Choose National Trust Cottages for you Holiday Self Catering Accommodation

It is a lesser-known aspect of the National Trust in Britain, that it provides holiday accommodation. There are National Trust cottages available to rent all over the country. The National Trust cottages range in size, but are available in almost any area you care to look. If you want somewhere a bit different, then this a definite option to explore.

There are around 370 properties available through the National Trust cottages scheme. Here is a sample to whet your appetite:

Many National Trust cottages, are part of a larger country estate. Some may have been a lodge or similar, now they provide charming holiday accommodation. A unique feature of one is the main and oldest part of the cottage – it is octagonal. Gives a holiday a whole new shape! Another is a gatehouse, set in its own small garden by the nearest main road.

At the other end of the scale, there are National Trust holiday cottages which were once an isolation hospital for infectious diseases. They are way out in the country, which is great for peace and quiet; and they are adapted for disabled visitors with good access and facilities. Although not beautiful to look at outside, the accommodation is excellent and the views over the Channel are stunning.

Take yourself back in time and stay in a Tudor, timbered property next to the manor house. National Trust cottages have been converted from a stable block of the 14th century manor house. Inside all is modern and provides every facility, outside is pure history.

Ever wanted to live in a castle? Try a property in Cornwall. Situated high on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic and complete with turrets and pointed gothic windows, this is anyone’s idea of a castle. But it isn’t! This is one the few National Trust cottages which was originally built for its current use – pleasure and holidays. It is a pleasure house, built in the 19th century for carousing. There is a magnificent wine cellar with vast wine bins, unfortunately now empty, which no doubt were put to good use in its heyday.

Sometimes you really can stay in a castle. A number of National Trust cottages were part of a larger property which has been developed as holiday accommodation. You really do share the stately home; there is a second floor apartment in the wing of a manor house or a converted brew house; as well as stable blocks and laundry areas.

For gardeners there are a number of National Trust cottages attached to properties with superb grounds. Often these were the original gardeners’ homes. What a delight to start each holiday morning with views of and access to some of the greatest gardens in Britain. Wherever you choose, the National Trust holiday cottages can provide a memorable holiday for you.