Latest news with #SykesHolidayCottages
Daily Mirror
6 days ago
- Daily Mirror
'Most beautiful place' in UK where thousands visit to 'discover magic'
Lindisfarne, also known as Holy Island, is a popular destination amongst Brits and tourists, who continue to flock to the island to experience its rich heritage and stunning landscapes Holidaymakers craving a magical getaway don't need to worry about the expense of flying abroad to find one - an "enchanting" haven sits right on Northumberland 's shoreline. Lindisfarne, known as Holy Island, boasts incredible history and is regularly celebrated as one of Britain's most breathtaking spots. The tiny population of roughly 160 residents in this small retreat swells to over 650,000 as visitors flock from around the world each year to witness its magic, the Lindisfarne website confirms. Travel experts at have identified the circular path around its coast as among Northumberland's most stunning, where plentiful wildlife and ancient monuments can be spotted along the way. For guests needing somewhere to stay while exploring this unique spot, numerous holiday homes are on offer for booking on Lindisfarne itself, reports Teesside Live. One charming choice is Deja Blue, an 18th-century dwelling dubbed "steeped in history and charm" - providing a perfect retreat in one of England's most historically significant locations. Sleeping up to five people plus a pooch, Deja Blue offers stunning views over the village green on Holy Island where Queen Elizabeth II planted a tree during her 1958 trip, and has earned acclaim as a "lovely home from home" from guests. The property is positioned directly in the heart of the village, just moments away from Holy Island's spectacular ancient landmarks, and remains incredibly popular with bookings fully secured until 2026. Starting at £582 for a week-long break, Deja Blue stands as one of only three cottages available for Holy Island on alongside Tidal Cottage from £819 for seven nights, and St Coombs Farmhouse from £1,305 for seven nights. Over on Sykes Holiday Cottages, visitors will find merely two properties on offer: Causeway Cottage from £575, and Curlew Cottage from £660, both accommodating up to six guests. Availability and prices might vary depending on the season and the time of booking. Holy Island's rich heritage remains vibrantly present today, with historical treasures dotted throughout the island, from the captivating Lindisfarne Castle perched above the shoreline to the 12th-century remains of Lindisfarne Priory, formerly home to medieval Northumbrian monks and saints. Under English Heritage management, admission to Lindisfarne Priory is priced at £9 for adults and £5 for children, with the organisation describing it as "among the most atmospheric of England's historic sites". English Heritage characterises Holy Island as having an "otherworldly aura", and describes Lindisfarne Priory: "It echoes with the memories of the monks and saints of Anglo-Saxon and medieval Northumbria. It also offers abundant wildlife and wonderful coastal views." Meanwhile, Lindisfarne Castle remains under National Trust stewardship, welcoming visitors throughout the week with tickets costing £12 for adults and £6 for children. What's more, the magnificent Gertrude Jekyll walled garden alongside comes free of charge, having been crafted in 1911 and exploding with fragrance and vibrant hues throughout summer. Lindisfarne offers far more than just historical appeal - its seaside location creates a haven for wildlife and nature lovers, whilst providing the perfect backdrop for spectacular scenery. Visit Northumberland captures it perfectly: "Words cannot describe the magic of The Holy Island of Lindisfarne, particularly as you cross the causeway, admiring staggering views as you go, and feel as though you are entering a secret world as you approach the island." It's precisely this enchantment that saw The Times crown Lindisfarne amongst England's most stunning locations earlier this year, describing it as a "mystical place" offering "a real sense of peace". The publication justified its choice by noting: "The island's name dates back to the time when this was an early outpost of Christianity, and whether you're a believer or not, it remains a place of serenity and contemplation, which puts daily life into perspective." If you're planning a visit to Holy Island, it's vital to check the tide crossing times, as the island becomes cut off twice daily due to the tide - leading to hundreds of drivers needing emergency rescue each year. Northumberland County Council strongly urges visitors not to attempt to travel to and from the island during a rising tide - a full list of safe crossing times can be found here.
