Despite being geographically a relatively small country, the UK as a nation is famous for having wildly varying types of landscape and scenery across its shores. Imagine the contrast between the seaside resort of Blackpool and the fantastically rugged coastline around Bridlington and East Yorkshire. The towns are different, the local culture varied and the destinations entirely fascinating and unique.

One of the many benefits of cottage holidays is that you really do get a slice of local life in the most beautiful surroundings. Many of us dream about living the good life in a rural environment, but will often be living in busy towns and cities and spending our lives sitting in commuter traffic jams. Country cottages offer you the chance to experience a different type of accommodation. There are so many variations, including converted barns, tiny stone cottages, large country manors, former farms, converted chapels and churches and many more. Cottages, such as those on offer at Sykes Cottages, will be decorated in either traditional styles, or will boast chic, modern decor with all the latest mod cons.

If you are looking for inspiration for a coastal cottage holiday, think carefully about your preferences destination-wise. Are you a fan of chic, faded grandeur? If so, Scarborough could be an excellent choice, filled with striking Victorian buildings and public gardens, Georgian terraces, quaint shopping lanes and a wide, traditional beachfront with a quirky cable car to enjoy. The town has plenty of seaside attractions on the front, including noisier, younger venues. These are mixed in amongst grand old hotels, superb restaurants and seafood diners, not to mention the traditional tea rooms and pubs within the town itself. Whitby is also another popular choice, known for its seafood and local food.

If, however, you want ritz, glitz and to experience a classic British holiday resort, then it has to be Blackpool. Go in the colder months when the famous illuminations are alight to see the best of the seafront strip and immerse yourself in candy-floss, kiss-me-quick hats and ice-cream. Blackpool is loud, proud and not ashamed to show off its gaudy heritage to the full. It’s also a fantastic destination for entertainment, with plenty of cabarets, music events and nightclubs. It is also ideal for children with plenty of playgrounds, adventure parks and other attractions.

Brighton on the south coast has its own unique feel. In many ways, it leans towards the smarter end of the market but this is tempered with grittier pockets, making this an eclectic and fascinating destination. It boasts an excellent pier and a vibrant nightlife, in no small part thanks to a burgeoning student population. Shoppers will enjoy the quaint cobbled streets of the North and South Lanes.

Along the coast from Brighton lies Bournemouth. This is a perennial family favourite and a classic, large-scale seaside resort. It has a lovely spacious feel and plenty of attractions for people of all ages.

For anyone with an interest in culture and history, Portsmouth and Southsea are well worth a visit. With its extensive dock area, Portsmouth shows off the best of British naval and merchant seafaring history. There are a wealth of museums, permanent exhibitions and tours of the lovingly restored ships including Victory and Warrior.

Finally, for total escapism, why not head to the coast around Scotland? The Dumfries and Galloway region offers incredible rugged views, cliff tops, crashing waves and unspoilt vistas. It’s wonderfully quiet and peaceful and the romantic landscape is sure to inspire. Tending to a slightly cooler temperature, these destinations are great off-season too. What better than returning to your holiday cottage from a brisk walk in the crisp air and snuggling up in front of a hot fire!