Holiday Cottages has unveiled its list of the most sought-after UK holiday boltholes for 2026, with a stunning beachside apartment in Cornwall securing the premier position. The ranking, based on the most-viewed, booked, and highly-rated properties over the past year, highlights top destinations across picturesque counties including Cornwall, Devon, North Wales, and Gloucestershire.
Cornish Gem Takes Top Spot
Claiming the number one spot is No.1, the Bude flat, a Cornish treasure that offers postcard-perfect vistas across the golden sands and azure waters of Crooklets Beach. This luxurious apartment accommodates up to four guests and is bathed in natural light, featuring premium amenities and its own private sauna—a perfect retreat after a day of sea swimming.
Holiday Cottages praised the location, stating: "Bude needs no introduction. Expansive beaches, winding coastal walks, the sea pool, pedalos on the canal. Wow! Then the realisation that you're heading back to an apartment crafted by award-winning developers... does it get any better?" The property includes floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that open onto sprawling decking with panoramic views of the beach and an award-winning golf course.
Luxury and Comfort in Cornwall
Described as having 'chic and cosy' furnishings, the apartment features rooms that 'flow into one another with effortless ease,' according to Cornwall Live. Holidaymakers can enjoy waking up to the sounds of waves crashing on the shore, spending time on the front terrace or rear patio, and using the hot outdoor shower. The private sauna adds a touch of indulgence, making it a seriously impressive bolthole for a seaside escape.
Sykes Cottages also highlights Cornwall as a top destination for 2026 getaways, noting: "From the surfer’s paradise of Newquay to the historic charm of St Ives, there’s no shortage of places to explore. Families will love building sandcastles on Fistral Beach or visiting the Eden Project, while couples can escape to quieter spots like Mousehole or the Helford River for a more peaceful retreat."
Other Top Holiday Picks
Beyond the top spot, Holiday Cottages' list includes nine other highly sought-after properties across the UK. For instance, The Pilot House in Polruan, Cornwall, ranked number ten, offering stunning vistas across the River Fowey, a games room, hot tub, enclosed garden, and even an EV charger. This dog-friendly getaway can accommodate ten guests, making it ideal for multigenerational trips.
Holiday Cottages described it: "Moving to a stay in Cornwall's south coast now, where an equally desirable property awaits. With standout areas both inside and out, you'll be spoiled in terms of comfort and panoramic views." Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the river perfectly, and guests can enjoy underfloor heating, a wood burner, or a plunge in the hot tub.
Alternative Options in Cornwall
For those seeking variety, Sykes Cottages features over 2,500 accommodation picks in Cornwall, such as Northcott Hut in Stibb near Bude—a secluded shepherds hut with a hot tub and far-reaching sea views. Alternatively, Airbnb offers more than 1,000 properties in the county, including 'The Pepper Pot,' a hideaway close to the beach with a 4.99-star rating, though it lacks a hot tub.
The top 10 most-wanted holiday homes for 2026, as listed by Holiday Cottages, include:
- No 1 in Bude, Cornwall.
- Bodcott near Pembridge, Herefordshire.
- Yr Hen Ysgubor on the Llyn Peninsula, North Wales.
- Bryn Celyn Cottage, near Ruthin, North Wales.
- The Gun House in Shaldon, Devon.
- Hicks Farm in Winterbourne, Gloucestershire.
- Beaulieu River View near Brockenhurst, Hampshire.
- West Farleigh Barn in Cadeleigh, Devon.
- The Observatory in North Shields, Tyne and Wear.
- The Pilot House in Polruan, Cornwall.
This ranking underscores the enduring appeal of UK staycations, with Cornwall leading the way for luxury and scenic escapes in 2026. Whether it's a private sauna in Bude or a hot tub in Polruan, these properties offer unforgettable experiences for holidaymakers looking to swap city life for coastal tranquility.
