A self-catering holiday close to home could be hard to beat this summer . Take family or friends away to discover shell-studded beaches that stretch for miles , heaps of historical gems swathed in myths and legends , and locations from favourite TV shows - think Poldark and Doc Martin in charming Cornwall , and Broadchurch in dazzling Dorset . Self-catering has come a long way , as competition and regulation drives owners to ever-higher standards . Self-catering has come a long way , as competition and regulation drives owners to ever-higher standards . So most cottages are now stylish sanctuaries - perfect to flop down in after sorties along the coastal path or up into the hills . And it 's not just about the flexibility to feed yourselves and set your own schedule . Snaptrip has seen a 25 per cent increase in people searching for somewhere to stay close to foodie delights - renowned pubs , Michelin-starred restaurants , food fairs and markets . And there has been a 35 per cent increase in people booking activities alongside their stay - from sailing in Hampshire and Dorset , to cycling in the Brecon Beacons or horse riding in the new Forest and Scotland . A bargain struck on accommodation will free up your budget for plenty of treats , experiences and explorations . Neither are you confined to a full week 's stay . 'There has been a marked shift towards short breaks taken within two hours ' drive of home , ' says Simon Altham , managing director of Hoseasons . 'Nearly two-thirds of our business ( 62 per cent ) focuses on short breaks of three or four nights . ' There has been a 35 per cent increase in people booking activities alongside their stay , including cycling in the stunning Brecon Beacons ( pictured ) The choice has widened , with a growing demand for luxury lodge breaks that offer families , friends and couples that little bit extra - stylish , modern living spaces in beautiful countryside settings , with free wi-fi , en-suite facilities and private hot tubs on the decking . And holiday parks have had a modern facelift , sprouting upmarket facilities , sailing and surfing lessons and trendy restaurants . So whether for a short break , Easter egg-scape or that full week or two 's holiday , self-catering promises fun and freedom this summer . Disney 's Cinderella , released on March 27 , updates the classic rags-to-riches tale by featuring humble Cinders 's personal journey as she wins over the heart of her prince . Be inspired to abandon everyday chores and start your own love story with a stay in a spectacular castle or historic home , from Country Cottages . Try romantic Hen Wrych Hall Tower in Abergele , north Wales , the ultimate fairytale backdrop . Your dream property , fit for a princess ( or prince ) awaits ! Enjoy a short break sailing in Dorset with more places now offering the chance to stay for less than a week . Looking for a dramatic location ? South Foreland Lighthouse , at Dover , is perched on the White Cliffs , with outstanding views of the French coastline and ships passing in the Channel . National Trust Holidays ' East Cottage , adjoining the lighthouse , is very close to the Trust 's newest attraction , opening this spring - the Fan Bay Deep Shelter and Sound Mirrors . The earliest sound mirror dates back to 1917 , created as one of the first early warning systems to give notice of approaching enemy aircraft . With surveys showing a quarter of British children spend just half an hour a week outdoors , adventurer and TV presenter Ben Fogle is to lobby Parliament this year to galvanise support for his Call of The Wild campaign , promoting forest school camps . A self-catering stay can be equally outdoorsy . Toad Hall Cottages suggests The Shippen , one of a group of cottages on a farm near Honiton , Devon . Here children can run through fields , splash in rivers , build campfires , make dens , or help collect eggs and feed resident pigs and smaller farm animals . Outdoor adventure on the park ! Holiday parks can be sited in the smartest spots , providing a budget-friendly base with great outdoorsy activities on site . Holiday parks can be sited in the smartest spots , providing a budget-friendly base with great outdoorsy activities on site to keep the whole family entertained . The cute new beach cafe at Haven 's Rockley Park , in dorset , faces across the water to the multi-millionaire homes at Sandbanks . Learn to sail , kayak , windsurf or paddleboard right by the park on beautiful Poole Harbour . Hire a motorboat , try sustainable crabbing or set off on a harbour cruise or fishing trip . and those inspired by Bear Grylls - Mission Survive can join a Nature RockZ bushcraft session . Round off the day in the park 's classy Harbourside fish restaurant . The two Haven parks in Cornwall are perfect for spying out Poldark locations - and at Perran Sands , luxurious and spacious new beach houses are available from april .
Self - catering accommodation is better than ever . enjoy the opportunity to feed yourself and set your own schedule . accommodation has seen a 10 % increase in people looking for accommodation . increasing demand for luxury lodge breaks that adds a little bit extra .