The Big Six: Cosy cottages

Caban Cwtch, Carmarthenshire

Caban Cwtch is a compact woodland cabin in the Teifi valley, with a name that roughly translates as "cuddle" or "safe place" in Welsh. The simple pine exterior conceals one playfully furnished double room, a stylish bunk room and a lounge with bright retro couches and Pop Art prints. Guests have access to a heated outdoor pool, sauna and gym, while Cenarth waterfalls offer a natural diversion nearby.

Caban Cwtch, Penlan Holiday Park, Cenarth, Carmarthenshire, Wales (0844 5005 101;underthethatch.co.uk). Three nights' rental starts at £192. Sleeps four.

Manor Cottage, Cornwall

This historic stone outhouse is one of two self-catering cottages in the grounds of Botelet Farm, which also offers yurts and camping. Inside, flagstone floors, wood-burning stoves and low ceilings create an intimate feel, while charcoal hues and brass beds define the three bedrooms. Stock the cupboards with local produce from the weekly farmers' market in Lostwithiel, then explore the patchwork fields on horseback by visiting Polmartin Stables, half a mile away.

Manor Cottage at Botelet Farm, Herodsfoot, Liskeard, Cornwall (01503 220 225; botelet.com). Three nights' rental starts at £300. Sleeps five.

The Workshop, Suffolk

This bright, airy stable conversion offers a chic hideaway with room for just two guests in the grounds of Lime Tree Farm. The suspended wood-burning fireplace, gleaming white kitchen and Arne Jacobson Series 7 chairs up the style quotient. A bottle of wine and biscuits greet guests on arrival, which can be enjoyed while admiring views of the meadows and sheep grazing outside the sliding glass doors. Coastal walks at Southwold, Walberswick and Aldeburgh are within easy reach.

The Workshop at Lime Tree Farm, Pound Green Road, Badingham, Suffolk (01728 638 962; bestofsuffolk.co.uk). Three nights' rental starts at £410. Sleeps two.

Nash Hall, Powys

The centrepiece of 17th-century Nash Hall, on the edge of the Offa's Dyke path, is the double-height reception room. Inside, the rustic-chic interior has a 12-seater dining table, three mezzanine bedrooms and a games area, with pool table and jukebox. Day trips in vintage cars can also be arranged.

Nash Hall, Presteigne, Powys, Wales (01544 267 359; nash-hall.co.uk). Three nights' rental starts at £360. Sleeps six.

The Folly, Gloucestershire

Open fires and timbered beams mix with sleek design at this cosseting Cotswolds farmhouse. Stay in the Toad Room for bold Union flag quilts or La Reine Suite in the eaves for old-fashioned armoires and velvet ottomans.

The Folly, Didmarton, Badminton, Gloucestershire (01993 824 252; manorcottages.co.uk). Three nights' rental starts at £1,110. Sleeps 10.

The Love Shack, Cumbria

This snug woodland lodge has sweeping views of Windermere from the cosy confines of its timbered rooms. The cupboards are stocked with essentials, while in winter the hearth is loaded with logs to keep the fire roaring.

The Love Shack, Cunsey, Sawrey, Ambleside, Cumbria (01539 441 242; lakedistrictloveshack.com). Three nights' rental starts at £430. Sleeps two.