sleeps 4
Luxurious and stylish Devon holiday home in a secluded bay with stunning sea views. It has a deluxe chalet vibe just perfect for the colder months, with hot tub, sauna, and log burner. The main bedroom offers yet more amazing views and a free-standing bath tub where you can enjoy a soak whilst gazing out over the sea.
Litua
Arisaig - Inverness-shire
Sleeps 6
This contemporary Inverness-shire cottage will keep you warm and snug, whatever the west coast weather throws at you. A stunning six person coastal hideaway across two levels, with hot tub, underfloor heating and magnificent views towards Skye and the Small Isles. Beautiful beaches and the pretty village of Arisaig with its pubs and restaurants all within walking distance.
Sundial
Lyme Regis - Dorset
Sleeps 9
A beautiful Grade II listed Arts and Crafts house - with an enviable seafront location and dazzling views over the iconic Cobb and Lyme Bay, the perfect spot to watch the wild winter waves. You're right on the seafront here, but the summer crowds have all gone, leaving you with Lyme Regis' shops, cafes and cosy pubs to yourself.
Major House
Newport - Pembrokeshire
Sleeps 8
Superbly renovated family home in the heart of Newport. A gentle stroll towards the coast and you’ll be at the water’s edge in 10 minutes. The Pembrokeshire coastline is renowned for its spectacular scenery, so head off in either direction along the coastal path and you’ll be rewarded with some truly beautiful views.
Hemmel House
Craster - Northumberland
Sleeps 6
Northumberland's coastline is full of sugar-sand beaches, ruined castles and wild beauty and winter is a magnificent time to enjoy it. This generous and comfortable contemporary eco-cottage sits a short walk from the pretty harbour village of Craster - and if you haven't tried Craster kippers yet then you're in for a treat!
Eco Luxury Farmhouse
Arrieta - Las Palmas
Sleeps 8
Sometimes you just need a bit of sunshine. The average temperature is a very acceptable 21 degrees in January, with plenty of sunshine to enjoy. Get some winter rays at this eco-friendly farmhouse, with a private sea-view pool - and weather warm enough to go swimming - just moments from the beachfront.