It might be right on our doorstep, but there’s really no beating the Cotswolds for a UK break – why subject yourself to hours of motorway misery when you have lush countryside dotted with charming villages, cafes, boutiques and shops just a stone’s throw away? You won’t even have to scour the internet for the best self-catering accommodation, as Manor Cottages in Burford has done it for you with their curated collection of cottages (try saying that five times fast).

Covering Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire, Manor Cottages has everything from cosy two-beds ideal for romantic breaks to country manor houses with pools – perfect for a bigger family holiday. Want to make the most of the rolling Cotswold hills? Book a dog-friendly cottage in Burford, Broadway or Stow-on-the-Wold and use it as your base to explore. Prefer a girly weekend with plenty to do? Pop to Bath, Cirencester or Cheltenham with a well-placed Manor Cottage pad, just an Uber away from cocktails and shopping.

Each self-catering property is closely inspected by the Manor Cottages team – no dodgy Air BnB owners here – and as they’ve been at it for over 25 years, you know they’ve picked out some real corkers. In fact, I might escape to the Forest of Dean or Cotswold Water Park for a little Christmas holiday with a hot tub – fancy joining?