The founders – Richard and Lesley Ellis – pride themselves on the idea that customers receive a personalised, local service (like you’d expect in the village post office) combined with expertise, efficiency and a countrywide reach.
Each of the 4,200 cottages on the company’s books – located throughout the UK, from Cornwall, the Lake District and Yorkshire to Norfolk and beyond – has been selected with great care.
They say: “First and foremost we’re proud to be family-owned and local, always finding you and yours the best places to visit and stay. We strive to be friendly to our holidaymakers and homeowners, reliable in all our relationships, customer-focused, honest in all our dealings, innovative in our approach, flexible in our attitude and progressive as employers and industry leaders. And finally, we like to have fun!”
Here, we select six of our favourite Original Cottages.
COASTAL
Give yourself a proper break at West Ascent in Sussex. The Grade II-listed, three-storey townhouse was originally built as part of an experiment to create a Bloomsbury by the sea. With sea views, a real sense of space and a courtyard garden, this house has something for everybody.
COUNTRYSIDE
The Old School House is, quite simply, immaculate. Situated in the heart of the Suffolk countryside, this self-catering accommodation has been lovingly conceived. Pleasing details include gorgeous lighting, wood floors and a freestanding bath with views to die for.
GOLFING WEEKEND
Near the Lake District town of Kendal, this house on Carus Green Golf Course is a great base for a fantastic golfing weekend. The contemporary property comfortably sleeps eight. Half-price green fees and the Carus Green Grill Restaurant are the icing on the cake.
DOG FRIENDLY
Ruth’s, a cosy family cottage in the Dorset countryside, sleeps four in two bedrooms. Well-equipped and comfortable, it is a snug haven for a family weekend. There are fabulous walks in the area – and you are welcome to bring your dog to the cottage. The owners leave delicious treats for your arrival, too.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Close to Watergate Bay in Cornwall, The Old Stables is the perfect retreat for a multi-generational family holiday. With plenty of space, a woodburner, a sauna, a games room and a trampoline in the garden, the property is unanimously well reviewed. Children will love chatting to the horses in the neighbouring field.
ROMANTIC BREAK
Whitby’s pretty beach and pier are just a short walk away from this stylish Yorkshire bolthole. There is plenty to do in the seaside town, and previous guests report unforgettable sunsets. With just one bedroom, Oystercatcher is the stuff of romantic dreams.
October 2018