Woodfarm House, a beautiful cottage

What makes a Holiday Cottage a Holiday Cottage?

By

Ever wondered what makes a Holiday Cottage a Holiday Cottage, as opposed to a holiday home, or a holiday house?

We have, and here’s the answer we uncovered about Holiday Cottages.

The word Cottage finds its origin in the Middle Ages. It was derived from the word ‘cotter’ which referred to agricultural workers and their families. Thus cottages were dwellings for these people.

Many cottages from this period were actually terraced houses built to house as many workers as possible.

So they were a long way from today’s Holiday Cottages. Don’t worry, we won’t put you to work on the local farmland when you come to stay!

As the years went by the name cottage started to refer to a whole farm or smallholding, including the houses, outbuildings and supporting farmland and/or woods.

Much later, after the industrial revolution, many cottages were built to house the new types of workers needed in this new world of industry. Therefore we start to see Weaver’s Cottages and Miner’s Cottages being constructed.

Then in the modern age the name cottage has become synonymous with homes of a traditional rural style. This is most commonly what we still expect these days when we hear the words ‘Holiday Cottage’.

When we discover that someone is going to spend their break in a Holiday Cottage the image that springs to mind is of a relaxing stay in a traditional style home in beautiful countryside.

We like to think that our Holiday Cottages represent the quintessential Holiday Cottage, meeting all the expectations of a modern holidaymaker.

When people talk of Holiday Cottages nowadays they are speaking of cosy, traditionally styled homes in a rural setting. That’s exactly what you’ll get when you spend your break with us here at Woodfarm Barns: beautiful cottages in the heart of the beautiful Suffolk countryside.

Fancy finding out what makes Holiday Cottages Holiday Cottages for yourself? Then why not check our availability?

Dates & Availability

Loading availability

Reasons to Stay at Woodfarm, Suffolk

We happen to think what we have on offer is pretty bloomin' good. However, we thought you might like a bunch of reasons to stay, other than we think you should!

dog paw print
Dogs stay FREE

Genuine, welcoming Dog-Friendly ethos, making you all feel at home, and they won’t cost you a penny.

dog biscuit
Free Doggy treats

Dog bowls, treats, showers, towels and more. Your furry family are safe, secure & happy in our fully enclosed gardens.

thumbs up
Over 1,000 5 star reviews

Peace of mind from our 1,200 + Five Star Tripadvisor, Facebook & Google Reviews. Over 30% of our guests come back!

beach huts
Brilliant beaches

We know that guests want the best location and surroundings. Suffolk has an incredible Heritage Coast, all in easy reach of us.

fence
Dog exercise meadow

Pawesome, fully-enclosed two acre Pooch Paddock at the Barns for your Dogs to go bonkers and make new friends in. Happy hounds!

trophy
Multi-awards

Rest assured choosing Woodfarm: Visit England Gold Awards for all our properties, as well as their ROSE Award for Service Excellence.

hot tubs
Private Hot Tubs

Private Hot tubs with seven of our eight Barns and Cottages. The ultimate in relaxation and reconnection: just because you're worth it.

boots
Stunning Countryside

Unwind and connect with nature in our Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Yes, plural. Suffolk Coast & Heaths, and Dedham Vale.

river walks
River Walks

Stunning river walks directly from your gangplank on either Barge! Wildlife and breathtaking scenery in abundance.

Fetch the latest news!

How many TOGS points have I earned?

Check your TOGS Points here!

If you’ve stayed at Woodfarm before, then you will have earned TOGS Loyalty Reward points towards your next stay! For every £10 spent, one point is earned that can be redeemed on your next stay. …

The perfect rural retreat

The Perfect Rural Retreat for you and your Dog

There are times in life when everything feels too fast, too noisy, too online. The countryside doesn’t just offer a change of scene. It offers a proper pause. A chance to draw breath. Picture a …

Artisan food and drink in Suffolk

Artisan Food & Drink in Suffolk

Suffolk is a goldmine for artisan food and drink lovers. This county is bursting with independent producers, farm shops, delis, bakeries, microbreweries, vineyards, and small‑batch creators, all crafting high‑quality, locally‑sourced goods with passion and care. …

Join our newsletter for £50 OFF your first break!

Please provide a valid email address.
* indicates required