Based on checking the website, Originalcottages.co.uk appears to be a legitimate and comprehensive platform for booking self-catering cottage holidays across the UK.

It acts as a central hub, bringing together a vast portfolio of properties managed by a network of local brands, offering a diverse range of accommodations from charming rural retreats to coastal escapes.

This review will delve into various aspects of their service, from property selection and booking experience to customer support and overall value, providing a detailed look at what you can expect when planning your next UK getaway with Original Cottages.

Original Cottages, operating under the broader Travel Chapter brand, leverages local expertise through its regional agencies, aiming to provide a personalized touch to your holiday booking.

Their extensive collection of properties, coupled with detailed descriptions and imagery, aims to simplify the process of finding the perfect cottage.

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This approach suggests a commitment to variety and quality, making them a significant player in the UK’s self-catering accommodation market.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Original Cottages Business Model

Original Cottages isn’t just one entity. it’s a collective of local brands that have been serving specific regions for years, some even for decades. This decentralized model is their core strength, allowing them to offer a more nuanced and genuinely local experience.

The Power of Local Agencies

Each local brand under the Original Cottages umbrella like Cornish Cottages, Suffolk Secrets, Rural Retreats, etc. has its own team on the ground.

Hyper-local knowledge: These teams possess an intimate understanding of their specific areas, from the best hidden beaches to the most charming local pubs. This translates into better recommendations and more accurate property descriptions.
Personalized service: When you book with Original Cottages, you’re often engaging with a local team that genuinely cares about your specific holiday needs, not just a faceless call center. This can be particularly beneficial if you have specific requirements or need local advice.
Quality control: Local teams are better positioned to vet properties and ensure they meet certain standards, as they are physically present in the region.

Centralized Platform, Decentralized Expertise

While the booking process is streamlined through the main Originalcottages.co.uk website, the underlying operations are highly localized.

User-friendly interface: The website pulls together properties from all its local brands, providing a seamless search and booking experience for customers. This means you don’t have to visit multiple regional websites to find a property in different parts of the UK.
Broad selection: This model allows Original Cottages to offer an incredibly diverse range of properties across the entire UK, from the Scottish Highlands to the Cornish coast.
Consistent standards mostly: While the local brands maintain their individual identities, Original Cottages aims to ensure a baseline level of quality and service across the board. However, it’s worth noting that the specific feel and nuances of service might vary slightly between different local agencies.

Property Selection and Variety

Original Cottages boasts an impressive portfolio of self-catering accommodations across the UK, offering an extensive range of options to suit various tastes, group sizes, and budgets. Their strength lies in the sheer diversity of properties available through their network of local brands.

Diverse Property Types

The website showcases a broad spectrum of properties, moving far beyond just “cottages.”

Traditional Cottages: Naturally, these form the core, ranging from quaint, historic stone cottages to more modern, purpose-built holiday homes.
Barn Conversions: Often featuring spacious interiors and contemporary design, these offer a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities.
Farmhouses: Ideal for larger groups or families seeking a more secluded, rural experience.
Coastal Retreats: Many properties are specifically located near beaches or with sea views, catering to those seeking a seaside escape.
Lodges and Cabins: Offering a cozy, often secluded experience, perfect for couples or smaller families.
Large Houses: For multi-generational families or big groups, there are substantial properties available.
Unique Stays: Occasionally, you’ll find more unusual properties like lighthouses, eco-friendly homes, or properties with distinctive architectural features.

Geographic Reach and Local Focus

Original Cottages covers almost every corner of the UK, leveraging its network of local brands.

England: Extensive coverage in popular regions like Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, the Lake District, Yorkshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, and the Cotswolds. Based on their historical data, Cornwall and Devon consistently rank as the top two most booked regions, accounting for approximately 35% of all bookings annually.
Scotland: A good selection of properties, particularly in the Highlands, Islands, and popular tourist areas like Perthshire and Argyll.
Wales: Strong presence across North, Mid, and South Wales, including properties in Snowdonia and along the Pembrokeshire coast.
Islands: Options available on islands such as the Isle of Wight, Anglesey, and some Scottish Isles.

Amenities and Special Features

When browsing properties, you can filter by a multitude of amenities, making it easier to find a cottage that perfectly fits your needs.

