If you’ve ever dreamed of spending Christmas in a charming countryside cottage, now is the perfect time to turn that dream into reality. For nearly two decades, viewers have been inspired by the festive charm of ‘The Holiday,’ imagining a cosy winter retreat. This December, you can experience that magic firsthand.
Christmas is enchanting but often stressful, especially if you’re hosting. Luckily, Sykes Holiday Cottages offers thousands of properties across the UK that are available year-round – even on Christmas Day.
One standout option is The Hermitage, a delightful stone cottage perched on the edge of the Cotswolds in the picturesque village of Poulton, Gloucestershire. This quaint, single-storey cottage bears a striking resemblance to Kate Winslet’s cosy retreat from the 2006 Christmas classic.
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Designed for romantic escapes, The Hermitage sits within the grounds of a stunning manor house and promises a peaceful countryside break away from everyday noise and stress.
Inside, you’ll find a bright, open-plan living space combining a sitting area, dining area, and a luxurious king-sized bed—all within a few steps of each other. A wood-burning stove adds warm ambiance for chilly winter evenings while a smart TV invites you to binge your favourite Christmas movies in comfort.
The kitchen is fully equipped with modern appliances, including an electric oven, four-ring induction hob, and dishwasher—making Christmas meal prep and clean-up effortless.
Other amenities include off-road parking for one car, a patio garden with outdoor furniture, and a charcoal barbecue—perfect for crisp winter mornings or mild afternoons.
If you want to explore, The Hermitage is just 300 metres from The Falcon, a traditional village pub serving a festive Christmas menu from December 1. For a unique local treat, visit the nearby Poulton Hill Estate vineyard, renowned for its award-winning English wines.
The cottage’s location is ideal, only five miles from Cirencester and Bibury, both accessible within 15 minutes by car. Cirencester, known as the capital of the Cotswolds, transforms into a winter wonderland with an Advent Market boasting over 100 stalls, dazzling Christmas lights, and live festive performances.
Meanwhile, Bibury offers a quintessential English village experience, complete with a Santa grotto and the charming Snowman Trail at Bibury Trout Farm.
If this sounds like the perfect spot for your Christmas getaway, The Hermitage is available for seven nights from December 22-29 at £695—less than £50 per person per night. For just £65 more, you can secure free cancellation up to noon on your arrival day, ensuring peace of mind.
Book now and make this Christmas truly special in a luxurious Cotswolds cottage that feels like home.