Easter is made for exploring the British countryside: longer days, fresh spring air, and the kind of unhurried pace that reminds you why a proper break matters. Whether you're planning a long weekend or a full week away with family, friends, or your four-legged companions, our holiday cottages in Hampshire, the New Forest, Dorset, Salisbury and Devon are ready and waiting.
Below is everything you need to know to plan the perfect Easter 2026 holiday cottage break with Short Stay Homes.
Easter 2026 Bank Holiday Dates
- Good Friday – Friday, 3 April 2026
- Easter Saturday – Saturday, 4 April 2026
- Easter Sunday – Sunday, 5 April 2026
- Easter Monday – Monday, 6 April 2026
With four days off over the bank holiday weekend, this is a wonderful opportunity to book a short break. If you'd prefer a longer Easter holiday cottage stay, many guests choose to extend their break through the school holidays and enjoy a full week or more.
We'd recommend booking early to secure your preferred property and dates. Easter is one of our busiest times of year, and availability goes quickly.
Why Easter is the Perfect Time for a Cottage Break
There's something special about Easter in the South of England. The New Forest starts to glow with spring colour, and the coastal paths in Dorset and Devon are at their very best before the summer crowds arrive.
It's also the ideal season for families. School holidays mean there's time to slow down, explore and actually be together – no early morning commutes or rushed evenings. An Easter holiday cottage gives you the freedom to set your pace, cook when you want to, walk when the mood takes you, and settle in like you belong there.
And because many of our properties welcome dogs, there's no need to leave anyone behind.
Our Easter Holiday Cottages and Properties
We're proud to offer a wonderful variety of properties to suit every kind of Easter break, from romantic retreats for two to large houses for multigenerational gatherings.
Riverside Lodge, New Forest
Our award-winning Riverside Lodge (winner of Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year 2020-2021) sits on the banks of the Hampshire Avon and is simply one of the most peaceful places you can spend Easter. Guests have access to 80 yards of exclusive fishing, making it a dream for anyone who loves to cast a line in spring.
The Quays, Christchurch, Dorset
If you're planning an Easter gathering for a larger group, The Quays in Christchurch works. This luxury property sleeps up to 25 guests and has received a Visit England Gold Award. It's ideal for family reunions, milestone celebrations, or a memorable Easter get-together with loved ones.
New Forest Thatched Cottages
For a truly quintessential Easter break, our picturesque cottages in the New Forest are hard to beat. Situated within easy reach of ancient woodland and open heathland, they're perfect for Easter walks, spotting spring wildlife, and coming home to a cosy evening by the wood burner. The first basket of logs is always included – a small touch that makes a real difference on a cool April evening.
Osmund House & Forest Drove Cottage
Our larger New Forest properties are particularly well-suited to families and multigenerational groups. Guests consistently highlight how well laid out these homes are for sharing: generous kitchens, multiple bathrooms, secure gardens for children and dogs, and plenty of space for everyone to spread out and feel at home. We recommend starting with Forest Drove Cottage and Osmund House.
Devon Properties
For those who fancy an Easter cottage break further afield, our Devon properties offer gorgeous countryside and coastal access. Spring in Devon is extraordinary, with bluebells, lambs in the fields, and long cliff-top walks before a proper cream tea.
Things to Do at Easter in Hampshire, the New Forest, and Dorset
Part of what makes a Short Stay Homes break special is where you're based. Our properties sit in some of the most beautiful and well-connected parts of the South of England, with brilliant Easter activities on the doorstep.
Easter Egg Hunts and Family Fun
The New Forest is wonderful at Easter. Many local estates, National Trust properties, and country gardens put on seasonal egg hunts, nature trails, and family activities throughout the school holidays.
If you'd prefer to keep things closer to home, hiding Easter eggs around your cottage garden is always a hit, especially with a secure garden and excited children.
Spring Wildlife and Countryside Walks
Easter falls right as the countryside comes alive. The New Forest ponies are foaling, bluebells carpet the woodland floors, and the rivers are full of activity. Our guests near Fordingbridge often spot kingfishers from the riverbank. Pack your walking boots and allow yourself to get a little lost.
The Dorset coast path and the Test Valley in Hampshire offer memorable spring walks suitable for all ages and most dogs.
Fishing Breaks
If you're staying at one of our Fordingbridge properties, like Riverside Lodge, Criddlestyle Cottage or Mews Hill, you'll have access to fishing on the Hampshire Avon, with four excellent coarse fishing swims. Spring is a fantastic time to fish, and the setting is as beautiful as the catch.
Local Dining and Experiences
Through our partnership with Experience Hampshire, guests can access exclusive discounts on local dining, activities, and experiences. This includes countryside pubs and restaurants, guided wildlife walks, gin-making sessions, and much more. We'd be happy to share our recommendations when you book.
Book Your Easter 2026 Cottage Break
We'd love to welcome you and yours (dogs included) to one of our holiday cottages this Easter. Whether you're dreaming of a riverside retreat in Hampshire, a New Forest thatched cottage, a grand Georgian mansion in Dorset or a peaceful Devon escape, there's a Short Stay Homes property waiting for you.
Please have a good look around the site, check availability, and book securely online. Or if you'd prefer to chat through the options, we're always happy to help. Please contact us with any questions.
FAQs About Easter Holiday Cottage Breaks
When are the Easter bank holidays in 2026?
Good Friday falls on 3 April, Easter Saturday on 4 April, Easter Sunday on 5 April, and Easter Monday on 6 April 2026.
How long can I book for at Easter?
Most of our properties are available for short breaks and full week stays. We're happy to discuss longer lets too – just get in touch.
Are dogs welcome at Easter?
Yes, many of our properties welcome dogs. Many of our properties have secure enclosed gardens, so you can relax knowing they're safe.
Can I book for a large group at Easter?
Absolutely. We have properties sleeping from 2 guests to 25, so whether it's a couple's retreat or a big family Easter celebration, we'll have something to suit. The Quays in Christchurch and Osmund House are popular for larger Easter gatherings.
Is there availability for Easter 2026?
Easter dates book up quickly, so we'd recommend checking availability as soon as possible. You can search and book securely on our website with no booking fees. We own our properties directly, so you'll always get our best rate.