Daily Record
22-07-2025
- Daily Record
The peaceful Scottish island cabin that is 'haven for couples' you can rent out
The accommodation is nestled within picturesque surroundings. A secluded cabin on a picturesque Scottish island is available to book for a summer getaway. The property has been described by one visitor as "wonderful". The Wheelhouse is a newly built cabin on a working croft on the tidal island of Grimsay, situated between North Uist and Benbecula in the Outer Hebrides. The Wheelhouse has one bed and sleeps up to two people, and is described by owners as a "haven for couples". At the moment, a three-night stay at the accommodation can be booked for £439 through Sykes Holiday Cottages. Meanwhile, a seven-night stay is available for £730. Inside, The Wheelhouse is centred around an open-plan living space with a kitchenette and a dining area. There is also a sitting area, while a king-size bed and a shower room completes the indoor accommodation. For when the sun is shining, there is a garden with a lawn where guests can sit outside. The accommodation comes with outdoor furniture and a fire pit, allowing visitors to make the most of the surroundings. According to Sykes Holiday Cottages, there are a large number of walking and exploring opportunities in the area—from lochs to mountains. The scenic Tidal Beach is nearby, while visitors can also walk across the Machair to find a "great spot for swimming". Guests can explore Grimsay by car, and even travel over to Balivanich on the island of Benbecula—approximately 15 minutes from The Wheelhouse. Here, holidaymakers will find a supermarket and even a golf club. As well as its scenery, Grimsay is also known for its seafood. Visitors can find fresh produce at both Kallin Shellfish on the pier in the township Kallin and the café at the Grimsay Centre. Other accommodation options in the area include The Creel Yard Camping Pods and The Grimsay Cabin. The Creel Yard Camping Pods comprises low-cost camping pod accommodation, while The Grimsay Cabin is a luxury glamping cabin with a wood-burning hot tub. On Sykes Holiday Cottages, The Wheelhouse has earned highly positive feedback from guests. It has an average rating of five out of five based on 19 customer reviews. One holidaymaker wrote: "We had a wonderful stay at the well designed, cosy wheelhouse. It is located in a stunning area, totally quiet. "We had a wonderful welcome from the hosts, so everything was perfect!" A second agreed: "The Wheelhouse is such a lovely, cozy and well thought out property, the owners have thought about everything. It is situated in a lovely bay with lovely views and it is surrounded by wildlife. "A thoroughly enjoyable holiday, thank you."
North Wales Live
20-07-2025
- North Wales Live
The UK's top 10 beach bars where you can soak up the rays in style
It's been a sweltering summer so far and with the heat not showing any signs of letting up for long, so travel experts have got together to name the UK's top 10 beach bars. From coastal cocktail spots to laid-back hangouts, these seaside locations promise holiday vibes without the long-haul flight and to help holidaymakers find their ideal accommodation, Sykes Holiday Cottages has also shared standout properties near each bar in the ranking. James Shaw, from Sykes, said: 'With summer well underway, there is no better time to soak up the warm weather than by catching up with friends and family at one of our country's many beach bars. 'Our recent Staycation Index report revealed that nearly two-thirds of Brits are planning a staycation in 2025, so whether it's the coast, countryside or city, this season offers a wealth of chances to make lasting memories close to home.' Top 10 best beach bars in the UK: OHSO Social, Brighton The Beach Deck, Eastbourne Surfside, Polzeath Tavern on the Bay, Benllech The Pier Tavern, Great Yarmouth Revo Kitchen, Weston-super-Mare Jeromes & Pavilion, Bridlington The Watering Hole, Perranporth Hive Beach Café, Burton Bradstock Porthminster Beach Café, Carbis Bay OHSO Social, Brighton Nestled at the base of Brighton's Palace Pier, OHSO Social has a spacious terrace that opens straight onto the sand. It's the perfect pitstop for drinks and food while soaking up sea views and coastal vibes. Open daily and from 10am on weekends, it's great for early beachgoers and it's dog-friendly, meaning holidaymakers can bring