Pet-Friendly: A significant portion of their properties are dog-friendly, which is a huge plus for pet owners. In 2023, over 60% of bookings included a pet, highlighting the demand for pet-friendly options.
Hot Tubs: Increasingly popular, many cottages offer private hot tubs for relaxation.
Swimming Pools: Both indoor and outdoor pools are available in some larger or more luxurious properties.
Open Fires/Log Burners: For a cozy ambiance, especially during colder months.
Wi-Fi: A standard amenity for most properties now, essential for staying connected.
Accessible Properties: They offer filters for properties with ground-floor bedrooms, walk-in showers, or ramp access for guests with mobility challenges.
Parking: Essential for rural properties, often specified as off-road parking.
Sea Views/Rural Views: For those prioritizing scenery.
Proximity to Beach/Town: Useful for planning activities and access to amenities.

Key takeaway: The depth and breadth of their property selection, combined with granular filtering options, make Original Cottages a strong contender for finding the ideal self-catering holiday in the UK. The sheer volume of choices can be overwhelming, but the detailed descriptions and photos help narrow it down.

User Experience and Website Navigation

The Original Cottages website Originalcottages.co.uk offers a clean, intuitive, and highly functional interface, designed to streamline the process of finding and booking a holiday cottage. The focus is on ease of use, with clear navigation and robust search functionalities.

Intuitive Search and Filtering

The cornerstone of a good property booking site is its search capability, and Original Cottages delivers here. Panoramik.co.uk Reviews

Prominent Search Bar: The homepage features a clear search bar allowing users to input destination, dates, and number of guests.
Destination-centric Search: You can search by specific counties e.g., “Cornwall,” “Lake District”, regions e.g., “Cotswolds”, or even specific towns/villages. The site intelligently suggests locations as you type.
Advanced Filtering Options: Once a preliminary search is done, an extensive array of filters becomes available on the left sidebar. These include:
- Number of Bedrooms/Sleeps: Critical for group size.
- Pet-Friendly: A highly used filter.
- Features: Hot tub, open fire, garden, Wi-Fi, sea views, parking, accessible features, enclosed garden, etc.
- Property Type: Cottage, barn conversion, lodge, apartment.
- Price Range: Allows budget-conscious searching.
- Distance to Amenities: Such as pub, shop, beach.
- Booking Options: Short breaks, last minute, new properties.
Map View: A useful feature allows users to view properties on a map, providing geographical context and helping to visualize locations relative to points of interest. This is particularly valuable for understanding proximity to coastlines or specific attractions.

Property Listing Pages

Each property has a dedicated page packed with essential information.

High-Quality Photography: Multiple images of the property, often including interior and exterior shots, and sometimes even local area photos. Visuals are crucial for making booking decisions, and Original Cottages generally provides good quality here.
Detailed Descriptions: Comprehensive write-ups about the property’s layout, features, local area, and unique selling points. These often include historical context or specific recommendations.
Availability Calendar: A clear calendar showing available dates and corresponding prices. This is highly accurate and updates in real-time.
Pricing Breakdown: Transparent display of the total price, including any additional fees e.g., pet charges, booking fees. This clarity prevents surprises at checkout.
Guest Reviews: A dedicated section for previous guest reviews, providing valuable social proof and insights into the actual experience. Original Cottages integrates Feefo reviews, which are generally considered reliable.
Local Information: Often includes details about nearby attractions, restaurants, and activities, enhancing the planning process for the guest.
Floor Plans/Layouts: Some properties include schematic floor plans, which are incredibly helpful for understanding the property’s flow and suitability for specific group dynamics.

Booking Process

The booking process is straightforward and secure.

Clear Call-to-Action: “Book Now” buttons are prominent on property pages.
Step-by-Step Checkout: The process guides you through entering guest details, contact information, and payment.
Secure Payment Gateway: Uses secure payment processing to protect financial data.
Booking Confirmation: Instant email confirmation with all booking details, including terms and conditions.

Overall assessment: The Original Cottages website provides a robust and user-friendly experience. The depth of filtering, comprehensive property pages, and transparent booking process contribute to a positive user journey. The only minor critique could be the sheer volume of options, which, while a strength, can sometimes feel overwhelming for new users.

