Turnpike Cottage

Turnpike Cottage works well for families or groups of six seeking space and comfort in a working village. The property gives you three bedrooms—two with kingsize beds, one with singles—and three bathrooms across two floors, so there's no fighting for the shower. Downstairs holds a spacious kitchen and dining area, a living room with woodburner and smart TV, and a second sitting room; upstairs are the bedrooms. A travel cot and highchair are available if you need them, and the cottage accepts one well-behaved pet.

Essentials like heating, electricity, bed linen, towels and wifi come as standard. An external utility room has a washing machine and tumble dryer for longer stays. You get an enclosed terrace and garden with seating, a garage across the road that houses a table tennis table and bike storage, and parking for one car; additional free spaces are a hundred metres away. Non-smokers only.

Gerrans itself is quiet, but Portscatho—a working fishing village with galleries, a sandy beach and rock pools—is a five-minute walk downhill. The village shop, post office and several cafes and pubs operate year-round. A dog-friendly beach lies nearby if you've brought a companion.