their pooches for a day out. Guests looking to explore Brighton with their dog in tow can stay at Cliffe Cottage, a two-bedroom retreat nestled in the heart of Lewes, Sussex. Inside, travellers can discover a cosy living room, modern kitchen-diner, and peaceful rear garden. The Beach Deck, Eastbourne Perched right at the water's edge, The Beach Deck pairs its laid-back atmosphere with its wooden stools, palm-frond decor and floor-to-ceiling windows, making it the ultimate pit-stop in Eastbourne. From 9am till 4:30pm daily, the menu offers everything from hearty brunch bowls and fresh seafood wraps to light bites and gooey cakes. Sip on local ales, crisp ciders or a chilled glass of rosé as you watch the tide roll in before heading back to Portland Cottage, a two-bedroom getaway adjacent to Eastbourne's beaches. Here, visitors can expect a fully equipped kitchen, comfy furnishings and off-road parking. Surfside Nestled on Cornwall's stunning northern coastline, Surfside Polzeath opened in 2017 before expanding in 2022 with adding extra seating, a larger terrace and year-round opening hours. Home to one of the UK's largest rum selections, you'll find over 90 varieties behind the bar and kids and pets are welcome too, with a children's menu packed with bite-sized fish goujons, mini flatbreads and creamy ice-creams. Those looking to stay locally to Polzeath can try Seascape, which has space for up to 12 guests, as well as a utility, games room, and plunge pool. Tavern On The Bay, Benllech Perched on Traeth Benllech's shoreline, Tavern on the Bay boasts panoramic views of North Wales coast - from Llandudno 's Great Orme to the sandy bay right below. Rustic interiors and a spacious terrace make it the ideal spot for sunset cocktails, while floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views. Open until 9:30pm on weekdays, and 10:30pm at weekends, the menu features shareable nibbles, hearty mains and a standout cocktail list, plus craft beers and Welsh ciders. Regular live-music nights mean the party often carries on past dusk for those wanting to stay nearby, Steps Away in the Isle of Anglesey promises an open plan living space and private garden for up to four people. The Pier Tavern, Great Yarmouth Located steps from the golden sands of Great Yarmouth, The Pier Tavern doubles as both a laid-back beach bar by day and one of the town's top nightlife spots by night. Pull up a stool on the open terrace or head inside to neon-lit booths to find arcade classics, a pool table and DJ sets. Open until midnight on weekdays, the bar's drink list covers everything from crisp pilsners and local ciders to inventive cocktails and spritzers. Pop in for a pre-beach pint at 11am or stay on for late-night tipples before heading back to Sandpiper Court. This charming cottage features historic architecture, as well as a snug living room and patio, and is only a short walk to the coastline. Revo Kitchen, Weston-super-Mare One of the largest beach bars on this list, Revo Kitchen sprawls across the shore of Weston-Super-Mare's golden sands and is perfect for families, groups and anyone craving space to stretch out. Open from 9am until 10:30pm (11 pm on weekends), its vibrant, relaxed setting means you can drop in for a breakfast bap, seaside lunch or an evening cocktail with equal ease. Couples looking to stay nearby can visit Acorn, a charming lodge ideal for unwinding from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its wood fired hot tub, patio and off-road parking, it offers the perfect home away from home. Jerome's & Pavilion, Bridlington Set in a restored Victorian pavilion just steps from Hornsea's sandy beach, Jerome's & Pavilion pairs seaside café vibes with a laid-back bar atmosphere. Grab Britain's best-voted fish and chips inside or settle on the sun-soaked terrace with a pint of local ale or a classic G&T. Open from breakfast through evening, the menu includes flaky cod, hand-cut chips and hearty grills, and travellers looking to visit the area can stay in Waggoner's Cottage. A two-bedroom bungalow which has a private garden and open-plan living space, it's the ideal spot for families. The Watering Hole, Perranporth The UK's only bar built on sand, The Watering Hole has been a Perranporth favourite since 1978 and now houses its own surf school and year-round live music events, making it a perfect hub for