The UK and Ireland’s best holiday cottages have been named in a national awards programme. Among the winners is a luxury manor in the Cotswolds, named best luxury property, and a converted 16th century barn in Shropshire with its own gaming ‘den’ and go-karts, named best for families.
A disused railway tunnel in the Oxfordshire countryside, boasting a private pontoon leading out to a lake, won the award for best quirky property. And Fellside Lodge, a holiday home in the Lake District with its own dog shower, is officially the best in the country for pets. The Sykes Gems Awards programme, run by staycation specialist Sykes Holiday Cottages, saw thousands of entries from across the UK and Ireland in 31 categories – including Best for Beaches, Best Luxury Property and Best Quirky Property, with Best for Activities and Best for Sustainability two new categories introduced in 2024.
The expert judging panel included Sykes’ CEO Graham Donoghue and Managing Director James Shaw, as well as The Sun’s Assistant Travel Editor, Sophie Swietochowski.
Properties were judged using owner entries and guest feedback, alongside photos, occupancy figures and property amenities. The Sykes Gems Awards launched in 2017 to inspire holidaymakers and celebrate excellence in holiday cottage accommodation across the country.
James Shaw, Managing Director of Sykes Holiday Cottages, said: “It has been brilliant to see so many fantastic properties recognised in this year’s Sykes Gems Awards. A lot of work goes into running a successful holiday let so it was a difficult decision amongst so many wonderful properties, but our final winners are those who consistently go above and beyond to deliver unforgettable breaks for their guests.
“These five properties are just a small example of the fantastic properties in the Sykes roster and our owners are consistently going above and beyond to make the perfect holiday for their guests. Whether you’re looking for a large property for a group and lots of activities, or a quiet romantic getaway, there’s something for everyone!”
To view the full list of winners, visit https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/blog/sykes-gems-winners/
Best Luxury Property
Cotswolds House, Moreton-In-Marsh, Gloucestershire
Sleeps: 10
Price: Seven nights from £2912
URL:https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/Cotswolds-Northamptonshire-Moreton-in-Marsh/Cotswold-House-988742.html
Located in Moreton-In-Marsh in Gloucestershire is Cotswolds House, the perfect base to explore the Cotswolds.
This luxuriously-finished townhouse is ideal for a celebration, holiday or weekend escape, complete with spacious rooms, floor to ceiling windows and five bedrooms. The property dates back to the 19 th century and boasts some original features, including oak flooring, as well as an Aga and a snooker table.
A two-minute walk will take you to Moreton, which is known for its excellent restaurants, pubs, artisan bakers, award-winning coffee shops and interior shops.
Best Quirky Property
The Tunnel at Bridge Lake Farm & Fishery, Chacombe, Oxfordshire
Sleeps: 2
Price: Seven nights from £821
The Tunnel at Bridge Lake Farm & Fishery is a beautiful, one bedroom escape nestled around a lake in the charming village of Chacombe, Oxfordshire. When the farm and disused tunnel came up for sale, the owners saw the potential of a peaceful holiday escape and set about turning the tunnel – which already had planning permission – into a mezzanine-style one bedroom property.
The original archways are still intact and feature in the bedroom and bathroom, while traditional signage continues the railway theme throughout. The Tunnel also has a fully equipped kitchen, electric vehicle charging and a hot tub.
Best Renovation
Peniarth Ganol, Tywyn, North Wales
Sleeps: 8
Price: Seven nights from £669
URL:https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/Mid-Wales-Cardigan-Bay-Tywyn/Peniarth-Ganol-974200.html
Peniarth Ganol is a beautifully renovated farmhouse set close to a working farm and hidden in Snowdonia National Park. The property boats incredible views of Craig yr Deryn and the Dysynni Valley and is the perfect space for families or friends eager to explore the North Wales countryside.
The property also includes a woodburning stove, a large enclosed garden, underfloor heating and a Smart TV.
Best for Beaches
The Hideout, Selsey Bill, Sussex
Sleeps: 2
Price: Seven nights from £463
URL:https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/Hampshire-Selsey/The-Hideout-1080901.html
The Hideout is a compact and cosy studio-style property, situated at the top of Selsey Bill in Sussex, right on the beach.
It has a double bed with a kitchenette and dining area, as well as a private garden. The real selling point of the property is its location with the beach at your front door and amenities just a short walk away.
Selsey Bill is a working and friendly fishing village, famous for its freshly caught crab, and also has an abundance of pubs and restaurants. Plus, Chichester and the South Downs – both popular with holidaymakers – are just a short drive away.
Best Pet-Friendly Property
Fellside Lodge, Bowness-On-Windermere, Lake District
Sleeps: 6
Price: Seven nights from £836
URL:https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/Lake-District-Cumbria-The-Lake-District-Bowness-On-Windermere/Fellside-Lodge-1065820.html
Fellside Lodge is a charming semi-detached cottage located in Bowness-on-Windemere; the perfect bolthole to explore the Lake District.
What sets the property apart is its utility room with a fully electric motorised professional dog bath and dryer– perfect for furry guests!
As parents of five red setters themselves, the owners were keen to make the property a home-from-home for pet owners. The patio outside – complete with a hot tub – is also enclosed for pet safety.
Best for Families
The Olde Cow House, Cardington, Shropshire
Sleeps: 11
Price: Seven nights from £1523
URL:https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/Peak-District-Peak-District-Derbyshire-Dales-Plaish/The-Olde-Cow-House-3591.html
The Olde Cow House dates back to the 16 th century and offers a great mix of olde world charm and modern amenities.
The property has been extensively renovated, while retaining the original exposed oak beams, wall timbers, brick and stone. It has four bedrooms with a range of king-size, double and single beds, a large sitting room with a wood burner and grand dining area for guests.
Families can enjoy the many features in the house, including a gaming ‘den’ with table tennis and table football, a gym with a treadmill, rowing machine and weights, as well as an infinity pool, and hot tub. Outside guests can enjoy a full-size tennis court and peddle go-karts.