With many scenic and beautiful destinations all over the British Isles, and coupled with the increasing stresses of city life, its little wonder that UK cottage holidays are becoming more and more popular every year, as urbanites choose to swap the hustle and bustle of the metropolis for a more rural idyll. And while the advantages of taking a cottage holiday in the UK are both varied and manifold, there might still be some lesser known benefits in store that you won't have thought of before..

Perhaps the most obvious advantage of staying in a cottage over a Bed & Breakfast house is the fact that the cottage allows you to come and go at any time of day or night, so there's no need to worry about disturbing other guests - or the landlady! Additionally, a cottage holiday provides you with all the resources you need to have a comfortable and relaxing vacation.

Additionally, a cottage can suit many different sized groups of people, from couples looking for a romantic and tranquil hideaway to a group of friends interested in sightseeing and socialising in a lively area of the country. Even large groups of friends can holiday together in the same cottage and share in the communal space it affords, whilst still having their own personal bedrooms as a place of sanctuary - an arrangement which lends well to those looking to relive a little of their student days.

Another reason for UK cottage holidays becoming more popular is the recent growing awareness of green issues, as well the environmental damage caused by airline flights when travelling to holiday destinations. This means that when searching for a vacation, many more socially and environmentally conscious travellers are now looking to spend their holidays in the more scenic parts of the United Kingdom; and with many scenic areas being only a couple of hours drive from major urban centres, cottage holidays - particularly in rural areas - are becoming increasingly common.

Scenic cottages in Cornwall and Devon are a popular choice with holidaymakers, as people enjoy walking the rugged Cornish coastline or basking in the Cornish summer weather; while its sunny days and sun-tanned population paint a picture that isn't dissimilar to that of more Mediterranean climes. Alternatively, for those of a more windswept and romantic inclination, cottages on the Scottish islands - the Outer Hebrides, for example - provide artistic types with an opportunity to stare out wistfully onto the ocean and search for their muse with not a soul around for miles.

And for those wishing to experience the rich cultural history of Northern Ireland, a cottage holiday in this area will provide an excellent base to explore the area. If the idea of a cottage holiday in the UK appeals to you, there are a range of cottages available across the UK, so regardless of your penchant you'll be sure to find suitable cottage accommodation to suit.