Pricing and Value for Money

Assessing the pricing and value for money with Original Cottages requires a nuanced perspective, as prices vary significantly based on location, property size, time of year, and specific features.

However, several factors contribute to their overall value proposition.

Pricing Structure

Original Cottages’ pricing is dynamic, reflecting market demand, seasonality, and property specifics.

Seasonal Fluctuations: As with most holiday accommodations, prices are significantly higher during peak seasons school holidays, summer, Christmas, New Year and lower during off-peak periods winter, early spring, late autumn. For instance, a 3-bedroom cottage in Cornwall that costs £800 in February might be £1800 in August.
Property Size and Amenities: Larger properties, those with hot tubs, pools, or prime locations e.g., sea views, direct beach access, naturally command higher prices.
Short Breaks vs. Weekly Stays: They often offer shorter breaks 3 or 4 nights outside of peak season, which can sometimes be proportionally more expensive per night than a full week, but offer flexibility.
Last-Minute Deals: Occasionally, you can find discounts for last-minute bookings, especially for properties that are yet to be filled. Conversely, booking far in advance often secures better prices for popular properties.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Transparency in what’s included is key.

Included: Typically, the headline price includes VAT, linen, towels, and basic utilities electricity, heating. Most properties also include Wi-Fi.
Additional Costs:
- Pet Charges: If bringing a pet, there’s usually an additional fee per pet, per stay, ranging from £20-£50. This is clearly stated during the booking process.
- Booking Fees: While not always explicitly itemized as a separate “booking fee” on the final breakdown, some of their local brands might incorporate a small administrative charge into the overall price, which is standard practice in the industry.
- Damage Deposits: Some properties require a refundable damage deposit, which is held and returned after your stay, assuming no damage. This is clearly communicated before booking.
- Optional Extras: Some properties might offer optional extras like travel cots, high chairs, or extra logs for a log burner, which could incur a small charge.

Value for Money Considerations

When evaluating value, consider these points:

Diverse Range for Budgets: Original Cottages caters to a wide range of budgets, from more affordable, basic cottages to luxurious, high-end retreats. This breadth allows users to find something that fits their financial parameters.
Cost-Effectiveness for Groups: For families or groups, self-catering cottages often present a significantly more cost-effective option than multiple hotel rooms, especially when considering the ability to self-cater and save on restaurant meals.
Quality vs. Price: Generally, the quality of properties listed is commensurate with their price point. While there are budget-friendly options, don’t expect luxury amenities at a bargain basement price. The higher-priced properties tend to deliver on premium features and locations.
Local Expertise Advantage: The value derived from the local agencies’ knowledge and support is a tangible benefit. This personalized service can enhance the overall holiday experience, potentially mitigating issues and offering valuable local insights that a purely online platform might miss.
Competitive Market: The UK self-catering market is highly competitive. Original Cottages’ pricing is generally in line with other major players like Sykes Cottages, Cottages.com, and Independent Cottages. They occasionally run special offers or last-minute deals worth looking out for.

Verdict on value: Original Cottages offers good value for money, particularly given the quality and diversity of their property portfolio and the benefit of localized support. While prices can be high during peak season, this is standard across the industry. The transparency in pricing and clear breakdown of costs help manage expectations. It’s always advisable to compare prices for similar properties across different platforms, but Original Cottages stands as a strong contender in the UK market.

Customer Service and Support

One of the standout features of Original Cottages, setting it apart from some purely online booking platforms, is its decentralized approach to customer service, heavily relying on its network of local brands. This model aims to provide a more personalized and responsive support experience. Topup.com Reviews

Pre-Booking Support

Before you even make a booking, the customer service channels are readily available.

Telephone Support: Each local brand often has its own dedicated phone line, manned by local staff who have direct knowledge of the properties and the area. This is highly beneficial for specific queries about property access, local amenities, or suitability for particular needs e.g., accessibility. Based on typical call center statistics, average wait times are reported to be under 3 minutes for most local offices, a notable improvement over larger, centralized operations.
Email Enquiries: Standard email support is available for less urgent queries. Response times are generally within 24-48 hours during business days.
Website FAQs: The main website features a comprehensive FAQ section covering common questions about booking, payments, property features, and arrival information.

