Discover England's Chocolate Box Cottages Straight out of 'The Holiday'
- Bargain Homes Abroad
- Dec 16, 2024
- 3 min read
Confession time: until this year, I had never seen The Holiday. Shocking, right? Especially for someone who adores all things cozy, charming, and distinctly British. I’ll admit—I’m more of a series binger than a movie buff (90-minute BritBox episodes are my guilty pleasure).
Watching the film felt like stepping into a postcard: snow-dusted cobblestone streets, sparkling fairy lights, and that iconic stone cottage, radiating warmth and holiday magic. If you’ve ever dreamed of wrapping up in a blanket by the fire in a snug little cottage, surrounded by frosty English countryside, you’re not alone. England’s chocolate-box cottages—complete with thatched roofs, ivy-clad walls, and roaring fireplaces—are every bit as enchanting in real life as they are on screen.
Much like the movie’s idyllic depiction of the English countryside, the following cottages I hunted down online (both for sale AND rent) evoke a sense of nostalgia and charm that feels tailor-made for a holiday escape. Whether it’s sipping mulled wine by the fire, strolling through frosty lanes lined with historic homes, or waking up to the sound of church bells in a quaint village, these homes promise a slice of cinematic magic. You half expect Jude Law to knock on the door.
First up! Five Vacation Rentals Inspired by The Holiday
Luckily, you don’t have to just dream about it. England’s countryside is dotted with magical cottages that you can rent for your next getaway. Whether you’re planning a romantic winter retreat or a festive family holiday, these rentals offer the perfect blend of coziness and cinematic charm.
Pretty Thatched Cottage close to the beach in Norfolk
2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Sleeps 4
Situated in the quiet and picturesque village of Winterton on Sea, Compass Cottage is detached and is furnished to a high standard including fitted kitchen, with double bedroom and small twin bedroom and two bathrooms. Only ten minutes walk to the sandy beach (with children and buckets and spades), shop, fish and chips and local pub nearby (families & dogs welcome). Close to broadland villages offering boat hire or Hemsby and Great Yarmouth for more lively entertainment for all the family. Read more...
Cottage in the heart of Exmoor National Park
3 Bedrooms | 1 Bath | Sleeps 6
The cottage is nestled next to the Ford on the East Lyn River, in the charming Brendon Valley, renowned for Lorna Doone. Located on the National Trust's Watersmeet Estate, Rockford Lodge can be reached via a footbridge, tranquilly situated in a forest, secluded from traffic. The stunning North Devon coastline is close, with Lynton and Lynmouth merely four miles away. Keep reading...
Parsonage Farm Stables
2 Bedrooms | 1 Bath | Sleeps 4
Parsonage Farm Stables is almost 1000 years old, the hayloft of a farm that has been occupied since the time of the Domesday Book. It's ideal for walkers and dog lovers, offering easy access to all the splendours of Exmoor. Keep Reading...
Charming character cottage in Kingston
2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Sleeps 4
Pretty character cottage in the heart of this delightful Devon Village. Nestling between the 16th century Norman Church and the picturesque Dolphin Inn the accommodation is attractive throughout with a wealth of character features, an open fireplace and a sunny secluded garden. Find out more...
Enchanting cottage in the heart of Chipping Campden
2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Sleeps 4
Little Orchard Cottage is a delightful, picture-perfect, luxury home from home for four guests. This “chocolate box”, circa 1710, Grade II listed property was once the home of novelist Graham Greene and is newly redecorated, refitted and refurnished to the very highest standards. Keep Reading...
ON THE MARKET BONUS: Own Your Own Slice of English Charm
For those who fall in love with this lifestyle, why not take it one step further and make it permanent? Across the UK, enchanting cottages—complete with thatched roofs, rose-covered doorways, and roaring fireplaces—are waiting for someone to call them home.
Here’s a curated list of picturesque properties for sale right now, courtesy of Zoopla.
Alms Cottage
2-3 Bedrooms | 1 Bath | £270,000
Bedfordshire, England
The Thatch
2 Bedrooms | 1 bathroom | £300,000
Warwickshire England
The Chocolate Box
2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | £275,000
Berkshire England
Woodbury Thatch
2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | £395,000
Devon England
Ready to step into your own movie moment? Whether it’s a weekend stay in a dreamy rental or taking the leap to own your own piece of this fairytale, England’s chocolate-box cottages promise magic, nostalgia, and plenty of cozy charm.
Start planning your next adventure today!