Practical tips for making the most of your self-catering cottage holiday

The Coronavirus pandemic has changed our lives in many ways, from working arrangements to how we spend our leisure time. Many who have always taken their holidays abroad will experience something completely new this year by enjoying a self-catering cottage holiday.

Here at Durrants Holiday Cottages we offer a personal and local service to our guests and are looking forward to welcoming many newcomers this year as well as our regulars. As a cottage holiday is quite a different experience to an all-inclusive trip abroad, we thought it would be useful to share our top tips on what to pack, what to expect and how to get the most from your stay.

Get to know your cottage

All of our holiday cottages are privately owned and completely unique. Each home offers a totally different holiday experience. We strongly recommend you review the description and amenities listed on our website prior to your arrival to check what’s available at your chosen accommodation and what’s included.

Wifi is included at most properties but there are some that offer a complete getaway from the digital world for your stay.

Towels are provided for all guests at most holiday homes, but in some cases you’ll need to bring your own. Please check our website before you travel. Beach towels are not provided so please remember to pack your own if you need them.

Don’t forget to pack the essentials

Your cottage will be equipped with the essentials (toilet roll, kitchen roll, dishwasher tablets, washing up liquid, bin bags etc.) to get you started for your stay but not for the duration. You’ll need to bring supplies or get these during your stay. Toiletries are not provided.

Four-legged friends

If you’re bringing your dog with you to enjoy Southwold, please remember to bring everything you need for him/her – bedding, towel, crate if you use one, etc. We politely request that pets do not sit on the furniture or go upstairs. The beach between the pier and Gun Hill Kiosk has dog restrictions in place between 1st May and 30th September, but there’s plenty of space for them to enjoy the beach south of Gun Hill.

Shop Local – Download the MySouthwold app

Southwold is blessed with many amazing independent shops; butchers, bakeries, delis, fishmongers, not to mention the list of pubs, cafes and restaurants. Although it’s handy to bring a few food and drink supplies with you, we recommend not loading up the car with a big grocery shop but making the most of your stay by enjoying the local produce.

We recommend that you download the My Southwold app to your phone before you arrive so you can check out the list of local shops, eateries and galleries.

Come and see us

If something at your cottage isn’t quite right, please come and see us or give us a call. Our office is on Southwold High Street and we’re here to ensure you enjoy your stay.