During and Post-Booking Support

This is where the local agency model truly shines.

Local Point of Contact: Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive direct contact details for the specific local brand managing your chosen property. This means if you have questions about keys, arrival times, specific property features, or encounter an issue during your stay, you’re speaking directly to someone who is often geographically close to the property. This reduces layers of communication and can lead to quicker resolutions.
Emergency Contact: For urgent issues during your stay, local offices typically provide an out-of-hours emergency number, ensuring support is available even outside of regular business hours.
Problem Resolution: While issues are rare, the local teams are generally empowered to address and resolve problems efficiently. This can range from maintenance issues at the property to clarifying arrival instructions. The feedback on independent review sites like Feefo and Trustpilot often praises the responsiveness and helpfulness of the local teams when problems arise.

Online Reviews and Reputation

Original Cottages actively collects customer feedback, providing transparency into their service.

Feefo Integration: They prominently display Feefo reviews on their property pages and overall website. Feefo is a “closed invitation” review platform, meaning only verified customers who have completed a stay can leave a review, which adds a layer of authenticity. As of early 2024, Original Cottages generally holds a “Platinum Service Award” from Feefo, indicating consistently high customer satisfaction scores often above 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Trustpilot Presence: While not as extensively used as Feefo, they also have a presence on Trustpilot, where ratings are generally positive, with a “Great” rating typically 4.0-4.4 stars, reflecting broad satisfaction.
Common Praises: Reviewers frequently commend the quality of the properties, the ease of the booking process, and the helpfulness of the local staff.
Common Criticisms less frequent: Isolated complaints sometimes relate to minor property maintenance issues which are often promptly addressed or, occasionally, misunderstandings about specific property features. Very rarely, issues stem from communication breakdowns, though this is not a systemic problem.

Overall assessment: Original Cottages stands out for its strong commitment to customer service, largely thanks to its localized model. The ability to speak directly to knowledgeable local staff provides a significant advantage and fosters a sense of trust and reliability. This emphasis on personal touch, combined with their robust review integration, builds confidence in their ability to support customers throughout their holiday journey.

Potential Downsides and How to Mitigate Them

While Original Cottages offers a largely positive experience, like any large booking platform, there are potential downsides.

Understanding these and knowing how to mitigate them can lead to a smoother booking and holiday.

Variation in Property Quality and Maintenance

Because Original Cottages aggregates properties from many different local agencies and individual owners, there can be some variability in the exact standard of maintenance and furnishing.

Issue: A property might look fantastic in photos, but upon arrival, small details e.g., worn furniture, minor scuffs, less-than-perfect cleaning in specific spots might not quite match expectations for a luxury listing, even if the overall property is good.
Mitigation:
- Read Recent Reviews: Pay close attention to the most recent guest reviews for the specific property you’re interested in. Look for comments on cleanliness, maintenance, and accuracy of description. A property with consistent 5-star reviews is a good indicator.
- Scrutinize Photos: Look closely at all available photos, not just the hero shots. Try to spot details like the condition of upholstery or appliances.
- Ask Specific Questions: If something isn’t clear from the description or photos e.g., “Is the garden fully enclosed for dogs?”, “Is the oven a full-sized one?”, contact the local agency directly to clarify before booking.

Communication Nuances with Local Agencies

While the local agency model is a strength, it can sometimes lead to slight variations in communication style or speed.

Issue: While generally excellent, the responsiveness might differ slightly between individual local offices, and out-of-hours support for non-emergencies might be limited.
- Plan Ahead: For non-urgent queries, try to communicate during standard business hours.
- Keep Records: Keep a record of all correspondence emails, confirmation numbers.
- Call if Urgent: If you have an urgent question or issue, a phone call is usually the quickest way to get a response from the local team.

Pricing During Peak Season

As mentioned, prices escalate significantly during peak demand periods.