holidaymakers. Open 9am to 10pm daily, with this extending to 1am on Fridays and Saturdays, its seasonal menu features staples like the Catch of the Day, gourmet burgers and a hearty kids' menu, alongside refreshing cocktails, local ales and ciders. Holidaymakers can stay at 3 Spyrys Heyl, which overlooks the beach and has an outside shower for those wanting to get rid of sandy toes before relaxing in the open-plan living area. Hive Beach Café, Burton Bradstock Established in 1991 beside National Trust's Hive Beach on the Jurassic Coast, Hive Beach Café combines a restored beach pavilion with a spacious sea-view terrace and picnic benches on the sand. Dog-friendly and open year-round, it's the perfect pit-stop for takeaway coffees, hearty brunches and homemade cakes before or after a coastal wander. Travellers looking to visit can stay in Apple Tree Cottage, which is located only a short distance away from Hive Beach. With a private garden, two bedrooms and array of amenities, it's a relaxing spot for both families and couples alike. Porthminster Beach Café, Carbis Bay Tucked around the corner from St Ives in the picturesque village of Carbis Bay, Porthminster Beach Café serves Michelin-accredited seafood in a casual, dog-friendly setting. With ingredients fresh from its cliffside garden and local suppliers, it's the perfect spot for a light lunch after a dip in the sea or a sunset supper. Sea Glass, a modern two-bedroom apartment, can be found nearby and has a seaward facing terrace, as well as a communal garden for al fresco dining.
Daily Mirror
19-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
'Underrated' island crowned UK's top staycation spot for its stunning beaches and mountains
The UK has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, and one of the most 'underrated' areas has been voted the top must-do experience for staycationers The UK boasts stunning landscapes that are the envy of the world, offering a plethora of beautiful spots to discover if you're planning a staycation this summer. One of the most 'underrated' regions offers the top must-do activity for holidaymakers this summer, located on a picturesque island just off Scotland's coast. A list of the best staycation experiences in the UK was compiled by British travel expert and author, Richard Madden, along with Sykes Holiday Cottages, unveiling an essential bucket list for holiday-goers. A breathtaking drive along the Isle of Arran's coast in Scotland has emerged as the top choice, according to a survey of 2,000 adults about their staycation dreams. Often dubbed 'Scotland in miniature', the Isle of Arran boasts a range of spectacular landscapes, with the 109km Arran Coastal Way providing views of the coastline, charming villages, and mountain peaks. Journeying around the stunning Isle of Arran presents ample opportunities to discover remnants of Scotland's Gaelic and Norse heritage. It features numerous coastal towns, such as Lochranza and Kildonan, where you can enjoy a walk on beautiful beaches and explore ancient castle ruins. Scotland is renowned for its rich culture and history, which you'll experience at every turn when exploring Arran. Things to do in Arran Hiking The breathtaking natural landscape of Arran offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy hiking. Brodick, the island's capital and primary point of entry for most visitors, is home to the Brodick and Goatfell range. This impressive collection of jagged granite peaks is dominated by Goatfell, the highest mountain on the island, which is often considered the easiest to ascend. Lochranza, located in the north, serves as the starting point for several picturesque coastal walks. During low tide, you might even spot some seals. The area also features a ruined castle and is situated near the quaint village of Pirnmill and its surrounding hills, offering stunning views. Explore the beaches Arran's coastline boasts a plethora of beautiful beaches waiting to be explored. If you find yourself in Brodick, head further north to Strabane for expansive sandy stretches and crystal-clear waters. Lamlash also offers several small sandy coves and shallow waters, particularly towards the south of the village. Kildonan's 'silver sands' beach is often hailed as one of Arran's most beautiful spots. It offers incredible views across Pladda to the mainland, and you might even spot some