If you’ve ever dreamed of spending Christmas in a charming countryside cottage, now’s your chance to make that dream come true. For nearly two decades, holiday-makers have been inspired by festive films like “The Holiday,” imagining their own cozy retreat during the holiday season. This year, you can experience it firsthand.
Hosting Christmas at home can be stressful, but a peaceful escape is just a booking away. Sykes Holiday Cottages offers thousands of beautiful holiday homes across the UK, available throughout the year—even on December 25th.
One stunning option is The Hermitage, a delightful stone cottage nestled on the edge of the Cotswolds in Poulton, Gloucestershire. This single-storey retreat resembles the quaint cottage made famous in the 2006 Christmas classic starring Kate Winslet.
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Ideal for a romantic getaway, The Hermitage sits within the grounds of a grand manor house in the picturesque village of Poulton. It’s designed as a perfect retreat for couples seeking a break from everyday life amid breathtaking countryside.
Inside, you’ll find a bright and airy open-plan living space that combines a cozy sitting area, intimate dining space, and a luxurious king-sized bed—perfect for leisurely mornings and festive breakfasts. A wood-burning stove adds warmth and ambiance, while a smart TV invites you to unwind with your favorite Christmas movies.
The well-equipped kitchen features an electric oven, a four-ring induction hob, and a dishwasher, making holiday meal preparations and cleanup effortless. The cottage is non-smoking and includes off-road parking for one car, as well as a private patio garden with outdoor furniture and a charcoal barbecue.
Just 300 metres away is The Falcon, a traditional British country pub serving a special Christmas menu from December 1—ideal if you want a night off from cooking. For wine lovers, Poulton Hill Estate vineyard nearby produces award-winning English wines.
The Hermitage is conveniently located five miles from Cirencester and Bibury, both less than a 15-minute drive. Cirencester, known as the Cotswolds’ capital, offers a magical Christmas experience with an Advent Market featuring over 100 stalls, festive lights, and live performances. In charming Bibury, you can visit Father Christmas in his grotto or explore the festive Snowman Trail at Bibury Trout Farm.
If a peaceful Christmas surrounded by the beauty of the Cotswolds sounds perfect, The Hermitage is available for seven nights from December 22 to 29 for just £695—less than £50 per person, per night. For an additional £65, you can secure free cancellation until noon on your check-in day, providing peace of mind for your holiday plans.