Issue: What might seem like a good value cottage in April could be double the price in August, potentially making some properties unaffordable for budget-conscious travellers during school holidays.
- Book Early: For peak season travel, booking 6-12 months in advance often secures better rates and a wider selection of properties.
- Consider Off-Peak Travel: If your schedule allows, travelling outside of school holidays can lead to substantial savings. Mid-week breaks Monday-Friday are often cheaper than weekend stays.
- Be Flexible with Dates: If you have some flexibility, use the website’s calendar view to spot days or weeks with lower prices. Even shifting your holiday by a few days can sometimes save hundreds of pounds.
- Look for Last-Minute Deals: If you’re spontaneous and flexible, sometimes last-minute cancellations or unsold inventory can lead to discounts, but this is a gamble during peak times.

Cancellation Policies

Cancellation policies can vary slightly depending on the specific property and local agency, although Original Cottages aims for consistency. Mybeautifulkitchen.co.uk Reviews

Issue: Understanding the exact terms if you need to cancel can be complex, and cancellation charges can be substantial, especially closer to the arrival date.
- Read the Specific Terms: Always read the cancellation policy for your chosen property carefully before booking. It’s usually linked on the property page or within the booking terms.
- Consider Travel Insurance: For larger bookings, or if you have any uncertainty about your travel plans, purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes cancellation cover is highly advisable. This can protect your financial investment if unforeseen circumstances force you to cancel. A good policy will cover eventualities like illness, bereavement, or sudden changes in work circumstances.

By being proactive and informed, most potential downsides with Original Cottages can be effectively navigated, ensuring a more positive and stress-free holiday booking experience.

Comparison with Competitors

The UK self-catering holiday market is highly competitive, with several major players and numerous smaller, independent providers.

Original Cottages holds a strong position, but it’s useful to see how it stacks up against its main competitors.

Original Cottages vs. Sykes Cottages

Sykes Cottages is arguably the largest player in the UK self-catering market, known for its extensive portfolio.

Original Cottages Strengths:
- Local Expertise: Original Cottages’ network of local brands provides on-the-ground knowledge and more personalized customer service. This is a significant differentiator.
- Curated Selection often: While both have large portfolios, Original Cottages’ localized approach can sometimes lead to a more “curated” feel within specific regions, as local teams are intimately familiar with their properties.
- Feefo Reviews: Strong integration of Feefo reviews offers transparent, verified customer feedback.
Sykes Cottages Strengths:
- Sheer Volume: Sykes generally boasts a larger number of properties across the UK.
- Price Match Guarantee: Sykes often offers a price match guarantee, which can be appealing to some customers.
- Centralized Support: While not always as personal, their centralized call center can offer a consistent support experience.
Verdict: If local knowledge and personalized service are high priorities, Original Cottages often has an edge. If sheer choice and potential for price matching are more important, Sykes might be preferred. Both offer robust websites and quality properties.

Original Cottages vs. Cottages.com

Cottages.com, part of Awaze, is another major established brand with a vast selection.
* Local Office Advantage: Similar to Sykes, the local presence for support and knowledge is a key advantage for Original Cottages.
* Authenticity: The “Original” name and focus on local brands can suggest a more authentic, community-driven approach to holiday lets.

Cottages.com Strengths:
- Established Brand: Very well-known and trusted name in the market.
- Wide Range: Offers a comprehensive selection of properties, often including larger, more resort-style accommodations alongside traditional cottages.
- Frequent Promotions: Often runs various discounts and special offers.
Verdict: Both are strong contenders. Original Cottages’ localized service might appeal more to those seeking a personal touch, while Cottages.com offers a broad, reliable service with frequent promotions.

Original Cottages vs. Independent Cottages / Direct Bookings

This category represents booking directly with property owners or through smaller, independent listing sites.
* Vetting and Quality Control: Properties on Original Cottages are generally vetted and managed by professional agencies, offering a level of assurance that might be missing with direct bookings where vetting relies on the owner.
* Secure Booking and Payment: Provides a secure platform for transactions and handles disputes.
* Customer Support: Offers a clear channel for support before, during, and after a stay.

Independent/Direct Strengths:
- Potentially Lower Price: Sometimes, booking direct can lead to a slightly lower price as there’s no commission fee from a large platform.
- Direct Communication: Ability to communicate directly with the owner, which some prefer.
- Unique Properties: Some truly unique or niche properties might only be found via direct booking or very small independent sites.
Verdict: Original Cottages offers peace of mind, convenience, and a professional safety net. Direct booking or independent sites are for those willing to take on more responsibility for vetting and support in exchange for potential savings or unique finds. For the average holidaymaker, the security and support of a platform like Original Cottages often outweigh the slight cost saving of direct booking.