seals, so keep your eyes peeled. One of Arran's best-kept secrets is Kilmory beach, with its pristine white sands nestled within a sheltered cove. From here, you can also catch a glimpse of the island of Ailsa Craig. Enjoy local food and drinks In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Arran is a haven for foodies with an array of restaurants, cafes, pubs, breweries and distilleries each offering their own unique delights. Take for instance, the Douglas Bistro, renowned for its 'modern yet classic' approach to dining. The chefs here use fresh, seasonal ingredients from Arran and Ayrshire such as shellfish, venison and beef, all served in a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. For those who love a cuppa, Cafe Rosaburn at the Arran Heritage centre is a must-visit. This delightful spot offers homemade sweet treats and freshly brewed beverages. Summer is the ideal time to visit, with the opportunity to enjoy a picnic in the riverside gardens and indulge in some Arran ice cream from the gift shop. Visit the brewery No journey to Arran would be complete without a stop at the Isle of Arran brewery. Since 2000, this establishment has been crafting award-winning real ales on the island. With a range from blondes to bitters to stouts, there's a brew for every palate, and visitors can even embark on a tour to learn about the brewing process.
Daily Mirror
18-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
'Magical' coastal town named UK's most popular staycation destination
The stunning Yorkshire town of Whitby has been named the UK's most popular staycation destination - and it's easy to see why Staycations are all the rage these days, with a surge in Brits choosing to holiday at home rather than venturing overseas. A recent survey has revealed that a whopping 63% of Britons are planning a UK-based break this year, and by 2025, the average holidaymaker is expected to enjoy three domestic getaways, each spanning roughly six days. Sykes Holiday Cottages has put together a list of the top ten staycation spots, crowning the picturesque Yorkshire town of Whitby as the number one choice. The charm of this northern gem has tourists raving, with one visitor recently describing Whitby as "absolutely magical" on TripAdvisor. It's no wonder Whitby has emerged as Sykes's most booked destination for the fast-approaching school summer holidays. Whitby boasts an array of attractions suitable for the whole family, including the Whitby Museum, brimming with fascinating collections from fossils to maritime memorabilia, and the awe-inspiring historic abbey that sparked Bram Stoker's imagination for his novel Dracula. Additional highlights include the Whitby Marine Discovery Centre, the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, and the enchanting Falling Foss Tea Garden and Waterfall, reports the Express. Not to mention, Whitby is dotted with beautiful sandy stretches such as Whitby Beach, Sandsend Beach, and Saltwick Bay Beach. These beaches are a haven for dogs, offering either full access or dedicated dog-friendly zones even during the height of summer, ensuring your pooch can also bask in the charm of this picturesque town. James Shaw, managing director of Sykes Holiday Cottages, commented: "It's no surprise to see Whitby leading the way for school summer holidays this year. "It's mix of natural beauty, rich history and family-friendly activities continues to draw visitors, both with and without children, from across the country. "We're seeing more families prioritise stress-free getaways that cater to all ages - whether that means scenic coastlines, charming local towns or easy access to the great outdoors. "The destinations featured in the top 10 strike the right balance between convenience and character, making them ideal for switching off, reconnecting, and creating lasting memories together." Following closely behind Whitby is Windermere in the Lake District, securing second place, while Weymouth on the Dorset coast clinched third. Both locations are renowned for their outdoor pursuits, vibrant town centres, and an array of walking paths. Top 10 most popular locations for the school summer holidays Whitby, North Yorkshire Windermere, Cumbria Weymouth, Dorset Ambleside, Cumbria Lyme Regis, Dorset Keswick, Cumbria Scarborough, North Yorkshire Dartmouth, Devon Salcombe, Devon Carbis Bay, Cornwall
