Finding the right holiday cottage can completely change the experience of a UK getaway. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful countryside retreat, a romantic escape for two, a dog-friendly property or a luxurious home for a large group, there are thousands of options to consider.
The Sykes Gems 2026 shortlist highlights a selection of properties that have stood out across different holiday styles and destinations. The awards cover everything from farm stays and glamping to luxury accommodation, historic properties, coastal retreats and regional favourites.
The 2026 shortlist is particularly interesting for travellers looking for inspiration for their next UK cottage holiday.
What Are the Sykes Gems Awards?
Sykes Gems is designed to recognise properties that offer something special to holidaymakers. Rather than focusing on just one type of accommodation, the 2026 shortlist is divided into numerous categories.
These include awards for couples, young families, large groups, pets, sustainability, walking, beaches, views, luxury and glamping, alongside regional categories covering destinations throughout England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland.
The 2026 shortlist was scheduled to be judged during August, with the winners expected to be announced in September.
Standout Categories for UK Cottage Holidays
Best Farm Stay
For travellers wanting to escape busy cities, farm accommodation can provide a slower and more rural experience.
The 2026 farm-stay shortlist includes Dover Barn, Saddlers Cottage at Berllandeg Farm, Top Style Orchard, The Sty and Palace Farmhouse. These properties represent the kind of countryside accommodation that can appeal to travellers searching for a quieter UK break.
Best for Beach Holidays
A seaside location remains one of the most popular choices for a UK staycation. The beach category features properties including Sandwaves, Bucket and Spades – Right on the Beach, Waters Edge Beadnell, Crystal Bay and Harbour View – Flat 2 – Tudor House.
For anyone planning a coastal escape, properties like these demonstrate how choosing accommodation close to the sea can make a significant difference to a holiday.
Best Romantic Cottages for Couples
Couples looking for a romantic cottage getaway also have their own category.
The shortlist includes Hona, Beckaford View, Cae Bach, Stargazer and Llety Cariad. From countryside retreats to properties designed around peaceful surroundings, this category offers inspiration for anniversaries, weekend breaks and relaxing holidays for two.
Best for Families
Travelling with children often requires more than simply finding somewhere attractive to stay. Space, facilities and the surrounding area can all influence the experience.
The young-family shortlist includes The Olde Cow House, Hornshayne Farmhouse, The Mill House, Pen Bont Home Farm and Tŷ Kinik. These properties offer inspiration for families planning their next UK cottage holiday.
Best Glamping Stays
Glamping continues to offer an alternative to traditional accommodation, combining outdoor surroundings with a more comfortable place to sleep.
The 2026 glamping shortlist features High Rigg Shepherd’s Sunrise, Low Longlands, Applejacks Orchard, Evendine Hut and The Tri-Pod.
For travellers who enjoy nature but aren’t quite ready for a traditional camping trip, glamping can be an appealing middle ground.
Luxury, Unique and Pet-Friendly Escapes
The shortlist also caters to travellers with more specific preferences.
The Best Luxury Property category includes properties such as The Old Water Mill, The Ridge, Heilan Roo, Gunner Lodge and Otherton Hall.
Meanwhile, the Best Pet-Friendly Property category features Carines Barns – Wesley Barn, Hall Cottage, Herdie Hideaway, The Garden House and Estuary View, making it particularly relevant for travellers who don’t want to leave their four-legged companions behind.
There’s also a category for unusual accommodation. The Best Quirky Property shortlist includes a lighthouse, a former generator bunker and a roundhouse among its five selections.
Regional Holiday Cottage Inspiration
One of the most useful parts of the Sykes Gems 2026 shortlist is its regional coverage.
The awards highlight properties across Central England, East Anglia, Ireland and Northern Ireland, Wales, North East England, North Wales, North West England, the Peak District, Scotland, the South Coast, Cornwall, Yorkshire, Devon, Dorset and Somerset.
For example, Cornwall’s shortlist includes See Two Seas at Cape Cornwall, The Granary at Boskensoe Barns, Carines Barns – Tre, Harbour View and Bluck’s Cottage. Yorkshire features properties such as Snave Cottage, The Cobbles and A Stones Throw, while Devon’s selections include Searles, The Cadeleigh and The Shippon.
This regional approach makes the list useful for travellers who already know where they want to go but need inspiration for where to stay.
Which UK Cottage Should You Choose?
The best choice ultimately depends on the type of holiday you’re planning.
For a romantic weekend, look towards properties shortlisted for couples. Families may prefer larger accommodation with practical facilities, while dog owners can explore pet-friendly cottages. If scenery is your priority, the views category is worth exploring, while walkers may want to concentrate on properties selected for their access to outdoor adventures.
The 2026 shortlist also demonstrates just how varied a UK staycation can be. You don’t necessarily need to travel overseas for a memorable break when the UK offers beaches, mountains, countryside, historic buildings and unusual places to stay.
Final Thoughts
The Sykes Gems 2026 shortlist provides plenty of inspiration for anyone planning a UK holiday. From luxury cottages and coastal escapes to family-friendly accommodation, glamping retreats and pet-friendly stays, there is a category for almost every type of traveller.
Whether you’re planning a weekend break or a longer countryside holiday, these shortlisted properties are worth exploring when searching for your next UK holiday cottage. The eventual winners will add another layer of interest when they are announced in September 2026.