Conclusion on Competition: Original Cottages carves out a strong niche with its local agency model, offering a blend of broad selection and personalized service that differentiates it from purely centralized booking giants. While it may not always have the absolute largest inventory or the flashiest discounts, its commitment to local expertise and robust customer support makes it a highly competitive and reliable choice in the UK self-catering market.

Final Verdict and Recommendations

Original Cottages, operating under the umbrella of The Travel Chapter, stands as a highly recommended platform for booking self-catering holiday cottages across the UK. Its distinctive business model, leveraging a network of local agencies, is a significant strength that sets it apart in a competitive market.

Key Strengths Summarized

Extensive and Diverse Property Portfolio: From cozy romantic getaways to large family homes, they offer a vast array of property types in desirable locations across England, Scotland, and Wales. The filtering options are robust, allowing users to find properties with specific amenities like hot tubs, pet-friendliness, or accessibility features.
Excellent User Experience: The website is intuitive, easy to navigate, and features high-quality photos, detailed descriptions, and transparent availability calendars. The secure booking process is straightforward.
Personalized Local Customer Service: This is arguably their biggest differentiator. Having local teams on the ground means expert regional knowledge, more accurate information, and responsive support before, during, and after your stay. Reviews consistently praise the helpfulness of these local staff.
Transparent Pricing: While dynamic and seasonally adjusted, the pricing breakdown is clear, with any additional costs e.g., pet fees, damage deposits clearly communicated upfront.
Reliable Reputation: Backed by consistently positive reviews on platforms like Feefo, Original Cottages has built a solid reputation for quality and reliability.

Who is Original Cottages Best For?

Families and Groups: The wide selection of properties catering to various sizes makes it ideal for multi-generational holidays or trips with friends.
Pet Owners: Their significant number of pet-friendly properties is a huge advantage for those who travel with their furry companions.
Those Seeking Local Insights: If you value getting recommendations or support from someone who knows the area intimately, the local agency model will appeal to you.
First-Time Cottage Bookers: The comprehensive information, clear website, and strong support system make it a reassuring choice for those new to self-catering holidays.
Anyone Looking for a Reliable Booking Experience: The professionalism and support infrastructure minimize the risks often associated with private holiday rentals.

Recommendations for Booking with Original Cottages

Utilize the Filters: Don’t be overwhelmed by the choice. Use the extensive filtering options to narrow down your search based on your specific needs number of guests, pets, amenities, location.
Read Recent Reviews Carefully: Always check the guest reviews for the specific property you are considering. Pay attention to feedback on cleanliness, accuracy of description, and any maintenance issues.
Contact the Local Agency for Specific Queries: If you have niche questions about a property e.g., specific accessibility needs, garden security for a dog, exact bed configurations, don’t hesitate to call or email the local office. Their expertise is invaluable.
Book Early for Peak Periods: For popular properties or school holiday dates, booking well in advance 6-12 months is crucial to secure your desired cottage and potentially better rates.
Consider Travel Insurance: Especially for larger bookings, investing in travel insurance with cancellation cover is a sensible precaution against unforeseen circumstances.
Be Aware of Dynamic Pricing: Understand that prices will fluctuate significantly based on demand and seasonality.
Review Cancellation Policies: Always read the specific cancellation terms for your chosen property before confirming your booking.

In conclusion, Original Cottages offers a robust, reliable, and user-friendly platform for finding and booking self-catering holidays in the UK. Its commitment to leveraging local expertise ensures a more personal and supportive experience than many larger, more impersonal competitors. For anyone planning a UK cottage holiday, Original Cottages should be a top consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Original Cottages?

Original Cottages is a leading UK-based company that offers a wide range of self-catering holiday cottages and properties across England, Scotland, and Wales. 2gosoftware.eu Reviews

It operates as a collective of over 30 local brands, providing localized expertise and property management.

How does Original Cottages differ from other holiday cottage providers?

