If you’re a book lover, the UK’s literary festival circuit is a treasure trove of author talks, book signings, and thought-provoking panels. The only thing that could make it even better? A beautiful, cozy place to stay and soak in the literature-infused atmosphere. Whether it’s a quaint cottage with rolling green views or a castle rental that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a historical romance, there’s a perfect holiday rental for every bibliophile. In this article, we’re going to introduce you to some of the best options for your literary festival holiday.
The Best Holiday Rentals for Cheltenham Literature Festival
The Cheltenham Literature Festival is one of the most prestigious events of its kind, attracting authors, poets, and lovers of literature from all over the world. If you plan to attend, booking the right place to stay is crucial. For a truly unique experience, why not consider staying in a cottage?
Roses Cottage, located in the heart of the Cotswolds, is a mere 20-minute drive from the festival venue. This picturesque property sleeps six and offers a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere. With its free WIFI, you can post festival updates to your social media or check out reviews of the event while relaxing by the fireplace.
For those who fancy historical properties, Clearwell Castle is an unbeatable rental. Located in the nearby Forest of Dean, this medieval castle offers a regal retreat for the night after a day of literary immersion. The castle sleeps up to 16, making it perfect for larger groups or families.
Ideal Rentals for Hay Festival
The annual Hay Festival in Wales is a vibrant celebration of literature and arts. Here, you can enjoy the enchanting Welsh scenery alongside your literary pursuits, especially if you book one of these stellar holiday rentals.
If you’re looking for a cottage with a view, Brecon View Cottage is your ideal place. Nestled in the Powys countryside, this rental affords breathtaking views of the Brecon Beacons. It sleeps four and comes with a lovely bath – perfect for soaking in after a day at the festival.
For those wanting to stay within the Hay-on-Wye town itself, Hay Townhouse is a great choice. This friendly house rental is situated in the book town’s center, and it’s just a short walk to the festival site. It sleeps six comfortably and offers free parking, an essential bonus during the bustling festival days.
Top Rentals for Edinburgh International Book Festival
Edinburgh International Book Festival is a globally recognized event, drawing literary enthusiasts to the Scottish capital each year. Hence, it’s essential to book a holiday rental that offers a retreat from the bustling city.
Auld Reekie Cottage is a delightful cottage just 20 minutes outside Edinburgh. It sleeps four, and its tranquil setting offers a peaceful haven from the hustle and bustle of the festival. It’s also pet-friendly, so your furry friends can accompany you on your literary holiday.
If you prefer to stay within the city, Edinburgh Castle View Apartment is hard to beat. This apartment sleeps five and, as the name suggests, offers a stunning view of the famous Edinburgh Castle. It’s also within walking distance of the festival venue.
Best Rentals for Oxford Literary Festival
The world-renowned Oxford Literary Festival takes place in the historical city of Oxford, making it an excellent opportunity to combine your love of literature with sightseeing.
Rose’s Cottage in the nearby Cotswolds is a top pick for those attending the festival. It sleeps five, and the property is family-friendly, with a beautiful garden for children to play in.
For a more luxurious stay, Blenheim Palace Gatehouse is a must-consider. This unique property sleeps six and is located just a short drive from Oxford. It offers the chance to stay in a piece of history while enjoying modern comforts.
Perfect Rentals for Bath Literature Festival
The Bath Literature Festival in the idyllic city of Bath is a perfect melding of history, literature, and breathtaking architecture. Staying in a holiday rental that accentuates these elements can enhance your festival experience.
Bath View Four is a luxury apartment situated right in the heart of Bath. It sleeps four, comes with a fully equipped kitchen and a spacious bath, and boasts stunning views of the city.
Those who prefer a more rural setting should look at Countryside Cottage. This charming property is located just outside Bath in the Somerset countryside. It sleeps six, is pet-friendly, and is a perfect place to unwind after a day of literary exploration.
Great Rentals for Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival
The Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival is an exciting opportunity to visit the birthplace of one of the world’s greatest playwrights, William Shakespeare. It’s a chance to immerse oneself in the rich literature and history of the town.
Bard’s Cottage is a quaint holiday rental perfect for this literary pilgrimage. Just a stone’s throw away from the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, it provides easy access to the festival and Shakespeare’s birthplace. The cottage is family friendly, sleeps four, and is a delightful blend of both modern and traditional interiors. It also provides free parking, a necessity during the festival, and is dog friendly, so your canine companion can join this literary adventure.
For a more luxurious experience, Riverbank Mansion is a stunning property located on the banks of the River Avon. It has a rating review of five stars, and it’s not hard to see why. This holiday home sleeps eight and offers a hot tub, perfect for relaxing after a day spent exploring the town or attending the festival. Despite its luxurious charm, it too is dog friendly, meaning no family member is left behind.
Preferred Rentals for Port Eliot Festival
The Port Eliot Festival in Cornwall is a unique fusion of literature, music, and food. A holiday rental that complements this fusion can further elevate your festival experience.
The Old Bakery is a charming holiday cottage located in the heart of Cornwall, just a short drive from the festival grounds. It sleeps six and boasts traditional Cornish charm with its open plan living space and beamed ceilings. It’s also within walking distance of local food and drink establishments, enabling you to indulge in Cornwall’s famous culinary delights.
For those who want to fully experience Cornwall’s natural beauty, Seascape Cottage is a dream come true. The cottage is a short walk from the beach and offers stunning sea views. It sleeps four and offers the chance to combine the literary festival with a beach holiday. It’s also dog-friendly, meaning your furry friends are welcome to join.
United Kingdom literary festivals offer a unique cultural experience, blending the love of literature with the rich history and beauty of their locales. Choosing the right holiday rental can significantly enhance this experience. Whether you prefer a rustic holiday cottage or a luxurious mansion, a family-friendly place to stay or a dog-friendly one, there is a myriad of options to suit every preference. It’s important to remember that festivals can result in heavy traffic, so choosing rentals that offer amenities like free parking can make your stay more convenient. Checking rating reviews of properties can further ensure a delightful stay. So, pack your bags (and books!) and get ready for an unforgettable literary holiday in the UK.