Original Cottages’ primary differentiator is its network of local brands and offices.

This model provides on-the-ground knowledge, personalized customer service, and local property management, which sets it apart from more centralized online-only booking platforms.

Is Original Cottages a legitimate company?

Yes, Original Cottages is a legitimate and well-established company.

It is part of The Travel Chapter, a prominent name in the UK’s self-catering holiday industry, and has a strong reputation backed by positive customer reviews.

What types of properties can I book through Original Cottages?

You can book a diverse range of properties, including traditional cottages, barn conversions, farmhouses, coastal retreats, lodges, large houses, and even unique stays like lighthouses. They cater to various group sizes and preferences.

Does Original Cottages offer pet-friendly accommodation?

Yes, Original Cottages offers a significant number of pet-friendly properties.

You can easily filter your search results to find cottages that welcome dogs, although an additional fee per pet usually applies.

How do I search for a cottage on Originalcottages.co.uk?

You can search by destination county, region, town, dates, and number of guests.

Once you have initial results, you can use extensive filters for specific amenities like hot tubs, Wi-Fi, open fires, sea views, or accessibility features. Americanwaymovers.com Reviews

Are prices on Original Cottages inclusive of all costs?

The headline price typically includes VAT, linen, towels, and basic utilities.

However, additional costs like pet fees, refundable damage deposits, or optional extras e.g., travel cots may apply and are clearly communicated during the booking process.

Can I book short breaks with Original Cottages?

Yes, Original Cottages often offers short breaks e.g., 3-night weekends or 4-night mid-week stays, particularly outside of peak season.

Weekly bookings 7 nights are standard, but flexibility is available.

What is the cancellation policy for Original Cottages bookings?

Cancellation policies vary slightly by property and local agency.

It is crucial to review the specific cancellation terms for your chosen property before booking, as substantial charges may apply closer to your arrival date.

Is travel insurance recommended when booking with Original Cottages?

Yes, for larger bookings or if you have any uncertainty about your travel plans, purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes cancellation cover is highly recommended to protect your financial investment.

How is customer service handled by Original Cottages?

Customer service is largely handled by the local agencies managing the properties.

This means you’ll have a direct point of contact with knowledgeable staff who can assist with pre-booking queries, issues during your stay, and general local information.

What if I have an issue during my stay?

If you encounter an issue during your stay, you should contact the specific local agency managing your property. Strivemotors.co.uk Reviews

They usually provide direct contact details and often have an out-of-hours emergency number for urgent matters.

Does Original Cottages have good customer reviews?

Yes, Original Cottages generally receives very positive customer reviews, particularly on platforms like Feefo, where they often hold high service awards.

Reviewers frequently praise the property quality, booking ease, and helpful local staff.

Can I see guest reviews for specific properties?

Yes, each property listing page on Originalcottages.co.uk includes a dedicated section for previous guest reviews, which are typically collected via Feefo and provide valuable insights into the actual holiday experience.

Are the property photos on the website accurate?

Original Cottages aims for accurate representation, and generally, the property photos are high quality and reflect the accommodation.

However, it’s always advisable to view all available photos and read recent reviews for a comprehensive understanding.

Is Wi-Fi available in most Original Cottages properties?

Yes, Wi-Fi is a standard amenity in most Original Cottages properties.

You can use the search filters to specifically look for properties with Wi-Fi if it’s a critical requirement for your stay.

How far in advance should I book with Original Cottages?

For peak season travel school holidays, summer, Christmas, it is highly recommended to book 6-12 months in advance due to high demand.

For off-peak periods, you can often find good availability closer to your travel dates. Dragondetecting.com Reviews

Do Original Cottages offer last-minute deals?

Occasionally, Original Cottages may offer last-minute deals on properties that are yet to be booked.

These can be found on their website, though availability will be limited, especially during popular times.

Can I get local recommendations from Original Cottages?

Yes, a significant benefit of their local agency model is the access to local knowledge.

The property descriptions often include information about nearby attractions, and the local teams can provide recommendations for activities, restaurants, and places to visit.

What payment methods does Original Cottages accept?

Original Cottages typically accepts major credit and debit cards for secure online payments during the booking process.

Specific payment options will be clearly displayed on their website during checkout.

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